- Jessica Gray tested positive for prohibited substances
- Followed the prestigious Broome Cup on August 24
- Racing stewards confirmed Gray, 28, pleaded guilty
A leading female jockey based in Western Australia has been issued a six-month nationwide ban following a positive drug test.
Jessica Gray, 28, has ridden over 150 career winners – but her reputation is now in tatters after testing positive to prohibited substances.
It followed the hoop riding in the prestigious Broome Cup and four other races on August 24.
Gray’s positive reading has stunned racing identities after her dominance at the North-West winter racing circuit, where she was a prolific winner.
The Carnarvon, Roebourne, Junction and Marble Bar Cups were won by Gray on Gambler’s Gold, Awesome Chatter, La Cartier and Prince Tikea respectively.
She also landed four-win hauls at Broome on July 13 and Derby a week later.
But her only placing on Broome Cup day was a minor race third aboard Red Rebel, and she finished last of 13 on board Our Norman in the feature race.
In a statement, stewards confirmed Gray pleaded guilty to having tested positive to prohibited substances on August 24.
Leading female jockey Jessica Gray has been issued a six-month nationwide ban following a positive drug test
Jessica Gray, 28, has ridden over 150 career winners – but her reputation is now in tatters after testing positive to prohibited substances following the Broome Cup in August
Racing stewards confirmed Gray pleaded guilty after testing positive to banned substances
She was suspended from October 1.
‘If Ms Gray returns clear samples and attends counselling, she will be permitted to work as a stable employee from November 1,’ the statement read.
‘At gradual intervals, consideration will be given to approval of her riding trackwork, and later taking barrier trial mounts.’
Gray began riding as an apprentice in 2017 – and previously told the ABC she was often starving herself to make weight.
‘I’d have my legs glad-wrapped, body glad-wrapped, sweatpants, track pants, sweat top, about three jumpers, a big waterproof jacket and a beanie,’ she said.
‘You just go out and run in the heat, jump in the car and go for a drive with the heaters.’
At the time, Gray took a hiatus from the sport to focus on her mental health.
