Kenya's world-renowned marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir has been provisionally suspended from competition after reportedly testing positive for the banned blood-boosting substance erythropoietin (EPO), according to the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU). The sample in question was collected out-of-competition in Kenya ahead of her victory at the Sydney Marathon.

The AIU stated that the analytical findings returned an adverse result for EPO, a hormone known to stimulate red blood cell production and enhance endurance. The 33-year-old athlete boasts an impressive career, having claimed gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held a half-marathon world record, and secured victories in major marathons across New York, Boston, London, and Sydney.

Gianni Demadonna, the athlete's agent, released an email statement expressing deep dismay over the situation, asserting that disqualification is the appropriate consequence for anyone utilizing performance-enhancing substances. Meanwhile, organisers of the Sydney Marathon voiced their extreme disappointment while emphasizing that the runner is entitled to a fair due process.

This developing doping case follows previous controversies within Kenyan distance running, including last year's three-year ban imposed on women's world record holder Ruth Chepngetich for anti-doping rule violations. Authorities continue to face scrutiny regarding the enforcement of clean sport policies across elite training camps.

Source: www.aljazeera.com