Kazakhstan Weightlifting Federation to toughen doping control

The Kazakhstan Weightlifting Federation has fulfilled all the obligations towards the International Weightlifting Federation and the International Anti-doping Agency by toughening doping control in Kazakhstan, Tengrinews reports. 10 Kazakhstani weightlifters were disqualified when doping tests showed prohibited substance in their blood. The sportsmen were disqualified for two years and cannot participate in any International or Kazakhstani competitions during this time. And the Kazakhstan Federation has to pay a $500 thousand fine in relation to these cases. In November 2013, the Federation held a conference for coaches, athletes and the administration. Doctors, coaches and athletes themselves were educated about doping related issues and given specific instructions. Besides, the Federation itself toughened the control of food and medicine intake. The athletes are tested for doping before every competitions they participate in at a laboratory accredited by WADA. “The Federation realizes that growing standing and success of the Kazakhstan Weightlifting Team necessitates toughening of the international control over our athletes. In this regard, the Federation has taken steps to prevent use of prohibited substances by out sportsmen, ” the Fediration reported. In addition, the Federation hired PricewaterhouseCooper to oversee and improve the working practices of the team. They believe that such measures will help them prepare for the upcoming summer Olympics in Brazil in 2016.