The LSU women’s track and field team was forced to vacate its 2012 national championship after senior sprinter Semoy Hackett tested positive for a banned stimulant, the school announced Friday.
Hackett, a member of the 4×100-meter relay team that claimed an individual title, said her positive test was unintentional.
“I want to express my apologies to my coaches, teammates, LSU and our fans,” Hackett said in a news release. “Although this was unintentional, I’m deeply sorry this will have such a negative impact on my team and LSU.”
The Trinidad & Tobago native, who ran for her native country in the 2012 London Olympics, tested positive for the banned stimulant Methylhexaneamine, commonly found in over-the-counter supplements.
Hackett’s positive test also means the individual members of the 4×100-meter relay team, junior Takeia Pinckney, senior Rebecca Alexander, and junior Kimberlyn Duncan, must also return their individual medals.
“It’s unfortunate the team will be required to vacate the NCAA Championship due to the actions of one individual, but we will certainly comply with the NCAA’s instructions in this matter,” said LSU track and field coach Dennis Shaver in a news release.
“We support the policies that the NCAA has set to promote fair competition.”