Foxsports have the sad news that Canberra boxer Bianca Elmir has tested positive to diuretics (banned because they can mask more serious performance enhancing substances) and won’t be going to the London Olympics:
According to reports, Elmir tested positive to a diuretic while competing at the Australian titles in February where she won the 51kg division.
The weight class is one of three divisions being held in the first women’s boxing program at an Olympics, but Elmir was banned from competing at the world championships, which are being held in China – the main qualification route to London.
Boxing Australia officials refused to comment on the issue, which is still before the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA), the 30-year-old facing a maximum two-year ban.
Elmir was replaced in the Australian squad at the world championships by Kristy Harris, who lost in the first round.
Elmir reportedly told ASADA she took the tablet to stop swollen ankles on long flights, having been given the medication from a friend while training in Ireland before the national titles.
Got the medication from a friend? Oh dear.