Notification

The chaperones were assigned from the corps of volunteers and/or medical staff shortly

prior to the start of competition. It was not verified whether the chaperones were related

to competitors or support personnel. The chaperones, with no previous experience or

knowledge of sport peculiarities were all assigned to carry out notification, chaperoning

and witnessing the passing of the urine sample. The chaperone training consisted of

less than 30 minutes of instructions relating to all of the above. During all the observed

doping controls the IO Team noted a very limited number of adequate notifications. In

order to ensure that the correct athlete was in fact made aware of the doping control, a

person from PASO or a DCO had to escort the chaperone to the athlete. Some

chaperones did not notify the athletes in accordance with the requirements – generally

only saying “doping control”. Some of them were not completing the Athlete Notification

Form before entering the doping control station. The IO Team never overheard the

athletes’ rights and responsibilities explained adequately to the athletes during

notification. It seemed that the chaperones were not aware of the athletes’ rights and

responsibilities and did not appear able to handle unexpected situations (such as if the

athlete wanting to take a shower).

Fortunately, the athletes and their support personnel were adequately familiar with the

doping control process and aware of the procedures, ensuring that both the athlete and

their support personnel would accompany the chaperones and arrive in due time to the

doping control station.

An athlete having to attend a press conference, a medal ceremony or receive medical

attention does not require them to report immediately to the doping control station,

however, the athlete still has to sign the Athlete Notification Form when notified. This

practice was not observed at all times. The athlete should immediately receive a copy of

the Athlete Notification Form. The IO Team noted that in some situations the Form was

only given at the very end of the doping control process.