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Delay in Village readiness hits dope plan too
The Games Village mess, which resulted in athletes delaying their entry, has adversely affected the Anti-Doping Programme that was scheduled to kick off on September 23.
The Games Village mess, which resulted in athletes delaying their entry, has adversely affected the Anti-Doping Programme that was scheduled to kick off on September 23.
The dope-control team had set a target of 150 out-of-competition tests before the start of the Games, but it's unlikely they will be able achieve that goal.
“Dope control is the most important aspect of the Games, and we can't compromise at any cost, but things aren't as rosy as we had expected,” a member of the dope committee told the Hindustan Times on condition of anonymity.
“We are already five days behind schedule. Let's hope things will be under control from tomorrow,” he added. More than 3,000 athletes are expected to stay in the Village during the Games.
The head of the Dope Control Programme, Dr. M Jegathesan from Malaysia, also hoped things would be in control soon. “We are trying to make things happen, and are putting everything in place.
“Our duty is to ensure a proper medical system, proper delivery of services at residences, Games Village and all other places to keep a track on athletes. We have already done a lot of things, but I can't reveal any more details beyond that,” said Jegathesan.
According to the programme, the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has approved 150 pre-competition tests --- the highest ever in any Commonwealth Games --- in its anti-doping Test Distribution Plan (TDP).
It has proposed 1,500 dope control tests, 250 blood tests and 150 EPO tests during the Games.
According to the TDP, the selection of athletes would be done randomly from among the medallists. Besides, target testing would also be done.
“The anti-doping standard for the Games will be applicable to all athletes, including para-athletes,” he said.
Jegathesan also refused to comment on the recent dope scandal that his Indian sports, in which 11 athletes tested positive and were subsequently banned. “This issue doesn't come under my preview. Indian authorities would be in a better position to give you a reply.”
The Games Organising Committee, through its Dope Control Division, has trained more than 450 Doping Control Officials (DCOs) for the Games.
State-of-the-art dope-control stations, equipped with dedicated teams, are available at all competition venues.
Besides, a dope centre has been set up at the Games Village, while the command centre is at the Games Headquarters.
