Robert Knight tested positive for metoprolol after winning the men's open compound event and his suspension was backdated to 10 November 2023. Metoprolol is commonly used to treat high blood pressure and is always banned in archery. 

He argued that he had used the substance on the advice of his doctor. Drug Free Sport New Zealand accepted that there was no intention to cheat in sport. 

Nick Paterson, Chief Executive of Drug Free Sport New Zealand (DFSNZ), said the case placed a strong emphasis on the responsibility of athletes. "This case highlights the standards to which athletes are held. They should check any medication on Global DRO before using it. We do not believe that Robert Knight was using the substance to cheat in archery, but he is still responsible for his sample." 

Archery NZ stressed the importance of anti-doping education - and medication control - for its athletes. "It is unfortunate that this athlete was prescribed medication by his doctor that is on the prohibited list. Athletes are encouraged to educate themselves about anti-doping, and this is a reminder to athletes and officials that each of us is 100% responsible for checking everything we take." 

It's interesting to note the importance of the Global DRO, an online tool that tells you whether a substance is prohibited in-competition, out-of-competition, both, or not at all. The information is based on the current WADA Prohibited List. Find out more about Global DRO on the DFSNZ website.

Drug Free Sport New Zealand (DFSNZ) is New Zealand's national anti-doping organisation dedicated to protecting clean athletes and promoting a culture of clean sport. It supports athletes, coaches, whānau and support staff by educating and advocating for athletes, detecting and deterring doping, and engaging sporting communities in the fight for clean sport. 

DFSNZ is a crown entity established under the New Zealand Sports and Drug Agency Act 1994 (replaced by the Sports Anti-Doping Act 2006). It is funded by the New Zealand Government and is accountable to the Minister for Sport and Recreation and the New Zealand Government, it is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the World Anti-Doping Code in New Zealand.