Inside FIH

Doping Control Process

During drug testing athletes have the right to:

- have a representative with them
- have an interpreter if required
- ask for additional information about the sample collection process
- request a delay in reporting to the doping control station for valid reasons (e.g. attending a medal ceremony, further competition commitments, fulfilling media commitments, needing medical treatment)
- request modifications if they have a disability or they’re a minor (under 18 years of age)
- record any concerns or comments they have on the doping control form

Athletes also have the responsibility to:

- report to the doping control station as soon as possible
- remain in sight of the doping control official at all times
- produce valid identification at doping control
- comply with the sample collection process
- recognise that if you choose to eat or drink before providing a sample, that you do so at your own risk

What happens during a urine test?

If you’ve been selected for testing whether in or out of competition you will be approached by a doping control official working on behalf of Drug Free Sport NZ. Once you’ve been notified of the test, you’ll find out whether you need to provide a urine sample, a blood sample, or both. If you need to provide a urine sample, especially after competing, we recommend you follow your usual rehydration practices. Don’t try and drink too much as this can dilute the sample and you may have to provide another one.

What happens during a blood test?

The steps in the collection of blood are similar to the collection of urine samples. If you’ve been asked to provide both a blood and a urine sample, then your blood sample can be taken either before or after you’ve provided a urine sample. All blood samples are taken by qualified professionals who are trained phlebotomists. If you’re afraid of needles let the blood collection officer know so that they can help you through the process.

The Athlete Biological Passport

In addition to the regular urine and blood tests, the ITA also operates an Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) programme. This involves the analysis of a series of samples to monitor certain biomarkers which over time can reveal the effects of doping, …