Golf to start dope-testing from 2008

Golf8217;s global governing bodies announced the adopting of a doping test program for professional golfers starting in 2008, releasing a list of banned substances. Agreeing in principle after years of work were the major rulemaking bodies, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club and the US Golf Association, as well as the PGA and LPGA tours, European Tour, PGA of America and Augusta National Golf Club.

Their agreement yesterday ensures common doping practices at men8217;s and women8217;s majors, the Ryder Cup and tour events worldwide. Also agreeing to the plan were the Asian, Australasian, Canadian, Japan, Sunshine and Americas tours.

The first phase of the policy was to develop a list of prohibited substances.

By the end of the year, the golfing groups plan to assemble the standards for implementing an anti-doping program, allowing for flexibility for each group to develop specific policies and procedures their groups might need. Differences in US and European laws, for example, might impact procedures.