On Monday, October 11, the Russian Triathlon Federation and the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) signed a cooperation agreement. Both departments will work together to combat the use of doping in sports.
The agreement was signed by Ksenia Shoigu, the President of Russian Triathlon Federation and Mikhail Bukhanov, the acting Director General of RUSADA. This document includes systematic work in all areas of anti-doping activities and has a long-term nature.
The cooperation between the federation and RUSADA also includes bilateral cooperation for investigation of various anti-doping violations. In addition, both agencies will work to protect the fundamental right of Russian athletes to participate in international competitions free of doping. In particular, RUSADA and the Russian Triathlon Federation will work to promote and support sport and increase the prestige of Russian sport, including investigating sudden unmotivated refusals to compete at official competitions.
RUSADA will continue testing of the Russian Triathlon Federation athletes. The RTF has budgeted for routine anti-doping activities, including contract testing. "We have taken an important step to begin a comprehensive fight against doping use and distribution. The main points of the agreement are the organization of anti-doping fight in the RTF and cooperation in the areas of education, testing and investigations," Ksenia Shoigu said after signing the agreement.
The President of the Federation also thanked Mikhail Bukhanov for his support, she expressed confidence that by joint efforts they will be able to make Russian triathlon clean.
"The anti-doping agreement constitutes the basis for long-term cooperation. RUSADA is always ready to support the formation of educational programs, as well as doping testing of athletes in the interests of the Russian Triathlon Federation. It is important to remain in constant information interaction, including the development and specialization of anti-doping education programs," said Mikhail Bukhanov.
The interim CEO of RUSADA thanked Ksenia Shoigu for the meeting and the beginning of cooperation. “We appreciate her work and paternalism towards athletes. The main goal of our activity should be the maximum success of the team of the Russian Triathlon Federation, which must be achieved in the interests of the country, ”added Mikhail Bukhanov.
Photo: RTF, RUSADA