Nathan O’Neill Contract Terminated
Health Net/Maxxis Press release: contract terminated following confirmation of
positive test for Phentermine of samples from August 12th.
Oakland, CA – On October 29, 2007, Nathan O’Neill was terminated from the
Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis following confirmation of a
positive test for the prescription appetite suppressant Phentermine.
The team was informed on September 24 that O’Neill’s A sample returned the
positive result in a test performed on August 12, following the Tour of Elk
Grove. His B sample confirmed the positive result in a test performed on October
24. The team terminated his contract immediately upon notification of the
positive B sample on October 29.
According to UCI/WADA code, riders can legally use Phentermine out of
competition with a prescription. However, there may be no trace amounts of
Phentermine in a rider’s system during competition.
The Team has a zero tolerance policy regarding the failure of any of its
riders to pass a UCI/WADA-sanctioned medical examination, which is grounds for
immediate termination in accordance with the Team’s standard Rider Agreement,
which all riders have signed.
Nathan has been a valuable member of the Team and has achieved many
exceptional results. Nonetheless, it is the Team’s policy to treat all riders
fairly and consistently, and by the terms of our Rider Agreement.
O’Neill obtained the medication legally. However, he did not follow proper
team protocol concerning the use of prescription drugs obtained, directed to be
obtained or approved by the Team’s Medical Director.
We wish him and his family the very best in the future. At present, this is
now a personal matter between Nathan and UCI/WADA, and the team will not comment
on it any further.
 
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