DOPE TESTS PROPOSED FOR N.Z. CYCLISTS

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31017, 24 March 1966, Page 15

DOPE TESTS PROPOSED FOR N.Z. CYCLISTS

• New Zealand Press Association!

WELLINGTON.

The New Zealand Amateur Cycling Association was considering a proposal to test cyclists for dope, the secretary, Mr V. R. Ross, said yesterday.

He declined to say whether tests for drugs and stimulants would be taken at the trials in Auckland next month at which the team for the Empire Games would be chosen.

The association has studied increasing reports of overseas athletes taking drugs and stimulants to boost performances.

“During the last few years much interest has been aroused by the use of stimulants amongst athletes in many sports.” said Mr Ross. “Though the N.Z.A.C.A. believes that drug taking by athletes is not resorted to in NewZealand, it considers

elation should take such steps as it feels necessary to protect its cyclists from the dangers of taking stimulants or drugs.

“By following the British and French examples it is looking into the proposal of introducing tests by which New Zealand riders can be cleared of public misconception that drug taking has spread to local sport.” Last year, dope tests were introduced in many big cycling races, including three of the world's most famous classics, the amateur tour de France, the tour of Britain and the tour of Austria.

New Zealand cyclists at the Tokyo Olympics were given special tests along with all (other starters.