What is the Registered Testing Pool (RTP)?
In the world of anti-doping, RTP stands for the Registered Testing Pool.
It is a specific, high-priority pool of elite athletes established by either an International Federation (IF) or a National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO). These athletes are subject to focused, unannounced out-of-competition testing, as well as strict whereabouts tracking requirements.
How the RTP Works & Why it Matters
Understanding the core pillars and expectations for athletes in the Registered Testing Pool.
1. Who is Included in the RTP?
Athletes are selected for the RTP based on specific criteria determined by anti-doping authorities. This typically includes:
- Elite Competitors: Athletes who compete at the highest international levels (e.g., Olympic/Paralympic athletes, World Championship medalists).
- Top Rankings: Athletes ranking in the top tier of their specific sport.
- Returning Athletes: Individuals returning from a sports sanction or suspension.
2. Whereabouts Requirement
The defining responsibility for an athlete in the RTP is filing accurate Whereabouts information. Because drug testing is most effective when it is completely unannounced, authorities need to know exactly where to find an athlete at any given time.
Athletes must use the ADAMS (Anti-Doping Administration and Management System) platform to submit quarterly updates detailing: residence, training schedules, competition schedules, and daily routines.
The 60-Minute Slot
A specific, mandatory 60-minute window specified by the athlete between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM every day, where they guarantee they will be available and accessible at a designated location for testing.
3. Testing and Violations
Because elite athletes can be tested anywhere, at any time, failing to comply with RTP rules carries serious consequences. Whereabouts Failures include:
- Filing Failure: Failing to submit whereabouts on time, or submitting inaccurate or incomplete info (e.g., a tester shows up at the training facility listed, but the athlete is not there).
- Missed Test: When a doping control officer attempts to test the athlete during their declared 60-minute slot, but the athlete is unavailable.
Any combination of three Whereabouts Failures (Filing Failures and/or Missed Tests) within a rolling 12-month period constitutes an Anti-Doping Rule Violation, which can result in a suspension from competition (typically up to two years).
Removing an Athlete from the RTP:
An athlete remains in the RTP and must continue submitting whereabouts until they receive formal, written notice from their anti-doping organization that they have been removed, or until they officially submit their retirement papers.
Inaugural Registered Testing Pool
The RTP athletes were selected in accordance with guidelines, with consideration given to athletes who have strong medal potential for the upcoming Asian Games 2026 and Commonwealth Games 2026. A total of 11 athletes have been included in the inaugural RTP.
| # | Athlete Name | Sport / Discipline | Status / Badge |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rumesh Tharanga | Javelin | Elite |
| 2 | Samitha Dulan | Para Javelin | PLY |
| 3 | Nethmi Ahinsa | Wrestling | Elite |
| 4 | Palitha Bandara | Para Discus throw & Shot Put | PLY |
| 5 | Dilhani Lekamge | Javelin | OLY |
| 6 | Viren Nettasinghe | Badminton | OLY |
| 7 | Janani Dhananjana | Para Jumps | PLY |
| 8 | Kalinga Kumarage | 400m | Elite |
| 9 | Nipuni Wasana | Wrestling | Elite |
| 10 | Supun Somathilake | Weightlifting | Elite |
| 11 | Sandu Jayawardena | Weightlifting | Elite |