Marta Dominguez may have overcome all the hurdles in the steeplechase 3000-meter race but she has now been stopped by another obstacle in her way. The Spanish runner has been arrested following the doping charges. She has been arrested along with two of
her coaches and doctor.
Marta is the World Champion in the steeplechase 3000-meter event and has represented Spain on various occasions. Not only has she represented her country in the World Championship on six occasions, but she has also been a part of the summer Olympics for
three times in her career.
The World Champion and gold medallist athlete had been accused of providing doping substance to other professionals. She was held in custody and was interrogated for eight hours. She has been allowed to go home for the time being due to her pregnancy but
she will be required to remain in contact with the authorities.
The Central Operation Unit (UCO) had launched an operation following some investigation reports regarding a group of people who have been involved into illegal doping practices.
In the recent raids which were ordered by the court, 13 other suspects apart from Marta have been arrested. During the raids, a large number of steroids, medication and some documents related to the doping practices have been taken in custody.
The 35-year-old champion will miss the 2011 season due to her pregnancy but she plans to return to the sport in 2012.
Last year, another Spanish athlete was arrested for being involved in doping practices. Francisco Fernandez, a 20km race walker and an Olympic silver medallist was caught and banned due to his involvement. He was reported to have cooperated with the authorities
back then. In the current raids, Fernandez is again reported to have played a part in the investigations.
The doctor of Marta, Fuentes was also involved in a probe which took place in 2006. The probe which was held was targeted towards the cyclists, officials and some doctors over the blood doping practices. After that investigation, some of the very famous
riders were sacked by their teams and others were served with bans. Fuentes was not charged during that probe as the anti-doping laws were not introduced in Spain at that time.
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