A Kenyan Rio Olympics marathon gold medalist and last year London marathon Champion has tested positive to EPO{erythropoietin}. The IAAF confirmed on Thursday. Her sample ‘A’ tested postive after IAAF no-notice out of competition test was conducted in Kenya.
The EPO{erythropoietin} is a growth hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells; usually use medically to treat anemia resulting from kidney failure or cancer.
The 32 years old Kenyan took the World athletics by storm last year by winning both London Marathon {even after falling} and Rio Olympics Marathon. She then became the first Kenyan woman to win Women’s Marathon at any Olympics. Therefore, she is presently on provisional suspension pending the outcome of her ‘B’ test.
It will be recalled that between 2011 and 2016, more than 4 Kenyan track and field athletes failed doping test. Among them was Rita Yeptoo {36}, who was ban for 4 years for tested postive for the same EPO.
