Olivia Ray gets two and a half years of suspension for anti-doping rule violations

Olivia Ray's cycling career has been going downhill since the last year. Now the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has suspended her for two and a half years for the use and possession of multiple banned substances.

“After receiving information from a whistleblower in December 2021, USADA initiated an investigation that yielded evidence implicating Ray, who was living and competing in the United States at the time, in anti-doping rule violations,” read the statement released by USADA.

The investigation was carried out, and after collecting all the necessary details, the group came to a conclusion. “When confronted with the evidence, Ray fully cooperated, despite pressure for her not to do so, and admitted she was provided prohibited substances by another athlete, Jackson “Huntley” Nash, and committed the following anti-doping rule violations in 2021.

She had to forfeit her achievements which aligned with the date of consumption which included her New Zealand Championships and Grant Park Criterium."In addition, Ray’s competitive results on and subsequent to May 17, 2021, the date Nash raised with Ray using hGH and/or other prohibited substances, have been disqualified, including forfeiture of any medals, points and prizes," said USADA.

But her troubles are far from over, and Now her home country will investigate separately and punish her accordingly. "Cycling New Zealand fully supports the actions of USADA regarding the suspension handed down to New Zealand cyclist Olivia Ray. In line with the USADA actions, Cycling New Zealand will investigate any races involving Ray in New Zealand from 17 May 2021. While reiterating its strict stance that doping has no place in the sport, Cycling New Zealand will continue to reach out to Ray to provide support during this challenging time for the rider," said the organisation in a statement.