In July 2022 the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) reported an anti-doping rule violation against the Athlete Michael Saruni for his evasion and failure to submit to sample collection during the Athletics Kenya 2022 World Champion Trials.
Following notification a provisional suspension was ordered. After delays the Athlete filed a statement in his defence and he was heard for the Kenya Sports Disputes Tribunal.
The Doping Control Officers at the competition testified that after notification the Athlete went with the chaperone to the Doping Control Station. Because of a heavy cough the Athlete ran into the men's toilet near the Doping Control Station followed by the chaperone.
The DCOs reported that at the men's toilets the Athlete attempted to change places with another person impersonating the Athlete and wearing his outfit. After the DCO's had discovered the impersonation and the Athlete was found he thereupon run away and disappeared.
By contrast the Athlete confirmed that he had participated into the competition, yet denied that he was selected for doping control, nor that he had evaded sample collection. He alleged that this was a clear case of mistaken identity and that he only later heard that his friend was arrested for impersonation.
The Panel assessed and addressed the evidence regarding the Athlete's evasion and determines that:
- The Athlete was properly identified and notified at the competition that he was selected for sample collection.
- The Athlete intentionally evaded sample collection and accordingly committed an anti-doping rule violation.
- There are no grounds for the imposition of a reduced sanction.
Therefore the Panel decides on 31 August 2023 to impose a 4 year period of ineligibility on the Athlete.
