With the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou approaching, officials have freshly warned Kenyan athletes against consuming dietary supplements without professional advice.
This cautionary message comes at a time when the global athletics fraternity is tightening its grip on anti-doping regulations, and the risks associated with supplement use in unregulated markets remain a persistent concern.
An educator from the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) Victor Ashiali, sounded the alarm during a mandatory anti-doping refresher course held for Team Kenya’s relay athletes.
“You should be careful about the supplements you buy and consume. In fact, it is advisable to stay away from them because of how the market is unregulated,” Ashiali warned.
Ashiali emphasized the importance of avoiding self-medication. He pointed out that many of the commonly used over-the-counter drugs may contain ingredients listed on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)’s prohibited substances list.
“Leave the doctors to do their job. Most of the prohibited substances are part of the common drugs we use daily. That is why you should always declare you are an athlete whenever you go to seek medical attention,” he noted.
The anti-doping refresher course also covered a comprehensive range of vital topics designed to equip athletes with the knowledge they need to navigate international competition safely and responsibly. Experts further educated athletes on the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP), which tracks biological changes to detect doping effects.
Officials further educated athletes on the significance of the Athlete Biological Passport, which monitors biological variables over time to detect doping effects. A crucial requirement for compliance with international anti-doping rules, was also a central part of the day’s lessons.
Athletics Kenya (AK) vice president Paul Mutwii expressed satisfaction with the team’s discipline and preparedness ahead of the global contest.
“I am comfortable with how you have behaved during training, and the discipline is sufficient. We want to see all the teams here qualify for the World Championships in Tokyo,” he stated.
The World Athletics Relays, scheduled for May 10-11 in Guangzhou, will serve as a qualifying event for the World Championships in Tokyo.
