ITU to toughen doping rules

The International Triathlon Union (ITU) announced this week that it will begin using a biological passport programme to toughen anti-doping rules.

The move puts triathletes worldwide among only a handful of competitors whose global sport governing body has adopted the passport plan developed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Over time, athletes give a series of samples to allow creation of a body chemistry profile.

When future tests show testers any changes from that norm, it indicates the impact of doping in the blood rather than requiring tests for specific substances to determine the presence of drugs.

“We are delighted to mark this important step in the ITU’s fight against doping,” said ITU president Marisol Casado.

“This new programme will further reinforce our commitment.”