Anthony Foster, Freelance Writer
Steve Mullings ... pulls out of NCAA Championship.
BANNED JAMAICAN sprinter Steve Mullings has opted out of the NCAA Track and Field Championships which starts today in Sacramento, California.
Since the Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association (JAAA) announced the athlete's two-year ban two weeks ago after a positive test for excessive
levels at last June's National Championships, Mullings and his university, Mississippi State, had come under increased pressure from the American media.
Though the NCAA does not recognise drug tests outside of its own, Mullings, the SEC 100m champion, in a statement issued on Tuesday on the university's website, made it clear that the pressure had become too much.
"In light of recent events, it is with great regret and after much thought that I have decided to remove myself from the 2005 NCAA Championships," Mullings statement said.
STRESSFUL YEAR
"This past year has been very difficult in large part due to the stress placed upon myself, family, friends, teammates, coaches and all those associated with Mississippi State University," he said.
"In order to alleviate these stresses for all those affected and to be fair to those who have stood by me during this time, I must be the one to make this decision and take the decision from those that care about me."
The former Vere Technical sprinter, who won the Class One sprint double at Champs in 2001, said he believes his decision may put an end to those lashing out at his university.
He went on to say he appreciated the undying support his coaches and teammates had given him, also the support from Mississippi State University.
Also he said: "I would like to wish all those competing in the NCAA Championships luck. It is an honour and a privilege to compete as a student-athlete in these championships."
Director of Athletics at Mississippi State, Larry Templeton, said he welcomed Mullings' decision.
"It is important for everyone to realise that Steve was eligible for competition by NCAA, SEC and Mississippi State rules and regulations. It takes quite an individual to make this decision in light of his status."
