Gianni defends athletes foreign managers over doping claims

Italian athletes agent Gianni Demadonna and Nahashon Koech (left)

Agents have condemned the blanket accusation that foreign managers are leading Kenyan athletes to use dope.

Speaking in Eldoret, track and field manager Gianni Demadonna said the Government and Athletics Kenya among other stakeholders have condemned them without a fair hearing over the rampant doping cases in the country.

Gianni, who is the Chief Executive Officer of the Demadonna Athletic Promotions is a manager for more than 50 Kenyan athletes.

The Italian international, who has set a high-altitude training camp in Iten, said his athletes have been running in their original form and whoever is throwing a blanket condemnation that foreign agents are aiding in the use of performance-enhancing drugs to athletes was wrong.

"I am shocked that the Government can condemn all the agents over the allegations yet some of us have a good reputation in terms of athletes management in the world. I have great athletes from Kenya and all over the world who are running clean," he said.

The condemnation comes days after claims emerged that some six top managers were chased by AK officials from the country and denied a working permit over perpetuation of the vice.

Gianni, however, noted that a few individuals might be involved in the vice, but it doesn't warrant the universal condemnation.

"They have to stop saying that the agents are giving blood boosters to athletes to enhance their performance. Maybe there are some, who must be punished. But they should not put us in the same pot," he added.

Gianni said Kenya should do a serious investigation into the issue and obtain facts and evidence.

"Kenya need an action plan and not mere talk. They should prove what they are saying. They should investigate and deal with the matter as soon as possible before it damages the cherished sport," he said.

Gianni said people take advantage of the ignorance in Kenya to administer dope.