Rochdale player Adam Carr handed doping ban

Rochdale Hornets player Adam Carr has been banned from all sport for four years after testing positive for a banned substance.

UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) collected an Out-Of-Competition urine sample from Carr in December 2019 at a Hornets training session, with analysis later revealing the presence of clenbuterol – a banned anabolic agent used to gain muscle and burn fat.

In February 2020, Carr was informed of the positive test and given a provisional ban, which he challenged.

The case was reviewed by the National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP), who issued a four-year ban from sport, which is due to expire on December 8 2023.

Carr subsequently appealed the NADP’s decision, however his appeal was dismissed.

The young forward only joined the Hornets ahead of the 2020 season from Thatto Heath Crusaders and was set for his first season as a professional.

On the case, UKAD Director of Operations Pat Myhill said: “This was a very serious matter that involved a powerful anabolic agent, purchased from a friend via a third party in a gym, taken in the form of a supplement. Clenbuterol is not licensed for human consumption in the UK.

“Athletes at all levels who are playing in sports adhering to anti-doping rules are required to take full responsibility for what they ingest and use. Athletes should think very carefully about who or where they are getting any substances from.

“We strongly urge that all athletes speak to medical professionals or their governing body, and also take the time to personally research and review substances before taking them. Online resources are readily available on the UKAD website such as GlobalDRO and Informed Sport to support athletes when in doubt.”

Carr is the second Rochdale player to be banned for doping offences this year, after prop Andy Lea was also given a four-year suspension.