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'Shocked' Powell planning to return

ESPN staff
July 24, 2013
Asafa Powell (l) and Tyson Gay have both recently failed drugs tests © Getty Images
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Former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell says he was "shocked" by the news of his failed drugs test and has vowed to return to the track.

Powell, 30, was one of five Jamaican athletes to fail a doping test at the country's national trials in June. The sprinter tested positive for the banned stimulant oxilofrine.

However Powell, who is still waiting on the result of his B sample, admitted he never once considered retiring from athletics and is targeting a return to the sport.

"It's very unfortunate that I will not be going to the World Championships, but there is a lot more to go," Powell told the Jamaican Gleaner at a news conference in Kingston.

"There is a World Championships in two years' time again and then the Olympics. So there is a lot to look forward to.

"I have never thought about it [retiring]. I was just shocked by the news. I have been thinking a lot but never once thought about giving up.

"I am still training. I consider this an off year, but I am still working hard, training, going to the gym almost every day."

Compatriot Sherone Simpson, who also tested positive for oxilofrine, appeared alongside Powell at the press conference, adding: "I would like to make it clear that we are not blaming anyone. We were asked if we were taking any new supplements, and we told the authorities where we got it from."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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