The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority announced the addition of three members to its Anti-Doping and Medication Control Standing Committee: David Ingordo, David Sykes, and Jonathan Coyles. These distinguished professionals bring expertise from the fields of horse racing, veterinary medicine, and professional sports, enhancing HISA's mission to uphold the highest standards of integrity, safety, and welfare within the industry.
Led by chairman Charles Scheeler, an independent director on HISA's Board, the ADMC Standing Committee is required by federal law to be composed of four independent members and three industry representatives.
The committee plays a key role in advising and assisting HISA with the establishment of comprehensive rules and protocols for its ADMC Program, including the Prohibited Substances List, laboratory testing standards, in-competition and out-of-competition testing programs, and ADMC research and educational initiatives. The daily operations of the ADMC Program are managed by the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit, a subsidiary of Drug Free Sport International, which works to ensure horse racing is conducted in accordance with the ADMC Program and that the welfare of horses is always prioritized when it comes to the implementation of medication rules.
New Appointees
David Ingordo (Industry) is a racehorse owner and bloodstock agent. Ingordo previously worked for Robert Frankel, Walmac International, and Juddmonte Farms USA. He is part of Lane's End Farm with the bloodstock division Ingordo Bloodstock and helps to manage Belladonna Racing. Ingordo brings deep industry insight from his years of managing racehorses and working hands-on at the racetrack. He previously served on HISA's Horsemen's Advisory Group.
David Sykes (Industry) is an Australia-based veterinarian who is a respected veterinary consultant with extensive international experience in horse racing. He serves as head of anti-doping on the Technical Committee for the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia and consults for Racing Victoria on the Melbourne Cup Spring Racing Carnival equine welfare initiatives. Previously, he held senior roles in equine health and welfare at the British Horseracing Authority and the Emirates Racing Authority, where he was instrumental in advancing safety and integrity standards across global racing jurisdictions.
Jonathan Coyles (Independent) is vice president of Drug, Health and Safety Programs at Major League Baseball, overseeing its drug prevention and treatment programs. He manages scientific and medical experts, supports collective bargaining with the Players Association on health and safety issues, and advises MLB clubs on legal, wellness, and anti-doping matters.
"These new members bring vital expertise and perspectives to the ADMC Standing Committee, strengthening our efforts to promote transparency, safety and fair competition within horseracing," Scheeler said.
As HISA welcomes these new members, the organization also expresses gratitude to Dr. Lynn Hovda, Barry Irwin, and Kathleen Stroia, who are stepping down from the committee at the end of their terms and after years of dedicated service.
"We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Lynn Hovda, Barry Irwin, and Kathleen Stroia for their contributions to the ADMC Standing Committee," said HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. "Their commitment and insights have been instrumental in shaping the early years of the ADMC Program, and their legacy will have a lasting impact on the integrity and welfare of our sport."
The full list of ADMC Standing Committee members can be viewed online here.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
