ASA chief lied about Semanya tests to protect athlete

Athletics South Africa president Leonard Cheune, admits that he was aware gender tests were carried out on South African running sensation Caster Semenya while she was in South Africa, before the recent World Championships, but publicly denied knowledge of the tests to protect the athlete.

"I believed at the time my consistent denials would help protect her," says Chuene reports the BBC.

"I have however realised that it was an error of judgment and that I could have been more forthcoming with this information, even if it was difficult."

The ASA and the IAAF, athletics's world governing body, have been involved in a public dispute since Semanya won the women's 800m at the World Championships in Berlin. Questions were raised over her gender due to her running style and muscular appearance. Reports now suggest tests show she has intersex status.

What should have been a private matter for the athlete has become front-page news due to the conduct of the IAAF and the ASA.

SOURCE: BBC Sport