A World Athletics (WA) coach has urged young athletes to avoid age cheating and doping, warning that these practices jeopardize the credibility of Kenya’s athletes on the global stage. Speaking after a training session at Kericho Teachers Training College, WA coach Josphat Kiprono Rotich emphasized that engaging in these unethical acts could lead to bans from both local and international competitions, tarnishing the athletes’ reputations and the integrity of the sport.

Rotich highlighted that age cheating, where athletes compete in categories not meant for their age, undermines fairness and credibility. He encouraged athletes to use accurate birth certificates and avoid falsifying documents, stressing that success should come through hard work, proper training, and a balanced diet. He also called for mandatory sensitization programs for athletes and coaches to instill ethical values in sports.

“I am appealing to upcoming athletes to use their correct birth certificates as issued at birth. They should not try to make another birth certificate because this will not only be disadvantageous to those young athletes but it will be wrong on their part when they transit to old age. It is only when you train hard, use water, fruits and a balanced diet that you will perform well,” noted Rotich.

On doping, Rotich reminded athletes of their responsibility to ensure that any substances they consume comply with anti-doping regulations. He advised vigilance when taking prescribed medications and urged them to consult Athletics Kenya’s network of doctors if they suspect any prohibited substances. He warned that doping not only results in penalties but also damages Kenya’s international reputation.

“Athletes ought to be keen enough on the type of medication they get when they go to hospital. If they have doubts as to whether it is a prohibited substance then they should take a photo and forward it to the network of doctors at Athletics Kenya (AK) using the WhatsApp social media platform. Immediately they receive this information they will get feedback if the drugs fall under prohibited substances and they will be guided on the alternative to use,” added coach Rotich

Kenya remains under close scrutiny by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), with numerous doping cases reported since 2017. Rotich’s appeal comes amid ongoing efforts to combat both doping and age manipulation in Kenyan athletics.

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