LSU track star fails drug test; Still has chance to participate in 2020 Tokyo Olympics
American sprinter and LSU track star Sha’Carri Richardson tested positive for marijuana last month at the Olympic Trials, leaving her 2020 Tokyo Olympic hopes up in the air.
The United States Anti-Doping Agency announced earlier today Richardson has accepted a one-month suspension as a consequence of her failed drug test.
At the U.S. Olympic Trials Ricardson established herself as a gold medal contender by winning the 100 meter in 10.86 seconds. In accepting the penalty, the 21-year-old athlete’s results from the trials have been disqualified.
The suspension ends July 27th which means she would not be able to run the 100 in Tokyo, however Richardson would be available to run in the women’s relays.
This morning on NBC’s Today, Richardson talked about her failed drug test and coping with the death of her mom. “I would like to say to my friends, to my family, to my sponsorship, um, to, the haters too, I apologize. As much as I’m disappointed, I know that when I step on the track, I don’t represent myself. I represent a community that has shown me great support, great love, and to y’all, I feel y’all, and so I apologize for the fact that I didn’t know how to control my emotions or deal with my emotions during that time. But standing here, I just say, don’t judge me because I am human, I’m you, I just happen to run a little faster.”
Richardson would be cleared to race in the 4 by 100 relay at the Olympics on August 6th, if USA Track and Field select her to participate.
