A national representative powerlifter has been suspended for four months for testing positive for cannabis after competing in the New Zealand Bench Press Championships.
Scott Parsons admitted the violation and stated it was due to him smoking a cigarette he was offered while celebrating at his birthday party.
He was later informed by the person who gave it to him that it was laced with cannabis oil or hash. His evidence was backed up by a witness.
A New Zealand Powerlifting Federation representative also stated he has known Parsons for 15 years and that these actions were out of character.
The Sports Tribunal accepted there was no intent to enhance his sports performance and there were both aggravating and mitigating circumstances in this case.
