British cyclist Staite suspended for doping

LONDON (AP)—British Cycling has announced that Dan Staite has received a two-year ban from all competitions after testing positive for the blood-boosting agent EPO.

The urine sample collected at the Roy Thame Cup road race in March also showed the presence of an aromatase inhibitor, which is used in cancer treatment.

EPO is a naturally occurring hormone which promotes the formation of red blood cells in the body and helps to increase endurance.

Bob Howden, the chairman of British Cycling’s anti-doping commission, says Staite’s case shows “that the comprehensive testing program which operates at all levels of the sport is delivering results.”