Japan’s pro keirin authorities have moved swiftly to increase testing and the severity of penalties, following news of another failed doping test.

Girls Keirin rider Yumika Noguchi – a pro since July 2012 – was tested at Omiya on 7 February, winning her race on the day (wearing 3 in our picture). She submitted a further urine sample on 28 February.

The results identified metabolites of nandrolone, clomiphene and tamoxifen. After further investigation, the 32-year-old was suspended on 3 March, and subsequently received a three-month ban starting from 1 April.

Just a month ago, Yuki Kitai became the first rider from the sport’s highest level to fail a doping test. He too received a three-month ban, starting from 1 March.

The Japan Keirin Autorace Foundation has clearly had enough.

They have announced that testing, previously carried out at random, will now happen at all events at level GII and above.

They will also increase the maximum possible suspension from three months to twelve, threatening to de-register repeat offenders.

Foundation chairman Hiroshi Kido commented (in translation): ‘It is extremely unfortunate that a prohibited substance was detected again in a doping test by an athlete. Furthermore, we sincerely apologise for this situation, as it would cause us to lose the trust of our customers and everyone involved in bicycle racing.’