Armstronglivs wrote:
As for the argument regarding CC, that 3 missed tests isn't the same as testing positive, the anti-doping authorities clearly don't take that view. For good reason. Athletes have obligations, and if they disregard them - carelessly or otherwise - they know the consequences. But everybody - including the athletes - knows it isn't "careless" - it's simply ducking the testers.
There is no proof of that, and a lot of reasonable doubt comes with it. That is one of the reasons why Rollins got a 1 year band instead of the standard 2 year ban for missing three tests. It's more than that, which is why there is a hearing for the case to hear the side of the athlete, and a ruling can be appealed.
So it is not a clear cut case of breaking the rules or dodging a test. The only thing that is clear is the letter of the law in regards to missing three tests. However, if the reason for missing three tests is significant enough, then the runner can either be pardoned from being banned, or receive a reduced banned.