Table of Contents:
- The AGCO ruling includes several key restrictions on Gillis and his horses
- Jeffrey Gillis connected to illegal substances purchased from Seth Fishman
- A decorated career now marked by scandal
- Impact on horses and broader racing regulations
- Regulatory response highlights integrity of racing oversight
The AGCO ruling includes several key restrictions on Gillis and his horses
All horses owned entirely or partially by Gillis are banned from racing for 10 years
Any horse trained by Gillis is currently ineligible to race unless reassigned to a different trainer with AGCO approval
The financial penalty totals $40,000
Jeffrey Gillis connected to illegal substances purchased from Seth Fishman
AGCO documentation confirms that between October 14, 2018, and June 27, 2019, Gillis either bought or tried to buy illegal drugs from American veterinarian Seth Fishman. Fishman was convicted in the United States for producing unregulated performance-enhancing drugs and was sentenced to 11 years in prison in July 2022. According to U.S. court records, Fishman specialized in creating substances that were not detectable by typical anti-doping procedures and offered customized formulas to various clients within the horse racing industry.
Among the substances linked to Gillis was a synthetic version of erythropoietin, intended to boost red blood cell production and endurance in racehorses. These drugs were illegal and presented serious health risks for animals. The investigation into Fishman and his clients revealed a network that operated across several racing jurisdictions.
A decorated career now marked by scandal
Prior to the suspension, Gillis maintained a long and successful presence in Canadian horse racing. In 2010, his stable recorded $2,910,315 in purse earnings and from 2009 through 2013, it consistently earned over $1 million annually. In 2020, he trained the trotting mare Hey Livvy, which earned him the O’Brien Award - the highest honour in Canadian harness racing. He also trained Covered Bridge, which secured victories at the Gold Cup and Saucer in both 2023 and 2024 at Red Shores Racetrack in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
His operations were based primarily at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto and Woodbine Mohawk Park in Campbellville. These achievements, once a mark of consistent excellence, are now overshadowed by the findings of illegal doping activity.
Impact on horses and broader racing regulations
As part of the AGCO ruling, no horse currently or previously trained by Gillis may participate in races unless formally transferred to a trainer in good standing and approved by the commission. This measure is intended to ensure a clean and transparent transition, while preserving the safety and fairness of the sport.
The United States Trotting Association confirmed it would recognize and apply similar sanctions within its own jurisdiction. In a public statement, the association reiterated its support for international collaboration in fighting doping practices and ensuring animal welfare.
Regulatory response highlights integrity of racing oversight
Karin Schnarr, CEO and registrar of the AGCO, stated in a media release that the case demonstrated the seriousness with which regulatory bodies treat such violations. She emphasized that the AGCO will not tolerate any breach of trust involving illegal substances and will continue to act firmly against individuals attempting to compromise the integrity of horse racing.
The suspension of Jeffrey Gillis reflects the consequences of engaging in prohibited practices within the sport. With numerous authorities aligned in their response, this case highlights the increasing enforcement actions being taken to preserve the future of harness racing in Canada and the United States.
Source: CBC