Jones set to compete for USA

Marion Jones is almost certain to compete for the United States at the IAAF World Cup in Athens next weekend.

Last week Jones was informed by the United States Anti-Doping Agency that a ‘B’ test for erythropoietin (EPO), a blood-boosting hormone, had tested negative.

“We have Marion on our roster to race over 100metres and we are planning that she will be in the side,” said Sandy Snow, team manager for the side who is already in the Greek capital.

Jones' ‘A’ test at the USA Track and Field Championships in mid-June tested positive for EPO.

Her victory there automatically earned her selection for the money-spinning World Cup which takes place over two days and has a prize-money budget of more than £1.5m (€2.2m).

Jones has yet to accept the invitation but there is every likelihood she will compete despite her having missed training since the revelation she had allegedly failed the EPO test. She has already stated she is eager to get back into action as quickly as possible.

Snow does not yet know whether Jones will be included in Team USA’s 4x100m relay squad which will probably be announced a day before the meeting begins next Saturday.