December 10, 2009 – The FIS Doping Panel has recently rendered its decision finding the Russian cross-country skier Nina Rysina (RUS) to have committed an anti-doping rule violation contrary to article 2.1 of the FIS Anti-Doping Rules. Rysina tested positive for the use of the prohibited substance recombinant EPO, identified on the WADA Prohibited List 2009 in Class S2 Hormone and Related Substances, during an out-of-competition doping control on 27th January 2009 in Praz de Lys Sommand (FRA). The case was not made public until late in August.

Consequently, Nina Rysina is ineligible to participate in any capacity in an event or activity authorized or organized by FIS or any National Ski Association until 12th August 2011. In accordance with article 10.8, all competitive results obtained from the date that the positive samples were obtained are disqualified, along with the forfeiture of any medals, points and prizes.

Alysson Marshall (WC Academy/Larch Hills Ski Club) placed 13th at the same U23 event in Praz de Lys; the consequence of this FIS Doping Panel ruling moves Alysson into a 12th place finish. In accordance with the 2008-09 selection criteria, “An athlete placing in the top 20 distance or the top-12 individual sprint at the 2009 U23 Championships may be selected based on an assessment and recommendation of the NST Team Leader and ADHP to the HPC. This assessment and recommendation will be based on the relative merit of time behind the winner, FIS points and WC eligibility standard within the U23 event. These factors will be reviewed relative to the purpose and objectives (17.1 and 17.2).”

A recommendation was brought forward to Cross Country Canada’s High Performance Committee (HPC) to select Alysson to the Development Team and this recommendation was accepted.

Because of the late timing of this announcement by FIS, Alysson will remain in the Alberta World Cup Academy program with access to the same non-programming benefits as available for National Development Team athletes.