More woes for Africans in the Track and Field events at the Olympics as yet again another athlete was suspended due to failed drug tests. Kenyan Mark Otieno was barred from competing in the 100m men's heat on Saturday 31st July after he allegedly tested positive for a banned substance. He apparently returned an adverse analytical finding in his samples and subject to this was ruled out.
The Kenyan Sprinter has however come out to defend himself against the doping allegations. “By now the whole world is aware that my name was removed from the start list of the 100m men’s competition due to a positive test for banned substances. We have appealed the result and decision and requested for further tests.As we honor the due process undergoing, I want to categorically state and be on record that I have never been involved in doping of any kind. My integrity as an athlete and an individual is paramount to me, and I hold in great honor the opportunity I have been given to represent my country on this global stage, as I have done many times in the past. As such, I would never engage in any activity that would jeopardise me or my team mates.”
Otieno added that he takes pride in competing at Games as it is a dream of every athlete. “Representing my country in the Olympics is a dream that I have had for many years, and it is truly devastating that this dream, and the trust all my supporters and country have placed in me, has been cut short. Representing God is the most important to me, and He has been good to bring me this far. I believe He will take me even farther. I remain hopeful of clearing my name and continuing my athletics journey."
For now, the 28 year old still remains hopeful as Team Kenya has since lodged an appeal for one of their main men in the 100m as they suspect there might have possibly been contamination in Otieno’s sample.
In the test that was carried out on July 28, results reportedly came back suggesting Otieno’s urine tested positive for an anabolic androgenic steroid. Steroids have a similar effect to testosterone and boost one’s performance, particularly in high-intensity races.
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