Hong Kong Jockey Club chief steward Jamie Stier has received independent confirmation that star Australian sprinter Takeover Target tested positive to a banned substance when compulsorily withdrawn from the Hong Kong Sprint last month. Trainer Joe Janiak (pictured) has been informed the B-sample tests by the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory in Sydney have confirmed the gelding's blood sample contained 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone hexanoate. Stewards have still to set a date when Janiak will be asked to attend an inquiry into the matter. Janiak admitted using the steroid substance - which is not banned in Australia - to help Takeover Target, the 2006 Global Sprint Challenge champion, cope with travel and faces the likelihood of a charge under Rule 139, dealing with presenting the horse on race day with a prohibited substance in his system. If found guilty, the hobby trainer would be required to return the cost of Takeover Target's travel to the Jockey Club, and there is the prospect of a suspension or fine as well.
