Kiptanui: Doping rife in Kenyan athletics

Moses Kiptanui, one of most successful runners in Kenyan history, claims doping is rife among athletes there.

The three-times 3,000m steeplechase world champion and coach alleges many athletes use performance-enhancing drugs as a shortcut to wealth.

“The information shows there are a good number of athletes out there who are using drugs,” said Kiptanui.

Kiptanui is regarded as the greatest steeplechaser in history after his success in the 1990s.

He was the first man to break the eight-minute barrier for the 3,000m steeplechase.

However, David Okeyo, secretary-general of Athletics Kenya, said Kiptanui should provide evidence to back up his claims.

Okeyo also called on the 1991, 1993 and 1995 world champion to name names.

Kiptanui, 42, said: “They want to get money by all means. Either by a genuine way or another way.

“We have put rules in place. If we don’t use these rules then athletes will still use these drugs.”

In a BBC interview, Kiptanui also alleges widespread corruption around the world.

“If you can bribe somebody today or tomorrow, then it [a test result] is gone,” he added.

“All over the world there is corruption in sport.

“It is not only a matter in Kenya.”