Judy Kemboi, a Kenyan long-distance runner, has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned substance that is gaining popularity in the sports world.
On Wednesday, August 6, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) confirmed her suspension, confirming that her samples included residues of Hydrochlorothiazide.
“The AIU has provisionally suspended Judy Jelagat Kemboi (Kenya) for the Presence/Use of a Prohibited Substance (Hydrochlorothiazide),” AIU’s statement read.
The suspension was characterized as a “notice of charge issued,” indicating that Kemboi has not been officially barred from participating in athletic events.
Kemboi, 26, will now have the option to react to the charge and provide an explanation or defense.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that is widely used to treat excessive blood pressure and fluid retention.
In sports, however, its presence in an athlete’s sample raises severe concerns because the chemical boosts urine production, aiding in the elimination of excess water from the body.
Under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) standards, the drug is prohibited because it can be employed as a masking agent.
It also aids athletes in flushing out or concealing the presence of other illegal substances in their bodies.
Athletes have also been known to utilize diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide for rapid weight loss because the chemical significantly reduces water weight.
This is frequently done to meet specific weight criteria so that athletes can compete in certain disciplines.
Notably, Ruth Chepngetich, the world marathon female record holder, tested positive for the same chemical on July 17.
This comes just ten months after the 30-year-old set a world record by winning the Chicago Marathon in 2:09:57 in October.
Kemboi is a well-known name in women’s long-distance road racing, and her performance this year has been particularly impressive.
In February 2025, she won the 31st edition of the Guadalajara Electrolit Half Marathon in Mexico.
Months earlier, in May 2024, she made news for breaking the course record at the Rimi Riga Half Marathon, clocking an impressive 1:07:13.
She broke the previous record set by Olympic marathon winner Peres Jepchirchir by 12 seconds.
Leave feedback about this