Russian long-distance runner Tatiana Aryasova has been stripped of her 2011 Tokyo Marathon title after testing positive for a banned performance-enhancing substance.
In her place, the title has been given to Japan's Noriko Higuchi, who had crossed the finish line in second place.
Aryasova won the 42 kilometer race last February in a time of 2 hours 27 minutes and 29 seconds -- 80 seconds ahead of Higuchi.
But Aryasova later tested positive for a banned substance called hydroxyethyl starch, which enhances the ability of red blood cells to deliver oxygen to the body. The substance normally is administered to medical patients intravenously to prevent shock after severe blood loss, trauma or surgery.
Aryasova did not challenge the finding during an appeal period that ended last week.
compiled from agency reports
In her place, the title has been given to Japan's Noriko Higuchi, who had crossed the finish line in second place.
Aryasova won the 42 kilometer race last February in a time of 2 hours 27 minutes and 29 seconds -- 80 seconds ahead of Higuchi.
But Aryasova later tested positive for a banned substance called hydroxyethyl starch, which enhances the ability of red blood cells to deliver oxygen to the body. The substance normally is administered to medical patients intravenously to prevent shock after severe blood loss, trauma or surgery.
Aryasova did not challenge the finding during an appeal period that ended last week.
compiled from agency reports
