{blackbabes} BACKUP SAMPLES TEST POSITIVE FOR POWELL, SIMPSON, OTHERS

KINGSTON, Jamaica -- Anti-doping authorities in Jamaica say backup doping tests have come back positive for former 100-meter world record-holder Asafa Powell, teammate Sherone Simpson and three other island athletes.

The Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission made the announcement on Friday.

It says all the athletes have been notified.

JADCO says it will refer the findings to the Jamaican Anti-Doping disciplinary panel and hearings will be scheduled.

The agent for Powell and Simpson did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

Meanwhile, local media say a Jamaican disciplinary panel is deliberating after a four-day hearing on a positive doping test by three-time Olympic gold medallist Veronica Campbell-Brown.