|
Dean:
I don't think that the addition of lasix and the slightly relaxed standards on the TCO2 test that it allows is a factor at all. Two reasons: (1) The TCO2 test is stringent and the penalties so severe that routine and normal addition of baking soda to the horse prior to a race has been all but dropped by trainers. Translation: Milkshaking is dead. In some jurisdictions, like Pa., they even warn trainers when the TCO2 levels of their horses are high-but-legal. The warning goes something like this: "Your horses' levels are high but legal. However, we are watching you like a hawk and the first time you go over the limit, you'll never race another horse here- EVER!" And (2) lasix does indeed elevate TCO2 levels, so the extra wiggle room doesn't exist.
The ELISA test is super-sensitive and can detect quantities of ANYTHING unusual and once found, even though the agent may not be immediately identifiable, with further testing it can be. With the addition of steroid testing and EPO/Aranesp testing, I laugh at people who still think there are tons of illegal performance-enhancing drugs out there that trainers are giving. There just aren't and personally I think it's time to give the high-percentage trainers some credit for what they legitimately do.
|
