Paul Tergat’s declaration comes amidst a doiping surge within Kenya’s athletics scene in recent years that has threatened to tarnish the country’s good standing within the global athletics community.
The president of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K), Paul Tergat, has called for a decisive crackdown on doping within Kenya’s athletics scene.
His remarks come in response to growing concerns over the use of performance-enhancing drugs, which has cast a shadow over the country’s world-class reputation in athletics.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Athletics News in Kenya from Pulse Sports.
Olympics remain the most prestigious sporting event on the planet but which African nations have won the most medals at the Games?
Speaking at the unveiling of the World Athletics Heritage Plaque in Iten on Tuesday, Tergat emphasized the urgent need to protect the integrity of the sport.
The event, held in a town known for producing some of the world’s greatest athletes, highlighted the significant role Kenya has played in shaping global athletics.
“Iten is now known worldwide for its contribution to athletics,” Tergat stated as per World Athletics.
“The doping menace and the infiltration of quacks posing as coaches are serious threats to the integrity of our sport. We must take decisive steps to remove these harmful influences.”
)
American sprint icon Justin Gatlin has disclosed his pick to challenge Femke Bol in the upcoming season.
Kenya has long been recognized as an athletics powerhouse, boasting legendary figures who have dominated long-distance running.
However, the recent surge in doping cases threatens to tarnish this standing. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has flagged multiple Kenyan athletes, raising concerns about the credibility of the country’s achievements.
One of the most controversial moments in recent Kenyan athletics history came in October 2024, when Ruth Chepngetich shattered the women’s marathon record at the Chicago Marathon with a time of 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 56 seconds.
While her achievement was celebrated, it also drew scrutiny, with journalist Robert Johnson questioning the legitimacy of her performance amid the ongoing doping crisis.
)
Kishane Thompson is gearing up for a season where he will attempt to dethrone Noah Lyles’ self-proclaimed ‘fastest man’ title.
Chepngetich dismissed the claims, but the incident highlighted how deeply doping suspicions have infiltrated discussions surrounding Kenyan athletes.
Adding to the nation’s doping woes, several high-profile Kenyan athletes have faced suspensions in recent years.
In 2024 alone, elite runners such as Michael Saruni, Lawrence Cherono, Josephine Chepkoech, Rhonex Kipruto, and Faith Chepkoech were banned for violations, further damaging Kenya’s reputation on the global stage.
Tergat’s call to action signals a crucial moment for Kenyan athletics, as stakeholders seek to restore trust and credibility in the sport.
)
Kevin Kiptum’s father demands answers a year after his son’s tragic accident, accusing authorities of withholding the police report and justice.
The former marathon world record holder urged the broader athletics community to unite against doping, ensuring that Kenya’s legacy remains untarnished and that future generations of athletes can compete with integrity.
