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3-Time Boston Marathon Winner Rita Jeptoo Gets 2-Year Ban For Doping

Rita Jeptoo, of Kenya, breaks the tape to win the women's division of the 118th Boston Marathon Monday, April 21, 2014 in Boston. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
Rita Jeptoo, of Kenya, breaks the tape to win the women's division of the 118th Boston Marathon Monday, April 21, 2014 in Boston. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

Three-time Boston Marathon champion Rita Jeptoo has been handed a two-year ban on racing after she tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug.

The 33-year-old tested positive for the blood booster EPO, according to Athletics Kenya.

She will not be able to compete in marathons worldwide until after Oct. 29, 2016.

Jeptoo had already been denied a $500,000 prize for being the world's leading marathoner over the last couple of years, and the World Marathon Majors put its award ceremony on hold in October, after her first doping test reportedly came back positive in September.

The organizers of the Boston Marathon say doping in their sport is not tolerated, but it's not clear whether Jeptoo will be stripped of any of her marathon titles.

The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) says it will await an expected appeal from Jeptoo, who has the right to challenge the suspension before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

"We already have severe and defined penalties, but the Rita Jeptoo case has brought to light the need to work yet further in that regard to ensure our sport," said Tom Grilk, the executive director of the BAA. "We are deeply disappointed in the findings involving Rita Jeptoo, and we are committed to upholding the integrity and credibility of the Boston Marathon."

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