From Colorado Springs, USA
(November 18, 2022) – The United States Anti-Doping Agency announced on Friday that USA Bobsled & Skeleton brakewoman Aja Evans has received a two year suspension for an anti-doping rule violation.
Evans failed to submit an out-of-competition sample to a USADA doping control officer on March 29. After an investigation by the USADA, the organization determined that Evans negligently failed to submit a sample.
She accepted a sanction of two years beginning on November 8, 2022. Because of the timing of the failure to collect a sample, none of Evans’ previous results are subject to disqualification.
In a statement provided to NBC Sports, Evans said “To accept this sanction was a very difficult decision to make, but one that I ultimately felt was necessary given where I am in my life. At this time, I ask for your support and respect as I turn inward and focus on myself so that I can come out from this a better athlete and an even better person.”. A full copy of the statement is below.
Evans will be eligible to return to action just prior to the 2024/2025 season, where Lake Placid will host World Championships.
Full Statement from Evans:
As many of you know, I’ve dedicated my heart and soul to bobsled over these last 10 years. The sport has rewarded me with not only amazing opportunities and achievements, but also tremendous teammates and friends. I am very grateful for my journey through bobsled and for the personal growth I’ve experienced by being in the sport.
In the spirit of good sportsmanship and professional responsibility I accept the two-year sanction imposed upon me by USADA. At no time have I ever purposely avoided testing or failed a test, as my integrity and dignity stands for so much more than that. My mistake was simply failing to submit to a test when the rules mandated that I had to. Although I never thought I had done anything wrong at that time, I understand my actions have consequences.
I humbly accept this sanction, and will use the time to focus on my health and wellbeing. This is by no means a reflection of who I am in the sport of bobsled, as my impact in the sport remains positive and far reaching, even outside of competition. And, I will always remain positive, appreciative, and practice good sportsmanship.
To accept this sanction was a very difficult decision to make, but one that I ultimately felt was necessary given where I am in my life. At this time, I ask for your support and respect as I turn inward and focus on myself so that I can come out from this a better athlete and an even better person.
Thank you, everyone, in advance, for your love and support.
