The Swiss Olympic Association’s Disciplinary Chamber has cleared Alinghi’s veteran headsail trimmer, Simmon Daubney, of doping charges. In June of 2007 Daubney failed a routine drug test, which revealed traces of recreational drugs (speculation was cocaine) in his system. Daubney went before the 32nd America’s Cup jury in September of 2007 and argued his innocence, alleging that he had perhaps consumed a maliciously spiked drink, the contents of which were revealed in the drug test. Furthermore, Daubney took a lie-detector test, which he passed.

Daubney had to stand down from his job with Alinghi following this matter, but given his talents, he will hopefully be allowed to resume trimming sails for the defender of the 33rd Cup soon. Provided, of course, that the Cup’s legal issues are settled, but that in and of itself remains a wide-open question.

Posted: February 4, 2008