Media Release
HRSA Stewards have concluded their inquiries into a sample provided by Driver Ken Rogers at Globe Derby Park on Saturday 8 May 2021 which, upon analysis, was found to contain amphetamine and methamphetamine.
The hearing which commenced on 6 July 2021 was adjourned to enable the Driver to provide evidence he considered relevant to his circumstances. The hearing was concluded on Wednesday 1 September 2021.
The Stewards issued a charge under Rule 250(1)(a) which states; “(1) A driver commits an offence if, (a) A sample taken from him is found upon analysis to contain a substance banned by Rule 251.” The particulars of the charge were that; Mr Rogers, a Driver licensed by HRSA, at Globe Derby Park on Saturday 8 May 2021 provided a sample which upon analysis was found to contain the substances banned under Rule 251(d) when present above the levels prescribed. Mr Rogers elected not offer a plea to the charge.
Upon the evidence before them Stewards found Mr Rogers guilty of the charge.
After considering his submission on penalty, Stewards determined that Mr Rogers be disqualified for a period of twelve (12) months to take effect from Thursday 13 May 2021, the date from which he was stood down from driving. The penalty will expire at midnight on 12 May 2022. Stewards further advised Mr Rogers that after the expiration of the penalty, future licence applications would not be considered before he provided two clear samples.
In determining this penalty, Stewards acknowledged the seriousness of the offending as occurring at a race meeting in which Mr Rogers drove, his previous offending under the same Rule, being his fourth offence, and other personal subjectives.
Mr Rogers was notified of his right to appeal this decision.
Graham Loch
Acting Chief Steward HRSA
3 September 2021