Radcliffe 'hurt' by doping allegations

Paula Radcliffe, winner of two major championship gold medals this summer, has reacted to innuendo that illicit drugs aided her performances.

Radcliffe, who broke her 5,000 metres Commonwealth record in Manchester then ran the world's second-fastest 10,000 metres in Munich, said: "I was disappointed and saddened by whispers that others believed I was using drugs. I was deeply hurt and offended to read an article in L'Equipe casting doubt on my achievements.

"I realise that doping is a problem in our sport and have always made no secret of my views. Indeed I am working with the IAAF and WADA to improve the situation, and we do now have a valid EPO test.

"Since reading the article in L'Equipe, I have asked the IAAF to conduct random blood and urine tests on me in the build up to Chicago [marathon]."

Radcliffe, 28, has also asked for further steps to protect her. "I would like these samples to be frozen and tested again in the future as new detection tests become available.

"This is the only way I can think of to prove that my results are the result of over 10 years of hard work, pain and dedication. It is sad that it has come to this, but I am happy to take this step and encourage others to do likewise and silence the doubters."