Facts
The UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) alleges Bruce Croall, the athlete, for a violation of the Anti-Doping Rules. During cycling events on October 6 and 9, 2013, samples were taken for doping test purposes. Analysis of the samples showed the presence of Oxilofrine which is a prohibited substance according to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list. It is regarded as a specified substance.
History
The athlete explains that the prohibited substance must have been present in supplements he had used during the cycling events. He had no intention to enhance his sport performance. Allthough the supplement’s packaging contains no reference to Oxilofrine nor is there any listed ingredient that has been proved to contain it, the same supplement was used by another athlete who tested positive in a different sport. Tests in November 2013 from another sachet in the same batch confirmed the presence of Oxilofrine in that sample.
However it should be clear that it has not been established that such supplement became contaminated other than in the course of manufacture. That can't be known. Nevertheless, it must be abundantly clear to other athletes that there is at least a risk that any product bearing that name or description may be similarly contaminated.
In this case the athlete was tested before using, as he claims, the same supplements and the tests were negative. He had then no awareness of taking a prohibited substance.
The panel agrees to a reduction of the period of ineligibility because of no significant fault or negligence.
Decision
1. The sanction is a period of ineligibility of six months.
2. All the result obtained at the cycling events on October 6 and 9, 2013, are cancelled. Medals, points and prizes are withdrawn.
Costs
Mr Croall will have to bear the “costs of results management by the UCI in the amount of CHF 2,500”.
