Chinese Swimming Association to punish swimmer, coach

The Chinese Swimming Association (CSA) said on Friday it planned to punish swimmer Yuan Yuan and coach Zhou Zhewen, who were both involved in taking a banned drug into Australia, Xinhua news agency reported, quoting Chinese delegation leader Shi Tianshu.

"The Chinese delegation shall deprive these two people of the right to participate in the current world championships," Shi said.

"Further action will be taken in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Chinese Swimming Association, and the FINA will be duly informed of the result." A laboratory test following a routine baggage check revealed that Yuan had brought into the country a banned growth hormone.

"According to swimming coach Zhou Zhewen, before they came here someone asked him to take the substance over here.

This is their individual behaviour and they will be responsible for all the consequences thus arising," Shi said.

The Chinese delegation leader reaffirmed the CSA's stance against performance-enhancing drugs, Xinhua said.

"The Chinese Swimming Association insists on the policy of strick prohibition, strick examination and strict sanction," he said.

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