It was a case of too close yet too far as sprinter Mark Otieno’s  Olympic dream ended even before it started.

Otieno was on Saturday barred from competing in the 100m men’s heat at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after he allegedly tested positive for a banned substance, the decision coming a few hours before he was set to debut at the Games.

Otieno has however come out to defend himself against doping allegations.

The former national record holder broke the silence pleading his innocence via a statement posted on his Twitter handle.

“By now the whole world is aware that my name was removed from the start list of the 100m men’s competition due to a positive test for banned substances.

We have appealed the result and decision and requested for further tests.

As we honour the due process and I want to categorically state and be on record that I have never been involved in doping of any kind.

My integrity as an athlete and an individual is paramount to me and  I hold in great honour the opportunity I have been given to represent my country on this global stage, as I have done many times in the past.

As  such, I would never engage in any activity that would jeopardise me or my team-mates,” read the lengthy statement.

Otieno added that he takes pride in competing at the Games as it is a dream of every athlete.

“Representing my country in the Olympics is a dream that I have had for many years, and it is truly devastating that this dream, and the trust all my supporters and country have placed in me, has been cut short.

“Representing God is the most important to me, and He has been good to bring me this far.

I believe He will take me even farther. I remain hopeful of clearing my name and continuing my athletics journey,” he added.

This comes as the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Heritage confirmed to hasreceived an official report about the adverse analytical findings on samples collected from the athlete at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

The statement from the ministry as signed by PS Joe Okudo said they are still waiting for the conclusion of an appeal filed by the athlete and underscores