PGA Tour: Bhavik Patel banned for year after violating anti-doping policy
Friday 16 January 2015 08:34, UK
American Bhavik Patel has been banned for one year by the PGA Tour after violating its anti-doping policy on the use of performance-enhancing substances.
Patel, who competed on the lower-tier Web.com Tour in 2013 and 2014, accepted a provisional suspension last year and will be eligible to return to competition on October 7.
"In an effort to overcome an injury, I made a lapse of judgment," said the 24-year-old, who turned professional in 2012.
"I regret my decision but have learned from the experience and look forward to returning to competition."
Patel, who has not competed on the Web.com Tour since playing in 12 events between February and July last year, is only the second player to be suspended by the PGA Tour for a violation since its anti-doping programme was launched in 2008.
Doug Barron was banned for a year in November 2009 for taking a performance-enhancing drug.
