Goffs/Doncaster Bloodstock Sales in Ireland will extend blood testing for banned drugs to include anabolic steroids beginning Jan. 1, 2008.
Due to recent improvements in the accuracy and speed of testing methods for anabolic steroids, the decision by the Goffs and DBS boards of directors to introduce the testing continues ongoing efforts to increase transparency within the bloodstock industry, according to a Nov. 26 release.
The companies said there “never been a suggestion of any anabolic steroid misuse at Goffs or DBS, and there have been no reported cases.” Goffs and DBS said they are expecting no positive results from the blood tests.
“We have introduced this test as a further example of our confidence in the horses we sell and to increase transparency at all our sales,” Henry Beeby, chief executive officer of Goffs/DBS, said in a statement. “We are confident that this step graphically illustrates the unbeatable service Goffs and DBS offer, and we are sure that this measure will further improve buyer confidence.”
Earlier in November, Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton, both based in Kentucky, announced plans to introduce voluntary testing for anabolic steroids Jan. 1, 2008. Buyers will have the option of requesting tests.
