Former Athletics Federation of Nigeria interim president, Olamide George has lamented the positive dope testing of sprinter Grace Nwaokocha.
Nwaokocha who had her break-through season during the time of Mr. George in 2019 is provisionally suspended after failing a dope test at the Commonwealth Games. And unless her B sample proves otherwise, Nigeria would lose the women the 4x100m relay gold, which members of the quartet had so celebrated after winning it with a new African record.
“For me, It’s like a rude shock. She trained under a very disciplined Coach and also a product of high performance center in Port Harcourt… The coach doesn’t have history of such neither does the center for our Athletes,” said George.
“She started two seasons ago at Ado Ekiti all comers by winning the 100m with 11:3 and ended her season with 11.00 seconds . She systematically participated in our program which was geared towards performance based for most home based Athletes. We recorded highest number of home based leaving for United States under our program then.
“For every action, there’s penalty. The Ministry has done the needful in setting up Anti doping agency. The AFN should do more on the orientation programs for the Athletes.
They Athletes should be updated with WADA rules.”
He backed the athlete to make a comeback to the sport after the set back.
“Grace is focused and disciplined athlete. Her unwavering spirit is excellent and exceptional. “I hope we are working on her mental health now. I wish her well.
“Many Athletes have recovered and bounce back to be champion after provisional suspension. For every dark tunnel, light shines forth.”
Dark clouds coming down...Grace Nwaokocha