Boldon fails drugs test

Ato Boldon will not be banned by the IAAF

Sprinter Ato Boldon has tested positive for the banned stimulant ephedrine.

The former world champion and Olympic medalist will not be banned because the offence only carries a warning.

The International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) revealed that Boldon, from Trinidad and Tobago, tested positive at a meet in the United States in May.

IAAF General Secretary Istvan Gyulai broke the news at a press conference ahead of the IAAF Grand Prix finals in Melbourne.

We have come to the conclusion that athletes are saying that this is beyond their control

IAAF general secretary Istvan Gyulai

"The consequence of this is not suspension," said Gyulai.

"It is just to cancel the result of the event there and publicly warn him."

Gyulai said the IAAF would write to the Trinidad and Tobago athletics federation, notifying them of the test result but would not take any further action.

Ephedrine is found in over-the-counter cold medications and some food supplements.

Boldon was not available for comment but Gyulai issued a general warning to athletes about the supplements they take.

"Some of the substances are not being properly labelled," he said.

Forbidden substance

"More and more often, quite clearly and credibly, we have come to the conclusion that athletes are saying that this is beyond their control.

"If you pay attention to IAAF language, we never say that the athlete is a bad guy, we always say that something, a forbidden substance, was found in the athlete's body."

Boldon is not due to run in Melbourne, but he did compete at the Goodwill Games in Brisbane, finishing fifth in the 100m final before pulling out of the 200m final.

The 27-year-old won the 200m title at the 1997 World Championships.

He won a silver for the 100m and bronze for the 200m at last year's Sydney Olympics.