Gladys Tejeda: Suspended from Running?
Although Gladys Tejeda crossed the finish line of her last official competition on July 18th, the long-distance runner continues to run the toughest race of her life. After testing positive in an anti-doping test during the Pan American Games, the Peruvian athlete received a preliminary suspension of 6 months this week. What needs to happen for Tejeda to be at the starting line of the 42K in Rio 2016?
The Resolution
After having her gold medal stripped, Gladys' case was reviewed by the Justice Commission of the Peruvian Athletics Federation. After three months of deliberation, they determined a 6-month suspension. Factors such as it being her first offense, her acceptance of the charge, and not benefiting from the diuretics for medical reasons were taken into account as mitigating circumstances.
Gladys Tejeda was sanctioned for six months for doping. Confirmation from IAAF pending ⏩ https://t.co/1UFklUGG8d December 9, 2015
Now, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) must review the decision made by Peru to analyze if the anti-doping criteria have been properly interpreted. The IAAF has 21 days from the presentation of the resolution to confirm or modify the sanction.
Complicated Context
Tejeda's case coincides with a complicated time for international athletics. The IAAF is under global scrutiny after the revelation of a doping cover-up network in Russia a month ago. The sanctions imposed by the IAAF must be severe to clearly mark a line in the fight against the use of banned substances.
If the IAAF confirms the sanction, Gladys Tejeda will run in #Rio2016. However, with the recent doping scandals, the IAAF is being extremely cautious. Complicated situation.
Doing the Math
If the IAAF confirms the 6-month suspension imposed by the commission, Gladys would be eligible to compete in the upcoming Olympic Games. The sanction began on September 9th when the IAAF announced that Tejeda was provisionally suspended, meaning that she has already served more than half of the punishment. Her suspension would end in early March and the marathon in Rio will take place on August 14th.
Gladys qualified for Brazil in April of this year at the Rotterdam Marathon and she does not want to miss her chance.