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U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA)

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bowling ball in front of pinsUSADA announced today that Shannon O’Keefe of Arlington, Texas, an athlete in the sport of bowling, has tested positive for a prohibited substance after using a prescribed medication, and has accepted a public warning for her rule violation.

O’Keefe, 35, tested positive for Clomiphene as the result of an out-of-competition urine sample collected on January 28, 2014. Clomiphene is a prohibited hormone under the USADA Protocol for Olympic and Paralympic Movement Testing and the World Tenpin Bowling Association (“WTBA”) anti-doping rules, both of which have adopted the World Anti-Doping Code (“Code”) and the World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List. Clomiphene is classified as a Specified Substance, and therefore the presence of Clomiphene in an athlete’s sample can result in a reduced sanction.

After a thorough review of the case, including the examination of medical records provided by the athlete, USADA has accepted O’Keefe’s explanation that the Clomiphene was not being used in an effort to enhance her performance and that she was taking the prescribed medication in a therapeutic dose under the care of a physician.

In an effort to aid athletes, as well as all support team members such as parents and coaches, in understanding the rules applicable to them, USADA provides comprehensive instruction on its website on the testing process and prohibited substances, how to obtain permission to use a necessary medication, and the risks and dangers of taking supplements as well as performance-enhancing and recreational drugs. In addition, the agency manages a drug reference hotline, Drug Reference Online (www.GlobalDRO.com), conducts educational sessions with National Governing Bodies and their athletes, and proactively distributes a multitude of educational materials, such as the Prohibited List, easy-reference wallet cards, periodic newsletters, and protocol and policy reference documentation.

USADA is responsible for the testing and results management process for athletes in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, and is equally dedicated to preserving the integrity of sport through research initiatives and educational programs.


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