Charles F. Butler, M.D., Ph.D.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Re: Issue of Doping in Sport
To: James A. Whitehead Richard Hilderbrand, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President Science Director
American College of Sports Medicine U.S. Anti-Doping Agency
Attn: Mr. Dan Henkel
Mr. Jim Millman the Executive Director of USA Boxing has requested that I respond to your recent communication on behalf of our organization.
USA Boxing was a pioneer in the anti-doping movement in sports. Robert Voy M.D., Past President of USA Boxing, was a leader in directing the attention of amateur sports to the existence of the doping problem. He is author of what is now a classic work on the subject.
USA Boxing has always been a strong supporter of the anti-doping movement. We subscribe to all policies of the World Anti-Doping Association (WADA) and the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). USA Boxing has a zero tolerance policy for doping violations.
Doping causes physical and psychological damage in athletes. It is a symbol of moral denigration in any coach, trainer, or athlete who uses it to gain an unethical advantage in competition. Doping is a clear violation of the Olympic Spirit and the principal of fairness in sport.
USA Boxing takes pride in endorsing your resolution. USA Boxing is committed to the principle of drug-free sport as defined by the USADA and WADA. The action of any Professional who advises, aids or abets doping in violation of this principle is reprehensible and unprofessional. Any athlete who knowingly engages in the practice of doping should rightfully
be subject to the sanctions specified by the relevant anti-doping association and the appropriate sports Federation.
Thank you for your inquiry and for giving USA Boxing the opportunity to declare its full support to the anti-doping movement.
Sincerely,
Charles F. Butler M.D. Ph.D.
Member AIBA Executive Committee
President of the American Board of Ringside Medicine
Vice Chair Medical Committee USA Boxing