Celestine Chepchirchir
Kenyan long-distance runner
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Celestine Chepchirchir (born 18 December 1995) is a Kenyan long-distance runner who has competed internationally in marathons and half marathons. She set a marathon personal best of 2:20:10 in Seoul (2022) and a half marathon best of 1:08:35 in Paris (2018).
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Born | December 18, 1995 |
| Occupation | Long-distance runner |
| Years active | 2018–2024 |
| Sport | |
| Country |  Kenya |
| Sport | Athletics |
Event(s) | Marathon, Half marathon |
| Achievements and titles | |
| Personal bests |
|
Career
In 2018, Celestine clocked 1:08:35 at the Paris Half Marathon, finishing among the leading women.[1]
In March 2022, she delivered her strongest marathon performance to date, running 2:20:10 at the Seoul International Marathon, where she placed fourth.[2]
The following year, in December 2023, she recorded another top finish at the prestigious Valencia Marathon, again placing fourth with a time of 2:20:46.[3]
Doping ban
In April 2024, it was announced that Celestine had been issued a three-year ban from competition after testing positive for exogenous testosterone, a prohibited substance. The ban, imposed by the Athletics Integrity Unit, took effect on 26 March 2024. All her results from 9 February 2024 onward were annulled.[4][5]
The ban period was reduced by one year after Celestine admitted to the offence, a factor that contributed to the mitigation of her sanction.[4]