[What the Japan Cycling Federation hopes to accomplish in cooperation with pharmacists in doping and implementing effective anti-doping controls?]

Abstract

Today the number of international cycling races has increased markedly compared with the past, and inevitably there are many riders traveling all over the world to participate in these events. It is inevitable that riders often become exposed to many more drugs at the cycling venues or through the internet where a wide selection of drugs is available. According to Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) regulations, riders must report to a Doping Control Officer (DCO) any medications taken in the 72 h preceding a race. High level international teams are very familiar with these regulations and submit these reports with little problem. Lower level teams with less expertise, however, tend to have much more trouble submitting these reports. The close cooperation with pharmacists is believed to promoting the healthy development of the sport. To improve anti-doping controls, I strongly believe that good communication among staff during the events to exchange information smoothly and also good education through regular seminars and symposia for the staff involved are definitely needed. In other words, we have to develop human resources to build up a firm foundation to constantly generate future leaders.