Pennsylvania Racing Commissions Announce Accreditation for Equine Research Laboratory

HARRISBURG, Pa., April 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology & Research Laboratory, or PETRL, has once again been re-accredited by the American Association of Laboratory Accreditation, Racing Commission acting Executive Secretary Michael Dillon said today.

"Testing for foreign substances in horses and racing participants is one of the most critical elements to ensuring the integrity of Pennsylvania's racing industry," Dillon said. "Because the staff employs the latest testing methods and uses technologically advanced equipment, PETRL is recognized nationally and worldwide for excellence in equine research and testing."

In order to achieve the accreditation, the West Chester laboratory underwent an inspection and submitted documents to the American Association of Laboratory Accreditation to show proficient test results, a quality manual, proof of staff training, and evaluations by clients including the PA Racing Commissions.

Under Governor Rendell, the commonwealth has all but eliminated the use of anabolic steroids, a performance-enhancing drug, in racehorses. This is due in part to Pennsylvania being the first state to base its testing program on blood plasma samples rather than urine samples, allowing for more precise and accurate detection of the steroids.

PETRL was also the first lab to employ a definitive test for erythropoietin, the blood-doping agent commonly known as EPO. This drug builds energy by artificially stimulating the release of red blood cells and is very dangerous to the health of horses.  

More than 50,000 individual samples are tested annually. PETRL is one of only three equine forensic laboratories in the U.S. that is accredited, out of 22 laboratories serving the racing industry in various jurisdictions.

Pennsylvania is home to three thoroughbred racetracks: Penn National Racecourse in Grantville, Dauphin County; Philadelphia Park Race Track in Bensalem, Bucks County; and Presque Isle Downs in Erie.  

There are also three harness racing tracks in the state: The Meadows Racetrack near Pittsburgh; Harrah's Chester Casino & Racetrack near Philadelphia; and Pocono Downs Racetrack in Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County.

For more information about racing in Pennsylvania, visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us, click "Bureaus, Commissions & Councils," and select "Pennsylvania Racing Commission."  

Media contact: Justin Fleming, 717-787-5085

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

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