The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and USADA announced today that Ezkyas Sisay, an Ethiopian athlete in the sport of track & field, has accepted a two-year suspension for committing an anti-doping rule violation.
Sisay, 24, is a member of IAAF, and admitted the use of synthetic erythropoietin (EPO) after testing positive as the result of a sample collected by USADA on behalf of the IAAF at the New York City Marathon on November 6, 2011. The use of EPO is prohibited under the USADA Protocol for Olympic and Paralympic Movement Testing and the International Association of Athletics Federation Anti-Doping Rules, both of which have adopted the World Anti-Doping Code (“Code”).
Sisay’s two-year period of ineligibility, began on November 6, 2011, the date the doping offense occurred. As a result of the violation, Sisay has been disqualified from all competitive results achieved on and subsequent to November 6, 2011, including forfeiture of any medals, points, and prizes.
“The United States is a key country for the IAAF not only because of the quality of its national elite athletes but also because it hosts major athletics events and attracts international athletes from all over the world,” said Dr. Gabriel Dollé, Director of the IAAF Medical and Anti-Doping Department. “It is therefore crucial for the IAAF to be able to rely on an efficient and innovative anti-doping agency such as USADA, committed to eradicate doping on its territory. This case illustrates our joint efforts towards this common objective.”
“This case is a prime example of why cooperation between national anti-doping organizations and international federations is so important in protecting the rights of clean athletes and preserving the integrity of competition,” said USADA CEO Travis T. Tygart. “We commend the IAAF for its commitment to the global fight against the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sport.”
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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