All Greyhound Derby finalists and semi finalists test negative for banned substances

 

All 18 out of competition tests on the 12 semi finalists and 6 finalists of the 2018 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby have tested negative for banned substances.

Furthermore, all 18 in competition tests have also been deemed negative by the National Greyhound Laboratory’s testing regime.

224 tests in total were taken throughout the various stages between August 17 and September 22.

5,000 spectators witnessed one of the most thrilling Derby finals ever, as Ballyanne Sim took the crown and the €140,000 prize.

CEO of the Irish Greyhound Board, Gerard Dollard, commented: “The Irish Greyhound Derby is the pinnacle of our sport and it was important that all participants, including all 6 finalists, were subject to rigorous testing in recent weeks. 224 tests were carried out, both inside and outside of competition. All of this gives a sense of the very clear intent of the Irish Greyhound Board in this important area.”

He added: “The IGB’s Strategic Plan 2018-22, launched earlier this year, targeted excellence in industry standards in respect of in the area of doping and medication control. The IGB will continue to focus on strengthening regulation as a priority for the industry. The Board will continue not to tolerate the use of any substances that bring the sport into disrepute or the welfare of greyhounds into question.”

Currently, the Greyhound Industry Bill is an advanced stage of preparation. This will add to existing legislation which will make the greyhound the most regulated of all canine breeds.