Controversy Strikes Beijing Half Marathon: Kenyan Athletes Stripped of Medals

In a recent turn of events at the Beijing half marathon, two Kenyan runners have been stripped of their medals and bonuses. This decision comes after a controversial win by China's He Jie, where it was alleged that three African competitors deliberately allowed him to take the lead.

Initially, there were claims that the African athletes were acting as pacesetters. However, after an investigation, it was revealed through CCTV footage that they intentionally allowed He Jie to pass them near the finish line. Consequently, Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat from Kenya, along with Ethiopia's Dejene Hailu, have been instructed to return their bonuses and trophies for violating athletics regulations. Furthermore, the race results have been invalidated.

The Chinese Athletics Association has strongly condemned the incident, emphasizing the need for better organization to prevent such occurrences in future road running events. Despite assertions by the Kenyan athletes that they were contracted to assist He Jie, this controversy sheds light on concerns surrounding the management of such races.

Mnangat clarified that their role was not to compete but to ensure He Jie broke the national record. This revelation underscores the complexities surrounding athlete contracts and race dynamics.