Kenya's Chepng'etich to keep marathon record despite doping ban

Summary of Doping Violation: Ruth Chepng'etich

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has announced a three-year ban for Ruth Chepng'etich, the world record-holder in the women's marathon, following her admission of a doping violation.

Chepng'etich was found to have violated anti-doping rules due to the presence and use of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a banned diuretic. This substance is often used to mask performance-enhancing drugs. Her suspension began in July, following a positive test from a sample taken on Tue, Mar 14, 2023.

All of Chepng'etich’s records and achievements prior to the Mar 14 sample, including her world record at the Chicago Marathon, remain valid.

The AIU noted that diuretics, such as HCTZ, are commonly abused by athletes to conceal other prohibited substances. HCTZ can also be a contaminant in pharmaceutical products. During an initial interview in April, Chepng'etich could not account for the positive result. On Tue, Jul 11, 2023, she was presented with evidence from her mobile device suggesting potential intentional use.

Subsequently, on Mon, Jul 31, 2023, Chepng'etich revised her statement, claiming she had consumed her housemaid’s medication when ill, without verifying its contents. She provided a photo of the medication, confirming it contained hydrochlorothiazide.

Anti-doping regulations consider Chepng'etich’s act as indirect intent, warranting a four-year sanction. However, her acceptance of the penalty within 20 days resulted in a one-year reduction.

The AIU will continue to examine evidence from Chepng'etich’s phone for any further violations. AIU Chair David Howman emphasized the importance of upholding rules, reaffirming the commitment to sport integrity.

Chepng'etich was also the marathon winner at the 2019 World Championships in Qatar, under challenging conditions.

Based on reporting by Africanews.