2022 BOYLESPORTS IRISH GREYHOUND DERBY FINAL SAMPLING RETURNS CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH
GRI
Greyhound Racing Ireland / Rásaíocht Con Eireann (RCÉ) is pleased to announce that samples taken from the finalists of the 2022 Greyhound Derby have tested negative for Adverse Analytical Findings.
The results follow extensive sampling activity at Shelbourne Park since the commencement of the event which fielded 156 greyhounds this year.
Commencing on August 19th, Ireland’s most prestigious greyhound racing competition culminated with the Final on September 24th.
Greyhounds were sampled during all rounds of the competition. 312 samples were taken at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium since the commencement of the Derby. 18 additional samples were procured from Derby competing greyhounds out of competition (off track) in advance of the Semi-final and Final. 6 Blood samples were procured at the Semi-final stage.
RCÉ Director of Regulation Pat Herbert commented, "The ongoing investment in laboratory analysis of samples obtained from greyhounds has further strengthened the integrity and welfare programmes within RCÉ."
"There has been a marked decreasing trend in relation to adverse analytical findings reported over the past five years," added Mr. Herbert. "This indicates a well-regulated sport that takes its integrity responsibilities very seriously in the area of doping and medication control through the implementation of a multi-faceted approach to testing activity."
The 2022 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby was a resounding success culminating with the live transmission of the Semi Final and Final on Virgin Media Two television. The Final also was featured on RTÉ News and Sunday Sport on RTÉ Radio One, which is a very welcome development for our sport.