NAIROBI, Kenya -Two top Kenyan athletes, Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet, have been awarded Shs 5 million each by the government in recognition of their historic performances in the Prefontaine Classic, Eugene -Oregon.
The two athletes broke the world records in the women’s 1,500m and 5000m events.
Faith clocked (3.48.68) and Chebet (13.58.06)
Chebet for becoming the first woman in history to run under 14 minutes on the track.
Similarly, Agnes Jebet also secured a strong second-place finish in the 5000m.
In a ceremony held in Nairobi on Monday, July 8th, the awards were presented to the two stars by the Youth, Creatives and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.
In the year 2023, Faith Kipyegon- a two-time Olympic champion and multiple world title holder, made history, breaking the world record in both 1500m and 500m races within a week.
Additionally, she left the world in awe. She elevated her status as one of the greatest female middle-distance athletes ever with her excellent performances in both Florence and Paris.
During an interview on her arrival back from the recent Oregon event, she happily remarked that:
“I’m proud of my journey, and I’m grateful that everything is progressing well. I aim to inspire the younger generation, especially women, to dream big and believe in their potential.”
“I really thank God for making it possible for me. It’s a huge achievement, breaking my own record every year since 2023. To date, I’m still breaking my own record. For the sub-4 minute it was to send a message to the world that it is possible and also to inspire the younger generation and the women out there to dare to dream because everything is possible,” Kipyegon thanked.
Kipyegon is currently preparing to defend her 1500m title at the World Championships in Tokyo.
Chebet surpassed the record set by Letesenbet Gidey of Ethiopia, becoming the first woman to run 10,000m in under 29 minutes.
CS Mvurya, during the ceremony, praised the two athletes for their discipline, dedication and for being great representatives of Kenya globally.
“These awards are not just about money, they are a token of appreciation from a grateful nation,” he said, adding that, “ Faith and Beatrice have inspired millions and proven that with hard work, Kenyan athletes can continue to conquer the world.”
The Sh5 million is part of a government initiative to motivate and reward excellence in sports.
According to the State Department of Sports, any Kenyan athlete who breaks a world record will receive the cash reward, together with other forms of support to cater for their training and performance.
Kipyegon and Chebet expressed their gratitude for the recognition and promised to keep pushing to the limits in their careers.
