Shinty has introduced anti-doping tests in an effort to combat recreational drug use in the Highlands.
Players of the ancient sport will be subject to random drug tests throughout the new season, which got under way at the weekend. The Camanachd Association, which runs the sport, has engaged UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) to do the testing. Performance-enhancing drugs are not thought to be a problem in the amateur sport, which is played mainly in the Highlands and Argyll.
But the governing body wants to help address concerns about recreational drug use in the sport’s heartlands. Steven MacKenzie, president of the Camanachd Association, said: “It’s more of a societal issue around recreational drugs. I don’t think there’s a massive issue around performance-enhancing.
"We’ve learnt from UKAD that some recreational drugs can give a performance-enhancing element although I don’t believe that would be why players are taking it. We are just keen to support our communities, our clubs and the players themselves to lead as healthy a lifestyle as possible.”
Testing was briefly introduced in the 90s but its use was not able to be extended on grounds of cost. MacKenzie says potential punishments have not been decided and the association is mindful of the fact the sport is amateur.
John Wallace, a GP and shinty medic, added: “I think we need to live with the reality that the drugs are there, people will use them and how society and the health system responds to that is the challenge for us.
"The policy is trying to address the real issues we have got in society. Shinty provides a positive alternative to drug use.” Hugh Dan MacLennan, the shinty historian and broadcaster, also welcomed the introduction testing. He said: “I’ve been wanting this to come in for some time because the Camanachd Association needs to be proactive in dealing with a situation which is a societal issue. It’s an issue which affects the Highlands and Islands and most of the shinty-playing areas.”
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