USADA announced today that David Anthony, an athlete in the sport of cycling, has accepted a two-year suspension for committing an anti-doping rule violation.
Anthony, 45, admitted the use of synthetic erythropoietin (EPO) after testing positive as the result of a sample collected on May 20, 2012 at the Gran Fondo New York. The use of EPO is prohibited under the USADA Protocol for Olympic Movement Testing and the International Cycling Union (UCI) Anti-Doping Rules, both of which have adopted the World Anti-Doping Code and the World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List.
Anthony’s two-year period of ineligibility, began on July 9, 2012 the date he accepted a provisional suspension. As a result of the violation, Anthony has been disqualified from all competitive results achieved on and subsequent to May 20, 2012, including forfeiture of any medals, points, and prizes.
“We know that the win-at-all-costs culture in sport today creates an environment where the temptation to cheat affects all levels of competition, said USADA CEO Travis T. Tygart. “We appreciate Mr. Anthony being honest and accepting responsibility for his actions.”
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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