Les Kelly banned for 18 months

Gold Coast-based trainer Les Kelly has received an 18-month disqualification following a guilty plea to two charges of using the banned drug erythropoietin (EPO).

The charges concerned the horses Freddie Fox Trot and Gogol, both of whom were unplaced in the 2022 Ramournie Handicap at Grafton.

The Racing NSW stewards commenced the inquiry on April 28, 2023, after pre-race blood samples from both horses revealed the presence of EPO.

Aided by Mr Jim Murdoch KC and instructing Solicitor Mr Greg Ryan, Kelly presented his case, with further evidence taken from licensed trainer Ms Melissa Kelly and licensed stable hand Ms Vanessa Paisley.

Dr Chelsea Kramer, a raceday veterinarian at the meeting, also provided testimony.

Two owners associated with Mr Kelly’s stable provided insights regarding their interactions with both horses on the day prior to the race.

Furthermore, Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory General Manager, Mr John Keledjian, and Emeritus Professor Colin Chapman, providing expert evidence on behalf of Kelly, were part of the proceedings.

Racing NSW Stewards also engaged Professor Martin Sillence for additional expert evidence.

The stewards initially handed Kelly a 20-month suspension but reduced it to 18 months due to his guilty plea and personal circumstances.

This ban marks a significant blow for Kelly, who has over 600 career wins and three of the past five Gold Coast trainer’s premierships to his name.