MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — Traves Smikle, Jamaica’s National Record holder in the men’s discus throw has broken his silence on reports that he tested positive for a banned substance at the JAAA National Senior Trials in June.

Smikle is among five Jamaican athletes who last weekend reportedly returned positive results for banned substances.

In a statement issued minutes ago, Smikle who just returned to the island after competing in the World University games in Kazan, Russia last week, denied knowingly taking anything illegal.

“I am willing and stand ready to work with JADCO and the relevant authorities in any investigation to get this matter dealt with in the best way possible. Personally, I am very saddened and surprised by these findings, as I have never attempted to cheat and have always considered myself an ambassador for the sport and a strong supporter of drug testing. For that reason, I have always willingly made myself available for the many drug tests conducted both at home and abroad,” the statement said in part.

Smikle’s full statement:

Kingston, Jamaica: I confirm that the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) has notified me that the urine sample given at the Jamaica National Trials has returned an adverse analytical finding. 

The sample was taken after competing in the Discus throw for men. 

As an athlete, I must take responsibility for whatever is found in my body; however I wish to state that I did not knowingly or wilfully ingest any banned substance. I have requested analysis of the B sample and await notification of the time and date for this to be done. I am willing and stand ready to work with JADCO and the relevant authorities in any investigation to get this matter dealt with in the best way possible. 

Personally, I am very saddened and surprised by these findings, as I have never attempted to cheat and have always considered myself an ambassador for the sport and a strong supporter of drug testing. For that reason, I have always willingly made myself available for the many drug tests conducted both at home and abroad. 

 I deeply regret this development and the hurt and embarrassment which it has caused to my country, family, coach, The UWI, friends and many supporters. I would like to thank everyone who has provided support in this very difficult time and will do everything possible to work with my management team and JADCO to clear my name and to justify the faith which Jamaica has consistently placed in me.