September 10, 2009 (Tampa, Fla.) - World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), owner and organizer of the Ironman and 70.3 event brands, announces the launch of a new, comprehensive Anti-Doping Program. Beginning this month, athletes competing in Ironman and 70.3 events are eligible for in and out-of-competition drug testing. Additionally, a Registered Testing Pool (RTP) consisting of professional and elite age group athletes who have qualified for either of the World Championships will be created. From this RTP, athletes will be selected for random testing.
“Ironman has been conducting testing since 1990, and this is our latest initiative to maintain the integrity of our testing program and keep the sport of triathlon drug-free,” said Ben Fertic, president and CEO of the World Triathlon Corporation.
WTC signed and accepted the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code in June of 2005 and has registered with WADA’s Anti-Doping Administration and Management System (ADAMS). This system manages the athletes’ whereabouts and racing calendars, in addition to serving as the results clearinghouse for the program. WTC will also work cooperatively with other National Anti-Doping Agencies (NADOs) to streamline testing initiatives and anti-doping efforts throughout the sport as a whole. The partner and service provider for all testing and administration will be the Association of National Anti-Doping Organizations – Anti-Doping Service (ANADO-ADS).
Casey Wade, Executive Director of ANADO, applauded WTC’s efforts, stating, “Putting this program in place clearly demonstrates a serious commitment to maintaining a clean sport and keeping doping out of Ironman’s competitive arena.”
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