| October 12, 2006
SCIENTISTS RECEIVE PRESIDENT'S AWARD
HARRISBURG PA - Doctors Fuyu Guan and Cornelius Uboh, of the Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology and Research Lab at West Chester (PA) University, and Doctors Lawrence Soma and Eric Birks, of the New Bolton Center of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, have collectively won a President's Award from Judy Davis-Wilson, president of the U.S. Harness Writers Association.
The quartet of scientists were able to develop the world's first test for confirming the actual presence (not just the antibodies) of the drug erythropoietin (EPO) or Darbepoetin-alfa in the horse. EPO is viewed by many as a potentially potent blood-doping agent for racing horses, and the ability to detect its actual presence will go a long way in maintaining a level playing field for horses with regard to this treatment.
"Drs. Guan, Birks, Uboh, and Soma have made a breakthrough discovery in equine science that will eliminate those who seek to gain an unfair advantage before the race," said USHWA president Davis-Wilson. "This test will also reassure racing fans that the highest level of technology is being employed for their benefit to ensure fair competition. USHWA is proud to honor these pioneers for the breakthrough EPO discovery."
The doctors will be honored at USHWA's Annual Awards Banquet, to be held Sunday, February 25 at the Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City NJ. Information on tickets, hotel reservations, and taking ads in the Dinner Journal will be available shortly at www.ushwa.org.
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