Two trainers charged over elevated cobalt readings in their horses were deceived by their vet, an inquiry has been told.

Barrister Damian Sheales, representing Mark Kavanagh and Danny O’Brien as they fight cobalt charges before the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board, said the trainers had been misled by Dr Tom Brennan, a vet who is also facing charges.

O’Brien is charged with presenting four horses with illegal cobalt readings while Kavanagh has been charged over Magicool’s positive from a Flemington win more than a year ago.

In his opening address, Sheales said it was not only his clients but also the stewards who had been deceived by Brennan.

“He’s been kryptonite to everyone,” Sheales said.

Sheales said his clients had been consistent with their evidence to stewards throughout the investigation and did so under duress from Brennan.

Adrian Anderson, representing Brennan, said that his client was remorseful and apologetic for his conduct.

Article from JustHorseRacing.com.au