USA Weightlifting Statement on Keiser Witte

The statement below is attributable to USA Weightlifting CEO Matt Sicchio.

“We are aware of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency’s announcement that 2021 Pan American champion Keiser Witte has been sanctioned for an anti-doping rule violation after his sample collected at our North American Open Finals last December tested positive for carboxy-THC. USA Weightlifting adamantly supports clean sport. We partner closely with USADA to ensure our athletes know and understand the rules. Keiser knew the rules and those rules should be enforced. However, WADA is long overdue in revising the rules as they relate to THC – particularly where there is no intent to enhance performance.

“Keiser is the latest athlete to have his Olympic dreams taken away at the hands of an antiquated rule, by a system that should be more focused on catching intentional dopers and standing up to state-sponsored doping programs. USA Weightlifting will continue to fight for a clean weightlifting platform and a more effective anti-doping system.”