This archive report was first published on 2 July 2021.
Sha'Carri Richardson's Olympic Hopes Dashed by Marijuana Suspension ¶
Sha'Carri Richardson, the 21-year-old American sprinter, may miss the Tokyo Olympics after testing positive for marijuana. The positive test result, announced by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) on June 25, invalidated her result in the women's 100-meter race at the U.S. track and field trials in Oregon last month.
Richardson won the women's 100-meter race at the trials in 10.86 seconds, making her an instant favorite to win the gold medal in Tokyo. However, her positive test for marijuana, which is banned during in-competition periods, has put her Olympic debut in jeopardy.
According to USADA, marijuana is a prohibited substance because it can enhance performance, pose a health risk to athletes, and violate the spirit of the sport. A suspension for testing positive for marijuana can be up to two years, but Richardson has accepted a one-month suspension, starting on June 28.
Richardson apologized to her fans, family, and sponsors, saying, 'I failed you all.' She also explained that she used marijuana as a way to cope with the unexpected death of her biological mother, which she learned about during an interview at the trials.
Richardson's positive test has also affected the Olympic selection process. U.S.A. Track & Field has notified other women who competed in the 100-meter final at the trials about the failed drug test, and several runners have been told that they have moved up a spot in the final standings.
It is possible that Richardson could still compete in the 4x100-meter relay even if she is ruled out of the individual race. The decision would be up to U.S.A. Track & Field, the national governing body of the sport.
