• ATHLETICS

• Sportsbeat Correspondent 5 hrs ago

Athletes taken through anti-doping education ahead of Africa Championships in Ghana

Kenyan athletes heading to the 24th CAA Africa Senior Athletics Championships in Accra, Ghana, have undergone a special anti-doping education session organised by the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) in partnership with Athletics Kenya.

The session was aimed at reminding athletes about the importance of clean sport, personal responsibility and protecting their long-term health ahead of the continental event set for May 12 to 17 in Ghana.

Kenya is preparing to send a strong team to the championships after intense national trials held in April at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. The trials also helped select athletes for the World Athletics Relays.

During the education programme, athletes were taken through prohibited substances, testing procedures and the rules under the World Anti-Doping Agency code. Officials said the lessons are meant to protect athletes from accidental doping cases and maintain Kenya’s image in world athletics.

The move comes barely two months after Kenya was removed from the World Anti-Doping Agency compliance watch list, a major boost for the country’s athletics reputation after years of doping concerns.

ADAK and Athletics Kenya said the education sessions are part of wider efforts to ensure all athletes representing the country understand their responsibilities before travelling for international competitions.

At the same time, Kenya’s team has continued with high-intensity training sessions as preparations enter the final stages. Athletes have been taking part in long-run sessions and fitness drills ahead of the championships which will be held at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

The Africa Senior Athletics Championships will bring together some of the continent’s top athletes as Kenya looks to maintain its strong tradition in middle and long-distance races.