Athletics Kenya (AK) has defended women’s marathon world record holder Ruth Chepng’etich from allegations of doping raised by an athletics enthusiast.
The federation said it is outrageous to cast slanders on a seasoned winner like Chepng’etich, 30, who has upheld integrity and hard work throughout her career, culminating in breaking world record at Chicago Marathon on Sunday.
AK’s statement comes in the wake of allegation by Stephen Kerr who on Sunday seemed to cast doubts on Chepng’etich’s performance on Sunday.
Kerr claimed that it is impossible for Chepng’etich to reduce two minutes from Tigist Asefa’s previous world record at 2023 Berlin Marathon.
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“In any case, many world records were broken this year and to single her out is utterly unfair. It is therefore disheartening to hear some sections of the media casting unwarranted doubts on her achievements. Such aspersions, made without due process, undermine not only her efforts but the integrity of the sport,” AK said.
Adding: “It is important to note that Ruth, like all other athletes in major competitions, underwent multiple anti-doping tests, both pre-race and post-race. These are standard procedures in events of this magnitude and only after all results are verified will her record be officially ratified.”
