Athletics Kenya hits back at unjustified scrutiny of Ruth Chepngetich's Chicago record

Ruth Chepngetich celebrates winning the Chicago Marathon on Sunday 14 October 2024 (C) Courtesy

By Rama Mohammed
Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Athletics Kenya has criticized what it calls “unwarranted scrutiny” of Ruth Chepngetich following her record-breaking win at the Chicago Marathon. The athletics body defended the athlete's achievements, highlighting her compliance with anti-doping measures and urging the media to respect her dedication and hard-earned victory.

Athletics Kenya has issued a statement in response to what it describes as "unwarranted scrutiny" faced by Ruth Chepngetich following her recent triumph at the Chicago Marathon.

Chepngetich, who claimed victory at the event for the third time while setting a new World Record, has been met with criticism from certain sections of the media.

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Today is the day we can finally agree athletics is dead as a sport, as Ruth Chepngetich wins Chicago marathon in 2.09.56….

Let me explain… pic.twitter.com/wjlfYc9oyh
— Stephen Kerr (@TheRunnerMan17) October 13, 2024

LetsRun’s Robert Johnson asked Ruth Chepngetich about her marathon world record of 2:09:56 in an era when Kenya is struggling with doping.

Johnson: “Ruth, unfortunately in recent years there’s been a number of doping positives in Kenya. What would you say to someone who says… pic.twitter.com/uO2qDKcxjK
— Chris Chavez (@ChrisChavez) October 13, 2024

In the statement, Athletics Kenya extends its congratulations to Chepngetich, celebrating her latest achievement as a testament to her exceptional skill and consistency in the sport. The organization highlights her familiarity with the Chicago Marathon course, noting that her experience—having previously won in 2021 and 2022—was a significant factor in her success this year.

Chepngetich's journey to the top of Kenyan athletics has been described as "extraordinary" by Athletics Kenya. From her World Championship win in 2019 to her continued presence on the global stage, she has set a high bar for others to follow. Her recent victory in Chicago adds her name to a prestigious list of Kenyan female World Record holders, including Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, and Beatrice Chepkoech.

The statement addresses the criticism that has surfaced since Chepngetich's win, calling it "utterly unfair" to single her out among the many records broken this year. Athletics Kenya points out that Chepngetich underwent multiple anti-doping tests, both before and after the race, in line with standard procedures for competitions of this magnitude. The organization emphasizes that her record will only be officially ratified after all results are verified, ensuring the integrity of the achievement.

STATEMENT ON THE UNWARRANTED SCRUTINY OF RUTH CHENGETICH'S CHICAGO MARATHON VICTORY
Once again, Athletics Kenya would like to congratulate Ruth Chepngetich for her remarkable achievement at the Chicago Marathon. pic.twitter.com/NUAoHRoqcr
— Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) October 16, 2024

Further, Athletics Kenya notes that while Chepngetich's accomplishment is impressive, it is not without precedent, as marathon records have been broken by similar margins in the past. This, according to the statement, underscores the feasibility of her performance for an athlete of her caliber.

The organization calls on the media and the global community to respect Chepngetich's achievement and to protect athletes from undue criticism. "Let her celebrate this hard-earned victory," Athletics Kenya urges, highlighting the dedication and discipline that have characterized Chepngetich's career.

Athletics Kenya concludes its statement by reiterating that unfounded doubts and unfair treatment have no place in this significant moment for Kenya and Ruth Chepngetich.