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Trainer Mark Kavanagh has lost his case over cobalt-related infringements. Picture: Colleen Petch
The Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board have found charges levelled against trainers Danny O’Brien and Mark Kavanagh for cobalt-related infringements proved.
Vet Tom Brennan, formerly employed by both men, has also had charges levelled at him proven.
The trio were found guilty of administering cobalt for the purpose of affecting the performance of horses.
Brennan was found guilty on five counts of administering cobalt, four with O’Brien and one with Kavanagh.
The minimum penalty is three years.
The RAD Board has adjourned and will reconvene to hear submissions regarding penalty at a date and time on or after January 4.
Confirmation of a new cobalt case is said to be imminent.
It is likely the trio will lodge an appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) and seek a stay of proceedings.
O’Brien faced four elevated cobalt readings returned between October and December last year. Kavanagh’s charges pertain to one horse, Magicool, who won at Flemington in October last year.
Brennan was their vet and has denied administering cobalt to their horses.