heyyo wrote:
You're ignoring a couple key issues:
1. Like has been said, the countries these "alleged" cheaters come from don't have the same system of birth certificates, making this less about cheating and more an issue about age uncertainty
2. Given the above systemic fact, do you have any proof that any of your accused overage athletes, are "cheating" intentionally? In other words can you show in any way shape or form that there is an intent to cheat?
3. In the absence of the above can you at least explicate on some of the incentives and benefits related to age cheating? What I'm asking is if you cannot prove it with evidence, then at least explain why we would expect age cheating to exist. Simply put, what does an athlete get after winning youth world championship?
Here's your serious conversation trackcoach. Now give me a serious response.
I coach a group of Kenyans in Iten. I know for a fact most Kenyans' ages are reported incorrectly. Some do know their true birth date, while others literally have no idea. Many times they are in need of documents when they are to travel/compete outside of Kenya and when going for a passport, birth certificate, or such if they don't know their birth date, the official will ask when did they graduate class 8 or form 4. They then designate an appropriate age for the age group that graduated that year. Some may take more than 8 years to graduate primary school due to lack of funds. You also have to understand the people. Many times you either become a farmer or try running. Most will do anything to gain an opportunity in running. Foreign coaches and agents looking to get an edge also doesn't help the situation. I would imagine the runners coming from Kenya for the next 10-15 years we can be skeptical about their age. I don't think there is any solution besides giving it time and it will work itself out, the system is getting better in Kenya.