WADA calls for optimum implementation of revised code

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has called on the global anti-doping community to optimise the implementation and practice of the revised World Anti-Doping Code (Code), just three months after it came into effect.
At its annual Anti-Doping Organization (ADO) symposium in Lausanne, Switzerland, WADA issued the rallying call to more than 450 representatives from international sports federations, major event organisations, national and regional anti-doping organisations, athletes and media, a release from WADA said.
"WADA is pleased to be able to bring like-minded individuals together under one roof for three days, with the common pursuit of protecting the rights of the clean athlete," said WADA Director General, David Howman.

With a clear focus on protecting the clean athlete, participants gathered to discuss the enhanced Code rules that are now being practiced by 665 organizations around the world.
"The ideas being discussed here this week will form the cornerstones of each and every anti-doping program in this new chapter for doping-free sport. From the importance of athletes 'speaking up' to the role that the media can play in exposing doping behavior, this year's symposium is tackling numerous aspects of the fight against doping in sport and highlighting all that the revised Code has to offer clean athletes of the world," added Howman.

Yesterday afternoon the WADA Athlete Committee participated in a high-level Breaking the Code of Silence panel that discussed how athletes can play an active part in solving the doping issue.

"It was encouraging, and of course apt, to see athletes take center stage here today," said WADA Vice President, Rev. Dr Makhenkesi A Stofile.
"They are clearly asking us to represent their interests by enforcing the Codes' rules in every region and in every sport," he added.
The first day of the three-day symposium included in particular sessions relating to the implementation of the revised Code, stronger sanctions and the influence of the athlete entourage.