Sha’Carri ban confirmed after positive drug test, suspended for one month

U.S. sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson is on a month’s suspension after the results of her drug test showed positive.

The athlete may miss out on the most important event of her career after qualifying for the Olympic 100-meter race at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in Eugene, Oregon, according to the United States Anti-Doping Agency. 

The agency said that all Richardson’s qualifying races on June 19 have all been canceled including her Olympic qualifying results at the Team Trials. A statement reads that the athlete must forfeit any medals. Points and prizes.

Richardson’s suspension from the Tokyo Games kicked off on June 28 and will keep her from participating in her signature game – the 100-meter sprint. However, she may just be in time to catch up in the 4x100-meter relay.

Richardson was tested for THC, a chemical in cannabis. Usually, athletes who test positive for THC receive a three-month suspension if they can prove that their use of drugs was completely unrelated to sports performance. The USADA reduced Richardson’s suspension to one month after she completed a counseling program in relation to her use of cannabis.

The sprinter has accepted her fate and hopes for an opportunity to participate in the 4x100-meter race. She told NBC’s “TODAY” host that she’s putting all of her energy into healing and dealing with what she needs to deal with.

“I want to take responsibility for my actions. I’m not looking for an excuse,” she told NBC. “I would like to say to my fans and my family and my sponsorship, to the haters too, I apologize. As much as I am disappointed, I know that when I step on that track, I don’t represent myself, I represent a community that has shown me great support, great love.”

In her qualifying Olympic 100-meter races, one of her five runs was less than 11 seconds. Her victories sparked hopes that the United States could likely win its first gold medal in women’s 100-meter race since Gail Devers in 1996.

USADA CEO Travis T. Tygart said the disqualification and suspension were “heartbreaking on many levels” but the rules must be followed.

“Hopefully, her acceptance of responsibility and apology will be an important example to us all that we can successfully overcome our regrettable decisions, despite the costly consequences of this one to her,” he said.