13 August 2004 -- A doping drama involving two of Greece's biggest Olympics stars is dominating local attention ahead of the official opening of the games today in Athens.
Sprinters Costas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou -- both medalists at the 2000 Sydney Olympics -- failed to show up for drug tests yesterday for which they now face two-year bans.
The athletes, major stars in Greece, were then hospitalized after a motorcycle accident that Greek sports officials blamed on their "bad psychological state."
Because of their injuries, which are not life-threatening, Kenteris and Thanou will not attend drug hearing set for today before the International Olympic Committee.
The drama dominated Greek media coverage ahead of today's opening ceremonies. Top-selling daily "Ta Nea" said, "Greece's biggest celebration is on fire."
(Reuters/AP/AFP)
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The athletes, major stars in Greece, were then hospitalized after a motorcycle accident that Greek sports officials blamed on their "bad psychological state."
Because of their injuries, which are not life-threatening, Kenteris and Thanou will not attend drug hearing set for today before the International Olympic Committee.
The drama dominated Greek media coverage ahead of today's opening ceremonies. Top-selling daily "Ta Nea" said, "Greece's biggest celebration is on fire."
(Reuters/AP/AFP)
More stories about the Olympics from RFE/RL:
Athens Readies For Spectacular Opening Ceremony
Muslim Women Athletes Move Ahead, But Don't Leave Faith Behind
After Medal-Winning Glory, What Next For Former Soviet Athletes?
Despite Problems, Olympic Ideals Endure
Games Struggle For Spotlight, But Prestige Remains
For Some Athletes, Behind The Medals Lies Real Gold