Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Anti-doping chief raps China for exporting dope

While the race for medals is on--enhancement drugs come in handy--especially in China where it has become a vibrant part of their culture. Just take a look at famous basketball star Yao Ming’s story. Drugs and Olympics don't mix.

Doping czar calls for tougher rules

China is trying hard to shake a reputation for doping among its athletes, a drive that has gained added urgency ahead of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

China cracked down on doping following a string of scandals in the 1990s, when 32 of its swimmers alone were caught for drug offences, two of them twice. It introduced tough new testing regimes and penalties, with 17 athletes punished in 2004 with fines and competition bans of up to two years.

"An Olympic host country has the special responsibility, both at home and around the world to demonstrate its commitment to doping free sport," said Pound, who arrived in China Sunday for a four-day visit. (more)

OLYMPIC WATCH: Human Rights in China and Beijing 2008

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