Posted: November 13, 2004

Drugs in Sport: Ironman Winner Nina Kraft admits to use of illegal substance

November 12, 2004 - Nina Kraft, female winner of last month's Ironman Triathlon World Championship, admitted yesterday to use of an illegal substance in the weeks leading up to her victory on October 16. She tested positive for EPO or Erythropoietin in the results released earlier this week.

Kraft and her coach/manager, Martin Malleier both confirmed her use of the performance enhancing drug on a phone call with WTC President, Ben Fertic this week.

"During our lengthy conversation, they were both very forthright about their mistake," said Fertic. We're very disappointed that this happened at our event."

Kraft had placed within the top three at the Ironman Triathlon World Championship in 2001, 2002 and 2003. Kraft dominated the women's race this year, winning by more than 16 minutes over Natascha Badmann. Second-place finisher and four-time world champion, Badmann will now reign as the 2004 world champion. Heather Fuhr of Canada will now move up to second place and third place finisher will now be Australian, Kate Major.

"I did something stupid. The mistake cannot be rectified - I am going to bear all the consequences. I never really rejoiced over the victory in Hawaii. I was ashamed the entire time, especially in front of my family. I cheated," she told the Hesse state radio yesterday.

WTC is awaiting word from the German triathlon union, DTU outlining the latest findings before adjusting and announcing the final professional athlete standings. WTC is also awaiting confirmation of men's 5th place finisher, Rutger Beke's standing, after testing positive for an illegal substance at a Belgian race in September of this year. Men who placed six through 10 at the Ironman Triathlon World Championship could be affected by the announcement.

Prize monies will be distributed to athletes in the top 10 following announcements from the German and Belgian triathlon federations.