AK suspends participation of Kenyan runners due to virus
By Amos Abuga, March 13, 2020
Athletics Kenya (AK) senior vice president Paul Mutwii has urged Kenyan athletes to strictly adhere to travel advisories due to the growing fears related to the global spread of coronavirus.
His remarks come a day after AK banned all local athletes from participating in foreign races until further notice. The athletics body halted the clearance of athletes and their supporting staff seeking to feature at international events.
“In a bid to safeguard the athletes and consequently the country from the virus, we urge all athletes to cancel their travel arrangements for the next one month pending further communication,” read the statement from AK.
Mutwii’s remarks are in line with Cabinet Secretary of Health Mutahi Kagwe who last week banned all international conference and events in the country for 30 days.
The sentiments were echoed by the Sports ministry who banned sports teams from travelling for assignments during the said duration.
The move is a blow to the athletes and race organisers given that New York Half Marathon set for Sunday was to be graced by at least 10 Kenyan runners including defending champions Joyciline Jepkosgei.
It will also affect Boston Marathon which is set for April 20 where defending champion Lawrence Cherono and two-time champion Edna Kiplagat were supposed to feature.
London Marathon set for April 26 where Olympic Champion and world men marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge and his female counterpart Brigid Chepkosgei had confirmed participation.
Mutwii urged athletes to accept the situation since the precautions are for their own good.
“Rome Marathon which was set for March 29 has been postponed. Paris marathon which was due for April 5 has been postponed as well.
With the pandemic not going away at the moment, sporting events are weighing whether to take immediate action or wait-and-see approaches,” said Mutwii.