Kenyan Marathon Champion Peres Jepchirchir Provisionally Suspended by AIU

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) provisionally suspended Peres Jepchirchir after an out-of-competition sample collected in Kenya tested positive for EPO, before her Sydney Marathon victory. Erythropoietin boosts the production of red blood cells. Her agent, Gianni Demadonna, said athletes who use performance-enhancing drugs should be disqualified. Sydney Marathon organisers said they were extremely disappointed but stressed that Jepchirchir is entitled to due process.