OLYMPICS NEWS:IN THE latest in a string of drug scandals to hit the Beijing Games, a Russian race walker was suspended after failing tests, the seventh athlete to be thrown out of the team in the past week.
Vladimir Kanaikin, one of the favourites for gold in the 20-kilometre race, tested positive for the banned drug EPO in April, said Russian Athletics Federation president Valentin Balakhnichyov.
"It seems to be an example of systematic, planned doping," Arne Ljungqvist, head of the International Olympic Committee's medical commission, told reporters in Beijing. "It is frustrating to find that that kind of planned cheating is going on."
Ljungqvist, speaking after the first day of the IOC's general assembly in the Chinese capital yesterday, said a case of systematic doping would fall under the new World Anti-Doping Agency code and carry a four-year ban.
"The procedure is still going on and it is up to the Russian federation to find out what was going on," added the 77-year-old Ljungqvist, who is also a Wada vice-president. "It's a sad story.'"
The sun made a welcome appearance on yesterday afternoon as a light breeze dispersed the pollution-fuelled haze that had earlier obscured a skyline boasting numerous futuristic new Olympic venues and towers bearing testimony to China's new wealth.
But not everyone was convinced. Members of the US cycling squad arrived at Beijing's swanky new airport terminal yesterday wearing black respiratory masks.
The IOC's medical chief said the masks were unnecessary, and the US Olympic Committee urged the Chinese not to take offence.
"It was in no way intended to be disrespectful," spokesman Darryl Seibel said.
In the most eagerly awaited competition, the men's 100 metres for the title "Fastest Man on Earth", the world champion, Tyson Gay, said he would be ready despite a hamstring strain in July.
One of his main rivals, the Jamaican world-record holder, Usain Bolt, said it would take something special to win the event.
"It's all about who's got the perfect race," he said.
Bolt's fellow Jamaican Asafa Powell, the previous world-record holder, and world champion Gay complete a sensational sprint trio who will all be vying for 100 metres Olympic gold.
"There are definitely more opponents. I have Asafa Powell right beside me, who is the second-fastest man in the world," said Bolt. "Tyson Gay is world champion and he is running fast. It just depends who has the perfect race."
The Brazil forward Ronaldinho, dogged by injuries and a loss for form in the last year, said yesterday he was fit and intent on helping Brazil win a first gold medal in Olympic soccer.
Ronaldinho, who joined AC Milan from Barcelona last month, has been included in Brazil's Olympic squad as an overage player and is hoping to use the tournament as the first step to reviving his career.
"I'm in good shape physically," he told Brazilian media in Shenyang, where the South Americans face Belgium in a Group C match tomorrow.
"Winning the Olympics means a lot to Brazil. I hope to start on the right foot," said Ronaldinho.
"What motivates me is the chance to go down in history with the Brazilian team by winning the gold medal. Not many players have a chance to play at the Olympics. I want this medal."
