Kenya’s Judy Jelagat Banned for Doping After Half Marathon Victory

Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya’s Judy Jelagat Kemboi, the winner of the 2024 Guadalajara Half Marathon, has been handed a two-year suspension by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for Hydrochlorothiazide, a banned diuretic.

Kenya’s Judy Jelagat Kemboi competing before her doping ban. (Photo: Athletics Integrity Unit)

Failed Test After Half Marathon Victory

According to the AIU, Jelagat’s in-competition sample was collected on February 25, 2024, shortly after her victory in Guadalajara, Mexico. Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of Hydrochlorothiazide, a substance prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List.

The AIU stated that Jelagat accepted the sanction, meaning her ban will run until April 4, 2026. All her results from February 25, 2024, have been disqualified, with titles, medals, and prize money forfeited.

Part of Kenya’s Widening Doping Crisis

This suspension adds to a growing list of Kenyan athletes facing bans for doping violations in recent years. High-profile names such as Roncer Kipkorir Konga, Morine Michira, Ruth Chepngetich, Sheila Chelangat, and Kibiwott Kandie have also been sanctioned by the AIU.

Also read:Full List of Banned Items at Kasarani and Nyayo That Could Lead to More CAF Fines

The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) has been under pressure to intensify testing and education programs to safeguard the integrity of the country’s athletics reputation.

Impact on International Competitions

Jelagat had previously competed in elite races such as the Istanbul Half Marathon and the Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Half Marathon. Her suspension could have long-term implications for her career, as re-entry into international competitions after a doping ban is often challenging.

With Kenya’s reputation on the global athletics stage at stake, the AIU and ADAK have both reiterated the need for clean sport and stronger enforcement of anti-doping regulations.

Other Athletes Recently Banned

• Ronald Kimeli Kurgat – four-year ban for Erythropoietin (EPO)
• Brimin Kipkorir – two-year ban for Testosterone
• Edward Zakayo – 18-month ban for Anabolic Steroids
• Edinah Jebitok – two-year ban for Norandrosterone

The AIU has called on Kenyan athletes to fully comply with the rules to avoid damaging both their careers and the nation’s athletics legacy.

Source: Athletics Integrity Unit, World Athletics