Fed: Most AIS swimmers to be routinely drug tested by weekend

AAP General News (Australia)
04-10-2001
Fed: Most AIS swimmers to be routinely drug tested by weekend

CANBERRA, April 10 AAP - Most swimmers at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) would
be routinely drug tested by the weekend, the Australian Sports Drug Agency said today.

This follows the suspension from duty last night of leading AIS swimming coach Gennadi
Touretski after allegations of illegal possession of anabolic steroids.

However, ASDA chief executive John Mendoza said there was absolutely no evidence to
prove any association between the alleged steroids find and the AIS swim squad.

"However, I can confirm that the substance is well-known and readily detectable," he
told reporters.

"This fact, along with the rigour of testing in this country gives us a high level
of confidence in our athletes and in our anti-doping program."

Mr Mendoza declined to directly answer whether the swimmers on Mr Touretski's squad
would be immediately drug tested.

"Mr Touretski's swimmers are part of the squad," he said.

"We are engaged in a program where we take on board evidence such as that provided
by the Australian Federal Police and we will be testing ... the majority of the swimmers
before the weekend."

Mr Touretski is due to appear in court on Thursday.

Earlier today, Australian Sports Commission executive director Mark Peters emphasised
the decision to suspend the coach, and referral of the matter to the Australian Sports
Drug Agency, did not signal any judgment on Mr Touretski or his athletes.

"There is no suggestion - and should be none - that anti-doping policies have been
compromised or the integrity or conduct of any AIS athlete is in question," he told reporters.

AAP dp/kjp/mss/br

KEYWORD: TOURETSKI TEST

2001 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.