March 1, 2005 – Former mountain bike world champion Roland Green of Victoria has been retroactively assessed a six-month suspension after testing positive for asthma medication in May, 2004. Green’s suspension will end April 4, 2005. The Canadian Cycling Association (CCA) offers the following statement concerning Green’s case:

In May 2004, athlete Roland Green tested positive for prednisolone while competing at the UCI MTB World Cup in Houffalize. A hearing was recently conducted through the Sport Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada with the participation of Green and the CCA. Under the UCI Anti-doping regulations, it was determined that an infraction had occurred, however, there were mitigating circumstances presented as part of decision rendered by the arbitrator. The UCI Anti-doping Commission has accepted the ruling, resulting in a six month suspension for Green, commencing July 4, 2004 and terminating on April 4, 2005. The suspension includes the normal period of inactivity for a MTB rider from November 1 to January 31. Six months is the minimum suspension applicable for this type of offence.

Prednisolone is a substance commonly found in medication used in the treatment of asthma. In this particular case the substance was contained in a prescription product known as Symbicort. The use of this medication cannot be considered performance enhancing, and Green has a documented history of exercise induced asthma.

“The CCA remains supportive of Roland and we have maintained regular communication with him throughout this process”, said CCA Manager of High Performance Programs, Sean O’Donnell. “We are satisfied that Roland was not attempting to enhance performance through use of this medication. The infraction and subsequent suspension will in no way alter Roland’s status as a National Team member”.

Green offered the following statement: “At the Houffalize, Belgium round of the World Cup on May 30, 2004 I tested positive for the medication in my asthma inhaler. Normally, this would not be a problem, since I have been cleared to use this medication for the past five years. However, last spring I failed to have my paper work completed before leaving for Europe, which meant that I was not officially cleared to use it. This was completely my fault and, as a result, I have received a six-month suspension, and will not be allowed to compete until April 4. All of my sponsors, friends and family have been very supportive under these trying circumstances. My first race back will be Sea Otter Classic on April 14. I am really looking forward to racing again.”