Reigning Olympic marathon champion Jemimah Jelegat Sumgom has been handed a four year ban from competition by Anti Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK).
The 2016 virgin London marathon champion broke the Kenyan record for being the firt woman to win an Olympic title during the Rio De Janeiro Olympic Games in Brazil was tested positive for Erythropoietin (EPO).
Since she was tested from 3rd April 2017, she was not eligible to defend her London title where her A sample tested positive for the banned substance pending her B Sample following an out of competition testing on February 28, 2017.
Sumgong joins Florence Chepsoi, Shieys Chepkosgei, Ken Kirui, Joseph Kariuki Gitau and Sharon Ndinda Muli.
“The period of ineligibility (non-participation in both local and international events) for the Athlete shall be four (4) years from 3rd April 2017 pursuant to Article 10.2.1 and 10.11.2 of the ADR (Anti-Doping Rules) and the WADA Code;
“The Athlete shall bear the costs of this cause; orders accordingly,” the 23-page ruling the Sports Tribunal chaired by John Ohaga, read in part.
Sumgong led Kenyan born Bahraini Eunice Kirwa, to the podium in Rio,becoming the second high profile female marathoner to be banned after Boston and Chicago champion Rita Jeptoo.
“The right of appeal is provided for under Article 13.2.1 of the WADA Code, Rule 42 of the IAAF Competition Rules and Article 13 of ADR,” the ruling dated October 31, 2017 added.