Graf suspended for two years

Jürg Graf has been suspended for two years after testing positive for the blood pressure medicine Oxilofrin, the disciplinary committee of Swiss Olympic announced Wednesday. The suspension ends May 15, 2011.

Graf, the Swiss national champion in 2007, tested positive after wining the Racer Bikes Cup in Schaan on April 5. The 25-year-old claimed never to have knowingly taken such a medication.

Oxilofrin is used for low blood pressure, and this was the first time a cyclist has ever tested positive for its use.

Graf was also ordered to pay a fine of 500 Swiss Francs, and also to pay not only the costs of testing the A and B sample but also 1,500 Swiss Francs for the cost of the investigation.  He was also disqualified from his win of the Race Bikes Cup race.

Graf, the national federation and the World Anti-Doping Agency may appeal this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport within 21 days.

In addition, Swiss Cycling cancelled its contract with Graf's father, Urs Graf, who was the national mountain bike trainer for elite and under 23 cross country, marathon and cyclo-cross racers. He also served as his son's trainer.

Editorial Assistance provided by Susan Westemeyer