Golf Australia has confirmed that the Court of Arbitration for Sport, in accordance with the Golf Australia Anti-Doping Policy, has issued an 18-month sanction against Australian amateur golfer Daniel Nisbet for possessing a prohibited substance. The sanction arises from an incident that occurred in August 2009. In the judgement process, the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled while the athlete had breached the Anti-Doping Code, there was no evidence to suggest that he had ever consumed a prohibited substance. In her judgement, The Hon. Justice Tricia Kavanagh said the athlete was young and relatively inexperienced, the substance was acquired at an over-the-counter retail pharmacy, not on the black market and the bottle falsely purported to have “legal” content on its label. Justice Kavanagh continued: Further, it is of note there is no evidence Mr Nisbet has ever consumed a &aposprohibited substance' he is of good character (as evidenced in references); has an exemplary record in his sport; he fully co-operated with the investigating authorities; the circumstances surrounding the breach are corroborated to a significant degree; he has since been tested and not been found positive. I accept this conduct was not aimed at cheating in Mr Nisbet s chosen sport. Golf Australia has committed to assisting Daniel through available means. Daniel has represented Australia on a number of occasions and has shown the tenacity, character and ability to suggest he has a very bright future in the game, Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt said. While this sanction comes at an important time in his development, we are confident that Daniel will overcome this and achieve the goals he sets himself and we are equally confident the Australian golfing community will support Daniel through this period. Daniel will be ineligible to compete in all state, national and international amateur or professional championships until 24 May 2011 or any other events under the control of Golf Australia or one of its affiliates. There will be no impediment to Daniel practicing or playing club golf. Golf Australia s Anti-Doping Policy requires it to work with the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) on any matter of this nature which is fundamental to protect the integrity of golf. The ASADA Media release relating to the judgement can be found at ASADA Media.
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