In February 2023, during the World Indoor Rowing Championships, something unprecedented occurred. The event, which should have been a showcase of athletic excellence and fair competition, was marred by doping violations that were not disclosed to the public. The organizations responsible for the integrity of the competition, World Rowing and the International Testing Agency (ITA), failed to disclose these violations, undermining the fairness of the competition and the trust of all participants.
I am taking legal action against World Rowing and the ITA for their failure to disclose critical information regarding doping violations, and I need your support to ensure that justice is served.
The Issue:
Doping Violations at the Event: During the 2023 World Indoor Rowing Championships, it has come to light an athlete tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. However, these violations were never made public, and no corrective action was taken by World Rowing or the ITA.
Failure of Disclosure: Despite the significant impact these violations have on the integrity of the competition, both organizations chose not to disclose these findings, allowing potentially unfair results to stand. This has affected the outcomes of races and undermined the hard work and dedication of athletes who competed cleanly.
Violation of Trust: The failure to act on this issue has compromised the trust that athletes and the rowing community place in the governing bodies of the sport. Without transparency and accountability, we risk allowing doping to continue unchecked, threatening the spirit of fair competition.
Why I'm Taking Legal Action:
As an athlete and a member of the rowing community, I believe in fair play and the integrity of competition. The failure to disclose doping violations directly impacts not only the results but also the reputations of clean athletes.
By holding World Rowing and the ITA accountable for their lack of transparency and failure to disclose the doping violations, I aim to:
Ensure Transparency: That all doping violations are disclosed in a timely manner, and the public is aware of any athlete who violates the rules.
Restore Fairness: To ensure that fair competition is upheld and that athletes who abide by the rules are not unfairly disadvantaged by those who do not.
Set a Precedent: By holding the governing bodies responsible, I hope to send a message that doping will not be tolerated in our sport and that the integrity of rowing competitions must be preserved.
What You Can Do to Help:
Taking on World Rowing and the ITA is not an easy task. It requires significant resources, time, and legal expertise. I am asking for your support to help fund this legal battle, ensuring that fairness and transparency are restored to the sport we love.
Your contributions will go towards:
Legal Fees: Covering the costs of filing and pursuing the case, including expert witnesses and necessary legal consultations.
Public Awareness: Funding campaigns to raise awareness and ensure that the issues are communicated effectively to the wider rowing and sports communities.
Advocacy and Lobbying: Ensuring that the necessary reforms are made within the sport’s governing bodies, so future competitions are transparent and fair.
How You Can Help:
Donate: Any amount you can contribute will go a long way in helping me secure a fair and just outcome.
Share: Share this campaign with your friends, family, and fellow rowing enthusiasts to help spread the word. The more people who know about this, the stronger our case will be.
Support: If you are a fellow athlete, coach, or fan of rowing, your moral support is just as important. Stand with us in demanding accountability.
Conclusion:
We cannot let this issue slide. If we do not hold World Rowing and the ITA accountable now, we risk further corruption and injustice within the sport. I am committed to fighting for transparency, fairness, and the rights of all athletes who compete cleanly. Together, we can make a difference.
Thank you for your support.
Organizer
David Rackstraw
Organizer
England