by Marty Evans, for the Ohio State Racing Commission

Columbus, OH — At its monthly meeting on Feb. 25, the Ohio State Racing Commission heard presentations by Edward J. Martin, president of the Association of Racing Commissioners International and Dr. Dionne Benson, executive director of the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium.

The RMTC conducts research on specific medications used to treat horses, develops medication rules and funds the study of the effects of medications given to horses of all racing breeds. Dr. Benson said the organization’s ultimate goal is the development of model medication rules based upon research findings.

She also talked about the accreditation of laboratories by the RMTC. The Consumer Analytical Laboratory at the Ohio Dept. of Agriculture located in Reynoldsburg tests all blood and urine samples collected from horses racing in the state. She said this laboratory became the third one accredited by the RMTC.

Martin, as a strong proponent for the passage of model medication rules, spoke about the potential benefits of their adoption. One is that trainers would race under the same rules in each state.

He also supported out-of-competition testing of horses for medication use. He suggested this testing may yield results that provide a way to discover if a horse is more likely to have future soundness problems or become injured while racing.

Chairman Robert K. Schmitz asked for background about a recent announcement made after the executive committee of the RMTC declined a proposal to merge with the RCI.

Martin said RCI appreciates the work completed by the RMTC, but chose not to participate in the RMTC process. Dr. Benson said the RMTC executive committee elected to maintain its independence, and many RMTC members feel they are unwilling to fund the RCI’s Scientific Advisory Committee.

That meeting will be held on March 30, in Room South B & C on the 31st Floor of the Riffe Center at 77 S. High St. The meeting will begin at 3 p.m.

Schmitz also said other presentations would follow as the racing commission attempts to collect information prior to considering approval of model rules. Representatives of the U.S. Trotting Association, national and state branches of the Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association and the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association will be invited to speak at the next monthly meeting.

The commission approved a pair of requests to add live racing dates. Miami Valley Gaming & Racing will now race on March 17, to make up for a cancellation due to weather on Jan. 17. Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course will now race on March 6, making up the day lost to weather on Feb. 2.

Kevin Kauffman, representing Belterra Park, and Dave Basler, executive director of the Ohio HBPA, said issues remain that prevented the parties from reaching an agreement related to the opening of Video Lottery Terminals at the racetrack. Mark Loewe, representing Dayton Raceway, and OHHA Executive Director Renee Mancino told the commission they are currently negotiating a similar agreement.