Drug Testing at DRA Sanctioned events
The Darts Regulation Authority ("DRA") are pleased to announce that, after lengthy negotiation with UK Sport, the terms of drug testing regulations (called the "Anti-Doping Rules") have now been agreed.
Drug testing will take place at tournament venues on an entirely random basis and will be conducted by authorised officers from UK Sport.
The drug testing officials will obtain urine samples from the players whom they select and the material will be divided into Sample A and Sample B. If, on analysis, Sample A tests positive for a banned substance then Sample B will be tested separately. Tests are carried out at independent laboratories approved for the procedure by UK Sport. If both samples test positive then a report will be made to the Darts Regulation Authority who will take whatever action is appropriate.
If a player believes that medication which is prescribed for him or her by their medical practitioner may be included on the list of banned substances then he or she may be able to invoke the exemption procedure included in the regulations. This must be done within the time limits provided and application forms are available from the DRA (address below).
Alcohol, although included on the WADA banned substances list for certain sports, is not prohibited in the sport of darts and testing will not take place for this substance.
The regulations will come into full force and effect on 1 January 2006.
The DRA will take an extremely serious view of drug offences and regulation violations.
The establishment of this regime has been an important part of the elevation of Darts to the rank of Sport and should be embraced by positively by the whole darts fraternity.
You may read and print the regulations by clicking here.
Copies may also be obtained from the DRA at Nelson House, 2 Hamilton Terrace, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4LY.
Any queries relating to the Anti-Doping Rules should be directed to the DRA at the above address, rather than the PDC.