Athletics South Africa President Leonard Chuene told reporters that his constant denials of the tests were an "error of judgement" and that he never meant to "deceive" the public.

South African officials have repeatedly said tests were done on the 18-year-old runner only abroad, not in South Africa.

"I can no longer stand before you and say that I am not aware of gender tests conducted on Caster Semenya," Chuene said. "I felt that at the time I was acting in the best interests of Caster Semenya as a person. I believed at the time my consistent denials would help protect her."

Semenya won the 800-metre race at the World Championships in Berlin in 1 minute, 55.45 seconds to finish 2.45 seconds ahead of her closest competitor on August 19. It was the fastest time in the world this year.

further tests

The International Association of Athletics Federations ordered tests done on the runner in Berlin, saying questions had been raised about her muscular physique, running style and recent stunning improvement in times.

It has refused to confirm or deny Australian media reports that Semenya has both male and female characteristics, saying it is reviewing test results and will issue a decision in November on whether the athlete will be allowed to continue to compete in women's events.

Chuene said tests had been done at a Pretoria hospital on August 7 at the behest of the IAAF, adding that it was unclear whether Semenya was informed of the nature of the examinations.

Chuene said that despite medical advice and a request from the IAAF, he refused to withdraw Semenya from the race because there were no results yet from the tests.

"I was not going to stop her talent because of rumours," he said. "On what basis should I have withdrawn her? My only crime committed was to take a decision that she must run, and she won."

Chuene accused the IAAF, who announced the day of the 800 finals that tests had been ordered, of violating her rights and privacy.

"The IAAF publicly revealed her name. The IAAF betrayed her. The IAAF has a lot to answer for," he said.