Phelps dropped from motivational program

CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps has been yanked from two motivational speaking engagements in Canada next month, a promoter's Web site indicates.

Toronto's The Power Within has dropped Phelps from its lineup for an event next Tuesday at Calgary's Telus Convention Centre and another in Vancouver on March 6, the Calgary Herald reported Wednesday.

The action is believed to be linked to recently released photos apparently showing the athlete smoking marijuana from a bong.

"It doesn't tarnish what he accomplished in Beijing," Calgary Olympian Erica Morningstar, 19, told the Herald. "It's too bad he's not coming to Calgary."

Phelps, who won eight gold medals in Beijing, has apologized for his behavior.

The Herald says calls to officials at The Power Within for comment on Phelps' removal weren't returned.

However, someone answering a ticket query said actor Martin Sheen has been added as a replacement for Phelps and tickets wouldn't be refunded, the newspaper said.