The Disciplinary Panel of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on 17th May 2012 held an enquiry to consider whether or not Wetherby Steeplechase Committee Limited, the Managing Executive of Wetherby Racecourse, had committed breaches of Rule (F)15.2.3 of the Rules of Racing, in the light of BHA General Instruction 11.1, headed “Requirements for the Provision of Racecourse Medical Services”, in that at its medical inspection prior to and during racing on 30th March 2012 the following deficiencies were identified:

1) BHAGI 11.1 (para 8(b)) – the equipment and supplies in the third ambulance (St John’s) failed to include all the requisite items listed at Annex A to BHAGI 11.2; and

2) BHAGI 11.1 (para 14(c) and (d)) – the Standing Orders for medical arrangements on the racecourse failed to detail:

• the parking points for ambulances;
• the requirement for an ambulance to be in attendance at (or close attendance to) every start; and
• the arrangements as to how the field should be followed by the respective ambulances so as to ensure that a maximum one minute response time is maintained.

Having considered the evidence, including a written submission from the Executive, the Panel accepted an admission that it was in breach of Rule (F)15.2.3.

Noting that

(i) the equipment deficiencies were all rectified on the day, and that all other failings identified at the medical inspection had been addressed subsequently; and
(ii) in the opinion of the Chief Medical Adviser the deficiencies were of a minor nature.

the Panel cautioned the Executive as to its future conduct.

Notes to Editors:

1. The Panel for the hearing was: Charles Warde-Aldam (Chair), Richard Gould and Didi Powles