Statement on Sports Tribunal decision involving XYZ

Given the media interest in the Sports Tribunal's decision on another NZ clenbuterol case involving XYZ (whose name is suppressed), Drug Free Sport New Zealand (DFSNZ) has prepared the following statement from Chief Executive Nick Paterson:

"The respondent (XYZ) regularly competed in club and inter-club golf competitions. XYZ's recorded scores meant that he was in the top 3% of golfers in NZ. He also competed at a national masters surf life-saving event.

"The respondent purchased clenbuterol, and later purchased dianabol. Clenbuterol is an anabolic agent that acts to increase the ability of the body to burn fat, while maintaining lean muscle mass. Dianabol is an anabolic steroid, modified from testosterone. Dianabol is used by athletes to gain size and strength.

"The World Anti Doping Code does not differentiate between elite athletes and recreational athletes, and the Code does not even include the term “recreational athlete”. WADA is currently reviewing the Code. DFSNZ has consulted with NZ sporting organisations on the WADA Code review. DFSNZ has submitted to WADA that they need to recognise the difference, and WADA has adopted DFSNZ's submission into the current draft of the new Code.”

DFSNZ is unable to comment further on this case, as the Sports Tribunal has not yet made their decision as to sanction.

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