UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) has today confirmed that an amateur Scottish rugby player, Darren Eales, has been suspended from all sport for two years following an Anti-Doping Rule Violation.
Eales (22) from Prestonpans in East Lothian, tested positive for exogenous anabolic androgenic steroids Boldenone, Trenbolone and Oxymetholone (and their various metabolites) following an out-of-competition test on 19 November 2014, as a result of intelligence received by Scottish Rugby about the prop forward's alleged use of banned substances.
Eales final game prior to testing was for Preston Lodge RFC in BT National League Division 3 on 18 October 2014. He was also dual registered with Kelso RFC and Melrose RFC during the 2014/15 season. Eales is banned from all competition from 11 December 2014 until 10 December 2016.
UKAD's Director of Operations Pat Myhill said:
"The successful prosecution of Darren Eales came as a result of UKAD's Intelligence and Investigations team receiving information from Scottish Rugby about the player's use of steroids. It is through this partnership, and by sharing information, that once again we are able to rid the game of an athlete who deliberately goes against the values of clean sport.
"The case of Darren Eales clearly demonstrates that regardless of the level, sports themselves will not tolerate those who decide to intentionally dope and those who go against the spirit of the game they love."
Scottish Rugby's Head of Regulation, Graham Ireland, said: "Scottish Rugby has a zero-tolerance policy on doping. Through a robust testing and education programme, and working in partnership with clubs, anti-doping agencies and other governing bodies, Scottish Rugby is committed to ensuring the game in Scotland is kept clean.
"This violation is a firm reminder that testing can occur at any level of the game, anywhere and at any time."
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