25 Jul 2013

Powell wants to compete as soon as possible, despite failing drugs test

12:18 pm on 25 July 2013

The former 100 metre world record holder Asafa Powell says he wants to return to the track as soon as possible after his failed drug test.

The 30-year-old tested positive for a banned stimulant at the Jamaican Championships last month.

When the news emerged, he said he had never "knowingly or wilfully taken any supplements that break any rules" and has reiterated that stance.

Powell and American Tyson Gay's failed drugs tests wre made public 10 days ago and both are now awaiting the results of their B samples.

Powell says checks done by his team "told them the supplements were fit for consumption by professional athletes".

He says should the B sample return adverse results, they hope that the hearings will happen as fast as possible so as to allow him to return to his team, to once again represent his country.

Powell was the last man to hold the individual 100m record before compatriot Usain Bolt broke it in 2008.