With the support of the Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) and industry members of the Medication Control Advisory Group, the University of Guelph (U of G) will be conducting a research study into hemoglobin levels in Ontario racehorses.
The program will collect 200 pre-race and 200 post-race blood samples from a group of Quarter Horse, Standardbred and Thoroughbred horses.
According to the abstract prepared by the researcher, a higher concentration of hemoglobin correlates to a greater ability to transport oxygen, and has the potential to enhance performance. The purpose of the study is to examine the possibility that a normal set of values for hemoglobin levels can be established in racehorses.
This type of research may assist the ORC and the Advisory Group to determine if the results are relevant to the efforts to preserve the integrity of horse racing.
The sport of horse racing funds equine research projects through a percentage of wagering. Projects are selected through a process of peer review and approved based on their benefit to improve horse racing and breeding in Ontario. The Equine Guelph Research Committee oversees the process, and is made up of veterinarians selected to represent the various breed interests in Ontario.
One of the most effective tools in breaking the cycle of illegal drug abuse in racing is research. With the encouragement of the racing community, the ORC will continue to support the investigative efforts of the Equine Medication Control and Drug Program. That support will leverage the very best in science, research, education and both conventional and innovative methods of investigation.
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