AAA 2009 No. 77 190 00543 09 USADA vs Jessica Cosby

Respondent, a 27 year old world-class hammer thrower who tested positive in an out-of-competition urine sample test for hydrochlorothiazide and chlorothiazide which are used as Prohiblted Substances in the class of Diuretics and Other Masking Agents. This is a first offense for the athlete. Since 2005, Ms. Cosby has been in USADA' s Registered testing program, which means she has long been familiar with doping control testing.
Facing a suspension for 2 years she asks for a hearing. The key provision at issue in this case is as follows: World Anti-Doping Code 2009 10.4 Elimination or Reduction of Ineligibility for Specified Substances under Specific Circumstances. The positive drug test is related to a water pil (HCTZ) she took, a day before her drug test. She took this medecine because she was unable to urinate. Her condition is labeled as acute renal failure and in her family there is a history of high bloodpressure. Also her history of depression is regarded.
The Panel, having reviewed all the cases cited by the parties and having considered the life of this young athlete and her hopes for a future is of opinion that she should be suspended for four months and that the time should run from the date of her voluntary suspension which is September 21, 2009.