The BHRC have recently purchased a blood gas analyser which will be used at fixtures as part of the ongoing integrity programme within the sport.
The BHRC Council have sanctioned immediate updates to section Y23 of the BHRC Rules and Regulations:
Y23. TCO2 Sampling
Samples taken may be analysed by the BHRC or a qualified Veterinary Surgeon using a blood gas analyser or may be forwarded to any accredited laboratory for analysis.
[a] In the event that a blood gas analyser records a TCO2 level above the permitted threshold, a minimum of three further blood samples will be required from the horse at 30 minute intervals post-race. The horse will therefore be retained in the custody of the BHRC for a minimum period of two hours after the last race it competes in.
[b] Any removal of the horse or attempt to remove the horse from the custody of the nominated official will be considered a breach of section Y3.
[c] In the event that a blood gas analyser records a TCO2 level above the permitted threshold, all samples retrieved post-race will be forwarded to an accredited laboratory for analysis. If the laboratory records a TCO2 level above the permitted threshold, the costs of that analysis will be borne by the owner/trainer.