Nat Bromhead
The Australian Sports Anti Doping Authority (ASADA) has confirmed Australian Paralympic cyclist Michael Gallagher’s provisional suspension by Cycling Australia and the Australian Paralympic Committee after returning a positive test for a banned substance.
“The APC fiercely supports the fight against doping in sport,” Kate McLoughlin – Chef de Mission, Australian Paralympic Team.
37-year-old Mr Gallagher, a Gold medal winner at both the London and Beijing Paralympics, was tested at a training camp in Italy in July. His ‘A’ sample has been found to have tested positive for erythropoietin (EPO). Recent testing conducted by ASADA was part of a comprehensive pre-Rio anti-doping program to ensure the integrity of the Australian Paralympic team.
The provisional suspension means Mr Gallagher will not compete at the Paralympics which start on September 7 in Rio.
In a statement ASADA said they have notified Mr Gallagher of his rights as they continue a thorough investigation.
The Australian Paralympic Committee released a statement on Friday afternoon saying Michael Gallagher had been removed from the 2016 Australian Paralympic Team with immediate effect.
Kate McLoughlin, the team’s Chef de Mission, said Michael Gallagher’s position on the Australian Paralympic Cycling Team for Rio 2016 has been terminated, effective immediately.
“The APC fiercely supports the fight against doping in sport,” she said.
“This is a reminder to all athletes that they will be caught if they do not comply with the rules, regardless of intent.”
The APC said further details will be released in due course.
