Random dope tests one of many anti-doping measures for National Games

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 5 (IANS)

Stringent anti-doping measures are being taken by the organising committee to ensure a dope-free 35th National Games slated from Jan 31 to Feb 14.

The 35th National Games Organising Committee (NGOC) will be setting up an efficient and effective medical commission that would be entrusted with the job of carrying out random dope tests.

The NGOC in a press release said that the medical commission would be set up by the Indian Olympic Association in association with the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). The commission will collect blood samples from venues itself and will make provisions for instant analyses.

"To ensure maximum caution, medical centres and dope control stations will be set up in all venues. A team of medical volunteers will also be in place to assist doctors in medical care and to monitor anti-doping activities," the statement said.

One of the major highlights of the medical facility is the setting up of a massage and an ayurveda centre for rejuvenation, during the event period.

The organisers will also circulate a handbook comprising information regarding the medical facilities, treatment centres and list of banned medicines for the benefit of the participants and officials.

The committee also said that work progress for the conduct of the games was also good. The games, billed as the biggest multi-discipline sporting event in the country, will be held in seven districts in Kerala.