Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co. will implement a new steroids policy beginning with the 2008 February sale of two-year-olds in training.

OBSC has banned the use of exogenous steroids within 45 days of sale, and buyers will be permitted to request a test for anabolic steroids following a purchase. Buyers will be allowed to rescind the sale in the event of a positive test for steroids.

“The use of anabolic steroids throughout all sports is certainly a hot topic and deserving of close scrutiny,” said OBS general manager Tom Ventura. “With the advancement in testing technology, OBS considers the timing appropriate to incorporate restrictions regarding the use of anabolic steroids.”

Both the Keeneland Association and Fasig-Tipton Co. agreed on November 15 on a joint policy prohibiting the use of exogenous anabolic steroids for weanlings and yearlings within 45 days of their sales in 2008.

OBS also refined its rules on prohibited practices and several medication policies:

• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy and Radial pulse wave therapy are not permitted on sale grounds;

• Acupuncture and electrostimulation with the intent of altering laryngeal function are banned are not permitted;

• Internal blister or other injections intended to conceal true conformation and banned;

• Electrical devices to stimulate on-track performance are not permitted;

• All substances classified as either Class 1 or Class 2 drugs by the Association of Racing Commissioners International may not be administered for any reason to a horse slated to go through the ring;

• All bronchodilators, including Clenbuterol and Albuterol, may not be given to a horse within 72 hours of either an under-tack show or sale;

• Furosemide (Salix or Lasix) may not be given to a sale horse on the grounds; and

• Procaine penicillin may not be given to a sale horse on the grounds.