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Nataliya Krol, the two-time European 800-metre gold medallist from Ukraine has been suspended for 20 months after testing positive for hydrochlorothiazide, a banned diuretic. The Athletics Integrity Unit announced her suspension earlier this week. The ban will keep her out of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games that have been rescheduled to 2021.
The 25-year-old was suspended in March. She was tested in January.
Her personal best is 1:58.60 from 2016. She will be able to hang onto her two European titles.
Hydrochlorothiazide is not only a diuretic but also used as a and masking agent.
She originally faced a four-year suspension when she was provisionally suspended in February of this year. Her explanation for the use of the drug did not fly with the AIU.
SHOESTRINGS: The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has decided to not rule with the same iron fist against athletes who decide to use recreational drug use. Although they warn of its dangers, they will not suspend athletes for its use.
A substantial change in anti-doping policy could mean athletes escape with only a month’s ban if they are caught using recreational drugs.
Next year the World Anti-Doping Authority will implement a new code, the first change in six years. Among the measures that have been announced include a reduction in sanctions for “substances of abuse”, illegal drugs that do not have a performance-enhancing effect.