US Track Star Almost Banned From 2024 Olympics After Eating Oxtails; Fails Drug Test

Top track and field star Erriyon Knighton almost lost his Olympic dreams after he tested positive during an out-of-competition drug test.

The 20-year-old sprinter reportedly underwent a drug test on March 26 and tested positive for the anabolic steroid trenbolone, according to ESPN. In light of this, it was previously announced that he would be provisionally suspended.

However, on June 19, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) made a new announcement saying Knighton would no longer be suspended for testing positive for a banned substance. An arbitrator reportedly found out that the result was likely caused by his consumption of contaminated oxtails at a bakery in Central Florida.

Because of this, the 200-meter specialist is back on track in competing at the upcoming U.S. Olympic trials. However, the decision by the arbitration panel can be appealed by either the Athletics Integrity Unit or the World Anti-doping Agency (WADA).

"As it always does, WADA will review this case and reserves the right to take an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, as appropriate," said WADA spokesman James Fitzgerald.

Meanwhile, USADA CEO Travis Tygart said, "We did what the rules require us to do in all positive cases. We can take comfort that justice was served and transparency as required by the rules was achieved."

Per ESPN, cases like Knighton's are not new since 23 Chinese swimmers previously tested positive for a banned heart medication due to alleged contamination, as well.

Talking about his rollercoaster ride to the Olympics, Knighton said in an interview: "I mean, in my heart, you know, I never did nothing wrong."

"I've always been a, you know, a good athlete, so I'm going to be able to run and just be on my first one back out. You know, it's a kind of relief that I made the team. And, you know, I'm always grateful to step on the track."

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Olympics