Training duo remain under suspension, awaiting latest hearing dateNeale HarveyKalgoorlie MinerSat, 31 January 2026 2:00AM
Leading Perth trainers Grant and Alana Williams remain under suspension and will be required to enter a plea, at a hearing date that is yet to be determined, after their Kalgoorlie Cup runner Starry Heights last week returned a post-mortem positive swab.
They initially appeared before Racing WA stewards on Tuesday after ritalinic acid was detected in the blood sample when the gelding broke down in the 2025 Kalgoorlie Cup at Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club on October 4 and was put down.
Ritalin is a prohibited list A substance under the Racing and Wagering WA Rules of Thoroughbred Racing, and the couple had their trainers’ licences rescinded on January 20.
They had hoped to resume training, but remain provisionally suspended, and are barred from entering a horse in a race or trial.
“The inquiry is to resume on a date to be determined to admit a plea to the charge, and for the matter to proceed accordingly,” Racing WA said in a statement.
“After consideration of detailed submissions from the parties, stewards have also determined that it is appropriate to direct pursuant to Local Rule 22 . . . that the licences of Mr and Mrs Williams be suspended pending the determination of the charge.”
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