CHINA'S all-conquering women swimmers, under suspicion of using performance-enhancing drugs in the World Championships earlier this month, were yesterday cleared when FINA, the world's governing body, announced that all 169 tests were negative.

Chinese swimmers won 12 of the 16 events for women and set five world records in Rome. Riled by the drug-taking allegations, they said that their performances were the result of top-class coaching and hard work in training.

In its statement FINA said all winners and world record-breakers were tested. So were medallists in the diving, water polo and synchronised swimming competitions.