Ethics Newsline®

WASHINGTON
Four star athletes of U.S. track and field, including the world’s fastest man, were warned last week that they are under suspicion of using illegal steroids, a move that could lead to their disqualification from the U.S. Olympic team.

The news came from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), which is pursuing a sprawling inquiry into alleged doping engineered by California-based BALCO, reported the New York Times.

Last month, U.S. sprinter Kelli White agreed to a two-year suspension and other penalties after being confronted with evidence that she engaged in doping. Last week’s warnings may lead to similar punishment.

The athletes targeted last week include the world’s fastest man, Tim Montgomery, who allegedly began taking performance-boosting drugs with BALCO’s help in November 2000, according to the Times.

Montgomery’s wife, sprinter Marion Jones, is also rumored to be under suspicion, though no formal actions have yet been taken.

The other athletes named last week include two-time Olympic medalist sprinter Chryste Gaines, Olympic medalist runner Alvin Harrison, and world indoor champion sprinter Michelle Collins, according to press reports.

Michelle Collins’ lawyer, Brian Getz, last week said doping officials will face an uphill battle with his client.

“Allegations … are easy to bring. Now comes the hard part for USADA,” Getz told the Times. “They’re going to have to prove this. Michelle Collins has passed every drug test she has ever taken.”

The U.S. Olympic Committee, which is struggling to prove that it is clean of doped-up athletes ahead of the August summer Olympics in Athens, last week said it welcomed the USADA’s efforts.

“We are committed to taking a team to the Athens Games that represents the highest standards of fair play and clean competition, a team that will make America proud,” U.S. Olympic Committee spokesman Darryl Seibel told the Los Angeles Times.