Jockey outed for four years for cannabis

North Queensland jockey Mark Elliott has been disqualified for four years after his sixth positive random test to cannabis in a decade.

Stewards opened an inquiry after a urine sample was taken from Elliott at a Townsville race meeting on January 25.

Elliott pleaded guilty to providing a urine sample which upon analysis was found to contain the substance 11-nor-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabainol-9-carboxylic acid, a metabolite of cannabis.

In determining penalty, stewards took into account Elliott’s guilty plea and forthright evidence during the inquiry.

They said they were also mindful of the serious nature of the offence and the danger that riding under the influence of prohibited substances represented to his fellow riders.

Stewards also took into account Elliott had five previous breaches under a similar rule in relation to the same substance.

Elliott was disqualified for four years to begin on February 15 and expire on February 26, 2024.

He can seek an internal review of the sentence.

Elliot was advised that under the rules he must provide a clear urine sample before reapplying for his licence.