IOC increases anti-doping program

Lausanne, Switzerland -- The International Olympic Committee said the Summer Games in Beijing would feature the movement's most extensive anti-doping effort.

The IOC, in a release Wednesday, said it will administer about 4,500 tests for banned substances. That represents a 25 percent increase over the number of tests conducted in 2004 and about 90 percent more than in the 2000 Games.

"At the International Olympic Committee, we are at the forefront of the effort to eradicate doping," IOC President Jacques Rogge said.

"Most athletes compete honestly and fairly. They treasure the Olympic experience. We owe it to these athletes -- who train so hard -- to ensure the Games are as free of prohibited drugs as possible."

From July 27-Aug. 24, the IOC said it "will test the competitors at any time and at any place," including away from Olympic venues.

Athletes found to have used banned substances will also face increased penalties, the IOC said, including a ban on the next Olympic Games.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.