Doping-IAAF investigating Justin Gatlin's coach

RALEIGH, North Carolina, Aug 10 (Reuters) The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) said today it was investigating Justin Gatlin's coach Trevor Graham for possible doping violations.

Olympic and world 100 metres champion Gatlin faces a life ban after a positive test for the male sex hormone testosterone.

In a statement the IAAF said the investigation was being conducted in conjunction with the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).

''If evidence exists, either from the ongoing BALCO investigation or otherwise, that Graham has engaged in doping practices in breach of IAAF rules, disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against him through USADA,'' the statement said.

The US Olympic Committee (USOC) has banned Graham from using its facilities because of the ''unusual number of athletes he has coached who have been convicted of doping offences''.

At least six athletes coached or previously coached by Graham, including disgraced former 100 metres world record holder Tim Montgomery, have been suspended for doping.

Montgomery was banned for two years for using banned substances provided by the BALCO laboratory in California.

The group does not include Gatlin, who announced last week he had failed a test for testosterone or its precursors.

The New York Times reported last month that Graham was under investigation by the same federal grand jury which is investigating San Francisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds.

Graham's attorney issued a statement on Tuesday asking the USOC to lift its ban. It also said Graham had passed a polygraph test in which he denied distributing illict substances.

The IAAF statement said Graham's athletes could continue to compete in its World Tour meeting upon the invitation of organisers.

The Berlin Golden League meeting announced last week that Graham's athletes, including Olympic 200 metres champion Shawn Crawford and world indoor 60 metres winner Lisa Barber, would not be invited to its event next month.

REUTERS AY PM1918