Athletics Kenya (AK) has urged all Kenyans to help it curb the doping menace tainting the nation’s sporting sector.
In a press release issued by the federation, AK wants Kenyans to be vigilant and report any mischievous activities involving athletes to the nearest police station.
“We urge all the stakeholders and members of the public to join in this fight by reporting to the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) and any nearest police station or indeed Athletics Kenya offices suspicious activities among athletes, coaches, medics and others abetting doping.
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“Athletics Kenya will maintain its no-hold-barred fight against the use of prohibited performance-enhancing substances in order to jealousy guard the gains Kenyan athletics has made since Naftali Temu became the first Kenyan to win an Olympic medal at the 1968 games in Mexico,” read part of the press statement.
The federation also revealed measures taken to end the doping menace in the country.
“In equal measure, we have also put in place stringent measures to prevent athletes from falling prey to unscrupulous coaches and managers.
“We want to ensure that our athletes are insulated from rogue agents and coaches,” AK added.
According to AK, more than 25 athletes were banned in 2022 due to doping, while a number of them are under suspension as they await the ruling on their cases.
Some of the elite runners who were banned included the 2017 World Cross Country Championships bronze medalist Lilian Kasait and Mark Kangogo.
Former Boston Marathon winner Diana Kipyogei was also recently suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) and risks losing his 2021 title.
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