Top athletes want State to probe rising doping cases

Kenya’s top marathoners want the Government to do thorough investigations into the doping issue that comes against a backdrop of Rita Jeptoo’s A-Sample positive test for Erythropoietin (EPO).

Wilson Kipsang (top), the New York City Marathon winner and immediate world record holder (2:03.23), said most athletes do not know what most of the prohibited substances are.

“The Government should do thorough investigations and curb doping since it taints the good name of Kenya. I received the news in New York and it was sad. We just need to have a clean sport,” said Kipsang, who is the President of the Professional Athletes Association of Kenya (PAAK).

During the New York Marathon on Sunday evening, some placard-waving fans carried “No to EPO” banners, the substance Jeptoo is reported to have tested positive for in her A-sample in an out of competition test on September 25.

“As PAAK, we will do our best to advocate against the vice, but we know well that some upcoming athletes do not know the banned substances. We will sensitise them as PAAK. It was not good news and  we want to have a good image for Kenya,” he said.

Mary Keitany, the women’s New York Marathon winner, asked AK to move with speed and deal with doping issues.

“The federation should take action on doping cases because it’s giving us and our country a bad name,” said Keitany, who staged her comeback from maternity leave.

“AK must name and even push for the prosecution of those responsible for doping. It’s sad that no one has been caught supporting the act yet athletes are banned. Kisorio was banned, and no information or persons were held responsible. It’s time people took responsibility,” said Cheruiyot.

Barnaba Korir, AK Nairobi branch chairman and former athlete, said the AK Medical and Anti-Doping Commission should summon Jeptoo's coach and the agent to give their side of the story.