The 2019 Chicago Marathon champion Lawrence Cherono has been charged with tampering by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

Tampering occurs when an accused athlete attempts to interfere or prevent a doping control officer from discharging their duties.

An athlete can also be ruled guilty of tampering when they intimidate a potential witness or provide fraudulent information pertaining to the investigation of their doping offences.

Altering information on a bottle containing samples or adding a foreign substance to it may also amount to tampering.

The 33-year-old is currently provisionally suspended for the Presence/Use of a Prohibited Substance (Trimetazidine).

Trimetazidine, an injectable drug, is used for treating heart-related conditions. It helps metabolize fatty acids, which helps the body to use oxygen.

The drug allows for more blood flow to your heart and limits quick changes in your blood pressure. This can help lessen chest pain from blocked blood vessels.

Cherono was scheduled to represent Kenya at the World Championships in Oregon, alongside Geoffrey Kamworor and Barnabas Kiptum, a dream that came to a halt.

His last race was the Boston Marathon in April 2022 where he clocked 2:07:21 to finish second.

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