FIS MEDIA INFO VANCOUVER 2010: Third athlete cleared to start

Whistler, February 18th, 2010//- Following a second blood test conducted by FIS today (as per Article FIS B 4.5 of the Procedural Guidelines to the FIS Anti-Doping Rules), the following athlete has been cleared to start as of tomorrow, 19th February 2010.

Cross-Country

Benjamin KOONS (NZE), cleared to start as of 19th February 2010

Please note: This prohibition from participating in the competition(s) is NOT a sanction, but is instituted to protect the health of the athlete. As a result, no disciplinary measures will be taken.

FIS Blood Testing at Vancouver 2010
In the eight days of testing, 354 athletes have been tested.

* * *

About FIS
Founded in 1924 during the first Olympic Games in Chamonix, France, the International Ski Federation (FIS) aims to promote the sport of skiing and snowboarding and directs the development of all ski and snowboarding activities world-wide. It administers the Olympic disciplines of Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Ski Jumping, Nordic Combined, Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding, including setting the international competition rules. With the help of its 110 member nations (one currently suspended), FIS stages more than 6'000 ski and snowboard competitions annually. FIS also makes recommendations for recreational skiing and snowboarding in the interest of all and promotes play in the snow as a healthy leisure activity for children and the youth. For more information, please visit www.fis-ski.com.

* * *

For further reference please consult:

FIS FACT SHEET: FIS Anti-Doping Program prepared for the Olympic Winter Games 2010
http://www.fis-ski.com/uk/news/pressreleases/press-releases-2010/pre-games-anti-doping-up.html

FIS FACT SHEET: Frequently Asked Questions - FIS Start Prohibition
http://www.fis-ski.com/uk/news/pressreleases/press-releases-2010/fact-sheet-start-prohibi.html

 PDF Version