• Diamond League

Fraser tests positive for banned substance

ESPN staff
July 9, 2010
Shelly-Ann Fraser has tested positive for a banned substance © Getty Images
Enlarge

Olympic and World 100m champion Shelly-Ann Fraser has shocked the world of athletics by testing positive for a prohibited substance.

The Jamaican star failed the test at the Diamond League meet in Shanghai on May 23 after taking medication to relieve toothache.

The 23-year-old was due to run in Thursday night's Diamond League meeting in Lausanne but withdrew before the start.

Despite the revelation, the president of Fraser's track club, MVP, has insisted the offence is of minor significance.

"It is a minor doping violation," said Bruce James. "We have nothing to hide and as a result of this we have decided to go public and admit that she had a positive result.

"She took pain medication after a dental procedure which is not a performance-enhancement drug. We are withdrawing her from all competitions until we are able to have a hearing to determine what sanction will apply, or if she will be exonerated.

"Coach Stephen Francis is not upset with Shelly-Ann at all. He is actually proud of her for being brave enough to race in Shanghai.

"The IAAF have advised us that the offending substance is oxycodone. Google it. It is not a performance-enhancing drug."

Fraser's last appearance on the track was during the Diamond League meeting in Eugene last weekend where she finished second in the 100m behind compatriot Veronica Campbell-Brown.

This latest news is another blow for the sport - six Jamaican athletes have tested for banned substances over the last year.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices