The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority and the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission, announced Feb. 21 that they are pursuing cases against one veterinarian and 13 trainers in connection with an organized effort to evade HISA rules designed to protect and enhance the health and safety of horses and riders.
A coordinated investigation led by the PSHRC revealed that veterinarian Dr. Allen Post Bonnell allegedly conspired with the implicated trainers from May 2023-November 2024 to administer intra-articular injections to the joints of covered horses within the prohibited stand-down periods, in direct violation of HISA's Anti-Doping and Medication Control and Racetrack Safety Programs—whose rules are in place to safeguard equine health and ensure fair competition.
As a result of the alleged violations, HISA and HIWU will pursue sanctions against these covered persons as described in HISA's rules, including the disqualification of more than 100 horses from previous race results and subsequent forfeiture of purses, periods of ineligibility for the covered persons and fines. While all horses were allegedly injected at Penn National Race Course, they participated in races at 10 different racetracks subject to HISA's rules, across six different states.
Full BH Story: HISA Ties Seven Equine Deaths to Sweeping PA Conspiracy
HISA has verified that of the more than 100 unique horses alleged to have breezed or raced in violation of HISA's intra-articular stand down times, 30% never raced again, strongly suggesting these injections were used to mask pain. Approximately 10% were observed to be lame post-race by a regulatory veterinarian. Three horses were euthanized as a direct result of injuries sustained in those races.
"This egregious breach of integrity and intentional undermining of equine welfare is a stark reminder of why rigorous oversight and enforcement are critical to the future of horse racing," said HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. "The health and safety of horses and jockeys are paramount, and those who deliberately put them at risk will be held accountable."
Christopher McErlean, vice president of racing for PENN Entertainment, the parent company of Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course, later commented in a separate statement: "We are extremely disappointed regarding this morning's announcement from HISA/HIWU regarding potential flagrant rule violations by multiple trainers based at, and competing at our track, as well as a long-serving practicing veterinarian.
"We will cooperate in any way requested by HISA/HIWU and the Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission regarding this matter and will take appropriate actions regarding these individuals once identified and further information is received.
"The actions of any individuals who attempt to circumvent rules intended to ensure the safety and welfare of the equine athlete will not be tolerated and will be dealt with quickly,"
From the inception of the ADMC Program May 22, 2023, through July 7, 2024, HIWU enforced intra-articular injection rule violations. As of July 8, 2024, HISA has been enforcing intra-articular injection protocols under its revised Racetrack Safety Program.
Further details, including disciplinary actions and sanctions against those involved, will be released in accordance with the disclosure requirements under the Racetrack Safety Program and ADMC Program. HISA, HIWU, and the PSHRC remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport and the welfare of its equine and human athletes.
BloodHorse plans a full story on these allegations later today (Feb. 21).
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
