Dutch mountain biker denies doping

Dutch mountain biker Arielle van Meurs has denied doping, after she was removed from the World Championships for a high hematocrit. "Of course I deny that," she told Sportweek.nl, claiming she has naturally high hematocrit values.

On Saturday morning, van Meurs underwent a blood test at breakfast, and, she said, it showed that here value was 47.9, when the maximum allowed is 47.

"The blood is too thick and the International Cycling Union (UCI) said it was too dangerous to ride. That has nothing to do with doping," she said. "I have naturally a very high hematocrit and it is often above the standard. Plus, the night was very warm and that doesn't help."

After the morning test, the 33 year-old went out to the course for a training ride. While out training she was pulled over after the first lap, informed of the test results and removed from the championships.