QRIC Media Release: Thoroughbred trainer fined over two cocaine charges
28 September 2023
A southeast Queensland thoroughbred trainer has been charged by Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) stewards after cocaine was detected in two different thoroughbred runners at race meetings in Toowoomba and Gatton.
During a stewards’ inquiry, licensed trainer Phillip Bobic pleaded guilty to two charges relating to the detection of a prohibited substance in two horses.
Cocaine was detected in Bobic-trained Sonic Arrow, after a post-race sample was collected following its winning performance at the Toowoomba Racecourse on Saturday 10 June.
Following its win at Gatton on Saturday 24 June, Bobic-trained Sennachie’s post-race sample also tested positive for cocaine.
QRIC stewards found Mr Bobic in breach of AR240(2), which states that when a horse is brought to race it must not have prohibited substances present.
The stewards’ penalty decision was handed down yesterday, and Mr Bobic has been fined $4,000.
Sonic Arrow has been disqualified from its placing in Toowoomba Race 1, Prime Thoroughbreds Benchmark 58 Handicap (1,000m), and the placings have been amended.
Sennachie has been disqualified from its placing in Gatton Race 7, Public Safety and Training Response Group Maiden Handicap (1,400m) and placings have been amended.
Mr Bobic has the opportunity to appeal the decision via the independent Racing Appeals Panel.
ENDS.
Media Contact: Nicole Rowles 0467 955 412