Beijing half-marathon under probe after controversary over winner

After allegations emerge that several foreign competitors allowed Chinese runner to win, Beijing sports bureau says investigating issue

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA (AA) — Organizers of the Beijing half-marathon are investigating the outcome of the race after controversary erupted over allegations that several foreign athletes let a Chinese competitor win, local media reported on Wednesday.

Three athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia were accused of slowing down at the end of Sunday's race to let their Chinese runner He Jie win, the South China Morning Post reported.

One of athletes subject to the allegations said he allowed He to win because of their friendship.

"I was the pacemaker, my boss told me to come and pace so He could break the Chinese national record," Willy Mnangat told the daily.

"My agent from Kenya told me, when I was going to get the visa, that I am going to China to help the Chinese break the national record."

The Beijing sports bureau said they are investigating the matter.

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