In November 2019 the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) has reported an anti-doping rule violation against the cyclist Lynette Burger after her sample tested positive for the prohibited substances 19-norandrosterone and 19-noretiocholanolone (Nandrolone).
After notification a provisional suspension was ordered. The Athlete filed a statement in her defence and she was heard for the SAIDS Anti-Doping Hearing Panel.
Initially the Athlete denied the intentional use, yet later she admitted the presence of the substances. She asserted that the substances were administered without her knowledge whilst she received medical treatment as a result of an accident in September 2018. She believed that these substances improved her mental wellness.
The Panel did not accept the Athlete's explanation because it does not explain the presence of the prohibited substances more than a year after the accident. Also it regards that doctors don't administer any drug into a patient without their concent. Further the Panel holds that the Athlete could not say exactly when the alleged accident took place and at any time as an professional experienced Athlete she failed to apply for a TUE.
Finally the Panel concludes that the Athlete acted with significant fault and that there are no grounds for a reduced sanction.
Therefore the SAIDS Disciplinary Panel decides on 24 March 2021 to impose a 4 year period of ineligibility on the Athlete, starting on the date of the provisional suspension, i.e. on 26 November 2019.
