Jeptoo demands for Sample B to prove doping innocence

Rita Jeptoo of Kenya crosses the finish line to win the women's race at the Chicago Marathon in Chicago, Oct 12, 2014. [Photo/IC]

NAIROBI - Disgraced Boston and Chicago marathon champion Rita Jeptoo is maintaining her innocence over doping and has requested for a sample B test.

Jeptoo's "A" sample taken in an out-of-competition test in Kenya on Sept. 25 showed traces of the blood-boosting drug Erythropoietin (EPO).

On Monday, Athletics Kenya (AK) released a list of nine athletes, who have been suspended or suspected to be involved in doping. Jeptoo, however, will have to undergo a sample B test to try and ascertain her innocence.

"Athletics Kenya would like to report that a meeting of the AK Medical and Anti-doping Commission was held on Dec 10. Following the meeting the AK Medical and Anti-doping Commission looked at the recent and pending doping cases and the following was agreed and communicated to the concerned athletes," said a statement from AK.

The list has 2013 Macao Galaxy Entertainment International Marathon, in China, Viola Chelangat Kimetto.

Chelangat, urine sample collected in competition during the Macau Galaxy Entertainment International Marathon held on December 2013, revealed the presence of prohibited substance Norandosterone.

"Following the hearings and upon evaluating the details of the case in consultation with the IAAF, Athletics Kenya has handed Chelangat a two year sanction in reference to IAAF Rule 40.11 (b). The sanction is effective from Oct. 12," said the statement.

On Kiplimo, AK noted that her urine sample collected in competition during the Yangzhou Jianzen International Half Marathon on April 20 showed the presence of prohibited substance Norandosterone. Kiplimo was handed two years ban starting on April 20.