NO CONTRACT FOR CHAMBERS
Dwain Chambers has not been offered a contract by rugby league club Castleford Tigers after completing a four week trial.
The disgraced sprinter joined the Tigers, currently stranded at the foot of the Super League table, on a four week trial in an attempt to break into the sport after being frozen out of athletics following a two-year drugs ban served in 2003.
But the 30-year-old has struggled with the stamina requirements of the sport and the West Yorkshire club have decided against prolonging his stay.
"He would need a significant amount of additional time to prove whether he would be capable of making the grade," read an official Castleford statement.
"Time is something we don't have, but we wish him the best for the future."
The club said they had concluded the trial with "some reluctance".
Chambers' only appearance for Castleford came in a specially-arranged reserve team friendly with York City Knights in the final weeks of the trial although there were suggestions that the sprinter may have extended his stay in rugby league.
Chambers travelled with the Castleford squad for Saturday's Super League clash against local rivals Wakefield at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium but the club have decided against offering a new deal.
Castleford chief executive Richard Wright added: "Dwain has worked very hard during training and the trial game and he showed the commitment and courage to suggest that with time he could become a successful rugby league player.
"However time is not available to us and we have to focus upon more immediate matters and our attention has to be on this year's Super League competition.
"Many people watched Dwain in the trial game and he has certainly won over some of the doubters, and proved that the trial was more than simply a publicity stunt.
"During his trial period Dwain has been a joy to have around. His work ethic and professionalism have been exemplary."
Chambers, who has also tried his hand at American Football, is now likely to continue his fight against a BOA ban which prevents him from competing at this summer's Olympic Games in Beijing.
A BOA by-law prevents any athlete found guilty of serious drugs offences from ever appearing at the Olympics, even after they have served their suspensions.
His manager Nick Collins said: "Whilst disappointed, Dwain is comfortable with and understands the decision. He has had a great time and made some good friends during his brief period with the club.
"He leaves the club in a positive mood and with a smile on his face."
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