Sri Lanka boxing team Manager and former ABASL President Dian Gomes, speaking exclusively to the Observer Online a short while ago, said he was shocked to hear the positive dope test of boxer Manju Wanniarachchi.
“We would never encourage boxers to sportsmen for that matter, to look for shortcuts for glory. We knew that some boxers and even several national level athletes were seeking treatment from this doctor. Hence, we took adequate measures to educate the said doctor,” said Gomes.
Gomes, who has made an immense contribution to promote the ring sport in Sri Lanka for over a decade, said the ABASL sent a team to meet the doctor about six months ago. “Since we knew some of the boxers were seeking treatment from this doctor, we sent a team - coach Ajith Kumara and ABASL Treasurer Ruwan Keragala met this person and educated him on international doping regulations. The doctor was given a copy of WADA anti-doping regulations too,” Gomes said.
The Godfather of Sri Lanka boxing said they have nothing to hide and have not used wrong channels to win medals. “We have nothing to hide. We have told the boys that there are no shortcuts to win medals, but the hard way and dedication. We have always educated the boys on doping regulations,” he said.
Gomes said there is no need for a boxer to take a steroid such a Nandralone. “This is not a sprint event and there is no need whatsoever for a boxer to depend on performance enhancing drug. We have always encouraged them to play clan as sportsmen,” he said.
He added that Wanniarachchi was complete unaware of the drug, given by the doctor, was a banned steroid and that the boxer had already lodged a complaint against the doctor with the Police.