06 October 2023 , 11:38
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A runner has been accused of cheating in the Cardiff Half Marathon after finishing in 21st position.
Llanelli AC member Sion Daniels crossed the finish line in a time of one hour, seven minutes and 40 seconds, and was seemingly jubilant at his efforts. However, concerns were raised by organisers and fellow competitors given that Daniels had been spotted lagging a considerable distance behind the front groups at the halfway mark.
A subsequent investigation from organisers concluded that Daniels had removed his timing chip and instead, submitted a false GPS recorded file. However, the submission included an alternative course, which matched the route used in 2022.
Event organisers Run4Wales have since released their findings from an investigation, claiming Daniels would have needed to clock world record pace for the final seven miles to have made his alleged time - a feat labelled 'impossible' by organisers. They've also confirmed that the runner was suspended from future events unless he could submit evidence that proved he had not cheated.
"The runner submitted a GPX file from their running watch as evidence, but analysis has shown that the file is from a previous edition of the race - which followed a slightly different route," they said. "The runner, who was featured in an S4C television interview, alleged they had completed the race in 1:07:58 but did not appear in the official results because of a timing chip error."
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Daniels is accused of cutting out a two-mile loop of Roath Park Lake, which is situated in the latter stages of the race. After the event he contacted organisers to protest why his time had not been recorded, and then submitted his GPS file.
Sion Daniels has been accused of cheating in the Cardiff Half MarathonWelsh Athletics has also confirmed they had been informed of a "potential athlete breach" of the rules at the annual race, and also vowed to investigate: "Welsh Athletics will now work with the event organisers Run4Wales and commence a review in line with Welsh Athletics Disciplinary Rules and Procedures," they said.
The incident had tainted an otherwise successful event, with Vincent Mutai and Mestawut Fikir clinching overall victory. In a dramatic finish to the men's race, Kenyan Mutai edged compatriot Shadrack Kimining in a time of one hour and 35 seconds.
The women's race was equally thrilling, with Ethiopian Fikir winning one hour, eight minutes and 13 seconds. Aminet Ahmed finished just one second behind.