Aissa was issued a 3 year ban from competition (Dec 28, 2006 - Dec 27, 2009). Aissa maintains that he has never used PEDs (performance enhancing drugs) and I believe him. Importantly, Aissa has never tested positive for PEDs. Aissa's ban had to do with the improper reporting of a doctor's treatment for a chronic leg injury.
A local Oregon doctor wrote:
As I recall the case the doctor failed to provide a TUE, therapeutic use exemption. This form is available through WADA, the world anti-doping agency, but most prescribing doctors do not even realize the form exists. Had this been performed it would not have been an issue.
Physicians, even world-renowned ones, have a tendency to proceed with treatment without a full explanation to an athlete.
Personally I would recommend a letter or press release statement from Aissa describing what transpired and how it has cost him. At least that way he will have full communication out there and hopefully the sympathy and understanding of the race directors. I would recommend something no more than 2/3 to 3/4 of the page with bullet points that could be sent both by mail and email.
Road race directors can be a tight community. Most are on the same Yahoo email group or blog page. The current reaction is surprising to me.A sports writer is considering an article about Aissa. He wrote:
Aissa is a fantastic story. Fascinating on a bunch of levels: Aissa's merits, his innocence, and the larger ethical idea of when it is right to accept, forgive and help a struggling talent.Hicham el Guerrouj, the Moroccan world record holder in the mile, is supportive of Aissa's character and made a request for all of us to understand and help Aissa. In an email to me, Hicham wrote:
Steve: I want to discuss with you the situation of a local Moroccan runner living in the Portland, Oregon area. I think you met him. His name is Aissa Dghoughi.
Aissa went through some challenges and issues in the past and he matured a lot. He is serious and working hard to be a successful runner. I believe he deserves a chance and he will not be a disappointment. I would appreciate if you can give him support so he can continue his training. Aissa is progressing very well.
