Marc Shackley: former Whitehaven captain given anti-doping ban
Former Whitehaven captain Marc Shackley has been given a four-year suspension by the National Anti-Doping panel after testing positive for a banned substance.
Shackley, who retired at the end of the 2021 season on medical grounds, tested positive for the banned substance clenbuterol.
Clenbuterol can be used to treat breathing disorders such as asthma, and can also be used to aid weight loss.
Shackley was subject to a random test at his home back in September 2021. He was subsequently notified in October, and has been provisionally banned since.
In his defence, the former Whitehaven captain said he had taken fat burners to help him lose weight ahead of knee surgery. The surgery was due to take place in October.
Before the test, Shackley had informed Whitehaven that he had intended to retire. Because of this, it was his understanding that he was not bound by the RFL’s Operation Rules. However, it did not turn out to be the case.
He also said he was not aware that he was taking a banned substance, until he received the letters from the RFL and UKAD (UK Anti-Doping).
In November, he was then officially charged with an anti-doping offence, and a hearing was set for April this year.
Due to him being provisionally banned in October, his ban has been back-dated until then. He will now not be able to take part in professional events until 8th October 2025.
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Whitehaven sign Super League trio
Championship side Whitehaven have signed Catalans duo Corentin Le Cam and Cesar Rouge, as well as Luke Broadbent from Warrington on loan.
Le Cam, 22, made his international debut for France last October, scoring a try against England. He has made five first team appearances for the Dragons.
Standing at 6’8″ tall, Le Cam has featured in the Elite One Championship with reserve side St Esteve.
Rouge is a highly-rated young half-back, aged 19, who made his debut for France in the same game.
Both players are heading to Cumbria on four week deals, while Broadbent has signed until the end of the season.
Broadbent, 19, is the son of former Whitehaven full-back Gary Broadbent, who was part of the National League 1 league leaders’ shield winning side of 2005.