Arkansas slaps further restrictions on Clenbuterol, Lasix

Arkansas this week became the latest state to add further restrictions to Clenbuterol use in horse racing. During a Thursday meeting of the Arkansas Racing Commission, a host of rule changes were approved that included the prohibition of Clenbuterol within 60 days of a race, a reduction in the amount of allowable Lasix, and the mandatory use of safety whips for racing. 

Clenbuterol is a regulated bronchodilator that is thought to have some performance-enhancing qualities. Regulators throughout North America have taken steps in recent months to phase out its use entirely.

"Hopefully, [these proposed rule changes] will go a long way in leveling the playing field and getting everybody where they understand it is a level playing field," said commission Chairman Alex Lieblong, according to the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. 

There were 16 rule changes adopted in all on Thursday. All had been proposed jointly by Oaklawn Park and the Arkansas HBPA. The included:

• The use of Clenbuterol or any other beta2-agonist will not be allowed within 60 days prior to a race at Oaklawn, confirmed for the first time through hair testing.

• The maximum dosage of Lasix that can be administered has been reduced by 50% without specific approval of the State Veterinarian. Lasix is also prohibited in any 3-year-old stakes that awards points towards eligibility in the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. These are the Smarty Jones, Southwest (G3), Rebel (G2), and Arkansas Derby (G1) for horses pointing towards the Kentucky Derby. And the Martha Washington, Honeybee (G3), and Fantasy (G3) for horses pointing towards the Kentucky Oaks.

• The use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy, radial pulse wave therapy, or similar treatments will not be allowed within 30 days of a race. Also, shock wave equipment will not be allowed on Oaklawn's grounds at any time.

• Trainer and veterinarian records must be made available upon request for review by the pre-race exam veterinarians.

• The only riding crops allowed during races will be the 360 Gentle Touch (360 GT), Pro-Cush or other similar riding crops approved by the stewards.

• Off-track training facilities in Arkansas will be asked to agree to abide by rules similar to rules that apply on-track.

• Horses will be required to be on the grounds at least 72 hours before races unless approved for late arrival. To facilitate this, entries will be scheduled at least four days prior to a race.