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The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) have their hands full during the pandemic. While testing has been eased back to social distance, athletes continue to face suspensions. The latest include three whereabouts failures as well as re-tests from London 2012 for the presence of a prohibited substance as well as more recent doping charges.
American sprinters Deajah Stevens and Gabrielle Thomas, as well as Kenyan Alex Korio Oliotiptip, have all apparently missed at least three tests over the past 12 months, according to the AIU.
Meanwhile, Sandeep Kumari from India tested positive for a prohibited substance (Metenolone) and is suspended for four years starting back from June 26, 2018. The decision by the AIU is appealable
Kenyan Mikel Kiprotich Mutai tested positive for the presence of prohibited substances (Norandrosterone).
Stevens, 24, qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games in the 200-metre event. “I am confident that at least one of these missed tests is not valid and that I will be completely cleared,” said Thomas, 23, who is appealing.
Kumari is a 5,000-metre specialist.
The 33-year-old Kiprotich last ran a personal best in 2012 at the Dubai Marathon going 2:09:18 and owns a 61:41 half-marathon best.
