Three Bodybuilding athletes handed lengthy bans by ADK for substance violations

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GENERAL: Three Bodybuilding athletes handed lengthy bans by ADK for substance violations

Festus Chuma 15:45 - 31.07.2023

Joseph Wasike Wesonga, Brandon Abednego Oluoch, and Jotham Karani suspended from competitions.

The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADK)  has taken a firm stance against doping in sports by handing down lengthy bans to three bodybuilding athletes who were found guilty of using banned substances. 

Joseph Wasike Wesonga, Brandon Abednego Oluoch, and Jotham Karani Elahetia have been suspended from all competitive sports activities for their respective violations.

The ADK released a short statement on Monday afternoon confirming the decision that was taken by its Sports Tribunal.

Oluoch's sample was found to contain prohibited substances S1.1 Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS)/methandienone metabolites 6, leading to a four-year ban. 

The substance is known for its muscle-building properties and is strictly banned in sports due to its potential for enhancing performance.

Similarly, Joseph Wasike Wesonga's sample tested positive for prohibited substances 2.3 S1.1 Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS)/trenbolone and its metabolite 17, among others, resulting in a four-year suspension. 

Trenbolone is an anabolic steroid that can promote muscle growth but poses significant health risks, and its use is strictly prohibited in sports.

On the other hand Karani's sample revealed the presence of Diuretics and Masking Agents/hydrochlorothiazide and its metabolite, leading to a two-year ban.

Diuretics are banned substances as they can help athletes mask the use of other prohibited drugs by flushing them out of their system more quickly.

Kenya has had its fair share of doping scandals in the past, which have led to widespread disappointment among sports fans and athletes who have worked hard to achieve success through natural means. 

The Anti-Doping Agency's actions show their determination to eradicate this menace and protect the integrity of the country's sporting reputation.

The affected athletes have the right to appeal the decisions within the stipulated time frame. 

However, if the bans are upheld, their careers will be severely impacted, with many years of their competitive lives taken away.

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