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Nagano Marathon to Introduce Random Doping Tests

http://www.shinmai.co.jp/news/20080314/KT080313IWI090028000022.htm

translated by Brett Larner

The organizing committee of the Nagano Olympic Commemorative Nagano Marathon announced at its general meeting on March 13 that the event will introduce random doping tests of elite athletes at this year's 10th anniversary event on April 20. The Nagano Marathon decided to add the doping controls after receiving a 'silver' rating last December in the IAAF's worldwide ranking of international marathons and other road races. 6 male and 6 female athletes will be randomly selected from among the invited and jitsugyodan competitors to receive the tests.

This year's race will feature 8352 entrants from 25 countries. The event includes a marathon clinic the day before the race as well as a 'marathon town' international expo in Minami Nagano Athletic Park on race day. The Nagano Marathon will also be part of Rikuren's 'Green Project' to make races more environmentally friendly. Cherry trees will be planted around the track in Minami Nagano Athletic Park to commemorate the event.

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