Stewards adjourn Williamses’ inquiry

Racing WA Stewards will determine the immediate future of Grant and Alana Williams’ training operation within two days, after adjourning an inquiry into the detection of Ritalinic Acid in Starry Heights’ post‑mortem blood sample.

In a statement the stewards said they considered a submission regarding the possible suspension of the Williamses’ licences under Local Rule 22 and would make a decision in the next two days on whether they can resume their operation having been stood down when the charges were first levelled last week.

The charges concern the alleged presence of Ritalinic Acid, after Starry Heights was tested following a race at Kalgoorlie in October, which this horse was eased out of. He was later humanely euthanised.

Ritalinic Acid occurs when Ritalin, a medication used to treat ADHD in humans, is present.

The hearing examined reports from both the ChemCentre in Perth and the Racing Analytical Services Laboratory. Expert evidence was provided by ChemCentre’s Dr. Beckett and Racing WA Regulatory Veterinarian Dr Kiely.

Grant and Alana Willaims, represented by barrister Tom Percy KC, addressed the panel and responded to questions regarding the circumstances surrounding the horse’s final race and the detected substance.