Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

Kenya's Distance Runners Face Increased Scrutiny Amidst Ongoing Doping Scandals

Posted : 23 July 2024

Kenya's renowned distance runners are facing significant challenges as they prepare for the upcoming Olympics, overshadowed by a series of doping scandals that have marred the nation's esteemed reputation in track and field. The latest controversy involves marathon runner Beatrice Toroitich, who received a lifetime ban last month following her third positive drugs test.

 

This case adds to the growing list of doping violations, including a six-year ban imposed on world 10km road race record holder Rhonex Kipruto earlier this year, and a similar sanction for long-distance runner Rodgers Kwemoi in May.

 

Since 2017, nearly 100 Kenyan athletes, predominantly long-distance runners, have been penalized for doping offenses, a situation that has prompted a comprehensive crackdown by the Anti-Doping Association of Kenya (ADAK).

 

 This effort is a response to the doping issues that surfaced during the 2016 Rio Olympics. ADAK chief executive Sarah Shibutse expressed determination in tackling the problem, emphasizing that the fight against doping is crucial to preserving the nation's sporting pride.

 

In preparation for the Paris Games, Kenyan athletes have undergone rigorous anti-doping measures, including three out-of-competition tests in the past ten months. The ADAK has collaborated with the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), the Kenyan sports ministry, and local law enforcement to enhance investigation and testing processes. This collaboration has led to the closure of several pharmacies in the Rift Valley, known for supplying performance-enhancing drugs to athletes.

 

Testing procedures have been intensified, with 2,000 tests conducted in the past year alone, and ADAK aims to increase this number to 6,000 annually. Shibutse highlighted that the increase in positive doping cases indicates that the enhanced testing is effective.

 

 

AIU chief Brett Clothier warned that while more cases may be reported due to increased testing, this is a necessary step to address the issue comprehensively. For athletes caught doping and attempting to revive their careers, like Mark Otieno, who returned after a two-year ban, the path back to elite competition remains challenging.

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :