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Oaklawn Park Extends Clenbuterol Prohibition

Arkansas track said the move reflects the track's commitment to safety and integrity.

Racing at Oaklawn Park

Racing at Oaklawn Park

Coady Photography

Working in partnership with the Arkansas Racing Commission and the Arkansas Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, Oaklawn Park announced July 29 the prohibition of clenbuterol or any other beta2-adrenoceptor agonist within 120 days of a race, subject to regulatory approval. This restriction is part of Oaklawn's ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety and integrity of its racing program, the track said. 

The presence of clenbuterol and other beta2-agonist will be determined through blood, urine, and hair follicle testing conducted by Industrial Labs.

"Banning the use of clenbuterol and other beta2-agonists further proves our commitment to the safety and integrity of our racing program," Oaklawn president Louis Cella said in a release. "Every decision we make is to enhance the experience of our horsemen and fans at Oaklawn. When we say "Racing First,' we lead by example." 

Last fall, Oaklawn announced provisions for its 2021 racing season, which at the time called for the prohibition of clenbuterol within 60 days of a race, and mandated the use of more forgiving riding crops. The diuretic Lasix, used to control respiratory bleeding in horses, was still allowed for most of the track's races, though with reduced amounts without specific approval. Oaklawn did not allow Lasix for its preps on the Road to the Kentucky Derby and Road to the Kentucky Oaks after a state legislative review committee approved the exception.

Oaklawn's newly expanded 2021-22 season runs Dec. 3—May 8.