The Association of Surfing Professionals confirmed on Monday that surfers competing in the 2012 World Tour will be subject to World Anti-Doping Agency testing standards outlined in last week. Surfers will face bans of one year for failing a random in-competition drug test. Banned substances include both so-called recreational drugs鈥攍ike alcohol, amphetamines, cannabinoids, cocaine, methamphetamines, and narcotics鈥攁s well as recognized doping agents. Heavier penalties are outlined for those who fail mulitiple tests or are involved in trafficking. Support for a drug policy grew after 3-time World Champion Andy Irons died of a likely overdose in 2010. Top 34 surfers, including Ace Buchan and Bede Durbidge, have the new rules. “If we are to be considered professional athletes then we should be seen to be conforming to international rules, especially in regard to drug testing,” Durbidge said. The 2012 World Tour opens on February 25th.
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