Controversy Strikes Beijing Half Marathon
In a stunning turn of events, the top three finishers of the Beijing half marathon have been stripped of their medals after an investigation revealed a controversial result.
Accusations surfaced that three African athletes conspired to let China’s star runner He Jie claim victory in Sunday’s race
Video evidence emerged showing Kenya’s Robert Keter and Willy Mnangat, along with Ethiopia’s Dejene Hailu, intentionally slowing down and gesturing for He to pass them at the finish line.
Mnangat defended their actions, stating they were acting as pacemakers for He.
However, the race’s organizing committee, responsible for the inquiry, determined that none of the three were officially designated as pacemakers for He, thus violating competition rules.
The committee declared that “all trophies, medals, and bonuses will be revoked.”
Furthermore, China’s state broadcaster CCTV reported that all four individuals had faced consequences and their results nullified.
Following the race, the Chinese Athletics Association announced plans to enhance the execution of road running events within the country.
“While the overall operation of road running events has been successful,” the association stated, “issues with event organization and management have been highlighted, sparking widespread concerns.”
He Jie, who claimed gold in the marathon at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou and holds China’s marathon record, remains at the center of the controversy. — BBC
