Athletics Kenya defend marathon record breaker Ruth Chepng’etich after unwarranted doping allegations
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Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 17.10.24. | 16:08
The self-coached athlete became the first woman to break the 2:10 barrier in the marathon
Athletics Kenya (AK) has publicly defended marathon record breaker Ruth Chepng’etich in response to doping allegations made by journalist Robert Johnson from Lets Run. The allegations sparked a strong reaction from Kenyans.
During a press conference following her world record-breaking performance at the Chicago Marathon, Johnson questioned Chepng’etich about her 2:09:56 finish time, suggesting it seemed “too good to be true” and hinting at potential doping.
Chepng’etich remained calm in her responses, stating, “I don’t have any idea. People must talk, so I don’t know.”
In a statement seen by Mozzart Sport, AK responded, supporting Chepng’etich and expressing disappointment over the media’s attempt to cast doubt on her incredible feat.
The country’s athletics governing body congratulated Chepng’etich on her remarkable achievement, echoing her mastery of the Chicago course, where she previously won in 2021 and 2022.
“By winning the title for the third time and setting a new World Record, Ruth has earned her status as one of the finest athletes of our time,” the statement read.
AK went on to highlight her consistency, from her World Championships win in 2019 to her continuous dominance on the global stage, as proof of her athleticism and dedication.
As if not enough, the statement emphasized the rigorous anti-doping measures in place, explaining that all athletes in major competitions, including Chepng’etich, undergo multiple anti-doping tests both before and after the race.
“It is important to note that Ruth, like all athletes in major competitions, underwent multiple anti-doping tests, both pre-race and post-race,” AK stated.
AK criticized the media for singling out Chepng’etich in a year when multiple world records have been shattered, stating that such accusations undermine not only her achievements but also the integrity of the sport itself.
They stressed that Chepng’etich’s accomplishment is well within the reach of an athlete of her calibre, citing her remarkable track record and disciplined approach to training.
AK further praised Chepng’etich’s consistency and determination, which have placed her among other legendary Kenyan women athletes and world record holders, such as Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, and Beatrice Chepkoech.
They called on the media and the international community to honour her dedication and respect her well-deserved success.
“Ruth’s achievement, while impressive, is not without precedent. Marathon records have been broken by even wider margins, affirming that her feat is well within the bounds of possibility.
Unfounded doubts and unfair treatment have no place in this proud moment for Kenya and Ruth,” the statement concluded.
Chepngetich became the first woman to break the 2:10 barrier in the marathon. The self-coached athlete shattered the world record at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, clocking an incredible 2:09:56 and winning the World Athletics Platinum Label Road race.
Her record-breaking run shaved almost two minutes from Tigist Assefa’s previous world record of 2:11:53, set last year in Berlin.
