Ex-sprinter says no to drugs at Games for dopers

Reece Prescod

Former Great Britain sprinter Reece Prescod says he will not take performance-enhancing drugs despite signing up for the controversial Enhanced Games.

The competition, scheduled to take place in Las Vegas in May, will allow athletes to take substances, under medical supervision, that are banned in mainstream sport.

The 29-year-old, who retired last year, is the fourth-fastest British man over 100m, with a personal best of 9.93 seconds.

Speaking to BBC Radio4’s World at One programme, Prescod replied “no” when questioned on whether he had taken any substances so far.

Asked “But will you?” he again replied: “No.” “Obviously, medical-wise it’s always confidential, but I think for me right now the biggest priority is getting back into that sub-10 shape,” he added.

The Enhanced Games has been criticised for endangering athletes’ health and undermining fair play, with the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) describing it as a “dangerous and irresponsible project”.

Only substances approved by the United States’ Food and Drug Administration, (FDA) can be taken. That is a different list to the one the Wada allows for elite athletes.

UK Athletics’ chief executive Jack Buckner said he was “appalled” when it was revealed Prescod had signed up earlier in January.

Prescod said participants - who also include former British Olympic swimmer Ben Proud - had a “personal choice” over what measures they adopt. Speaking in September, Proud said organisers “aren’t asking me to take anything” and added he was unsure if he would use any substances. “People aren’t necessarily aware that’s actually a choice you have. Some athletes will be enhanced, some athletes will not be enhanced,” said Prescod.

“I’ve started my winter preparation like I normally would for an athletics season.” (BBC sport)