September 9/06 8:17 am - La Ruta Adds Doping Controls

Posted by Editor on 09/9/06
 

Race Against Doping in La Ruta
Courtesy Luis Rueda

The organization of the biggest Latin-American MTB challenge, known around the world as "the hardest race on the planet", has just announced that this year's race will have Doping Tests for the first time ever in their event's history.

According to La Ruta's Public Relations Manager, Luis Rueda, the new move is the result of the arrangement with the Costa Rican Cycling Federation board's members and a very well thought own idea.

"La Ruta have had this entity's support throughout the past 5 editions, though this will be the first time that its judges will be responsible for the Doping controls during our three days race."

"Costa Rica has a very long tradition on fighting against doping in cycling and other sports. Our National Road Tour, which takes place every December, always have doping controls since it is part of the UCI's America's Tour. So, now it is La Ruta's time to be part of the worldwide fight in opposition to this corrupted situation on sports", Luis Rueda said.

The tests will be sent from Costa Rica to the UCLA laboratory in California, USA, for processing.

"Between five and eight tests will be taken after each stage, among the five categories and then the Costa Rican Cycling will send them to UCLA and we will wait 15 days for the final results and see", Rueda added.

Elite male and female pro racers like Thomas Frischknecht, Leonardo Paez, Jeremiah Bishop, Adam Craig, Marla Streb, Louise Kobin, Rebecca Rusch and Marg Fedyna have been confirmed for the race, besides a significant contingent of local competitors.

Maps and profiles at: www.adventurerace.com

La Ruta is about to close registration. Only 10 more spots available for racers and a waiting list will be started soon! Please check participants list at www.adventurerace.com