Carlow footballer first case of meldonium detected in Irish sport

The GAA has defended its anti-doping education programme after a Carlow footballer, who says he didn't receive any such training, failed a test.

Ray Walker in action for Carlow in 2008. Picture: David Maher / SPORTSFILE

The Ray Walker case is the first in Ireland to feature the banned substance meldonium.

The footballer, who returned to the Carlow squad in November after a long absence, tested positive for meldonium in February. He maintains he did not knowingly take the banned substance but has accepted the maximum four-year ban.