Crews face drug tests

By HELEN TUNNAH

Team New Zealand and Alinghi sailors will be tested for drugs when the America's Cup starts this weekend.

Testing for recreational and performance-enhancing drugs was introduced during the challenger series, the first time any crew in the 152-year history of the event had been subject to checks.

New Zealand Sports Drug Agency executive director Graeme Steel said a "satisfactory" level of testing had been undertaken on sailors so far, and that would continue during the America's Cup itself.

The contractual conditions for testing prevent Steel releasing details about the programme.

However, performance-enhancing and recreational drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines are included.

If any sailor tests positive, or refuses a test, the World Anti-Doping Agency and International Sailing Federation are required to notify the New Zealand officials of what happens.

The New Zealand agency has not been advised of any issues since the testing regime was introduced in December.

nzherald.co.nz/americascup

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