KINGSTON, Jamaica – Asafa Powell’s manager Paul Doyle testified today that Canadian Chris Xuereb, who treated the former world 100-metre world record holder is not a certified physiotherapist. Doyle was speaking on Day 2 of the drug hearing into the positive test of Powell.
The 31-year-old Powell is facing the disciplinary panel following his positive test for the banned stimulant Oxilofrine at the national championships in June.
Powell blamed the positive tests on a new brand of nutritional supplements given to him Xuereb, who was hired to treat his chronic injury problems
Under cross-examination from Lackston Robinson, the lawyer representing the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission, Doyle said that although Xuereb was not certified he qualified as a physiotherapist. Doyle also said Xuereb's treatment had held Powell.
Doyle said Xuereb was highly recommended to him by chiropractor, Dr Carmine Stillo, who he described as an "honorable man".
Doyle further said he didn't do any research on Xuereb or his qualifications as the Canadian came highly recommended by Dr Stillo.
Doyle remembered all he asked Xuereb was "about his treatments."
Doyle told the disciplinary panel that he had wanted a physiotherapist at a short notice to work full time with Powell.
Asked if Xuereb was a qualified therapist, Doyle said, "I do not know." Asked if he tried to find out, Doyle said, "I did not."
Doyle also told the panel, under cross-examination that a report that a statement from a spokesman speaking on behalf of Dr Stillo that he was warmed that Xuereb "had absolutely zero professional designations or credentials" but that Xuereb "could be used at his own risk", was not true.
Doyle said that Dr Stillo only told him that Xuereb “has good hands.”
The hearing will continue on Feb 12 and 13.
