Scott Stevenson, who has competed in the famous Kona Ironman among other major events, copped the suspension after a positive result was returned to an out-of-competition test in August of last year.

Mr Stevenson, who spent time working and competing in Dubbo but is now based in Sydney, received credit for the period of his provisional suspension, which began on September 25, 2016.

According a release issued by the IRONMAN organisation, which operates a ‘global portfolio of events’, Stevenson’s sample tested positive for the presence of an androstatreinedion and its metabolite(s) and for testosterone.

The results were confirmed by Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) analysis.

“The use of any exogenous Anabolic Androgenic Steroid, including testosterone, is prohibited at all times under IRONMAN anti-doping rules consistent with the World Anti-Doping Code and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list,” the statement reads.

“IRONMAN’s investigation was conducted in cooperation with the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority. Mr Stevenson was subject to out-of-competition testing as a qualifier for the 2016 IRONMAN World Championship. Mr. Stevenson did not have a therapeutic use exemption (TUE).”

As a result of the sanction, Mr Stevenson was and is ineligible to participate in any IRONMAN-affiliated competition or any events organised by any other WADA Code Signatory for a period of four years beginning September 25, 2016, the date his provisional suspension began.

All of his results from August 4, 2016 (the date of his test) onward are disqualified.

“All age-group athletes who accept qualifying slots to the IRONMAN World Championship are provided specific notice regarding the IRONMAN Anti-Doping Program, including what their rights and responsibilities are,” said Kate Mittelstadt, director of the IRONMAN Anti-Doping Program.

“We will continue our outreach and education efforts and urge all athletes to consider the medications, treatments and supplements they are using.

“By working proactively with their doctors and the anti-doping authorities they can understand the risks and consequences.”