RACING AHEADWA Thoroughbred Racing
JUNE 2015
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RACING AND WAGERING WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Contents
THOROUGHBRED RACING DEPARTMENT Racing Manager: David Hunter 14 Hasler Road, Osborne Park 6017 Twitter: @DavidHunter_27 Trainers’ Service Centre: (08) 9445 5277 24 Hour Nomination Service: (08) 9445 5278 Fax: (08) 9445 9312 Website: rwwa.com.au/CRIS/ Email: racing@rwwa.com.au Twitter: @rwwa_thor Office Hours Monday to Friday: 7am to 4pm Saturday: 7am to 10am Sunday: 7am to 9am Late scratchings outside these times must be lodged with the Race Club. STEWARDS DEPARTMENT 70 Grandstand Road Ascot 6104 Email: stewards@rwwa.com.au General Enquiries: (08) 9445 5570 Fax: (08) 9479 3116 RWWA Integrity Integrity Recorded Message Service: 9445 5565 Email: racingintegrity@rwwa.com.au Principal Investigator: Phil O’Reilly 0407 197 597 LICENSING, REGISTRATIONS & STAKES 14 Hasler Road Osborne Park WA 6017 Email: licreginfo@rwwa.com.au Telephone: (08) 9445 5558 Fax: (08) 9445 5586 Forms can be found at www.rwwa.com.au RACING & WAGERING WA HEAD OFFICE 14 Hasler Road Osborne Park WA 6017 (08) 9445 5333 fax (08) 9244 5914 Email: info@rwwa.com.au Web: www.rwwa.com.au METROPOLITAN RACECOURSES & TRAINING FACILITIES Ascot Race Days (08) 9277 0888 fax (08) 9277 0803 Belmont Racecourse (08) 9470 8222 fax (08) 9470 8224 Ascot Track Tower (08) 9277 0826 Lark Hill Curator Manager: Greg Horne Phone/Fax: (08) 9524 3408 Mobile: 0432 830 290 Trackwork Supervisor/Deputy Steward: Jim Pilkington 0419 570 100 RACING AHEAD WA Editiorial: Hayley McDermott Email: hayley.mcdermott@rwwa.com.au Subscriptions: Alanna Philippe Phone: (08) 9445 5371 Fax: (08) 9244 5914 Email: alanna.philippe@rwwa.com.au Racing & Wagering Western Australia 14 Hasler Road Osborne Park WA 6017
RWWA thoroughbred stipendiary steward Chris Brown is heading to Japan. Read about his journey in Ernie Manning's article on page 3.
Features
02 From the Racing Department 03 Sayōnara - Steward heading to Japan for prestigious Study Program 06 Off the Track 08 Owners Only 10 The coughing or poor performing athlete 13 Feature Races
Programming
1 West Australian Programming and Industry Notices
NEXT EDITION DEADLINE: Monday 15th June 2015 All advertisements published in Racing Ahead WA Magazine are the responsibility of the person, company or advertising agency which submitted them for publication. The publisher and printer do not accept any responsibility for the text of any advertisement. All persons and advertising agencies submitting advertisements are reminded of their necessity to comply with the provisions of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any other relevant legislation (including the Rules of Racing) applicable to the subject of matter of such advertisement. The publisher carefully checks all material prior to publication. However, the publisher and its employees do not warrant the accuracy of such material nor its compliance with relevant legislation. Copyright of articles and photographs in Racing Ahead WA Magazine remains with individual contributors and may not be reproduced without permission. Magazine printed by VANGUARD PRINTING - 26 John Street, Northbridge 6003
Features RACING AHEAD - June - 1
From the Racing Department NEW RACE TYPES Trainers are reminded that from the start of the new racing season (August 1st 2015) that the following new race types will be introduced. Metro: 3YO Set Weights & Penalties Plates. (Apprentices cannot claim) Midweek & Provincial A: 3YO 0MWLY (For 3YO’s that have not won a metropolitan race (1st prize over $18,000) in the last year). It is also the Racing Departments intention to conduct a review of the race types in the upcoming months. Relevant stakeholders will be consulted before and throughout this process.
WESTSPEED NOMINATIONS CLOSING Stakeholders are reminded that nominations for the Westspeed Incentive Scheme for foals born in 2013 breeding season will close at 4pm on Friday July 17. Note that there are no provisions for a horse to be included in the scheme after this date. On a side note RWWA congratulations the connections of SHEIDEL who on April 18 became the record holder for Westspeed earnings. The flying filly has now earned $167,500 in bonuses on top of her $271,000 in prizemoney.
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REMINDER ABOUT NOMINATIONS & ACCEPTANCES TIMES Trainers are reminded that the RWWA Racing Department will be strictly adhering to the published Nominations, Scratchings & Final Riders deadlines. Any trainer who has not nominated by the published 9:30am deadlines will not have their nominations accepted. Racing Department staff will also be cracking down on trainers who have not scratched by the prescribed deadlines, and trainers risk the chance of having their horses scratched by the racing department if their horses are in multiple races.
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2 - June - RACING AHEAD Features
Sayônara
Steward heading to Japan for prestigious Study Program
Article by Ernie Manning
Racing And Wagering WA thoroughbred stipendiary steward Chris Brown has been selected to represent Australia in The Japan Association For International Racing And Stud Book’s highly prestigious Study Program. The 27-year-old Brown will be in Tokyo and surrounding regions during June, with nominees from other major international turf jurisdictions, to observe the world-acclaimed Japanese racing and breeding industries. “Chris has earned selection by the Japan Association Of International Racing And Stud Book (JAIRS) to attend the 2015 Asian Racing Federation Annual General Study Program,” said RWWA General Manager of Racing Integrity Denis Borovica. “He was nominated by the Australian Racing Board, now known as Racing Australia Pty Ltd, to be the Australian nominee for this program.” “His career as a RWWA cadet steward was launched in 2008 and Chris is now regularly officiating as chairman of stewards at meetings across the state. Borovica said Brown was recommended by RWWA for the JAIRS Study Program in recognition of his experience and abilities. “This will be a key part of Chris’s professional development as a steward,” Denis said. “It is a great opportunity for Chris to gather further experience and knowledge from another highly regarded jurisdiction.
“People who have five or more years experience in horse racing are eligible for the JAIRS Study Program. To be in line for selection, they must be recommended by their Principal Racing Authority. “Those recommended to Racing Australia Pty Ltd by each Principal Racing Authority are assessed. Then the successful Australian candidates are nominated to the JAIRS.” Borovica said the annual JAIRS Study Program, for Asian Racing Federation Member Countries, was designed as a contribution to internationalisation of horse racing. “The Study Program promotes mutual understanding among member countries,” Borovica said. Study Progam participants will get an opportunity to closely watch management and operation of Japanese horse racing. Brown said he was due in Japan on June 2 to begin the Study Program. “The program is based in Tokyo,” Chris said. “We’ll travel to avenues ranging from administration management headquarters to race meetings and stud farms. “We’ll attend race meetings and I’ll be keen to thoroughly observe Japanese stewards’ on-duty procedures.” Brown said previous JAIRS Study Program participants had told him there were exceptional benefits to be gained from the chance to gather inside knowledge of Japanese racing.
Features RACING AHEAD - June - 3
Sayōnara - Steward heading to Japan for prestigious racing program RWWA chief thoroughbred steward Brad Lewis, a JAIRS Study Program representative in 2010, is among those who have praised the opportunity to make a first-hand assessment of Japanese racing and breeding. There is little doubt the information acquired by Brown will be delivered to WA racing on a long-term basis. The young family man, married with two children, has full intentions of working in WA on long-term basis and consolidating his career as a steward. Raised in Albany, Chris is a third generation racing participant. When there is a gap between his busy round of stewards’ duties, he is also a keen Australian Rules Footballer, playing with an Armadale team. There was also a time when the versatile Chris became an official lifeguard at Albany Leisure and Acquatic Centre’s popular swimming pool. Chris’ grandfather Kevin Brown is a veteran Albany racehorse trainer, whose latest galloper Aquatorio has run a series of places on Great Southern tracks this year. Gallopers including Ascot winner Carrallen Star, O’Connor Road and Opto Mystic have been trained by Chris’ father Darren Brown. It’s clear that Chris has deep knowledge of the racing industry. Attending race meetings at Albany and Mount Barker with his family from childhood days, Chris went on to become a licensed strapper. He worked for the late Albany trainer Chris Wolfe before moving to Perth and joining trainer Darren McAulliffe’s stable staff. Chris strapped class sprinter Universal Ruler when he won the 2008 Bunbury Stakes and WATC Easter Stakes. He then strapped Universal Ruler in Singapore, where the stallion ran a creditable race against international gallopers in the 2008 Krisflyer (1200m). As a result of being born into a dedicated country racing family, Chris had a first-hand view of the industry from a down-to-earth level.
“I helped my father and grandfather with their horses while attending primary and high schools in Albany,” Chris said. “Many of our family’s horses were cast-offs from metropolitan stables.” “I have fond memories of my father taking over $200 purchase O’Connor Road and winning first-up with her at Mount Barker in 1995.” O’Connor Road joined Darren Brown’s stable after running unplaced for Ascot trainer Michael Tuckey at her first two starts. After the first-up Mount Barker victory by three lengths, O’Connor Road went on to win at Albany. She then ran two Ascot seconds over 1000m for Darren Brown. The horse wrapped up her career with more Albany and Mount Barker wins. Carrallen Star was another galloper who won for Darren Brown at his first start after a switch from city training. The horse, who had a reputation for being highly strung, before a transfer to Darren Brown, followed a Northam 1300m win with a second over 1600m at Belmont Park. Then came an Ascot 1600m win and Belmont dead-heat for first over 1600m, in consecutive starts. An Ascot second preceded Carallen Star being runner-up in the 1999 Albany Cup. Opto Mystic won Albany races when trained by Darren Brown in 2000-01. Kevin Brown has trained winners at Albany, Mount Barker, Narrogin, Pingrup, Kojonup and Norseman in the past 12 years. His successful gallopers have included Drumin, McDrumin, Solo Shot and Golden Glory. This year, his handy provincial performer Aquatorio has run five minor places at Albany and two at Mount Barker. After completing Year 12 at high school, Chris boosted his hands-on experience at racing stables by working for 12 months in Albany with Chris Wolfe’s team.
Chris Brown in the stewards tower observing a race
4 - June - RACING AHEAD Features
Sayōnara - Steward heading to Japan for prestigious racing program It was during this era that Chris was an Albany Leisure and Acquatic Centre lifeguard for several months. “I then gained more valuable experience in two years of working with Darren McAuliffe’s horses,” Chris said. “Universal Ruler came through as a youngster while I was employed by Darren.” The Scenic horse Universal Ruler included the Bunbury Stakes and Easter Stakes in races he won at five of his first six starts. He bounced back from an eighth in the Krisflyer on his Singapore trip and won the 2009 Belmont Sprint (1400m). Retired to stud after only 12 starts, Universal Ruler is an exceptional sire. He has more than 20 winners, including Rebel King, Furious Dame and Military Ruler, among his progeny. “Prominent retired Albany trainer Ken Dawson recommended to me that I should be a steward,” Chris said. “My mother, Debbie, and father fully supported the move towards me applying for a stewards’ cadetship. “I’ve now been on duty as a steward at courses from Kunnunurra in the north to Esperance in the south. In fact, Yalgoo and Junction are the only two courses that I haven’t worked at, from WA’s list of 37 tracks.” WA is recognised as having the world’s biggest area for one racing jurisdiction. Chris has been chairman of stewards at numerous major provincial meetings, many featuring principal cup events. “I’ve very much enjoyed distant country assignments,” Chris said. “The scenery from Kunnunura racetrack is magnificent, and local residents are so willing to assist at race meetings. “The stewards generally take flights to outer country race meetings. In the case of Derby, we travel by air to Broome and drive onwards to Derby. “There have been countless memorable moments. “Three of us were in the main stewards’ tower at an annual Dongara meeting. “The tower collapsed as the field went to the barrier for the opening race. We miraculously escaped injury when crashing six metres to the ground.
“I clearly remember a horse dislodging its rider about 50m after the start of a 1200m event at Albany and looking as if it would gallop back towards the oncoming field. “There were tense moments as we prepared to make a decision on abandoning the race. Fortunately, the clerk of course was able to skilfully capture the horse and take it away from possibly causing harm.” On the odd occasions he is available during the football season, Chris is keenly sought after to play either ruck or centre half forward with his Armadale team. “Bob Sutherland, well known in racing circles, got me involved in football at Armadale three seasons ago,” Chris said. “But racing commitments have increased and I’m getting less time to play footy. “In addition to officiating at widespread race meetings, I’m on the roster for stable inspections, trackwork supervision at Lark Hill, Pinjarra and city tracks, as well as office duties.” Away from racing, Chris is a devoted family man. He and wife Jillian are the adoring parents of four-year-old Sienna and two-year-old Oliver. “We’ve had thoughts of me obtaining overseas experience as a steward, before the children start school,” Chris said. “I looked at a Singapore opportunity, but we decided to stay here.” Chris’s younger sister Alycia completed 12 months as a RWWA cadet thoroughbred steward. “Alycia recently took maternity leave,” Chris said. “Now living in Victoria, she hopes to later resume racing stewards’ duties.” Chris does not hesitate when asked about his best supporters, as he establishes a professional race stewarding career. “My family have given me great backing,” he said. “My parents continue to be wonderful supporters” It is odds-on Chris will find the JAIRS Study Program is highly rewarding in terms of broadening his learning horizons, and it is anticipated WA racing will be a winner through new knowledge he brings back from Japan.
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Features RACING AHEAD - June - 5
Sharon Joyce Equine Welfare Officer Email: sharon.joyce@rwwa.com.au Phone: (08) 9445 5146 Mobile: 0438 746 487 Location: 70 Grandstand Road, ASCOT WA 6104
an eventing team built off the track Sophie Warren grew up surrounded by horses and with the support of her parents, sponsors and owners, has developed a strong reputation in the Australian equestrian industry. An Australian Representative and currently competing Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) level in Dressage and Three Star Eventing, Sophie is known for her focus, professionalism and talent and has quickly come to the forefront of equestrian sport both in WA and nationally. Sophie has always had a strong affinity with the Thoroughbred horse and has built much of her career riding horses off the track. Growing out of ponies, Sophie was given the opportunity to compete on an advanced eventer, Speak Easy. An off the track Thoroughbred himself, Speak Easy (formerly Flobar) was bred by Lindsay Park Stud in South Australia. Owned by Cheryl Campbell (now a sponsor of Sophie’s through her business Horseland Midland), Speak Easy made the perfect schoolmaster, teaching Sophie about eventing as a 12 and 13 year old. “He really taught me the ropes and it was riding him that gave me the confidence to train my next few horses straight off the track.” says Sophie. The first horse Sophie had the opportunity to produce herself was a 7-year-old racehorse by Crested Wave. Trained by Bruce Kay in Bindoon, Netpune Lad had a sizeable country racing career winning $32,000 from 64 starts. Straight off the track he was sensible and kind and was the perfect introduction to re-training the off the track Thoroughbred. “He taught me to be sensitive but clear with my training and work methodically to create reliable responses from light aids – this seemed to produce a calm horse and is now the backbone of my training philosophy”. Neptune Lad went on to
prove himself as a tough competitor winning in eventing up to PreNovice level before going on to show two other juniors the ropes as a schoolmaster. Since then, Sophie’s team has boasted a number of fantastic Thoroughbreds, from dressage horses to eventers. Her training approach has been honed thanks to the sensitivity and trainability of the Thoroughbred horse. They have developed Sophie into a tactful and talented trainer, “my training philosophy is simple - it must be based on the scientific principles of learning. Evidence based training takes the guess work out of working with horses, it privileges the welfare of the horse and improves rider safety.” says Sophie, who’s current eventing team is entirely off the track Thoroughbreds.
Let's Impress and Sophie
Eminence
6 - June - RACING AHEAD Features
Off the Track Three star horse Let’s Impress (formerly Abnoo’s Sequel), is by Sequalo who himself has produced a number of great racehorses, several of which have gone on to produce good results as performance horses at the end of their racing careers. Let’s Impress himself had a uninspiring racing record with 14 starts for just over $5000 prize-money but has done nothing but shine as a performance horse. He represented Australia in 2009, has won countless events at one, two and three star level and went to the Australian International 4 star event in 2010. Let’s Impress was awarded Equestrian WA (EWA) Horse of the Year in 2009 following an incredible season of wins and placings across the nation. Noticing Sequalo’s ability to produce great performance horses, Sophie sourced another off the track gelding by Sequalo to train as an event horse. Tequalo (formerly Fantastic Kid) had 5 starts but was unsuccessful until his career change where he won his first few eventing starts and was sold last season at Eventing Australia 105 level (EvA105). Sophie’s two star horse, Eminence (formerly Kelly Hills), is by Bite the Bullet and had 10 starts before embarking on his eventing career where he has been successful through the grades. He has been consistent at two star level eventing and up to 135cm showjumping. Sophie’s young hopeful, Dance Hall Diva, was bred by Yarradale Stud in Gidgegannup and had three unsuccessful starts on the track before her career change toward eventing. A beautiful type, Sophie says Diva gave her a good feeling from the very beginning. Dance Hall Diva is by Citidancer and has progressed through the levels with success, winning almost all of her starts over the last two seasons. Dance Hall Diva won the Master Series Leaderboard (run by Equestrian WA) in 2013 and in 2014 stepped up to EvA105
Dance Hall Diva winning her first start. She is one to watch for the future. Sophie says that even with the depth of performance horse breeding in Australia, she will always look to the track first for her young performance horse prospects. The Thoroughbred, with its combination of speed, stamina and athleticism, is the ideal horse for the sport of eventing. For more information on Sophie, any of her horses or retraining assistance go to www.sophiewarren.com.au
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Features RACING AHEAD - June - 7
Owners Only – Recognising the Lifeblood of the Industry Owners Only is designed to recognise and reward current Western Australian racing animal owners; with the ultimate intention to attract new participants into the industry. WA racing industry owners, the ‘investors’, are vital to the health and sustainability of the sport. Owners Only is a dedicated program which recognises, communicates with, rewards and offers belonging to the WA racing industry’s investor group. Key Objectives • To give racing owners a greater sense of belonging • Provide owners with a superior race day experience • Offer greater incentives for owners to invest in the industry • Provide networking opportunities for owners away from the race track • More consistent industry communications to racing owners • Better delivery of the benefits of ownership to participants
has been active since his role commenced, promoting the Owners Only program and associated benefits at both official functions as well as acting as a public advocate in the campaign outreach, including: Perth Magic Millions Carnival The inaugural Owners Only Pop-up Lounge was held at the Magic Millions race day at Ascot. Owners Only also provided event support at both the yearling sales and lead-up events. Ambassador Dean Cox was active during the Perth Magic Millions Carnival attending the sales, race day and as a guest speaker in Perth Racing’s Committee Room. Northam Stakes Day As well as hosting competition winners at the Northam Stakes Day meeting, Owners Only hosted approximately 75 guests in a private function. Guests were given complimentary bus transfers from the Perth metropolitan area as part of the hospitality package. This was the first trial with an online event registration with owners invited to attend via the RWWA website.
• Behind the scenes access for current and prospective racing owners • Attracting new investors into the racing industry
Dean Cox – Owners Only Ambassador Owners Only was pleased to announce Dean Cox as its inaugural ambassador for the program. Dean has a genuine passion for the industry and as a current owner of racehorses, his experience in undertaking the ownership journey is a valuable one to share. Dean
Other Owners Only Events Bunbury Stakes Day Owners Only hosted approximately 80 guests in a trackside marquee at the Bunbury Turf Club on Bunbury Stakes Day. A group of local owners were invited to the pop-up lounge along with owners of runners in the two feature races. It was great to be able to acknowledge those who had feature runners on the day which created genuine atmosphere at the event. WAROA Bonus Days Owners Only have supported WAROA by promoting Owners Bonus Days throughout 2015 as well as providing complimentary merchandise for WAROA members to hand out to winning connections on the day. Coming Up • Owners Only Pop-up Lounges at Belmont Park & Kalgoorlie • Track-work Breakfast @ Ascot Race-course • Online competitions
8 - June - RACING AHEAD Features
go racing with coxy, jimmy & barakey In April, Owners Only launched the ‘Go Racing with Coxy, Jimmy & Barakey’ competition to coincide with the Northam Toyota Stakes Day on Sunday 3rd May. The competition winners received a full race day hospitality package, transport to Northam, TABtouch betting vouchers all whilst enjoying the experience as an owner of Barakey for the day. Steve and Linda Balcombe from Gingin were the lucky winners of the competition run through Racing and Wagering Western Australia’s online platforms. “Linda and I had a fantastic time and will remember it for a long time. Our thanks extend to Racing and Wagering WA, the whole Taylor family, Coxy and of course Barakey who made it so memorable for us.” (Steve Balcombe) Owners Only ambassador Dean Cox joined the Balcombes for the trip to Northam and enjoyed the race club hospitality whilst introducing the competition winners to the Taylor Racing team on the day. Dean has strong ties with the Taylor family with current ownership in well performed galloper Full Clip and former talented three year old Dampier Dayz who won its first two races impressively in 2009 before running 6th in the Group 2 WA Guineas. The competition was designed to give prospective owners a first-hand experience of what owning a racehorse involves. “It is an amazing concept giving people like us the opportunity to experience the racing industry from a different perspective and we would recommend it to anyone who gets a similar opportunity.” (Steve Balcombe) Owners Only look forward to developing more of these types of promotions in the future. Thank you to the Northam Race Club, TABtouch, WAROA and the Taylor Racing stable for allowing the access to Barakey throughout the competition. Barakey was retired after the running of the Northam Stakes with career earnings of $832,200 which included 13 wins from 17 starts and Group One success in the 2012 Winterbottom Stakes.
Features RACING AHEAD - June - 9
The coughing or poor performing athlete a focus on Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD) in Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses. Dr Annemarie Cullimore MVB MACVS Poor athletic performance is a significant problem for the horse industry. Horses can perform poorly for a multitude of reasons beyond limitations related to ability and fitness. Second to musculoskeletal disease, respiratory disease is the most commonly diagnosed cause of poor performance in racehorses. In this article we will focus on inflammatory airway disease (IAD) – a common lower airway disease and cause of poor performance in racehorses all over the world.
How do we diagnose IAD?
What is IAD and how does it affect athletic performance?
An endoscopic exam or ‘scope’ is an important tool used in the investigation of equine upper and lower airway disease.
Inflammatory airway disease describes an inflammatory condition of the lower airway of the horse that is not directly associated with infectious agents, such as bacteria or viruses. The disease can be likened to exercise-induced asthma of humans. In understanding how inflammatory airway disease can limit athletic performance it is firstly important to understand how the respiratory system works. The respiratory system can be compared to a tree, whereby the tree trunk represents the trachea or windpipe, the larger branches are bronchi, the smaller branches are bronchioles and the leaves are air sacs or alveoli. These air sacs or alveoli have a thin membrane that allow the oxygen in air to cross into the blood stream, enriching or oxygenating the blood to then feed muscles and other tissues. At maximum exertion a horse’s oxygen uptake is about 40 times greater than oxygen uptake at rest. The harder the horse works the more oxygen they need, and subsequently the more air is needed to move in and out of the lung. Anything that affects airflow and uptake of oxygen is therefore going to affect performance. Inflammation of the small bronchioles and air sacs results in swelling or thickening of this membrane and limits how effectively the oxygen crosses into the blood stream and thus limits athletic performance. Likewise constriction of airways through spasm of surrounding muscle will also limit the amount of oxygen available for transport. What causes IAD? A number of factors are thought to cause IAD in horses. Exposure to environmental dusts and gases plays a significant role in causing lower airway inflammation. Inhaled allergens irritate cells in the lower airway and cause inflammation. Inflammation may also develop and persist long after a viral or bacterial infection of the lower airway has been cleared. Inflammation can also occur after an episode of ‘bleeding’ or exercise induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH). The association between ‘bleeders’ and inflammatory airway disease is often described as a ‘chicken or egg’ theory – what came first – the inflammation or bleeding? The presence of blood induces an inflammatory response in the airway but on the other hand, inflamed air sac membranes may be more fragile and easily susceptible to rupturing and bleeding. The answer to this question still remains unknown.
A diagnosis of IAD is typically based on history, clinical signs and ‘lung wash’ or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid cytology. Pulmonary function testing is a nice adjunct but is only available at larger practices. Blood work performed on horses with IAD is almost always normal.
Endoscopy of the trachea – tracheal bifurcation and carina –cartilaginous ridge between the two mainstem bronchi – can be seen in this photo
It allows for visual assessment of the trachea to detect mucus and subsequent collection of mucus for cytological examination in the lab – a procedure known as a “tracheal wash”. An endoscopic exam in affected horses may or may not reveal excessive amounts of mucus. Although the accumulation of mucus in the trachea is reported to be a common finding in horses with IAD, not all horses have excess mucus when scoped and excess mucus can be observed in horses with other lower airway diseases and also in clinically healthy animals, particularly after fast exercise or racing. A BAL or ‘lung wash’ collects samples from the distal airways and alveoli and allows better assessment of inflammatory activity in this region of the lung. The procedure is safe, repeatable and has few reported complications. Horses with IAD have increased number of white cells in BAL fluid, but no evidence of infection on cytological examination.
How common is IAD? Although the disease occurs worldwide the prevalence likely varies with geographic location, season, horse breed and age, and other environmental factors. In some populations, as many as 80%, of horses may be affected. In WA the condition occurs more commonly in the spring and summer months. What are the clinical signs of IAD in racehorses? Clinical signs of IAD in racehorses may be subtle. As already mentioned, poor athletic performance is a common presenting sign. Horses with IAD may demonstrate a slow recovery after intense exercise. Racehorses with IAD also typically present with a ‘clearing cough’ or exercise-associated cough - they cough a few times going out onto the track in the morning, clear their throat and then tend to be fine after that. They may or may not have a nasal discharge. It is important to remember that these horses are not systemically ill. They do not have a fever and do not have an increased respiratory effort at rest.
10 - June - RACING AHEAD Features
Pulmonary function testing (PFT) can aid in establishing a definitive diagnosis of IAD. The technique has the additional benefit of providing
The coughing or poor performing athlete an unbiased way of monitoring the horse’s response to treatment. A variety of PFT methods are available, but only a few are non-invasive. The Open Pleth ™ (Ambulatory Monitoring Inc.) system is a noninvasive portable pulmonary function testing unit and this system is available at The Equine Centre at Murdoch.
The system consists of a face mask and plethysmograph – which measures air flow at the nostrils, and two bands or elastic sensors– one of which is placed around the horses chest and the other around the abdomen. When the horse breathes in, the elastic sensors stretch and an increased electrical signal is detected by the computer. This signal is compared to the flow at the nostrils and the difference in these two signals is proportional to the degree of constriction of the airways. )
This system is used in combination with a histamine challenge test to determine how reactive the horse’s small airways are. Horses with an exaggerated response to pharmacological stimuli, such as a histamine aerosol challenge, are termed ‘hyper-reactive’ and airway hyperreactivity is a good marker for inflammation of the small airways. How do we treat horses with IAD? Treatment is focussed on 1) decreasing exposure to potential environmental irritants, 2) reducing inflammation and 3) dilating the airways. 1) Environmental modification Horses are exposed to high burdens of environmental particulates and potential allergens from feed and bedding within the stable, as well as particulates from the external environment. Well-ventilated stables are of utmost importance for effective management of horses with IAD. It is important to keep dust levels to a minimum. This treatment protocol can be difficult to institute in areas of Western Australia during the dry summers. Some of the measures that can be taken include wetting down feed and hay, sprinkling dusty aisles with water before sweeping, taking horses out of the stalls during mucking out to reduce exposure to a plume of irritant dust, housing susceptible horses away from gravel roads or dusty tracks.
Inhalation therapy on the other hand delivers the drug in high concentration directly where it is needed in the airway and thus reduces the incidence of side effects from systemic absorption. Inhaled corticosteroids are therefore most commonly used for longterm treatment of these cases. The deposition of the drug in the airway is determined by particle size produced, the diameter of the airway and breathing technique. The size of the particles produced depends on the type of nebulizer used. Particles that are too small reach the lower airway, but are simply breathed back out again. Particles that are too big are trapped in the larger airways and do not reach the lower airways where they are needed in large enough numbers. Single-nostrilled devices like the Aerohippus™ are proven to deliver the greatest concentration of aerosolised drug to the lungs. The Aerohippus™ is user friendly with a patented ‘Flow-Vu’ indicator – a valve that flickers when the horse breathes. This enables the user to accurately count the number of inhalations. Otherwise it is recommended to wait at least 15-20 seconds between each puff to ensure that the horse has inhaled the drug and maximise drug efficacy, as well as allowing the inhaler to reset. In humans with asthma, slow deep breathing with a breath hold greatly improves the deposition of drugs into the lung. Breathing pattern is difficult to control in the horse, but having the horse in a relaxed environment may reduce the respiratory rate and improve drug deposition. The most commonly used inhaled corticosteroids are fluticasone proprionate (Flixotide®) and beclomethasone dipropionate (Qvar®).
3) Dilating the airway Bronchodilators dilate the airway and improve the delivery of other drugs to the desired area. Bronchodilators can be administered systemically (orally) or by inhalation. It is recommended to administer inhaled bronchodilators before inhaled corticosteroids to enhance corticosteroid deposition in the small airways. The most commonly used inhaled bronchodilators are salbutamol (Ventolin®) and ipratropium bromide (Atrovent ®). Salbutamol (Ventolin®) is relatively short acting and will work for around 1-2 hours. Salmeterol (Serevent®) is longer acting and will provide clinical benefit for 6-8 hours. Salmeterol is also available in a combined preparation with fluticasone – this preparation is marketed as Seretide®. There is no additional benefit to giving Ventolin® and Atrovent ® together as the airway can only dilate to a certain degree. Alternatively systemic bronchodilators such as clenbuterol (Ventipulmin® or Claire Gel) can be used orally but horses should not stay on this drug long term. They develop tolerance to this drug and it loses its effect with long-term use. The good news is it that the disease is treatable and most horses can make a full recovery, although some will require on-going environmental management or possibly repeat treatment in the future.
2) Reducing inflammation Corticosteroids play a pivotal role in reducing airway inflammation. Corticosteroids may be administered by intravenous, oral or intranasal routes. A tapering course of systemic corticosteroids (administered either intravenously or orally) is often prescribed as first line therapy for reduction of airway inflammation. There are however potential side effects, such as laminitis with long-term use of systemic corticosteroids.
Dr Annemarie Cullimore MVB MACVS Dr Annemarie Cullimore is a registrar in equine medicine at The Equine Centre, Murdoch University. She has a special interest in cardio-respiratory disease and poor performance in the equine athlete. Features RACING AHEAD - June - 11
WESTSPEED NOMINATIONS NOW BEING TAKEN Owners & Breeders please be advised that Westspeed Nominations for foals born in the 2013 breeding season are now being taken by RWWA. For further information contact the RWWA Racing Department on 08 9445 5277 or go to www.westspeed.com.au
CONGRATULATIONS! Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) would like to congratulate the connections of star filly SHEIDEL, on becoming the record winner of Westspeed Bonuses. After her scintillating win at Ascot on April 18, SHEIDEL has totaled $167,500 in Westspeed earnings on top of her $271,000 in prizemoney.
12 - June - RACING AHEAD Features
Perth Feature Races
YORK STAKES [LR] $100,000 1600 metres
PROCEEDWITHCAUTION
4YO Bay Gelding (Trade Fair (GB) – Kinchica)
Owners: Ms N.J. Richards & G.R. Ven De Molen Trainer: Geoffrey Ven De Molen Jockey: Ben Kennedy
MATCHMAKER CLASSIC [LR] $100,000 1400 metres
RESONATES
4YO Brown Mare (Teofilo (IRE) – Cuff (GB))
Owners: Rural Vista Pty Ltd Syndicate (Mgr: P.A. Slater) Trainer: Gavin Slater Jockey: William Pike
ROMA CUP [G3] $150,000 1200 metres
LUCKYGRAY
Owners: R.F. Drage, T. Maver & B.R. Mitchell Trainer: Trevor Andrews Jockey: Shaun O’Donnell
Images Courtesy Western Racepix www.westernracepix.com
7YO Grey Gelding (Bradbury’s Luck – Damah Lady)
Features RACING AHEAD - June - 13
Western Australian Group & Listed Races 2014/15 GROUP ONE
Saturday, 22 November 2014 Saturday, 22 November 2014 Saturday, 6 December 2014
GROUP TWO
Saturday, 8 November 2014 Saturday, 22 November 2014 Saturday, 20 December 2014 Thursday, 1 January 2015 Saturday, 28 March 2015 Saturday, 11 April 2015
GROUP THREE
Saturday, 18 October 2014 Saturday, 25 October 2014 Saturday, 1 November 2014 Tuesday, 4 November 2014 Saturday, 15 November 2014 Saturday, 15 November 2014 Saturday, 6 December 2014 Saturday, 6 December 2014 Thursday, 1 January 2015 Saturday, 14 March 2015 Saturday, 28 March 2015 Saturday, 11 April 2015 Saturday, 16 May 2015 Saturday, 30 May 2015 Saturday, 13 June 2015 Saturday, 27 June 2015
LISTED
Saturday, 9 August 2014 Saturday, 23 August 2014 Saturday, 6 September 2014 Sunday, 14 September 2014 Wednesday, 17 September 2014 Saturday, 20 September 2014 Saturday, 4 October 2014 Saturday, 18 October 2014 Sunday, 26 October 2014 Saturday, 1 November 2014 Saturday, 8 November 2014 Saturday, 8 November 2014 Saturday, 22 November 2014 Saturday, 22 November 2014 Saturday, 22 November 2014 Saturday, 22 November 2014 Saturday, 6 December 2014 Saturday, 6 December 2014 Saturday, 6 December 2014 Saturday, 20 December 2014 Saturday, 20 December 2014 Saturday, 20 December 2014 Thursday, 1 January 2015 Saturday, 10 January 2015 Saturday, 24 January 2015 Saturday, 7 February 2015 Saturday, 14 February 2015 Saturday, 14 February 2015 Sunday, 22 February 2015 Saturday, 28 February 2015 Saturday, 28 February 2015 Saturday, 28 February 2015 Sunday, 1 March 2015 Sunday, 8 March 2015
14 - June - RACING AHEAD Features
RAILWAY STAKES WINTERBOTTOM STAKES KINGSTON TOWN CLASSIC
1600 1200 1800
$1,000,000 3up $750,000 3up $500,000 3up
Hcp SWFA SWFA
Ascot Ascot Ascot
LEE STEERE STAKES W.A. GUINEAS C.B. COX STAKES PERTH CUP KARRAKATTA PLATE W.A.T.C. DERBY
1400 1600 2100 2400 1200 2400
$250,000 $400,000 $250,000 $500,000 $500,000 $400,000
3UP 3YO 3UP 3UP 2YO 3YO
SWFA SW SWFA Hcp SW SW
Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot
NORTHERLY STAKES PRINCE OF WALES STAKES ASIAN BEAU STAKES COLONEL REEVES STAKES R.J. PETERS STAKES W.A. CHAMPION FILLIES STAKES A.J. SCAHILL STAKES SIR ERNEST LEE-STEERE CLASSIC LA TRICE CLASSIC GIMCRACK STAKES W.A. OAKS W.A. SIRES' PRODUCE STAKES ROMA CUP BELMONT SPRINT HYPERION STAKES STRICKLAND STAKES
1400 1200 1400 1100 1500 1600 1400 1400 1800 1100 2400 1400 1200 1400 1600 2000
$150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $200,000 $200,000 $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 $150,000
3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3YO (F) 3UP 3YO 3UP F&M 2YO (F) 3YO (F) 2YO 2UP 2UP 2UP 2UP
Hcp SWFA Hcp Hcp Hcp SW SWFA SW SWP SWP SW SW SWFA SWFA SWFA SWFA
Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Belmont Park Belmont Park Belmont Park Belmont Park
BELMONT NEWMARKET GOODWOOD SPRINT FARNLEY STAKES BOULDER CUP HANNANS HANDICAP KALGOORLIE CUP BIRTHDAY STAKES BELGRAVIA STAKES NORTHAM CUP BURGESS QUEEN STAKES ASCOT GOLD CUP FAIRETHA STAKES CARBINE CLUB OF W.A. STAKES JUNGLE MIST CLASSIC PLACID ARK STAKES TATTERSALL'S CUP AQUANITA STAKES G.A. TOWTON CUP JUNGLE DAWN CLASSIC R.S. CRAWFORD STAKES STARSTRUCK CLASSIC W.A. ST. LEGER SUMMER SCORCHER SCENIC BLAST STAKES MISS ANDRETTI STAKES CYRIL FLOWER STAKES CHALLENGE STAKES DETONATOR STAKES PINJARRA CLASSIC ASCOT 1000 GUINEAS LEX PIPER STAKES SUPREMACY STAKES BUNBURY AHA CUP BUNBURY STAKES
1200 1300 1400 2100 1400 2300 1200 1200 1600 1400 1800 1400 1400 1200 1200 2100 1800 2200 1400 1000 1600 2100 1000 1100 1200 1200 1500 1800 1300 1800 1600 1100 2000 1400
$100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $110,000 $140,000 $160,000 $100,000 $100,000 $125,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $120,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $120,000
3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3YO 3UP 3YO (F) 3UP 3YO C&G 3UP 3UP F&M 3YO 3UP 3YO 3UP 3UP F&M 3UP 3UP F&M 3&4 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3YO 3UP 3UP 3YO (F) 3YO C&G 2YO 3UP 3UP
Hcp SWFA Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp SWP Hcp SWP Hcp SWP Hcp Hcp SWP Hcp SWP Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp SW Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp SWP Hcp Hcp SWP SWP SWP Hcp Hcp
Belmont Park Belmont Park Belmont Park Kalgoorlie Kalgoorlie Kalgoorlie Belmont Park Ascot Northam Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Pinjarra Park Ascot Ascot Ascot Bunbury Bunbury
Western Australian Group & Listed Races 2014/15 Sunday, 8 March 2015 Thursday, 12 March 2015 Saturday, 14 March 2015 Saturday, 14 March 2015 Saturday, 14 March 2015 Saturday, 21 March 2015 Saturday, 21 March 2015 Saturday, 28 March 2015 Sunday, 29 March 2015 Saturday, 4 April 2015 Saturday, 11 April 2015 Sunday, 3 May 2015 Saturday, 20 June 2015 Saturday, 4 July 2015 Saturday, 11 July 2015 Saturday, 18 July 2015 Saturday, 25 July 2015
RESTRICTED LISTED
Saturday, 14 February 2015 Saturday, 14 February 2015
OTHER FEATURES
Monday, 4 August 2014 Saturday, 16 August 2014 Sunday, 31 August 2014 Saturday, 13 September 2014 Saturday, 6 December 2014 Sunday, 18 January 2015 Saturday, 28 February 2015 Sunday, 22 March 2015 Sunday, 22 March 2015 Saturday, 28 March 2015 Sunday, 5 April 2015 Sunday, 5 April 2015 Saturday, 11 April 2015 Sunday, 19 April 2015 Saturday, 25 July 2015
WesternRacepix_Ad_MONO_ThirdPage.indd 1
WESTERN AUSTRALIAN BREEDERS' CLASSIC BUNBURY CUP J.C. ROBERTS STAKES NATASHA STAKES PERTH STAKES GRANDSTAND CUP RACONTEUR STAKES MELVISTA STAKES PINJARRA CUP YORK STAKES MATCHMAKER CLASSIC NORTHAM STAKES BELMONT GUINEAS BELMONT OAKS BEAUFINE STAKES BELMONT CLASSIC H.G. BOLTON SPRINT
1400
$100,000
3YO
SWP
Bunbury
2200 1800 2200 1100 1500 1500 2200 2300 1600 1400 1100 1600 2000 1000 2200 1200
$120,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $120,000 $100,000 $100,000 $125,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000
3UP 3YO 3YO (F) 2YO C&G 3UP 3YO 3YO C&G 3UP 3UP 3UP F&M 3UP 3YO 3YO (F) 2UP 3YO 2UP
Hcp SW SWP SWP Hcp SWP SWP Hcp Hcp Hcp SWP SW SW Hcp SW Hcp
Bunbury Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Ascot Pinjarra Park Ascot Ascot Northam Belmont Park Belmont Park Belmont Park Belmont Park Belmont Park
MAGIC MILLIONS PERTH 2YO CLASSIC 1100 MAGIC MILLIONS PERTH 3YO TROPHY 1200
$250,000 $100,000
2YO 3YO
SW SW
Ascot Ascot
PORT HEDLAND CUP BROOME CUP COOLGARDIE CUP CARNARVON CUP SWAN RIVER SPRINT MUNGRUP STUD SPRINT ESPERANCE CUP BATAVIA SPRINT GERALDTON CUP KALATIARA CLASSIC ALBANY CUP FITZPATRICK PLATE WESTERN AUSTRALIA CUP NARROGIN CUP ROEBOURNE CUP
$40,000 $100,000 $100,000 $50,000 $100,000 $100,000 $70,000 $75,000 $90,000 $100,000 $100,000 $75,000 $120,000 $70,000 $40,000
3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP F&M 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP 3UP
Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp Hcp
Port Hedland Broome Coolgardie Carnarvon Ascot Mt Barker Esperance Geraldton Geraldton Ascot Albany Albany Ascot Narrogin Roebourne
2200 2200 1760 2000 1000 1300 2000 1300 2100 1200 2100 1200 3200 1900 2200
17/02/2015 5:26 pm
Features RACING AHEAD - June - 15
bet o t y a y w s. s a e w e e TABs nith your mat w
TAB supports responsible wagering. Call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for support.
FROM 1 AUGUST 2014 A RECORD $126.1M WILL BE DISTRIBUTED IN FUNDING TO THE WESTERN AUSTRALIAN RACING INDUSTRY. The Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) Board has committed a further $14M in grants towards key racing infrastructure projects.
$126.1M FUNDING
+
$14M
INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS
RACING INDUSTRY
The WA Racing Industry generates more than $550M in direct expenditure and contributes over $590M in value added to the local economy.
More than 33600 people are directly involved in Western Australian racing which provides full time jobs for more than 6700 people. More than $349M in wages is derived from the industry’s full-time employment.
33680 People directly involved in WA racing 6737 Full time equivalent employment
=
$349.3M Household Income
More than $104M in funding is allocated to prizemoney, breeding bonuses and participant payments which will benefit community, regional and metropolitan racing throughout the State.
SOURCE: WA RACING ECONOMIC & SOCIAL IMPACT REPORT, IER, SEPTEMBER 2012
The Western Australian racing industry plays an important economic and social role, enhancing both individual and community wellbeing. There is an average of more than two thoroughbred, harness or greyhound race meetings held each day in this state; providing employment and entertainment for West Australians and visitors alike. This significant increase in funding allocations has been made possible by the performance of the TAB, which is driving a positive and sustainable future for the local racing industry.
CABLE SOUNDS FEATURING
HOODOO GURUS WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
ESKIMO JOE
SATURDAY
8th AUGUST CABLE BEACH
AMPHITHEATRE
BROOME
CONCERT TICKETS INCLUDE FREE ENTRY TO LADIES DAY. TUESDAY 11th AUGUST
General admission & VIP tickets available from Ticketmaster.com.au (136 100) General admission tickets also available from the Broome Visitor Centre (08 9195 2200) For all info head to www.wacountrycups.com.au