The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has handed Kenyan marathon runner Purity Changwony a two-year and three-month ban from athletics.

The suspension follows the detection of prohibited substances in her doping sample collected on May 8, 2022. This decision marks a significant setback for Changwony, who has been a rising figure in long-distance running.

Substances detected

Changwony tested positive for 19-Norandrosterone and Triamcinolone acetonide, both banned under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations. 19-Norandrosterone is a metabolite of nandrolone, an anabolic steroid, while Triamcinolone acetonide is a corticosteroid that can enhance performance by reducing inflammation and aiding recovery.

The presence of these substances constitutes a clear violation of anti-doping rules, leading to the AIU’s ruling.

The disqualification result was linked to the sample collected during an out-of-competition test on May 8, 2022. The AIU conducted the investigation and confirmed the substances through rigorous laboratory analysis.

The decision to impose the ban aligns with global efforts to maintain fairness and integrity in athletics.

“The AIU has banned Purity Changwony (Kenya) for 2 years and 3 months from for the Presence/Use of Prohibited Substances (19-Norandrosterone, Triamcinolone acetonide). Disqualification of results from 8 May 2022,” the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said.

Implications on career

The ban effectively suspends Changwony from participating in any athletics events, including marathons and other competitive races, this period of ineligibility means she will miss key competitions, including major marathons and possibly international championships, which are critical platforms for Kenyan athletes to gain recognition and sponsorship.

Changwony’s suspension also comes at a time when Kenyan long-distance running is under heightened scrutiny due to doping concerns, the AIU and Athletics Kenya have been working closely to strengthen anti-doping measures and ensure clean sport.

This ban reinforces the zero-tolerance stance on doping violations.

Athletics Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to clean sport and pledged to support investigations into doping cases. The federation has also emphasized the need for comprehensive testing and awareness programs among athletes, coaches, and support staff.

Promoting clean athletics

The Athletics Integrity Unit, an independent body responsible for managing all integrity-related issues in athletics, continues to lead anti-doping efforts globally. The AIU’s stringent monitoring, testing, and enforcement mechanisms aim to create a level playing field where athletes compete fairly and honestly.

This latest sanction against Changwony demonstrates the AIU’s dedication to protecting the sport from doping and maintaining the trust of fans worldwide. The unit encourages all athletes to familiarize themselves with prohibited substances and seek guidance before using any medication or treatment.

Purity Changwony’s ban serves as a cautionary tale for other athletes about the consequences of doping violations. As Kenya remains a powerhouse in long-distance running, sustained efforts by the AIU, Athletics Kenya, and other stakeholders are essential to safeguard the sport’s reputation.

Athletes are urged to commit to clean competition and uphold the integrity of athletics as they pursue their careers.