Exactly one month after Deon Michael Locke grabbed the fourth stage of the Tour of Hainan, the UCI has announced that that Champion System rider has been provisionally suspended. The 24 year old Australian was tested after his solo victory and the WADA accredited laboratory in Beijing has determined that he has a positive A sample for Phentermine.
The substance is classified as a stimulant under WADA’s anti-doping regulations and is prohibited in-competition. It is a form of amphetamine which helps control weight and also stimulates the system.
“The provisional suspension of Mr. Locke remains in force until a hearing panel convened by the Australian Cycling Federation determines whether he has committed an anti-doping rule violation under Article 21 of the UCI Anti-Doping Rules,” stated the UCI.
Locke finished five seconds ahead of Haijun Ma on the stage. It is his second year with the team. In 2010 he placed third on a stage and third overall in the Tour of Thailand, and was also seventh in the Tour of South China Sea.