Last updated: 02-Jun-17
The use of drugs to enhance performance in ultra running is becoming an increasingly hot topic. Now, one of the American “biggies”, The Western States Endurance Run, has released a “Drug Testing Policy and Protocols” document to all runners entered in this year’s event. There will be drug testing for the first time in the Run’s 44-year history.
WSER President, John Medinger, made the announcement:
“Drug testing at this year’s Western States is an important and necessary step in deterring use of performance-enhancing drugs in our sport. We are hoping that by taking a leadership role regarding this important issue, other races throughout the world will also make a strong commitment and take a strong stance toward fostering a drug-free future for our sport.”
Post-competition drug testing at this year’s Run will be conducted by an independent third party commissioned by WSER. Drug collection and testing will be done in accordance with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules and regulations. Urine samples will be collected under direct observation of the independent administrator and tested for WADA’s list of banned substances.
All individuals who are on the final start list for Western States could be subject to drug testing at this year’s Run and the tests will take place straight after completion of the Run.
Read the Drug Testing Policy and Protocols document here.
