NAIROBI, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- Athletics Kenya (AK) on Thursday banned all the road races in the country that are organized without the input of the main office or its regional affiliates.

The national athletics governing body said the move is aimed at shielding runners against exploitation from unscrupulous race organizers.

"We have noted with concern the mushrooming of illegal road races across the country and the trend is really worrying. We are aware a few individuals have turned to road races around the country into a cash cow at the expense of the athletes," AK said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

"From now hence forth, AK will take charge of all road races with the help of our affiliates to ensure that organizers do not take advantage of the runners," it said.

Before awarding interested organizers a permit to hold a road race, AK will factor among others prize money, security, medical cover and standardized officiating.

"Doping is also key and AK will work closely with Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya," the federation insisted. Enditem

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