after testing positive for a banned stimulant.

Local television last night carried a story stating that the eight, all competitors during this year's Bermuda Body Building Federation (BBBF) Night of Champions, had been suspended for three months by the world governing body, International Federation of Body Building, for using the drug ephedrine (also known as ephedra).

The alkaloid drug is used in the medical field to relieve asthma, but is said to be popular among bodybuilders for its enhanced fat burning properties.

However, the BBBF is said to have launched appeals magainst the suspensions, indicating that they had not been properly informed of the drug's listing among those banned from competition.

FORMER BOXER SMITH DIES BOX Former boxer Smith dies Well known sports personality Gary Smith has died in his 64th year.

A former boxer himself, Smith served as a Bermuda boxing coach for an extended period from 1970 and also acted as boxing trainer of the Bermuda Olympic team, Pembroke Youth Centre and Police Club where he also served in the capacity.

During recent years he was team medic for Premier Division soccer side Devonshire Colts, a position he also previously held with Boulevard.

For his many achievements in sports Smith got justified recognition during the year 1999 when he received a sports citation during the Bermuda Government's Sports Award Programme.