Ethiopian athlete Ruti Aga, 32, received a six-year suspension from the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for methylprednisolone and being accused of manipulating the anti-doping control process.
AIU Determination
On March 15, Aga tested positive in the anti-doping test of the Meishan Renshou Half Marathon, held in China. The substance, classified as a glucocorticoid of category S9 on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) list, is prohibited in competitions.
Attempt at Falsification
On April 21, the athlete provided false information during an AIU interview. On May 4, she presented a medical prescription that supposedly authorized the use of methylprednisolone for outpatient treatment. The investigation revealed that the prescription came from a nonexistent clinic and that the supposed doctor was a relative of Aga without a professional license.
Result of the Sanction
The AIU concluded that the evidence did not support the explanation of a knee injury treatment. Therefore, Aga was sanctioned with two years for the doping offense and an additional four years for falsifying the prescription, totaling six years of suspension.
International Career
Aga has stood out in world-class marathons: 3rd place in Berlin 2016, 2nd in 2017 and 2018, 2nd in Tokyo 2018, winner of Tokyo 2019, and 3rd in the New York City Marathon 2019.
Credits: deultimominuto.com
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