AKA Statement on Hayden Stephensen

28 July 2010

Australian Karting Association (AKA) said Competitor Hayden Stephensen, 25, has been issued with a two-year period of ineligibility for the attempted use of testosterone following an investigation by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA).

On June 1, 2009 the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service intercepted a package containing Sustanon 250, an oil-based liquid that contains testosterone compounds, and notified ASADA.

ASADA investigated the matter and a laboratory analysis of the liquid, from one of the seized vials, confirmed that the substance was testosterone.

Classed as an Anabolic Agent on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s 2010 Prohibited List, testosterone is prohibited both in- and out-of-competition. In addition to a sanction, athletes abusing this substance can seriously damage their health including heart and liver problems, high blood pressure and hypertension.

The AKA considered the sanction recommendation made by the independent Anti-Doping Rule Violation Panel and handed down a two-year ban from sporting competition to Mr Stephensen.

Mr Stephensen will be ineligible to participate as an athlete or support person in sport until 6 July 2012.

The penalty complies with the AKA’s Drugs in sport policy.