The event will welcome over 27,000 runners, including 8,500 international participants from 102 countries and over 25 African nations. All participants who complete the race will earn a provisional star from the Abbott World Marathon Major, which will automatically be upgraded to an official star once the marathon achieves Major status.

The title sponsor, Sanlam, has committed to ensuring the journey to Major status remains inclusive, prioritizing runners who supported the race throughout its candidacy year. For runners and sports enthusiasts in Africa, this event represents more than just a race; it is the realization of a long-held dream to see an African marathon join the ranks of global icons like London, Berlin, Boston, and Tokyo.

Photo of the Sanlam CapeTown Marathon Flagoff

In the spirit of the marathon, SanlamAllianz, the continent’s largest insurer operating in 25 African countries, launched the “African Champions Unite” campaign, a bold, continent-wide initiative designed to unite Africa’s leading champions and amplify their impact across the region. In Kenya, SanlamAllianz partnered with running clubs, inviting all runners, whether recreational or professional, to take part in the challenge and offering full sponsorship to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon for the top winners to compete alongside some of the greatest marathoners in history.

Sanlam Allianz Holdings (Kenya) PLC Group CEO Dr. Nyamemba Patrick Tumbo said the Cape Town Marathon represents a celebration of unity, excellence and African pride.

“At SanlamAllianz Kenya, we stand firmly beside our athletes at every stage of their journey.” said Dr. Tumbo.

“Beyond sponsorships to professional elite runners, we designed the African Champions Unite Campaign to give back to our community by partnering with running clubs and inviting every Kenyan citizen to take part in the challenge, nurturing the dreams of Kenyan runners. SanlamAllianz Kenya has sponsored a total of seven elite runners; Japheth Kiplagat, James Munga, Fridah Chepkite Lodepa, Josephat Kipkoech, Dixon Marende, Meshack Shivina & Emily Chepkor. We wish them every success as they represent Kenya in the upcoming marathon.”

The campaign ran from April 20 to May 10, 2026, and was monitored on Strava, inviting running enthusiasts across the country to compete for a fully sponsored trip to Cape Town. The full sponsorship package included return flights to Cape Town, airport transfers, accommodation, marathon entry, travel insurance, food and beverages and a Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race kit along with the opportunity to represent Kenya at this historic event.

The 2026 Cape Town Marathon edition carries a significantly increased total prize purse of USD 35,000 for the winner, an increase from USD 25,000 first prize on offer in 2025, reflecting the event’s growing stature. This is part of SanlamAllianz’s broader ambition to create transformative opportunities across sectors and support initiatives that showcase Africa’s excellence to the world.

The changes were revealed at State House in Nairobi on Thursday, April 30, during a homecoming ceremony for marathon world record holder Sebastian Sawe, and form part of broader reforms under the proposed Sports Bill 2026.

Under the revised structure, athletes representing Kenya abroad will now receive Ksh25,000 per day, while officials will earn Ksh38,000.

“Daily allowances for athletes have been increased from $60 to $200, and for officials from $80 to $300 when representing the country abroad,” President William Ruto stated. The adjustment translates to a jump from roughly Ksh6,460 to Ksh25,840 for athletes and from Ksh10,336 to Ksh38,760 for officials—effectively more than tripling the previous rates.

President William Ruto(right) pictured receiving a shoe worn by world record holder Sabastian Sawe in State House, during Sawe's welcome home ceremony on April 30, 2026. /PCS

The president also reiterated enhanced reward schemes for podium finishes. Gold medalists in athletics are now set to earn Ksh3 million, with silver and bronze winners taking home Ksh2 million and Ksh1 million, respectively.

For the Commonwealth Games, gold medalists will receive Ksh2.5 million, silver medalists Ksh1.5 million, and bronze medalists Ksh1 million. These figures mark a clear increase from the earlier framework, where gold medalists received Ksh1 million, silver Ksh750,000, and bronze Ksh500,000.

Beyond financial incentives, the government is pushing structural reforms aimed at long-term talent development.

President Ruto confirmed plans to roll out Constituency Sports Academies across the country to identify and nurture young athletes at the grassroots. The initiative is designed to “give young people access to quality training, modern facilities, and clear pathways into professional sport,” he explained.

To tighten oversight and improve governance in the sector, the administration is also advancing the Sports Bill 2026, which proposes the creation of a National Sports Regulatory Authority. The body will be tasked with enforcing standards and streamlining operations within Kenya’s sports ecosystem.

According to the president, these interventions are intended to ensure that athletes receive the support needed to fully develop and compete at the highest levels.

Sawe became the first beneficiary of the updated reward system, receiving two cheques worth Ksh5 million and Ksh3 million. The Ksh5 million award recognised his achievement in breaking the marathon world record, while the additional Ksh3 million was granted under the policy framework that rewards gold medalists at major competitions.

More Goodies

In addition to the cash rewards, the government presented Sawe with a customised Kenyan number plate bearing the digits 1:59:30 to commemorate his historic performance. He has also been instructed to select a vehicle of his choice, which will be fully financed by the state.

Sawe’s record-breaking run came during the 2026 London Marathon, where he clocked 1:59:30 to become the first athlete to officially run a marathon in under two hours. His time shattered the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by the late Kelvin Kiptum at the 2023 Chicago Marathon.

The race itself delivered multiple standout performances. Ethiopia’s Yofin Kejelcha also dipped below the two-hour mark, finishing in 1:59:41 and becoming the first Ethiopian to achieve the feat. Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo secured third place with a personal best of 2:00:28.

During the ceremony, President Ruto commended Sawe’s achievement in emphatic terms, highlighting its global significance.

“Sebastian, you have not only broken a record; you have expanded the horizon of human potential. You have made the impossible possible. You have inspired a nation, a whole generation, and the world,” Ruto said.

In a symbolic gesture, Sawe presented the president with an autographed pair of running shoes used during his record-setting performance, capping off a ceremony that underscored both athletic excellence and the government’s renewed commitment to sports development.

Sebastian Sawe crosses the finish line during the London 2026 Marathon, where he broke the late Kevin Kiptum's record by shaving the under two-hour mark on April 26. /ASSOCIATED PRESS 

In a dramatic race, the Kenyan sprint star appeared to ease out of the blocks before powering through the field at a buzzing Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Friday, April 24, 2026. The African 100m record holder delivered a dominant gun-to-tape run, posting a season-best 9.96 seconds to extend his strong start to the campaign.

South Africa’s Rivaldo Roberts finished second in 10.12, while Canada’s Aaron Brown completed the podium in 10.15.

The race unfolded amid tension and interruptions, with Omanyala staying composed despite two false starts that rattled the field and heightened the atmosphere in the stadium. The disruptions proved costly for South Africa’s national champion Gift Leotlela, who was disqualified, forcing a reshuffle ahead of the final restart.

Ferdinand Omanyala celebrates after winning the men's 100m race at the Kip Keino Classic on April 24, 2026. /CAPITAL SPORTS

Once the race finally got underway cleanly, Omanyala took full control. He burst out of the blocks with precision, seized the lead midway, and unleashed the top-end speed that once made him a regular sub-10 performer.

The win marks a key moment in his comeback following a challenging 2025 season, where injuries and inconsistency hindered his form, limiting him to 10.07 and a third-place finish at last year’s Kip Keino Classic.

Heading into the race, Omanyala had made his intentions clear, promising to “stand on business” and deliver another sub-10-second performance in front of the home crowd at the Continental Tour event. The Commonwealth champion arrived at Nyayo in arguably his best shape in nearly two years. Just a week earlier, he had shut down doubters at the Addis Ababa Grand Prix, blazing to 9.98 seconds—his first sub-10 since August 2024.

Speaking during Thursday’s pre-race press briefing in Nairobi, a confident Omanyala insisted his win in Ethiopia marked only the start of a bigger comeback.

“Now that we’ve picked up the momentum in Addis Ababa, we have to stand on business tomorrow. I am feeling good, the execution is getting sharper, and I’m looking to run under 10 seconds again,” Omanyala said.

The Kip Keino Classic remains one of his most successful stages. It was at this very event in 2021 that he set the African record of 9.77 seconds, and he was clearly targeting another statement performance under the stadium lights.

After a tough 2025 campaign marked by inconsistency and near misses in breaking the 10-second barrier, his 9.98 in Addis Ababa has flipped the script. The sprint king has also reunited with coach Duncan Ayiemba, a move already showing results, particularly in his drive phase and top-end speed.

Meanwhile at the Kip Keino Classic, three-time Olympic champion Gabby Thomas clinched a double victory in the women's 100m and 200m, emerging victorious in the former at a time of 11.01 seconds and a world lead of 21.89 seconds in the former.

Former world javelin champion Julius Yego finished fourth at the Kip Keino Classic 2026 with 79.87m, narrowly missing the podium but encouraged after his first full run-up event post-injury.

Diana Wanza dominated the women’s 5,000m, breaking away with six laps left to win in a personal best 15:28.91. Emmanuel Wanyonyi claimed the 1,500m in 3:34.11, leading a Kenyan 1-7 sweep.

However, in the women’s 800m, Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma Getachew stunned the home crowd, winning in 1:58.79 ahead of Lillian Odira (1:59.15).

USA's Gabby Thomas in action at the Kip Keino Classic at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi, Kenya on April 24, 2026. /X

For instance, Olympic 200m champion Gabby Thomas is set to headline the event with her debut appearance in Nairobi when the seventh edition goes down on April 24, 2026 at Nyayo National Stadium.

Thomas confirmed her participation via her X page on Tuesday, April 7, outlining an ambitious African sprint tour that signals serious early-season intent. ”April 18, Addis Ababa Grand Prix Ethiopia, April 24, Kip Keino Classic, Kenya. April 26 Botswana Golden Grand Prix. See you there,” she posted.

The American star comes into the meet in strong form, having already opened her 2026 campaign with a commanding win at the Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays on April 4, clocking 11.00. She also arrives re-energised after an injury-hit 2025 season, where a persistent Achilles issue sidelined her for long stretches, including the Tokyo World Championships.

Gabby Thomas runs in a women's 200m semifinal during the USATF Championships at Hayward Field, Eugene, Oregon, USA. /REUTERS

Her résumé remains elite—highlighted by Olympic 200m gold in Paris, where she also secured relay gold in both the 4x100m and 4x400m. She is also the 2023 World Championships 200m silver medallist and a relay gold winner in Budapest, alongside double gold at the 2024 World Relays.

Her inclusion adds firepower to an already stacked lineup. Canadian hammer throw stars Ethan Katzberg and Camryn Rogers will headline the field events, while the sprint cast features Bryan Levell, Sinesipho Dambile, Kyree King and Chidi Okezie.

In the one-lap races, Olympic bronze medallist Muzala Samukonga and American hurdler Delilah Muhammad bring further global class. Kenya’s charge will be led by Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala, backed by a strong contingent including Edmund Serem, Abraham Kibiwott and Amos Serem.

In the distance races, 2023 World Cross Country U20 champion Ishmael Rokitto will lead the 5,000m field alongside Cornelius Kemboi and Denis Kipkemoi in a clash against Ethiopian duo Abdisa Fayisa and Fasika Ayele.

Kip Keino Changes

From a historic shift in timing to the introduction of cutting-edge technology, this year’s event promises a fresh feel for one of Africa’s premier athletics competitions.

Organisers have rolled out major changes aimed at elevating both performance and fan experience. For the first time since its inception, the meet will be staged under floodlights at Nyayo National Stadium, running from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm—marking a significant departure from its traditional daytime format. The shift is expected to boost global viewership while delivering a more electric, primetime stadium atmosphere.

In another bold move, the event will also break from its customary weekend slot and instead be held on a Friday. Since its debut in 2020 as part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold, the meet has largely taken place on Saturdays, making this a notable change in structure.

The return to Nyayo signals a homecoming after last year’s temporary relocation to Ulinzi Sports Complex due to renovations. The venue previously hosted the inaugural 2020 edition before the event moved to Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani between 2021 and 2023, and again in 2024.

Beyond logistics, organisers are also investing in the future, with the introduction of an Under-20 category featuring the 100m, 3000m flat and 3000m steeplechase—aimed at nurturing emerging talent.

Athletes will also benefit from the introduction of Wave Light technology, an LED pacing system installed along the track to guide runners toward target times, replacing traditional human pacemakers with greater precision.

Fans are not left out either. After ticketed entry was introduced in 2025, this year’s edition will be free to attend, allowing spectators to watch world-class competition at no cost.

The event will then wrap up with a fireworks display, capping what promises to be a high-energy, spectacle-filled night of athletics.

(From L to R) US' Marvin Bracy-Williams, Kenya's Ferdinand Omanyala and US' Kenneth Bednarek compete in the 100m men's event during the fourth edition of the Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, on May 13, 2023. /AFP

In a statement issued on January 11, 2026, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya highlighted Team Kenya’s nine-medal haul, a showing that once again stamped the country’s authority in global distance running.

Kenya walked away with three gold, four silver and two bronze medals. The tally featured two individual gold medals, one team gold, one individual silver, three team silver medals and two individual bronzes, making Kenya the most successful nation at the event.

Agnes Ngetich wins gold in the Senior Women’s 10km race at Tallahassee, FL, USA on January 10, 2026. /MINISTRY OF SPORTS

One of the standout moments unfolded in the Under-20 men’s 8km race, where Kenyan runners locked out the podium in a rare clean sweep on the world stage.

Frankline Kibet took gold after stopping the clock at 23:18, with Emmanuel Kiprono close behind for silver in 23:20. Andrew Kiptoo Kiptoo sealed the sweep by claiming bronze in 23:28.

Kenya’s dominance in the Under-20 category extended to the women’s races, where a strong team showing delivered both team gold and silver medals, underlining the depth and quality of the country’s junior athletics system.

In the senior women’s 10km race, Agnes Ngetich produced a decisive run to claim gold in 31:28, further reinforcing Kenya’s grip on women’s long-distance events.

The senior women’s team also finished second in the overall team standings with 39 points, adding another silver medal to the national total.

Kenya’s senior men held their own as well, with Daniel Ebenyo earning bronze in the 10km race after clocking a record time of 28:45.

Consistent performances across the field helped the senior men’s team secure silver in the team standings with 34 points.

As he celebrated the medal winners, Mvurya praised all Kenyan athletes who took part, noting that their efforts reflected discipline, unity and national pride beyond just podium finishes.

He emphasized that the results highlighted the value of continued government investment in athlete development, training infrastructure and welfare, stressing that Kenya remains focused on building talent from the grassroots all the way to elite competition.

Beatrice Chebet interacts with the Team Kenya athletes that represented Kenya at the 2026 World Cross Country Championships held in Tallahassee, Florida, on January 10, 2026. /MINISTRY OF SPORTS

World Athletics, on Tuesday, November 4, unveiled 12 finalists for the prestigious annual awards, with three Kenyans making the cut — Peres Jepchirchir, Sebastian Sawe, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi.

Jepchirchir, the world marathon record holder, was shortlisted for the Women’s World Athlete of the Year award after a stellar season that saw her bag gold at the World Championships in Tokyo and finish third at the London Marathon.

Sebastian Sawe earned his nomination for dominating both the London and Berlin marathons, while Emmanuel Wanyonyi’s exceptional form in the 800 metres — where he claimed both the world title and Diamond League crown — secured his spot among the men’s finalists.

The Kenyan trio are among 12 global athletes who advanced after garnering strong support in the initial voting phase.

Other women’s finalists include Femke Bol (Netherlands), Tara Davis and Sydney Levrone (USA), and Spain’s Maria Perez. On the men’s side, nominees include Mondo Duplantis (Sweden), Mattia Furlani (Italy), Noah Lyles (USA), and Alphonse Simbu (Tanzania).

The backlash has been intense, especially considering the record-shattering seasons delivered by Kipyegon and Chebet — both of whom dominated with world records and double gold medals.

Fans and analysts alike are struggling to understand how such unprecedented achievements were overlooked in favor of the two chosen finalists.

Kipyegon had a record-breaking season, securing gold in the 1500 metres, silver in the 5000 metres, and setting a new world record in the 1500m. Chebet, too, had an extraordinary year, clinching double gold in the 5000m and 10,000m, and rewriting the 5000m world record.

While Femke Bol and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone — the two finalists — are undisputed elite athletes, critics argue that their 2023 campaigns don’t measure up to the sheer scale of Kipyegon and Chebet’s feats. Femke Bol, for instance, went unbeaten in the 400m hurdles and earned two world titles but didn’t clock a personal best in her signature event.

The outcome may have been swayed by the award’s voting system, which blends input from the World Athletics Council, the broader athletics community, and fan votes cast on social media.

Interestingly, final public vote data shows that Kipyegon and Chebet were the clear fan favorites among the five nominees — yet they still didn’t make it to the final shortlist.

The exclusion of the two leading public favorites from the final shortlist highlights a clear disconnect between fan sentiment and the choices made by the official voting panels — the Council and World Athletics “family.”

The World Athletics Awards 2025 will be held on November 30 in Monaco, France, in a ceremony celebrating the world’s top athletes and their outstanding achievements this year.

However, regardless of who takes the title, the controversy has sparked fresh debate over how the sport defines and rewards excellence — especially in a year marked by multiple world records and history-making performances.

Kipchoge wrapped up his collection on Sunday, November 2, by finishing the New York City Marathon — the final race missing from his list — coming in 17th place with a time of 2:14:36, about six minutes behind the winner.

Benson Kipruto led a Kenyan sweep, clocking 2:08:09, followed by Alexander Kipruto at 2:08:10, and Abel Kipchumba at 2:08:57, sealing an all-Kenyan podium.

Benson Kipruto in action during the New York City Marathon on November 2, 2025. /CITIUS MAG

For Kipchoge, who turns 41 next week, the New York race is widely seen as his last major competitive appearance.

Among those he faced off with was Ethiopia’s legendary Kenenisa Bekele, adding a nostalgic edge to the event.

The 26.2-mile course kicked off in Staten Island, with runners winding through Brooklyn, Long Island City, across the Pulaski Bridge, through Manhattan, and finishing in Central Park.

Despite not chasing victory, Kipchoge’s real win was symbolic. The race earned him the Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star — and by extension, the Seven Star Award, which includes the Sydney Marathon that joined the elite list recently.

As of September 2025, only 4,413 runners globally had completed all seven events. Kipchoge now joins that exclusive club, solidifying his reputation as arguably the most complete marathoner in history.

He’d previously admitted feeling his legacy would remain “unfinished” without conquering every major marathon, despite already holding multiple world records and Olympic titles.

However, in recent years, Kipchoge’s dominance has waned, with critics debating whether it’s time for him to retire.

Sunday’s run, though, may have been his quiet but powerful sign-off — one that sealed his unmatched legacy.

Hellen Obiri Shatters Women’s NYC Record

Kenya’s Hellen Obiri lit up the women’s race, storming to victory in 2:19:51 — smashing the previous course record of 2:22:31 set by Margaret Okayo back in 2003.

Obiri was trailed by Sharon Lokedi, who clocked 2:20:07, while defending champion Sheila Chepkirui rounded out the top three at 2:20:25.

The double Kenyan triumph in New York cemented the nation’s dominance on the global marathon stage — both past and present.

Hellen Obiri in action during a past New York City Marathon. /ATHLETICS KENYA

"The AIU has banned Ruth Chepng’etich (Kenya) for 3 years from 19 April 2025 for the Presence/Use of a Prohibited Substance (Hydrochlorothiazide). DQ results from 14 March 2025," announced AIU on its X account on Thursday, October 23.

The trio earned their nominations for the second year running, following a stellar season that climaxed at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, where they all struck gold and clocked world-leading times.

In the women’s category, Faith Kipyegon’s nomination follows her remarkable season, which saw her win gold in the 1500m, silver in the 5000m, and smash the 1500m world record.

Beatrice Chebet also made the cut after capturing double gold in the 5000m and 10,000m, while setting a new world record in the 5000m, underscoring her dominance on the track.

For the men’s Track Athlete of the Year, Wanyonyi’s nomination comes after a breakout season in the 800m, where he was crowned world champion and Diamond League winner. He clocked four of the year’s six fastest 800m times, confirming his place as the world’s top two-lap runner.

According to World Athletics, each track category features five nominees chosen by a panel of international experts. The Kenyan stars are joined by elite athletes from the United States (US) and Europe.

Among the women’s nominees are:

• Femke Bol (Netherlands), unbeaten in the 400m hurdles and winner of both the World Championship and Diamond League titles.

• Melissa Jefferson-Wooden (USA), who swept gold in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay at the Worlds, staying undefeated in the 100m all season.

• Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA), who bagged gold in the 400m and 4x400m, remained unbeaten, and ran the second-fastest 400m ever.

In the men’s field, Wanyonyi will face off with:

• Rai Benjamin (USA), 400m hurdles world champion with two of the season’s top three times.

• Jimmy Gressier (France), who claimed 10,000m gold and 5000m bronze, plus a Diamond League 3000m win.

• Noah Lyles (USA), who took gold in the 200m and 4x100m and bronze in the 100m, remaining undefeated in the 200m.

• Cordell Tinch (USA), the 110m hurdles world and Diamond League champion, with four of the year’s six fastest runs.

How to Vote

Voting is open from October 13–19 across World Athletics’ social media platforms — Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).

• A ‘like’ on Facebook or Instagram, or a repost on X counts as one vote.

• Votes are weighted as follows: World Athletics Council (50%), World Athletics Family (25%), and public vote (25%).

The top two finalists per category will be revealed on November 3, when another round of fan voting begins via World Athletics+, the federation’s official fan platform.

Upcoming award categories include Field Athlete of the Year (nominations open Oct 20) and Out of Stadium Athlete of the Year (nominations open Oct 27).

World Athletics will also hand out special honors such as the Rising Star Awards, Coaching Achievement Award, Woman of the Year, Photograph of the Year, Member Federation Award, and the President’s Award.

What Happened In 2024?

Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi were among the nominees for the 2024 Women’s and Men’s Track Athlete of the Year awards, following their standout performances — particularly at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

However, the trio missed out on the top honors, as Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo and the Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan took home the main awards during the World Athletics Awards held in Monaco on December 1, 2024.

Tebogo made history as Botswana’s first-ever Olympic champion, clocking 19.46 seconds in Paris to break his own African record. The 21-year-old star scooped both the Male World Athlete of the Year and Male Track Athlete of the Year titles.

Meanwhile, Sifan Hassan claimed the Female World Athlete of the Year award after winning her first global marathon title in Paris — less than 18 months after her stunning victory at the 2023 London Marathon on debut. Her Paris feat made her the first athlete since Emil Zatopek to win medals in the 5000m, 10,000m, and marathon at a single Olympic Games.

The 31-year-old had previously achieved the 5000m/10,000m double and a 1500m bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

A collage of Kenyan athletes Faith Kipyegon, Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Beatrice Chebet nominated for the World Athletics Awards 2025. /WORLD ATHLETICS

The marathon, which will be staged at Nairobi’s Uhuru Gardens, has drawn runners from 92 countries and is now being viewed as one of Africa’s biggest platforms for both athletics and corporate-backed social impact.

This year’s sponsorship marks a sharp 35 per cent increase from 2024, when the event attracted Ksh 173 million. A total of 43 companies have signed on, ranging from financial giants and beverage firms to tech, health, and tourism partners.

Local Organising Committee Chairman David Mwindi said the surge in support showed how the marathon was evolving beyond just sport: “We are proud to see both sponsor and participant numbers grow significantly this year. This strong turnout is evidence of the collective will to transform lives, nurture talent, and drive positive change through the Futuremakers initiative.”

KWAL Head of Marketing Dr Senorine Wasike (right), Senior Brand Manager-Beers Prudence Mutembei (Centre) present a Ksh 10 million sponsorship cheque for the 21Km run in the upcoming Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, to the Standard Chartered Head of Brand & Marketing Kenya Neema Gitau during sponsors breakfast at Carnivore Simba saloon in Nairobi on Thursday, October 2, 2025. /PHOTO

Standard Chartered itself has committed Ksh 130 million, the single largest sponsorship. But one of the headline deals has come from Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), which has doubled its sponsorship to Ksh 10 million. The company, through its Heineken 0.0 and Savanna 0.0 brands, has taken naming rights for the 21km Half-Marathon.

At a sponsors’ breakfast event, KWAL Head of Marketing Dr. Senorine Wasike said the brand was targeting the growing fitness and wellness culture in Kenya. “KWAL is pleased to partner with SCNM to encourage more Kenyans to adopt a healthier lifestyle by engaging in physical activity and sports.”

She added that the deal was also linked to the marathon’s social impact arm: “The Marathon is not only a premier sporting event but also contributes to community development through the Future Makers initiative. Additionally, the Marathon provides a platform to enhance the overall well-being of communities, positioning it as an excellent partner for Heineken ® 0.0, a brand committed to health and wellness.”

The Futuremakers initiative, run by Standard Chartered, is central to the marathon’s appeal to sponsors. Last year’s event raised Ksh 48 million for youth employability and business support programs. This year, the target has been set at over Ksh 75 million.

According to Joyce Kibe, Standard Chartered’s Head of Corporate Affairs and Brand Marketing: “The initiative has impacted more than 55,000 underserved young people since 2019, including supporting over 1,300 microbusinesses at an investment of Ksh 133 million in a new three-year employability programme launched in 2024.”

The growing presence of zero-alcohol drinks in Kenya’s market is also part of the story. KWAL’s Senior Brand Manager for beers, Prudence Mutembei, said consumer habits were shifting: “As a brand, Heineken ® 0.0 supports consumers on their wellness journey by offering a zero- alcohol option with fewer calories, aligning with their lifestyle and health objectives. This enables individuals to enjoy a high-quality beer without compromising their fitness or workout routines.”

She added: “An increasing number of young adults, predominantly from the Gen Z demographic, are choosing beers with lower or zero alcohol content while maintaining their social activities with friends, leading to notable growth within the category.”

Other marathon sponsors include Prudential (Ksh 9.5 million for the 5km Family Fun Run), Anta Sports (Ksh 5 million), EABL (Ksh 3.5 million), and UNDP (Ksh 3.2 million).

Coca-Cola, Tetra Pak, Reload, ORS, and Tawi will supply hydration and nutrition, while AAR Healthcare, Aga Khan University Hospital, AMREF, and Osteocare will provide medical support. Subaru and G4S will once again handle lead car and security duties.

Inclusivity remains a major focus, with Light for the World and CBM Christian Blind Mission ensuring persons with disabilities are fully catered for. Sustainability partners TakaTaka Solutions and Unicaf are leading waste management and eco-friendly efforts, while Kisskids will set up mothers’ rooms along the route.

Prudential’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Bernard Kinyanjui, said the broader goal was to connect sport to everyday Kenyans: “Our partnership with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon reflects our commitment to initiatives that deliver lasting impact. While we support elite athletes chasing global recognition, we also want to inspire families and communities to embrace active, healthy lifestyles.”

With big-ticket sponsors, packed registration, and rising interest in health-driven consumer trends, this year’s SCNM is shaping up as more than a road race. It’s become a showcase of how sport, business, and social impact are increasingly intertwined in Kenya.

Breakdown Of Sponsors/Partners

L-R: Prudential Life Assurance Head of Corporate Affairs Bernard Kinyanjui, Bancassurance Lead Catherine Thiong’o, and Relationship Manager Pinku Pravin hand over a sponsorship cheque to Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon Local Organizing Committee Chair David Mwindi during the Sponsors’ Breakfast on October 2, 2025. /PHOTO

The reigning 1500m world champion will compete again on October 10 at the Athlos New York City meet, a World Athletics Continental Tour Silver event that will feature a strong field of athletes.

The women-only competition, launched in 2024 by entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian — husband to 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams — has quickly gained prestige.

Faith Kipyegon in action at the 2024 ATHLOS meet. /NEHEMIAH-THE BREADWINNER

For Kipyegon, this will be her second straight appearance at the event, where she will be looking to defend the title she claimed dominantly last year.

Although Kipyegon enters the race as the clear favorite, the four-time Olympic champion will face stiff competition as she defends her crown.

Among her challengers are Kenya’s Susan Ejore, Australia’s 1500m world bronze medalist Jessica Hull, Ethiopia’s world indoor silver medalist Freweyni Hailu, 2023 world 10,000m champion Gudaf Tsegay, and U.S. 1500m champion Nikki Hiltz.

Kipyegon clinched victory at the inaugural edition of the exclusive event last year, clocking 4:04:79 ahead of Ethiopia’s Deribe Weiteji and Ejore, who settled for second and third.

Kenya will also be represented by Mary Moraa, who is seeking redemption after finishing seventh in the women’s 800m final at the Tokyo Championships, where compatriot Lillian Odira struck gold.

At the Athlos Meet, Moraa will line up against a strong field that includes Natoya Goule-Toppin, Olympic silver medallist Keely Hodgkinson, Britain’s Georgia Bell, France’s Rénelle Lamote, and Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma.

Named after the Greek word for athletics, the meeting is intended to highlight women's track and field and make the sport a spectator-friendly experience by simplifying the number of events down to six. Athlos will include the 100 m, 100 m hurdles, 200 m, 400 m, 800 m, and 1500 m.

Hefty Payouts

The Athlos Meet is one of the highest-paying events. The total prize pot has been set at Ksh14.3 million (USD110,500) per race, with the winners set to take home Ksh7.7 million (USD60,000).

Second-placed finishers will pocket Ksh3.2 million (USD25,000) while third-place finishers will get Ksh1.2 million (USD10,000). 

Athletes who end in fourth, fifth, and sixth position will not walk away empty-handed, as they will also take home Ksh1.03 million (USD 8,000), Ksh645,872 (USD5,000), and Ksh322,936 (USD2,500) respectively.

The defining moment came on Sunday, September 21, when Lilian Odira blazed to gold in the 800m, setting a championship record of 1:54.62. Her win marked Kenya’s 11th medal and seventh gold of the meet.

Odira’s feat capped a gold medal tally that also featured Faith Kipyegon (1500m), Beatrice Chebet’s 5,000m–10,000m double, Faith Cherotich (steeplechase), and Peres Jepchirchir (marathon).

This marks the first time a single nation’s women have dominated every distance race at a global championship—an achievement that reinforces Kenya’s unrivalled dominance in endurance running and raises the bar for the sport.

“Our heroines have redefined excellence. This sweep is not just a victory for Kenya, it is history for the world," President William Ruto remarked.

President William Ruto flagging off Team Kenya at State House ahead of the 2025 World Athletics Championships. /PCS

The 30-year-old crossed the finish line in under 2:02:30, securing a €30,000 (about Ksh 4.6 million) bonus in addition to his prize money.

Widely regarded as one of the best marathoners today, Sawe pulled away from the pack early, hitting the halfway point in 60:16.

Despite the warm Berlin conditions, he maintained his pace, and by the 37km mark, he was running solo with a projected finish time of 2:02:00.

The 30-year-old eased his pace in the final stretch but still clocked an impressive 2:02:15.

Berlin Marathon Payouts

Winners in the men’s category at the 2025 Berlin Marathon were awarded €30,000 (Ksh 4.55 million). In addition, the first athlete to finish under 2:02:30 also received a €30,000 bonus.

Sawe secured both after crossing the line in 2:02:15 — the fastest time in 2025 so far. Runners who broke the world record of 2:00:35, set by Kelvin Kiptum in Chicago 2023, would have bagged an extra €110,000 (Ksh 17.1 million), but Sawe fell short of that mark.

Even so, with just under two years in full marathons, Sawe is walking away with at least Ksh 9 million from the Berlin organisers alone. His victory further underlines his rise, coming just months after his 2:02:05 win in Valencia.

Sawe also claimed a stunning victory at the 2025 London Marathon back in April, outperforming a highly competitive field that included marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge. 

Competing in only his second career marathon, the 29-year-old delivered an exceptional performance, crossing the finish line in 2:02:27 — the second-fastest time ever recorded at the London event. 

The Berlin Marathon remains one of the fastest globally, producing eight consecutive men’s world records, including Kipchoge’s 2:01:09 in 2022.

Kenya also celebrated victory in the women’s race, where Rosemary Wanjiru triumphed in 2:21:04 — becoming the first Kenyan woman to win Berlin in seven years.

She pocketed €30,000 (Ksh 4.6 million) but missed the time bonus, which required a sub-2:16:00 finish.

Rosemary Wanjiru in action during a past Tokyo Marathon. /X

Having already bagged gold in the 10,000 metres, Chebet stormed to victory in 14:54.36, boosting Kenya’s tally to five gold medals.

She was closely followed by compatriot and close friend Faith Kipyegon, who took silver to hand Kenya a dominant 1-2 finish.

With the win, Chebet made history as only the third woman ever to secure the World Championships double in the 5,000 and 10,000 metres.

Beatrice Chebet crosses the finish line after winning the women's 5000m at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan on September 20, 2025. /RAYMOND OMOLLO

The race, quiet for most of the laps, exploded in the final 100 metres when Chebet unleashed her trademark finishing kick to surge past Kipyegon for victory.

Kipyegon, who had earlier won the 1,500 metres, had taken charge at the final bend but was unable to match Chebet’s burst of speed, settling for silver in a season’s best of 14:55.07.

Italy’s Nadia Battocletti, who had finished second in the 10,000 metres, secured bronze in 14:55.42, ensuring that all three medalists walked away with their second medal of the championships.

The last time both Kipyegon and Chebet finished first and second was in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where Chebet won at a time of 14:28.56, beating her fellow countrywoman, Kipyegon, who finished second.

Agnes Jebet Ngetich, the third Kenyan in the field, finished 15th despite being part of the lead pack for much of the race.

Her drop-off in the closing stages suggested a possible team strategy, as Chebet and Kipyegon—who had spent most of the 12.5-lap contest at the back—powered through to dominate the front.

Wanyonyi Bags Another Gold For Kenya

Meanwhile, Olympic champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi powered to victory in the men’s 800m final, clocking 1:41.86 to win gold and shatter the Championship Record previously set by American runner Donovan Brazier.

Just like in the Paris Olympics, the 21-year-old Kenyan fended off a strong challenge from Canada’s defending champion Marco Arop. This time round, he was also under pressure from Algeria’s Djamel Sedjati, with Sedjati surging late to take silver in 1:41.90, while Arop settled for bronze in 1:41.95.

The 21-year-old, a bronze medallist at both the 2024 Olympics and last year’s World Championships, stayed close behind Yavi for most of the race before launching a decisive kick with 200m remaining. She powered over the final water jump and surged into the lead.

Cherotich crossed the line in a championship record of 8:51.59, nearly five seconds ahead of Yavi (8:56.46), while Ethiopia’s Sembo Almayew claimed bronze in a personal best of 8:58.86.

Gold medallist Kenya's Faith Cherotich celebrates winning the women's 3000m steeplechase final with silver medallist Bahrain's Winfred Yavi and bronze medallist Ethiopia's Sembo Almayew. /REUTERS

Popularly known as Kadogo, Cherotich previously bagged bronze at both the 2024 Olympics and the previous World Championships.

Her victory handed Kenya its fourth gold medal at the championships, firmly establishing her as one of the sport’s brightest emerging talents. Further, her new World Championships best reinforces her authority in a race historically dominated by Kenyans.

By claiming the title in Tokyo, Cherotich not only became a world champion for the first time but also carved her place in Kenya’s rich tradition of middle- and long-distance success.

Following this was another major race, the men's 1500m final, where Kenya's Reynold Cheruiyot took bronze at a time of 3:34.25.

Isaac Nader of Portugal, however, stunned the field to clinch the men’s 1500m title at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, pulling off a perfectly timed finish in 3:34.10 and extending the run of unexpected upsets in men’s distance races at these games.

The early spotlight was on defending champion Josh Kerr (Great Britain) and rising star Niels Laros (the Netherlands), but Kerr’s campaign collapsed on the penultimate lap after an apparent Achilles injury forced him to drop out of contention.

Laros pressed on alongside a loaded field featuring Nader, 2019 world champion Timothy Cheruiyot (Kenya), 2022 world champion Jake Wightman (Great Britain), and Reynold Cheruiyot.

Wightman surged to the front with 200m to go and looked set for victory, only for Nader to burst through in the final strides and edge him by 0.02 seconds in a dramatic finish.

From left to right: Isaac Nader, Reynold Cheruiyot and Jake Wightman surge to the finish line in the men's 1500m final at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan on September 17, 2025. /SALIM MVURYA

She crossed the line in 3:52.15, a stellar performance that further secures her place as one of the greatest athletes in World Championships history, earning her the nickname “Smiling Assassin.”

Kipyegon dominated the field in Tokyo, storming to victory to cement her status as Kenya’s most decorated athlete at the World Athletics Championships with five gold and two silver medals.

It was also a strong outing for Team Kenya, with Dorcus Ewoi bagging silver after finishing just behind Kipyegon in 3:54.92.

Faith Kipyegon and Dorcus Ewoi at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan. /FAITH KIPYEGON

Meanwhile, Nelly Chepchirchir narrowly missed out on a podium finish, settling for fourth place after Australian Jessica Hull snatched the bronze.

Kipyegon seized control of the race from the start, with Chepchirchir keeping close while Ewoi held back in the opening stages.

On the final lap, the 31-year-old had already opened up a clear gap on Hull and Ewoi, leaving the chase pack to scrap for second place as she powered to victory.

With the win, Kipyegon now matches Ezekiel Kemboi, who also claimed four world titles in his decorated career.

Earlier, on Sunday, September 14, Kipyegon had cruised through the women’s 1500m semi-final, finishing first in her heat with a time of 4:00.34. She was followed closely by Ewoi at 4:00.65, while Nelly Chepchirchir dominated the second heat in 4:05.86.

After securing her spot in the final, Kipyegon expressed confidence in the Kenyan squad — which also featured Nelly Chepchirchir and Dorcas Ewoi — saying they were ready to deliver a clean sweep in the 1500m.

“We have a strong line-up, and I believe if all goes well, we can win all three medals. It’s all about discipline, teamwork, and good tactics—and we will make Kenyans proud,” she said.

Kipyegon attributed her record-breaking success to consistency and discipline, noting, “Every year is different, so you have to keep working hard, maintain discipline, and stay humble.”

Faith Kipyegon's Legacy In A Nutshell

With three Olympic golds, four world titles — including one in the 5000m — and multiple world records to her name, stopping Faith Kipyegon will take something extraordinary.

She has firmly established herself as the greatest women’s 1500m runner of all time. Beyond her four world crowns, Kipyegon has secured Olympic victories in Rio de Janeiro (2016), Tokyo (2021), and Paris (2024), becoming the first woman in history to win three Olympic titles in the same event.

Kipyegon has also rewritten the record books, smashing the 1500m world record three times. She first set 3:49.11 at the Florence Diamond League on June 2, 2023, toppling Genzebe Dibaba’s long-standing record.

She then bettered her own mark with 3:49.04 in Paris before lowering it again to 3:48.68 at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic in Oregon.

On top of that, she holds the world record for the mile, clocking 4:07.64 in 2023.

The last time Kenya clinched gold in the 25-lap race at the global championships was in 2015 in Beijing, China, through Vivian Cheruiyot.

In the race, Italy’s Nadia Battocletti delivered an outstanding performance to take silver, setting a national record of 30:38.23, while Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay claimed bronze in 30:39.65.

Beatrice Chebet at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan on September 13, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE

Team Kenya, led by double Olympic champion Chebet, 10 km world record holder Agnes Jebet Ng’etich, and African Games champion Janeth Jepng’etich, faced a herculean task as they stepped onto Japan’s National Stadium in pursuit of a fifth title in the event.

Chebet, 24, renowned for her dominance in cross-country and long-distance races, surged ahead in the closing laps to break away from the field and secure a landmark triumph.

The win stands out as a major milestone for Kenya at the championships, boosting the country’s momentum in distance races as the competition progresses.

On Friday, Kenya’s joy at reaching the Mixed 4x400m Relay final was short-lived after the team, anchored by Mary Moraa, was disqualified for a lane infringement, dampening what had looked like a promising start to the championships.

The Kenyan quartet—Brian Tinega, Mercy Adongo, Allan Kipyego, and Moraa—had placed second in Heat 2 with a time of 3:10.73, breaking the African Record and securing automatic qualification for the final. Their performance edged out South Africa’s 3:11.16 set earlier in Heat 1.

Running from lane 6, Tinega handed smoothly to Adongo, who then passed to Kipyego. He closed the gap strongly before passing the baton to world 800m champion Moraa, who powered the team to second place behind Belgium, winners in a season-best 3:10.37.

But just as celebrations began, officials interrupted with news of disqualification under World Athletics Rule TR17.23, which governs lane violations such as stepping outside the designated lines. It was later confirmed that Kipyego had stepped on the inside line during the bend, resulting in Kenya’s disqualification.

The decision meant host nation Japan advanced to the final as one of the fastest non-automatic qualifiers.

At 40, Kipchoge remained the main attraction of the event, though his struggles over much of the 42-kilometre course suggested his peak years may be behind him.

The men’s race was claimed by 28-year-old Hailemaryam Kiros, who set a new course record of 2:06:06. The victory marked his first major marathon win, having previously finished fourth in Tokyo and fifth in Berlin.

Kipchoge clocked 2:08:31, a commendable time for an athlete in the later stages of his career, though short of the mark expected at the elite level.

Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge during the Sydney Marathon on Saturday, August 30, 2025. /ELIUD KIPCHOGE

After the race, he expressed satisfaction simply at being able to finish. "I’m happy to go across the finish line. I have nothing to prove. My mission is to bring all the people together. Let us surpass 55,000, actually, next year to run here," he remarked.

"It’s a beautiful course. It’s a course for which there is no other in this world. It was not my day today. Above all, I have crossed the finish line to empower the people of Australia. To make Australia a running nation," he continued.

In addition to his four London Marathon titles, Kipchoge has won the Berlin Marathon five times, including a record-setting run of 2:01:09, which remains the second-fastest official marathon time in history.

His most iconic achievement came in 2019 when he became the first person ever to run a marathon in under two hours, clocking 1:59:40 in Vienna.

In the women’s race on Saturday, August 30, Ethiopia-born Dutch athlete Sifan Hassan beat marathon world record holder Brigid Kosgei, winning in a course record time of 2:18:22 — her fourth victory in just six marathon appearances.

Although Kosgei kept pace with Hassan for much of the race, the Dutchwoman pulled ahead after the 35-kilometre mark to seal the win.

Sifan Hassan crosses the finish line during the Sydney Marathon on Saturday, August 30, 2025. /GLOBAL SPORTS MEDIA HOUSE

He announced at a State House luncheon with the Harambee Stars on Thursday, August 28, after their exit from the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

While commending the team for their strong showing in the quarterfinals, Ruto also spoke about the future of sports, reaffirming his administration’s pledge to reward athletes across different disciplines who excel on the international stage.

“We have scheduled payouts. I know we have great athletes who have won many races and many games across the globe,” the President said.

Faith Kipyegon crosses the finish line during the women's 1500m race at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon, US on July 5, 2025. /X

In a statement issued on Thursday, July 17, the AIU revealed that samples collected from Chepng’etich on March 14 detected traces of Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a prohibited diuretic.

AIU Head Brett Clothier confirmed that Chepng’etich was officially notified of the findings and later appeared for an in-person interview with the unit on April 16, where she cooperated fully with the investigation.

Clothier further noted that Chepng’etich voluntarily accepted a provisional suspension on April 19, just three days after the interview, as the inquiry into her case continues.

"A Notice of Charge has been issued against Chepng’etich regarding the detection of the Prohibited Substance – a diuretic – following an investigation into the Kenyan athlete’s positive test, which was reported to the AIU on 3 April this year, at an estimated concentration of 3800 ng/mL in urine," the AIU stated.

"Presenting a brief chronology of this case, AIU Head Brett Clothier revealed Chepng’etich was 'notified and interviewed in person by the AIU in Kenya on 16 April and complied with requests regarding our investigation'." 

In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 9, Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announced that the government has set aside Ksh70 million to honour and compensate these overlooked athletes for their past achievements.

Speaking during a press briefing at Talanta Plaza on Tuesday, Mvurya described the funding as a move to right past wrongs, reaffirming the government’s dedication to restoring justice and honour to the men and women who have represented Kenya in international athletics events.

Faith Kipyegon presented with a dummy cheque by Cabinet Secretary of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports Salim Mvurya at the Talanza Plaza on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. /MINISTRY OF SPORTS

“This is about justice, dignity, and acknowledging the sacrifices and victories of every Kenyan athlete,” Mvurya said.

Kipyegon on Saturday, July 5, won the women's 1500m race at the Prefontaine Classic, a Wanda Diamond League meeting, in Oregon, the United States (US).

Setting a time of...wait for it...3:48.68, she lowered her own world record by .36 seconds, almost exactly a year to the day after setting it. But that's not all.

2025 is the third consecutive year Kipyegon has broken the women's 1500m world record. She crossed the line, breaking her previous record of 3:49.04 set at the Paris Diamond League on July 7 last year. In 2023, she clocked 3:49.11 at a Diamond League meet in Florence, Italy, on June 2.

Faith Kipyegon crosses the finish line during the women's 1500m race at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon, US on July 5, 2025. /X

Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji finished second with a personal best of 3:51.44, while Australia’s Jessica Hull claimed third in a season-best 3:52.67.

Kipyegon’s achievement on Saturday came barely a week after she narrowly missed becoming the first woman to break the four-minute barrier in the mile.

During the ‘Breaking4’ challenge in Paris, the double world record holder ran 4:06.42, which ended up being an unofficial world record for the mile. She needed to cut a significant 7.65 seconds from her current world record of 4:07.64, which she set nearly two years ago at a Diamond League event in Monaco.

Although she fell short of her goal, Kipyegon managed to trim over a second off her previous record, solidifying her status as the fastest woman to ever run the mile.

"I feel good, I've tried. I have proven what's possible. It's only a matter of time, and I know one day a woman will run under 4 minutes. If it is not me, it will be someone else," she said.

"Even without these conditions, I will still go for it. I want to thank everyone who came to cheer me on. This was really special, and I am so grateful I have proved to the world that everything is possible."

She added, "Even without these conditions, I will still go for it. I want to thank everyone who came to cheer me on. This was really special, and I am so grateful I have proved to the world that everything is possible."

Chebet on Saturday, July 5, obliterated the women’s 5000m world record with a stunning win at the Prefontaine Classic, a Wanda Diamond League meeting, in Oregon, the United States (US).

Chebet posted a blistering time of 13:58.06, beating the previous record set by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay, who ran 14:00.21 at the same venue back in September 2023.

Subject to the usual ratification procedures by World Athletics, the feat is even more impressive as she becomes the first woman to run under 14 minutes in the middle-distance race.

Beatrice Chebet in action at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon, US on July 5, 2025. /RUNNERSPACE

Kenya’s Agnes Jebet, who holds the women’s 10km world record, came in second with a personal best of 14:01.29. Tsegay, initially on track for second place, had to settle for third after recording a season-best 14:04.41.

The Kenyan athlete, back at the same track where she set the 10,000m world record last year, was shadowed for most of the race by Gudaf Tsegay, the previous world record holder, and Agnes Jebet Ngetich.

Right from the gun, they set a blistering world-record pace, covering the first 1000m in 2:47.07. The second pacemaker guided them through 2000m in 5:35.37 before stepping aside, at which point Chebet, Tsegay, and Ngetich had already broken away from the pack.

Chebet went through 3000m in 8:22.96, staying 1.04 seconds under a sub-14-minute pace. The tempo dipped a bit over the next kilometre, hitting 4000m in 11:14.12, but Chebet had enough left in the tank for a strong finish.

With 200 metres remaining, she surged hard. Tsegay couldn’t keep up and was overtaken by Ngetich, while Chebet pulled away cleanly to cross the line in 13:58.06, slicing 2.15 seconds off Tsegay’s previous world record.

Ngetich secured second with 14:01.29 — the third-fastest time ever — and Tsegay settled for third in 14:04.41.

The 25-year-old claimed gold in both the 5,000m and 10,000m at the Paris Olympics Games last year, making her only the third woman in history to achieve that double. She also held this year’s fastest time in the event after clocking 14:06.39 last month in Rome.

The Prefontaine Classic is the only U.S. meet on the Diamond League track and field circuit. This marks her second record at Hayward Field; last year, she became the first woman to break the 29-minute barrier in the 10,000m, setting a world record of 28:54.14.

Now, she holds world records in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events. She fended off her rivals and kicked away in the final stretch to secure the victory.

Beatrice Chebet during a past Diamond League event in Doha, Qatar. /FILE

Set to take place on Sunday, July 6, the event is expected to attract at least 15,000 participants, making it the largest edition of the race so far. To accommodate the marathon, numerous roads will be closed from as early as 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 5.

The Nairobi Expressway will face the most extensive closure, with both directions between James Gichuru and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) completely shut from 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 5 until 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 6.

Participants during a past Nairobi City Marathon. /NAIROBI CITY MARATHON

Waiyaki Way will also experience traffic restrictions. Inner lanes between Musa Gitau Road and the Expressway entrance will be closed from midnight to 10 a.m. on Sunday, while two lanes on each side between James Gichuru Road and the Expressway entrance will remain inaccessible from midnight to 2 p.m. on Sunday.

In Upper Hill, Aerodrome Road near Nyayo Stadium will be closed for an extended period, beginning Friday, July 4 at 10 p.m. and lasting until 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Meanwhile, major access points along Mombasa Road and the Southern Bypass — including roundabouts, exits, and entry routes towards the Central Business District (CBD) — will be closed from midnight on Saturday to 11 a.m. on Sunday.

Motorists within the Nairobi CBD should prepare for significant disruption as several streets will be fully closed from midnight on Saturday to 2 p.m. on Sunday. 

These include Harry Thuku Road, University Way (from Uhuru Highway Roundabout to the slip road), Koinange Street (between University Way and Kenyatta Avenue), Kenyatta Avenue (from Koinange to Moi Avenue) and Kimathi Street

Other roads to be affected include Simba Street, Mama Ngina Street (between Simba and Kimathi), City Hall Way (from Simba to Parliament Road), Taifa Road, Harambee Avenue (from Taifa to Parliament Road), and Parliament Road (between Harambee Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue).

Key highway intersections will also face restrictions, particularly crossing points on Mombasa Road and the Southern Bypass via Likoni Road, which will be closed from midnight to 11 a.m. Sunday. Intersections linking the Expressway and the Bypass will experience significant delays.

Along Thika Road, exit A2 towards Uhuru Highway heading to Mombasa Road will be closed from midnight to 2 p.m. on Sunday.

All marathon events will kick off at Uhuru Park. Organisers have scheduled several races, including the flagship 42-kilometre marathon, a 21-kilometre half marathon starting at 7:30 a.m., an 11.7-kilometre Expressway run at 9:00 a.m., and a 4-kilometre fun run beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The Nairobi City Marathon continues to grow in scale and popularity, prompting authorities to appeal for patience and cooperation from residents as they work to ensure a safe and successful event.

Map of roads to be closed ahead of the Nairobi City Marathon. /ARCFYRE INTERNATIONAL

The three-time Olympic gold medalist needed to cut a significant 7.65 seconds from her current world record of 4:07.64, which she set nearly two years ago at a Diamond League event in Monaco.

In a high-profile event in Paris, the 31-year-old came remarkably close to breaking the four-minute mile barrier, finishing with an impressive time of 4:06.42, six seconds shy of the mark.

Although she fell short of her goal, Kipyegon managed to trim over a second off her previous record, solidifying her status as the fastest woman to ever run the mile.

“Chasing history, creating legacy. Still the fastest mile run by a woman in history. Faith Kipyegon gives everything in her quest to break the 4-minute mile and stops the clock at 4:06.42. Thank you, Faith, for making us dream. Maybe not today, but soon,” World Athletics celebrated her.

"I feel good, I've tried. I have proven what's possible. It's only a matter of time, and I know one day a woman will run under 4 minutes. If it is not me, it will be someone else," she said.

"Even without these conditions, I will still go for it. I want to thank everyone who came to cheer me on. This was really special, and I am so grateful I have proved to the world that everything is possible."

She added, "Even without these conditions, I will still go for it. I want to thank everyone who came to cheer me on. This was really special, and I am so grateful I have proved to the world that everything is possible."

Surrounded by 15 pacemakers, Kipyegon got off to a strong start, completing the first lap in 61.55 seconds. As the race progressed, the three-time 1500m world champion remained well ahead of her previous world record pace, with the tracking lights still green as she approached the final stretch.

Displaying immense grit and determination, Kipyegon gave everything in the final lap, but ultimately fell short of the sub-four-minute mark, finishing about six seconds over the target.

Though she showed a hint of disappointment immediately after crossing the finish line, Kipyegon was quickly comforted by fellow running icon Eliud Kipchoge and her support team. Moments later, her initial frustration gave way to joy as she embraced the significance of her performance.

On Thursday, June 26, 2025, Faith Kipyegon set out to make history by attempting to become the first woman to run a mile in under four minutes at Stade Charléty in Paris, aiming to push the boundaries of women’s middle-distance running.

The event, dubbed Nike’s ‘Breaking4’ project, was inspired by the brand’s earlier Breaking2 initiative from 2017. Backed by Nike, the challenge sought to support Kipyegon in breaking the long-standing sub-4-minute mile barrier—a feat that has remained untouched by any woman since British athlete Roger Bannister first broke it for men in 1954.

The race was streamed live worldwide across Nike’s YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Amazon Prime Video platforms, drawing a global audience. Her run was also part of a larger movement under the newly established women-only track and field league, ATHLOS.

With sponsorship from Nike, ATHLOS offered a $100,000 (Ksh13 million) reward for breaking the sub-4 barrier, a target set with Kipyegon specifically in mind. She had already competed in the league's debut event in New York the previous year, where she clocked 4:04.79 and earned Ksh7.8 million for her performance.

The 31-year-old is aiming to become the first woman to run a mile (1.6 kilometres) in under four minutes during a high-profile event set for Thursday, June 26, at Stade Sébastien Charléty in Paris.

Raising the stakes, Reddit co-founder and tech entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian has pledged a Ksh 13 million (USD 100,000) cash bonus if Kipyegon breaks the barrier.

The offer was made through ATHLOS, a women’s sports platform Ohanian co-founded to spotlight and financially empower elite female athletes — he also happens to be the husband of tennis icon Serena Williams.

The cash prize is part of a broader campaign by ATHLOS to elevate women in sports and push past traditional performance ceilings. However, that is just one part of what Kipyegon stands to gain.

Since the event is backed by Nike — one of the world’s biggest sports brands — a record-breaking performance could unlock lucrative endorsements and sponsorship deals for the Kenyan runner.

Kipyegon is seen as the most likely athlete to shatter this barrier, having already set the current women’s mile world record of 4:07.64 at the Monaco Diamond League in 2023.

To dip under four minutes, she would need to slash nearly eight seconds off that time — a massive leap in middle-distance terms, demanding perfect race conditions and a performance for the ages.

Experts believe it’s possible. Sports scientists say that while the challenge is extreme, the human body is capable of it, especially with optimal pacing and race-day conditions.

Kipyegon's challenge will mirror what happened with Kenya’s marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge, who in 2019 became the first man to run a sub-two-hour marathon under carefully controlled conditions with the help of pacesetters.

Kipyegon is no stranger to smashing records. She already holds world titles in the 1,500m and 5,000m and is a two-time Olympic champion. Her dominance on the track has solidified her status as one of the greatest middle-distance runners in history — and now, she’s eyeing a legacy-defining moment.

How To Watch Faith Kipyegon's Historic Feat

If you’re looking to catch Faith Kipyegon as she attempts to break the four-minute mile barrier, you’re in for something historic—and yes, you can watch it live, for free, and globally.

The entire showcase kicks off at 7:15 p.m. Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is 8:15 p.m. in Nairobi. However, Kipyegon's actual run is expected around 8:00 p.m. CEST (9:00 p.m. Nairobi time). Still, you’ll want to be tuned in well before then to catch the build-up, introductions, and atmosphere.

You can stream the race live through multiple platforms. Nike is offering a global livestream on its official YouTube channel, TikTok, Instagram, and Douyin accounts. All streams begin at the same time—7:15 p.m. CEST.

If you’re subscribed to Amazon Prime Video, the event will also be available there under the name "Breaking4". There’s no need for a VPN or cable subscription; it’s all designed to be as accessible as possible.

If you’re in Kenya, make sure you’re tuned in by 9:00 p.m. local time. Head to Nike’s YouTube page or Prime Video, depending on your preference.

Consider watching with friends or fellow fans, since the buzz around this event is electric and global. Online forums and social media will be lit—especially X and Reddit’s track and field communities.

Faith Kipyegon after she broke the 1500m world record in Paris, France on July 7, 2024. /FAITH KIPYEGON

The joint operation, led by the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) in collaboration with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), targeted a residence occupied by an Indian national suspected of trafficking illegal substances.

The raid followed actionable intelligence pointing to a possible distribution ring operating out of the high-altitude town.

Photo of a High Altitude Training Camp in Iten. /THE KENYA EXPERIENCE

During the operation, officers confiscated an assortment of substances banned under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code — including human growth hormone (HGH), meldonium, and mannitol. 

Authorities also recovered a large quantity of intravenous paraphernalia, including IV bags, syringes, and needles, indicating potential doping practices.

ADAK raised serious concerns about the presence of such substances in Iten, a hub that attracts athletes from across the globe seeking to train in Kenya’s renowned altitude conditions.

The agency emphasised the dual threat posed by performance-enhancing drugs: not only are they illegal in sport, but they also endanger athletes' health and the integrity of competition.

"The report was booked at Iten Police Station. Investigations are ongoing to establish the full scope of the activities, including potential networks, clients, and any violations of the Kenya Anti-Doping Law and International Anti-Doping policies, rules and regulations," revealed ADAK in its statement on Tuesday, May 6.

ADAK has vowed to maintain its aggressive stance against doping. In a statement, the agency reiterated its commitment to enforcing both local and international anti-doping regulations, warning that those involved in doping will be pursued relentlessly.

The country has been grappling with the scourge of doping, which has threatened to taint the image of the sport, with Kenya having survived a possible suspension from the World Governing body in 2023.

There were increased cases of doping between 2022 and 2023, with close to 40 bans imposed by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

The government has been promising to step up its commitment, especially financially, to help curb the vice and prevent Kenya from going the Russia way. 

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) handed Russia a two-year ban, among the most severe sanctions it had given to a country, down from its original four years for its state-sponsored doping program leading up to the Sochi Olympics in 2014.

A signpost welcoming motorists to Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County. /WITHOUT A PATH

Competing in only his second career marathon, the 29-year-old delivered an exceptional performance, crossing the finish line in 2:02:27 — the second-fastest time ever recorded at the London event. 

The 30-year-old made his decisive move roughly 90 minutes into the race, breaking away from a leading group of nine runners and adding a prestigious London title to his Valencia Marathon win from December 2024.

Sabastian Sawe crosses the finish line at the 2025 London Marathon on April 27, 2025. /WORLD ATHLETICS

Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, the pre-race favourite and current half-marathon world record holder, impressed in his marathon debut, finishing second with a time of 2:03:37. Kenya’s Alexander Mitiso Munyao secured third place in 2:04:20, while four-time London champion Eliud Kipchoge finished sixth, clocking 2:05:25.

The win for Sawe comes with a plum take-home amount. He earned $55,000 (Ksh 7.1 million) in prize money for his victory. 

Although he narrowly missed out on an additional $150,000 (Ksh 19.5 million) bonus awarded for finishing under 2:02, his triumph in London marks a major milestone in his career and further solidifies his rising stature among the world’s marathon elites.

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa delivered a historic performance, breaking the women's-only marathon world record. She pulled away from Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei to finish in 2:15:50, surpassing the previous record held by Peres Jepchirchir.

Assefa, who recently won a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, continues to establish herself as one of the premier figures in long-distance running. Great Britain’s Eilish McColgan delivered a commendable performance on home soil, finishing eighth.

Assefa also received a $25,000 (Ksh3.2 million) bonus for setting a new women's-only marathon record.

The London Marathon’s commitment to equality was once again evident in 2025, with equal prize money awarded across able-bodied and wheelchair categories — a policy introduced in 2024.

The total prize purse across elite categories reached £243,000 (Ksh 41.9 million), reinforcing the event’s global reputation for fairness and excellence.

The prize distribution awarded $55,000 (Ksh 7.1 million) to each race winner, $30,000 (Ksh 3.9 million) to the runner-up, and $22,500 (Ksh 2.9 million) to third-place finishers. 

Additional bonuses included $150,000 (Ksh 19.4 million) for breaking the 2:02 mark for men or 2:15 for women, $125,000 (Ksh 16.2 million) for setting a world record, and $25,000 for establishing a new course record.

Eliud Kipchoge in action at the 2025 London Marathon on April 27, 2025. /ATHLETICS WEEKLY

The Kenyan marathoner, reaching the twilight of his illustrious career, however, defeated some big names in a marathon that was dominated by his Kenyan rival, Sabastian Sawe, who crushed it with a world-leading time of 2:02:28 — and get this, it was only Sawe’s second-ever 42km marathon.

Kipchoge, one of the sport’s greatest icons, stayed with the lead group for much of the race. It wasn’t long before the race favourites, including Sawe and Kipchoge, separated themselves from the main pack.

Sabastian Sawe in action at the 2025 London Marathon. /ATHLETICS WEEKLY

Impressively, Kipchoge — whose last London Marathon victory came in 2019 — managed to stay with the younger frontrunners for a significant portion of the race.

The decisive moment came about 90 minutes into the race, when Sawe made a bold move. Forgoing a scheduled drink station, he surged ahead, creating a significant gap between himself and the chase pack.

His 35km split was a remarkable 1:41:43, and his projected finish time began to tumble the deeper he pushed into the race. At that point, it was clear the Kenyan was on track for at least a top-two finish.

By the finish, Sawe had recorded an extraordinary 2:02:27 — one of the fastest times ever at the London Marathon. Already the fastest debutant in history, Sawe dismantled a world-class field with a blistering 2:40-per-kilometre split and never looked back.

The 29-year-old beat Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, who followed in second with 2:03:37, while Alexander Mutiso Munyao secured third in 2:04:20.

Kipchoge finished behind two more runners — Abdi Nageeye of the Netherlands, who placed fourth with 2:04:20, and Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola, who took fifth in 2:04:42.

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa dominated, winning with a time of 2:15:30. Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei delivered a strong performance to claim second in 2:18:43, while Dutch Olympic champion Sifan Hassan settled for third with a 2:18:59 finish.

This year’s London Marathon saw over 56,000 participants, including international celebrities, making it one of the largest fields in the event’s history.

Take Note

Running a professional marathon at 40 is no small achievement, but Kipchoge isn’t the oldest elite runner to compete at the London Marathon.

To join the ranks of the oldest marathoners, the Kenyan legend would need to keep racing well into his late 40s. Similarly, Hugh Jones — the 1988 London Marathon champion — remained competitive at a high level deep into his 40s.

Nike announced that the 31-year-old will take on the challenge on June 26, 2025, at Stade Charlety in Paris, France — the same track where she smashed her own 1500m world record last year.

While specifics haven’t dropped yet, the attempt will likely mirror Kipchoge’s 2019 run in Vienna, meaning she’ll have rotating pacers, cutting-edge gear, and all kinds of tech, science, and mental support. Because of that, the performance won’t count as an official record.

In the women's race, Lokedi, who finished second in 2024, went a step further and surged ahead of two-time defending champ Hellen Obiri in the final stretch, finishing in an unofficial time of 2:17:22. That performance shattered the previous course record of 2:19:59, set by Ethiopia’s Buzunesh Deba in 2014.

Obiri, who came in 19 seconds later, was aiming to become the first woman to win three straight Boston Marathons since Ethiopia’s Fatuma Roba pulled it off from 1997 to 1999, something Lokedi has now denied her from doing.

Hellen Obiri in action during the 2024 Boston Marathon on April 15, 2024. /SPRINGBAK INC.

He followed in the footsteps of his older brother, former Cherang'any MP Wesley Korir, by winning the 2025 Boston Marathon in a blazing 2:04:45. Wesley previously claimed the title back in 2012.

For the 28-year-old, the third attempt was the charm—after placing fourth in 2024 and ninth in 2023, he finally clinched the win.

Ahead of the race, Korir revealed he called up his brother for some winning wisdom. That strategy paid off—he pulled ahead of the pack at the 33-kilometre mark and never looked back. By the 35-kilometre point, he had built a solid 19-second lead and coasted to what became his second marathon win.

Meanwhile, Tanzanian runner Alphone Simbu edged out Kenyan debutant Cybrian Kotut in a nail-biting photo finish for second place, both crossing the line in 2:05:04.

"Congratulations, John Korir on winning the men's Boston Marathon with a dominant performance despite an earlier setback in the race. Kudos too, Sharon Lokedi, for shattering the course record in the women's race," Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen led in the congratulatory messages for Lokedi and Korir.

"Big up to Hellen Obiri for coming 2nd and Cybrian Kotut for finishing 3rd in the women's and men's races, respectively. You all displayed the indomitable Kenyan spirit, and we couldn't be more proud of you. Hats off!"

Boston Marathon History

Boston Marathon remains the oldest marathon in the United States (US) and the second oldest in the world, after Osaka-Lake Biwa Marathon.

The men’s race was previously a preserve of Americans, who won it 45 times from 1897 to 1988, with Canadians, Europeans and Asians claiming the other titles until Africans took over. The first African man to win it was Kenya’s Ibrahim Hussein, who clocked 2:08:43 in 1988, and it seems to have opened the door for his country to dominate the race.

Since then, 25 of the 35 titles have gone to Kenyan men, including 10 straight from 1992-2000, while runners from the East African nation have also won five of the last six, among them titles from 2019 to 2023.

Kenyan athlete John Korir during a past marathon. /CAPITAL GROUP

The 2024 Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon, which drew over 25,000 participants from more than 90 nationalities, saw Kurgat Kimeli and Gladys Chemutai emerge victorious in the 42 km race. Kurgat completed the race in 2:13:05, while Chemutai clocked in at 2:31:52.

A cheque of Ksh43 million raised by the marathon was handed over to Standard Chartered’s Futuremakers initiative, which focuses on empowering youth, particularly women and persons with disabilities, through education, employability, and entrepreneurship. The initiative, supported by all proceeds from the marathon, plays a key role in helping the next generation gain skills, improve job prospects, and build businesses.

The runners-up in the men’s category were Dominic Kipkirui, who finished at 2:13:13, and Peter Kwemoi Ndorobo at 2:13:14. Both received Ksh1 million each. Caroline Koech (2:35:00) and Joy Kemuma (2:36:06) finished as the women’s runners-up, also receiving Ksh1 million each. The second runners-up in the men’s and women’s categories, Peter Kwemoi Ndorobo and Joy Kemuma, received Ksh500,000 each.

2024 Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon winners receive prizes during the award ceremony on February 4, 2025. /STANDARD CHARTERED

In the men’s and women’s 21KM categories, Vincent Mutai (1:03:27) and Gladys Koech (1:03:27) triumphed, both earning Ksh300,000.

“The 21st edition attracted a record 206 elite athletes, up from 73 the previous year. This growth highlights the marathon’s competitive edge and its role as a platform for athletes to showcase their talent on the international stage,” said Joyce Kibe, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered.

“We look forward to the 22nd edition surpassing this year’s success, with even more elite athletes, sponsors and participants.”

Commenting on the Marathon, Penina Wahome, the Anti-Doping Agency Kenya (ADAK) CEO said, “ADAK is committed to ensuring that our race adheres to strict anti-doping regulations, promoting a clean and fair competitive environment. This commitment to integrity in sports is something we take immense pride in and continue to uphold”.

Participation from persons with disabilities saw a significant rise, with 153 participants compared to 119 in 2023. The winners of the 21KM Wheelchair Race, John Wambua (1:29:30) and Caroline Wanjira (2:07:36), each received Ksh300,000.                                                     

The 10KM race saw the largest number of participants, with 10,331 runners, up from 9,405 in 2023. The top five nationalities represented in the 2024 race were Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, China, and India.

"The Marathon underscores our collective responsibility towards environmental stewardship and social equity, in alignment with the World Athletics sustainability agenda, through the Athletics for a Better World (ABW) standard. Together, we have demonstrated that sports can be a powerful catalyst for positive change, and we do not doubt that our partnership will continue to inspire generations to come,” said Lt. Gen (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei, Athletics Kenya President.

In partnership with Athletics Kenya, the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon earned the prestigious World Athletics Road Race Label last year, allowing runners to compete at the highest level and be ranked against elite athletes globally. 

This year’s marathon will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025. The winners are highlighted below:  

Participants at a Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. /STANDARD CHARTERED

Justice Reuben Nyakundi condemned the 25-year-old and 30-year-old suspects after deeming as substantial the prosecution's evidence including CCTV footage that linked them to Kiplagat’s fatal stabbing in Kimumu Estate, Uasin Gishu County.

The footage also revealed one of the attackers, armed with a knife, threatening the athlete as an accomplice, a boda boda rider, stood by.

"Scientific evidence that was produced before my court during the trial places the two of you at the scene of the brutal murder on the night of December 31, 2023, at Kimumu Estate on the outskirts of Eldoret town," Justice Nyakundi ruled.

David Ekai Lokere, 25, and Peter Ushuru Khalumi, 30, who have been jailed for 35 years for the murder of Kenyan-born Ugandan athlete Edward Kiplagat. /THE EASTLEIGH VOICE

While the court considered this was the first offence for both Lokere and Khalumi, Justice Nyakundi emphasised the gravity of the evidence in determining their involvement.

Kiplagat’s family, represented by his mother Elizabeth Chemweno, had called for a life sentence. However, the judge concluded that 35 years was proportionate to the circumstances surrounding the case. The court nonetheless gave the convicts 14 days to appeal the ruling.

Kiplagat's family, with his brother Vincent Chemweno speaking on their behalf, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting that it brought a sense of justice and closure after the year-long mourning of the athlete’s death.

The sentencing came following the arrest of the prime suspects in the murder of Kiplagat on the following day, with police utilising CCTV footage obtained from the scene of the crime and other technical clues to pursue and arrest them. The footage showed the last moments of the murder, with a black Toyota Hilux which Kiplagat was driving, heading away from the full view of the camera with a man following closely behind.

However, the man was seen stopping to observe the happenings as the vehicle was reportedly intercepted by a motorcycle which is believed to have blocked his route.

After the athlete knocked it down, the riders were suspected to have committed the crime and fled the scene, with the footage capturing them making their escape, and leaving the motorcycle behind.

According to Moiben Sub-County Police Commander Stephen Okal, the officers were notified of an accident involving a motor vehicle and a motorcycle in the Kimumu area at around 5:00 am, only to find a deceased body in the driver's seat, which bore multiple stab wounds on the chest and neck.

The duo had, at the beginning of the trial, denied the charges, initially distancing themselves from the crime scene with Kalumi telling the court that he had been enjoying himself at a club in Eldoret at the time of the murder and that unknown people had committed the murder.

He also told the court that he had been physically assaulted by the police, who allegedly forcefully took his mobile banking details after confiscating his phone when they raided his home. 

Lokere, on the other hand, argued that he had been transporting a customer via motorbike towards Kimumu when he pulled a weapon on him and stole his motorbike. He then hailed another motorbike to take him back to his home in Langas.

Born and bred in Elgeyo Marakwet, Kiplagat had changed his nationality to Uganda and represented the country in global competitions such as the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, stamping his dominance in the men's 3,000-metre Steeplechase event.

In December 2023, the athlete was training in Iten in preparation for the upcoming athletics events slated for 2024. 

The institution in a notice carried on local dailies on Friday, October 25, revealed that the world record holder in the 1,500-metre race will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Education.

"The University of Eldoret has nominated Ms. Faith Chepn'getich Kipyegon for the award of Honorary Doctorate in Education," announced the university in part.

The university explained that the move was aimed at recognizing the athlete who had won the hearts of many across the globe through her sterling performances on the track.

The administration block of the University of Eldoret. /UNIVERSITY OF ELDORET

The institution of higher learning further announced that the conferment of the Honorary Doctorate of Education is scheduled to take place during the University of Eldoret 13th Graduation Ceremony to be held on November 21, 2024.

Kipyegon, a specialist in the 1500m, has had a brilliant 2024 as far as athletics is concerned. "Ms Kipyegon is an accomplished middle and long-distance runner and is the reigning 1,500 meter and Mile World Record holder," added the university.

"Her most notable feat was becoming the first athlete to be a three-time Olympic champion as she won three consecutive Olympic gold medals in the 1500-meter women's race. During the 2023 season, Faith set World Records in the 1,500 meters and the Mile within 49 days."

This nomination comes days after Kipyegon was nominated for the Female Track Athlete of the Year by the World Athletics. For her to emerge victorious, she is expected to garner the most votes.

The Kenyan star has since rallied her fans to vote for her through social media platforms with the voting window set to close on Sunday, October 27. The award ceremony will be held on December 1, 2024, in Monaco.

Read more: Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, Wanyonyi Shortlisted For World Athletics Awards: How To Vote

Kipyegon has built on a superb 2023 season with a stellar 2024 campaign. During the 2024 Paris Olympic Games wrote history by becoming the first Kenyan to win three gold medals at the Olympics and during the games, she broke the Olympic record by winning the women's 1500m at a time of 3:51.29.

To put it in simple terms, her third successive Olympic title made her the first athlete, male or female, to hold such honours in the 1500m. Since her first Olympic victory in Rio in 2016, Kipyegon has continued to shine on the world stage. In 2021, she confirmed her status as a 1,500m queen by winning gold in Tokyo.

In 2023, she broke three world records; the world mile, 1500m race and 5000m race. She also won two world titles, becoming the first woman to win both 1500m and 5000m titles in a single world championship competition.

In 2024, she began with a win in the Paris Diamond League where she shattered her own 1500m record. prior to her brilliant show at the Olympics.

Another victory followed for Kipyegon in the Rome Diamond League finals, which she won by clocking 3:54.75. Finally, she secured victory in the Diamond League 1500m finals in Brussels, clocking 3:54.75.

Kipyegon will be joining the prestigious list of athletes who have received Honorary Degrees in recent years.

In 2023, Kenya's marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge was awarded an Honorary Degree of Humane Letters by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Kipchoge's recognition stemmed from his performance in athletics here in Kenya and across the world.

Faith Kipyegon (right) with Eliud Kipchoge (left) during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games on August 11, 2024. /FAITH KIPYEGON

The trio include fan favourite Faith Kipyegon, who during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games wrote history by becoming the first Kenyan to win three gold medals at the Olympics and during the games, she broke the Olympic record by winning the women's 1500m at a time of 3:51.29.

Also included in the list is Kenya’s Olympic and World 10,000m champion Beatrice Chebet who has had a great 2024, bagging two individual gold medals in the 2024 games and breaking the women's 10,000m world record, setting a time of 28:54.14.

The 24-year-old is also a two-time winner of the Diamond League marathon as well as a World Championships silver medalist.

Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet nominated as Track Athlete of the Year in the women's category. /WORLD ATHLETICS

Another Kenyan nominated for the awards is Emmanuel Wanyonyi, the 800m race Olympic champion who also broke a World Road Mile record.

For Wanyonyi, the recent key participation that will likely make it for him include the recent August Olympic games where he won a gold medal in the 800m race, a two-time Diamond League Final winner, and a one-time World Championships silver medalist.

"As part of the World Athletics Awards 2024, World Athletics is pleased to confirm the nominees for Women’s Track Athlete of the Year and Men’s Track Athlete of the Year. Given the higher number of disciplines on the track, there are six nominees for this category, though – as with the other categories – there will be just two finalists," stated World Athletics in a statement.

"In what has been another memorable year for the sport, the nominations reflect some of the standout performances achieved at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, World Athletics Indoor Championships, one-day meeting circuits and other events around the world."

Chebet and Kipyegon will have to face off against Julien Alfred from Saint Lucia, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, USA, Marileidy Paulino from the Dominican Republic, and Gabby Thomas from the USA. 

Wanyonyi, on the other hand, will be up against Rai Benjamin from the USA, Jakob Ingebrigtsen from Norway, Noah Lyles from the USA, Letsile Tebogo from Botswana, and Grant Holloway from the USA.

The nominees for 2024 Women’s Track Athlete of the Year are (in alphabetical order):

Julien Alfred, Saint Lucia
• Olympic 100m champion 
• World indoor 60m champion 

Beatrice Chebet, Kenya
• Olympic 5000m and 10,000m champion
• World 10,000m record

Faith Kipyegon, Kenya
• Olympic 1500m champion
• World 1500m record

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, USA
• Olympic 400m hurdles and 4x400m champion 
• World 400m hurdles record

Marileidy Paulino, Dominican Republic
• Olympic 400m champion
• Diamond League 400m champion

Gabby Thomas, USA
• Olympic 200m champion
• Olympic 4x100m and 4x400m champion

The nominees for 2024 Men’s Track Athlete of the Year are (in alphabetical order):

Rai Benjamin, USA
• Olympic 400m hurdles and 4x400m champion
• World 400m hurdles leader 

Grant Holloway, USA
• Olympic 110m hurdles champion
• World indoor 60m hurdles champion and world record 

Jakob Ingebrigtsen, Norway
• Olympic 5000m champion
• World 3000m record 

Noah Lyles, USA
• Olympic 100m champion
• Olympic 200m bronze 

Letsile Tebogo, Botswana
• Olympic 200m champion
• World 200m leader

Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Kenya
• Olympic 800m champion
• Diamond League 800m champion

How To Vote

As was the case in last year's awards, fans will vote online by liking and reposting the posts of preferred athletes nominated for the awards shared on its official social media platforms.

Individual graphics for each nominee have since been posted on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube; a 'like' on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube or a retweet on X will count as one vote

The vote to determine the Track Athlete of the Year finalists is now open on World Athletics social media platforms. It will close on October 27, 2024, with only two finalists to be selected from each group.

Emmanuel Wanyonyi nominated as Track Athlete of the Year in the men's category. /WORLD ATHLETICS

In a statement, AK lauded the exploits of Chepngetich who not only broke the women's marathon world record but also clinched the Chicago Marathon for the third time, earning her status as one of the finest athletes of the modern times.

"Her familiarity with the course, having won this prestigious marathon on two previous occasions in 2021 and 2022. played a pivotal role in her third victory, showcasing her tactfulness and athletic mastery," the statement read in part.

"Ruth's ascent as a star in Kenya's athletics scene has been nothing short of extraordinary. From her World Championships win in 2019 to her consistent performance on the global stage over 5 years, she has set a high standard for others to follow."

Athletics Kenya president Jackson Tuwei. /CITIZEN DIGITAL

According to AK, Chepngetich joined the league of other Kenyan Women World record-holders including Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, and Beatrice Chepkoech among others, with her latest triumph viewed as a continuation of this stellar career, despite missing the 2024 Paris Olympics games due to illness.

In boldly calling out a section of global media houses for publishing opinion pieces scrutinising her milestone achievement, the federation warned that they risked damaging the integrity of athletics as a sport.

Additionally, an X thread by Stephen Kerr, an athletics enthusiast, seemed to cast doubts on Chepngetich’s world record in Chicago, in which she also became the first female marathoner to clock a sub-2:10. Kerr further claimed that Chepngetich couldn't shave off two minutes from Ethiopian Tigist Assefa’s previous world record at last year’s Berlin Marathon, adding that the 30-year-old’s marathon career progression made no sense for her to suddenly turn up and clock a world record.

The federation issued a reminder that Chepngetich was not the only athlete to break a world record in his or her preferred discipline in 2024. "In any case, many world records were broken this year, and to single her out is utterly unfair. It is therefore disheartening to witness some sections of the media casting unwarranted doubt on her achievements. Such aspersions, made without due process, undermine not only her efforts but the integrity of the sport," added AK.

The federation was quick to note that Chepngetich, like all athletes in major competitions, underwent multiple anti-doping tests, both pre-race and post-race, terming them standard procedures in events of this magnitude, and "only after all results are verified will her record be officially ratified."

"Ruth's achievement, while impressive, is not without precedent. Marathon records have been broken by even wider margins, affirming that her feat is well within the bounds of possibility for an athlete of her calibre. Her consistent performance over the years stands as a testament to her dedication and excellence in the sport," the statement continued.

AK, other than urging the media and the global community to give Chepngetich the deserved respect, called upon them to protect athletes from harassment.

"Let her celebrate this hard-earned victory and let us acknowledge the years of hard work and discipline that have brought her to this moment. Unfounded doubts and unfair treatment have no place in this proud moment for Kenya and for Ruth," AK appealed.

Chepngetich during a post-race interview shut down a reporter who sought to water down her record-breaking achievement in Chicago by dragging in Kenya's doping menace, in response to those who would question the legitimacy of her world record.

"Ruth, unfortunately in recent years there’s been a number of doping positives in Kenya. What would you say to someone who says when they see 2:09:56, ‘This is too good to be true. I have questions about it," asked a journalist via Citius Mag

“I don’t have any idea," responded Chepngetich. “Some people may think that the time is too fast and you must be doping. What would you say to them?” The journalist further queried.

“You know people must talk so I don’t know," asserted Chepngetich.

Kenya has been on the receiving end of high-profile doping bans this year with Michael Saruni, Lawrence Cherono, Josephine Chepkoech, Rhonex Kipruto and Faith Chepkoech among some of the elite athletes recently suspended.

The 30-year-old bettered the world record of 2:11:53 set by Assefa at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. She entered the race as the fourth-fastest woman in history with a personal best of 2:14:18.

Ruth Chepngetich poses next to her world record at the Chicago Marathon. /LETSRUN.COM

News of Kiptum's death following a road accident on the morning of February 12, 2024, threw the world into mourning, but for Kipchoge, it wound up being more than that as he was thrown into a vicious campaign of online abuse that wrongfully linked him to Kiptum's death.

This is despite an autopsy revealing that Kiptum died from severe head injuries sustained in the car crash. Kiptum was travelling with his Rwandan coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who also perished in the accident.

In an interview with NTV, Kipchoge revealed that his accusers had plotted to cause harm towards his children and damage not just his house but also his training camp through acts of arson and that it was easy to get to him as he revealed not having personal protection.

"By 30 minutes past midnight, the discussions were there. Many people discussed how to burn my house, to harm the children and to burn the camp where I was training," he recalled.

"It's scary...I go for training at 6 o'clock I do not have bodyguards it is easy to kill me. However, it is life, and in life, 97% of people are negative thinkers."

Reacting to news of Kiptum's death, Kipchoge revealed that he was in the middle of a busy training schedule when he learnt of it and mourned briefly. However, he later stumbled upon numerous posts accusing him of playing a hand in the death of the 24-year-old.

"It was bad, the 12th of February was really bad. I mourned Kiptum for only 15 minutes, the rest I did not mourn. I was in training with four of my boys when I heard Kiptum had died, I was shocked," he disclosed.

"I went in took a shower and dressed up before taking my phone. Immediately I took the phone, instead of mourning Kiptum I read people saying that I killed him."

The two were expected to go head to head during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. In October 2023, during the Chicago Marathon, Kiptum broke Kipchoge's record after clocking 2:00:35, perhaps the genesis of the insinuations that Kipchoge was allegedly involved in Kiptums death.

The late Kiptum became the first athlete to break 2:01 in a record-eligible marathon, taking 34 seconds off the world record at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2023. With that performance, he improved his personal best by 50 seconds to surpass the world record of 2:01:09 set by his compatriot Kipchoge in Berlin on September 25, 2022.

Kipchoge spoke to the media in Spain on October 20, 2023, where he was awarded the prestigious Princess of Asturias Sports Award for 2023. He expressed his happiness for Kiptum.

However, he revealed that he was not surprised that the late 24-year-old had broken his record, expressing his delight at setting the stage for other athletes to break records.

Eliud Kipchoge crying during an interview with BBC which was aired on May 7, 2024. /BBC

The 30-year-old won the marathon clocking 2:09:57 and bettering the world record of 2:11:53 set by Ethiopian Tigst Assefa at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. Chepngetich became the first woman to run under 2:10

Chepngetich won the Chicago Marathon for the third time. She entered the race as the fourth-fastest woman in history with a personal best of 2:14:18.

Four of the five fastest women’s marathons in history have been run on the pancake-flat Chicago course over the last six years. Before the 2019 Chicago Marathon, the women’s marathon world record was 2:15:25.

Ruth Chepng'etich in action at the Chicago Marathon on October 13, 2024. /X.KENYA ONE SPORTS

On a very successful day for Kenya in the Chicago Marathon, John Korir, 27, won Sunday’s men’s race in 2:02:43 for his first career World Marathon Major title. He is now the sixth-fastest male marathoner in history.

Korir, the younger brother of 2012 Boston Marathon winner Wesley Korir, was third in Chicago in 2022, fourth in Chicago in 2023 and fourth in Boston this past April. He also won the Los Angeles Marathon in 2021 and 2022.

At the 2023 Chicago Marathon, the late Kelvin Kiptum broke the men’s world record by winning it in 2:00:35. All eyes are now on the New York City Marathon to be held on November 3, 2024.

Prize Money

With the victories of Chepng'etich and Korir, they will pocket $100,000, equivalent to Ksh12.88 million, prize money assigned to the top finisher in both the men’s and women’s categories. Second-place finishers will take home $75,000 (Ksh9.7 million), while the third spot comes with a reward of $50,000 (Ksh6.44 million).

Even those who finish fourth and fifth will walk away with Ksh3.86 million and Ksh3.22 million, respectively.

Chepngetich's exploits on the world stage now make her eligible for the Ksh5 million cash prize in line with President William Ruto's directive on June 13, 2023, to any Kenyan athlete who breaks a world record.

"For every world record broken by a Kenyan, the government of Kenya is going to award Ksh5 million.

"She has won and broken two world records in 1,500 meters and 5,000 metres. The government of Kenya is going to award her Ksh5 million for one record and we are going to give her a house worth Ksh6 million," Ruto stated then.

Launched in Nairobi on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Bavaria Smalt offers a refreshing and healthier alternative to traditional carbonated soft drinks. Produced locally and crafted with natural ingredients, the brand symbolizes the brand’s commitment to uplifting Kenyan communities through local production and job creation.

Speaking during the launch, Philip Njoroge, Regional Manager for East Africa at Royal Swinkels, hailed the company’s new product as “a product that aligns with the health-conscious preferences of today’s consumers.”

Eliud Kipchoge's billboard showcased during the launch of beverage drink brand, Bavaria Smalt. /OORO GEORGE.VIRAL TEA KE

“We are further excited to be supporting the growth of the local manufacturing economy by producing Bavaria Smalt right here at home. This allows us to not only offer a high-quality beverage but also create job opportunities, supporting the Kenyan economy,” he said.

Dubbed “Doing Good for Kenya,” the campaign is a vital part of the brand’s commitment to making a real difference locally. With every purchase, a portion of the proceeds goes directly to the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, supporting educational opportunities for children across Kenya and uplifting communities in need.

“As Eliud continues to inspire millions, Bavaria Smalt is proud to stand beside him, empowering every Kenyan to be part of this movement. With each can sold, we are not only quenching thirst but helping to build a brighter future for Kenya. Together, we are raising a toast to hope, endurance, and the belief that every sip can make a difference”, Philip Njoroge added.

Locally produced by Royal Swinkels in partnership with Sierra Premium Breweries, the collaboration has created jobs and aims to foster national pride, ensuring Kenyans enjoy a premium product at an affordable price. The drink is available at supermarkets and retail outlets across the country.

The deal for Kipchoge came on the same day he was appointed as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Goodwill Ambassador for Sport, Integrity, and Values.

This elevated Kipchoge's profile to not only arguably the greatest marathoner of all time but also as an influential figure promoting social change through sports, education, and environmental conservation. 

In his new role, Kipchoge will advocate for the use of sport to promote key values such as integrity, teamwork, and discipline, values which have been central to Kipchoge’s illustrious career, which saw him become the first human to complete a marathon in under two hours.

Further, he will be collaborating with various stakeholders to empower young people through sports, while also advocating for the preservation of the environment.

Kipchoge will also continue to advocate causes close to his heart, especially education, through the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation. The Foundation is built on three pillars: Education, Sports, and Environmental Conservation. 

The latest appointment has elevated Kipchoge's profile to not only arguably the greatest marathoner of all time but also as an influential figure promoting social change through sports, education, and environmental conservation. 

This substantial support, comprising both cash and in-kind contributions, promises to enhance the experience for participants and further empower community initiatives.

Since its inception, the marathon has welcomed over 300,000 runners, cementing its status as one of the region's premier athletic events.

"We are excited to collaborate with our sponsors to promote community engagement, boost local economic growth and empower youth through FutureMakers initiative by Standard Chartered. Proceeds from the marathon help young people—especially women and individuals with disabilities—learn, earn, and grow," said Peter Gitau, Chair of the Local Organising Committee, Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.

Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing Standard Chartered Kenya and Africa, Joyce Kibe at the Standard Chartered Sponsors' Breakfast on October 9, 2024. /STANDARD CHARTERED

This year, the marathon has attracted more than 40 sponsors and partners, an increase from 30 last year, reflecting a collective commitment to transforming lives, nurturing talent, and fostering sports globally.

Standard Chartered has made a significant contribution of Ksh100 million towards the event. Prudential, one of the world's most trusted insurance companies, has also stepped in with Ksh10 million as the official sponsor for the 5KM Family Fun Run in cash and in-kind support, playing a crucial role in ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage for all participants.

"By partnering with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, we reinforce our commitment to initiatives that positively impact communities. Our goal is not only to support emerging and elite athletes in launching their international careers but also to inspire families to embrace a culture of fitness and well-being," said Gwen Kinisu, CEO of Prudential.

Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon aims to promote Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) both within and beyond the event. It is the only marathon in the country that has a special category for persons with disability. 

Light for the World is supported with evaluation to ensure the marathon is inclusive. CBM Christian Blind Mission, a leader in disability inclusion, will also ensure essential support for participants with disabilities while for participating mothers, Kisskids will set up mothers’ rooms along the route and venue.

"Disability inclusion at the Standard Chartered Marathon is a critical step toward building an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate fully. By ensuring that the marathon is accessible to persons with disabilities, we are not only promoting equal opportunities in sports but also raising awareness of the importance of inclusivity in all aspects of life," said Daniel Oloo, Interim Country Director of Light for World Kenya.

Additional sponsors contributing cash support include G4S, MSF-Doctors without Borders, La Roche (a leading producer of dermatological skincare products), Bata, Carrefour Supermarkets, Healthy U and Heineken 0.0.

Refreshments will be provided by Coca-Cola and Minute Maid, while Kinderville Junior School will sponsor the Kiddie Zone. Hydration partners include Tetra Pak, Reload, and ORS with AAR Healthcare, Aga Khan University Hospital, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and AMREF coming onboard to provide emergency medical support and post-race care for all participants.

CBM Christian Blind Mission, a leader in disability inclusion, will ensure essential support for participants with disabilities.

PTG has come on board as they offer kit delivery services to all the corporate participants while Little Africa will offer logistics support by offering shuttling services for participants to and from the venue. NTT Data will guarantee reliable internet connectivity throughout the event.

Additionally, sports tourism initiatives will be spearheaded by Magical Kenya, Kenya Wildlife Services, Bonfire Adventures and Kenya Airways – the official flight partner. Efforts focused on sustainability will involve organisations such as Unicaf, WWF, and the Peace and Cultural Heritage Alliance, Takataka as Hurricane Global will manage cleaning services.

"We are truly honoured to partner with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. This collaboration provides an invaluable platform to promote Kenya as a bucket-list destination for runners, fans, and sports tourists from around the world. We believe it will significantly boost visitor numbers for both the race and our country as a whole," said June Chepkemei, CEO of Kenya Tourism Board.

Hosted by Nairobi County and the Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum, this year’s marathon expects over 25,000 participants. The event will feature various races, including the 42km, 21km, and 10km distances, alongside a popular 5km Family Run and similar competitions for persons with disabilities.

Runners will enjoy fresh fruit along the route provided by Greenspoon and Tawi, while relief stations will feature products from Rohto along the course with products such as Deep Heat and Deep Freeze. LG-OPALNET will provide screens and speakers for route entertainment. Long-standing partners Subaru and G4S will offer lead car and security services, respectively.

Registration for the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon is open at www.nairobimarathon.com for Ksh2,000 and will close by October 13, 2024.

A past Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. /CAPITAL GROUP

Kemboi was confirmed dead on Monday, October 7 after his body was found in Koisungur, Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County in a suspected case of suicide.

Kipyegon was invited to the Athlos Meet and will be set to participate in the event in the 1500m track. By now, you who are reading this should know that this is her favourite race, and the three successive Olympic titles in that discipline will clearly show.

She will not be alone. A total of 36 female athletes will be competing in six events during the meet and they include Paris 2024 Olympic champions Gabby Thomas, Masai Russell and Marileidy Paulino as well as Marie Josee Talou-Smith, Brittany Brown, Lieke Klaver, Mary Moraa, Tsige Duguma, Halima Nakaayi, Susan Ejore-Sanders and Gudaf Tsegay.

Named after the Greek word for athletics, the meeting is intended to highlight women's track and field and make the sport a spectator-friendly experience by simplifying the number of events down to six. Athlos will include the 100 m, 100 m hurdles, 200 m, 400 m, 800 m, and 1500 m.

Collage of Gabby Thomas, Faith Kipyegon, Mary Moraa and Alexis Holmes set to compete at Athlos Meet on September 26, 2024. /VIRAL TEA KE

The Athlos Meet, which was founded by Serena Williams' husband Alexis Ohanian, is one of the highest-paying events, with Ohanian announcing that the prize money would be hefty. It is an invite-only race.

“We want to bring something to this sport that hasn't quite been done before. It’s a privilege to invest in women athletes,” he said ahead of the unique women-only event, adding, “We’ve set a record with our Ksh7.7 million (USD60,000) cash prize, double what an athlete would earn at the end of a typical season.”

The total prize pot has been set at Ksh14.3 million (USD110,500) per race, with the winners set to take home Ksh7.7 million (USD60,000). Second-placed finishers will pocket Ksh3.2 million (USD25,000) while third-place finishers will get Ksh1.2 million (USD10,000). 

Athletes who end in fourth, fifth and sixth position will not walk away empty-handed, as they will also take home Ksh1.03 million (USD 8,000), Ksh645,872 (USD5,000) and Kshh322,936 (USD2,500) respectively.

Other than the athletics events, the meet will also feature musical performances by DJ D-Nice and Megan Thee Stallion.

The Athlos NYC meet is approved by World Athletics and is part of the World Athletics Continental Tour (Silver Level).

Kipyegon has followed up her astounding season in 2023 in style this year. In 2023, she broke three world records; the world mile, 1500m race and 5000m race. She also won two world titles, becoming the first woman to win both 1500m and 5000m titles in a single world championship competition.

In 2024, she began with a win in the Paris Diamond League where she shattered her own 1500m record. She followed up this win with another impressive showing at the Paris Olympics where she secured an Olympic gold and set a record in the 1500m (3:51.29) in the process.

Another victory followed for Kipyegon in the Rome Diamond League finals, which she won by clocking 3:54.75. Finally, she secured victory in the Diamond League 1500m finals in Brussels, clocking 3:54.75.

Full List Of Athletes Competing in Athlos Meet

100m Hurdles

1. Danielle Williams (Jamaica)

2. Alaysha Johnson (United States)

3. Charisma Taylor (Bahamas)

4. Masai Russell (United States)

5. Jasmine Camacho-Quinn (Puerto Rico)

6. Tonea Marshall (United States)

100m

1. Zoe Hobbs (New Zealand)

2. Celera Barnes (United States)

3. Candace Hill (United States)

4. Marie Josée Ta Lou (Ivory Coast)

5. Brittany Brown (United States)

6. Daryl Neita (Great Britain)

200m

1. Torrie Lewis (Australia)

2. Jenna Prandini (United States)

3. Tamara Clark (United States)

4. Brittany Brown (United States)

5. Gabby Thomas (United States)

6. Anavia Battle (United States)

400m

1. Leike Klaver (Netherlands)

2. Mariledy Paulino (Dominican Republic)

3. Salwa Naser (Bahrain)

4. Lynna Irby-Jackson (United States)

5. Shamier Little (United States)

6. Alexis Holmes (United States)

800m

1. Natoya Goule-Toppin (Jamaica)

2. Halimah Nakaayi (Uganda)

3. Nia Akins (United States)

4. Tsige Duguma (Ethiopia)

5. Mary Moraa (Kenya)

6. Addy Wiley (United States)

1500m

1. Faith Kipyegon (Kenya)

2. Katie Snowden (Great Britain)

3. Gudaf Tseguy (Ethiopia)

4. Diribe Welteji (Ethiopia)

5. Cory McGee (United States)

6. Susan Ejore (Kenya)

How To Watch the Meet: At 7:00 p.m. ET (2.00 am Kenyan Time), you can tune in and watch the meet on Athlos’ X and YouTube page. Sports channels ESPN+ and DAZN will also stream the meet live.

Faith Kipyegon celebrates after winning the women's 1500m at the Brussels Diamond League on September 14, 2024. /FAITH KIPYEGON

This is as she offered her condolences to the family of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games athlete who was brutally attacked and subsequently succumbed to her injuries following hospitalization at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret earlier on Thursday.

"Ms. Cheptegel was a talented and inspirational athlete who did not deserve to be taken away from her family, including her two young daughters, because of a domestic dispute.

"She was a rising star who competed in the recently concluded Olympics at age 33," Chiggai said in a statement.

Presidential Advisor on Women’s Rights, Harriette Chiggai speaking during the inaugural East Africa Law Society Young Lawyers Convention 2024 on August 30, 2024. /HARRIETTE CHIGGAI

The women's advisor lamented that the athlete succumbed to her injuries like many other women who pass through the ever-silent pandemic of intimate partner violence, a matter she noted that even though it occurs in the confines of the home, it is difficult to track and also report.

"Despite the work of local and State Agencies to better educate and protect women from serialized Gender-Based Violence (GBV), instances of intimate partner violence continue to be underreported in Kenya. Ms Cheptegei is sadly the latest of women athletes who have been killed by their significant others or former partners. The list includes Agnes Tirop (2021) and Damaris Mutua (2022)," she continued.

Chiggai also revealed that the phenomenon, not only afflicts female athletes, but also ordinary Kenyan women and children living in hazardous and volatile domestic environments.

With approximately 34 percent of Kenyan women experiencing physical and or sexual violence from the tender age of 15 years, she recognized that the general society needs to do better to protect women and girls.

"This Office together with the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports is working towards spotlighting GBV in sports and creating mechanisms for prevention, reporting and responding on the vice," she announced.

Chiggai went on to urge the relevant law enforcement and legal officers to ensure that justice is served to the families of Cheptegei as well as Agnes Tirop, Damaris Mutua and other victims of GBV.

She reiterated that violence against women and girls in any form, is an assault on their rights and freedom.

"The Government remains committed to ending all forms of CBV by creating systemic change across all duty-bearers. It is our prayer that Almighty God will provide comfort and peace to the family of Ms. Cheptegel In this difficult and emotional period," she added.

Cheptegei died after she was set on fire by her lover, a footballer. Owen Menach, the head of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, revealed that the burns she suffered were so severe that all her organs failed, leading to her death.

"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace," the federation stated on X.

At the scene of the tragedy, police officers managed to recover a five-litre jerrican containing petrol and a mobile phone believed to belong to the deceased's boyfriend.

The developments come as a blow to the Kenyan government which offered to airlift Cheptegei to Nairobi for specialised treatment.

"We want to see that she is given the best available medical care in this country even as we discuss how to progress further,” Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum revealed on Wednesday, September 4.

Reacting to the developments, Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen said he was deeply saddened by the loss of Cheptegei, terming her "Uganda's Women's Marathon record holder, and a Paris 2024 Olympian. Rebecca was an outstanding athlete who showcased the spirit of resilience in representing Uganda and East Africa."

"Her passing is not only a loss to Uganda and the athletics community but to the entire region. This tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to combat gender-based violence in our society, which in recent years has reared its ugly head in elite sporting circles. As a government, we remain committed to supporting justice for Rebecca. No one should have to go through such an ordeal. May her soul rest in peace," he said in a statement.

Cheptegei, aged 33, finished 44th in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympics. Her case prompted a significant response from both Kenyan and Ugandan authorities.

Kenyan athletics have in the past been hit by tragedies involving athletes and their family members, mostly spouses. In 2021, then world 10k world record holder Agnes Tirop was found dead in her home in Iten with multiple stab wounds believed to be a result of a quarrel with her husband.

Cheptegei, who competed in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games last month, is currently receiving care at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.

Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum revealed on Wednesday, September 4 that they are working closely with their Ugandan counterparts to ensure the Paris Olympian receives the best treatment.

“We have had discussions with the Minister of Sports in Uganda. We are working together to see whether we can airlift the lady from Eldoret to Nairobi for specialised treatment.

Sports PS Peter Tum speaks during the launch of the Nairobi City Expressway Marathon on September 4, 2024. /CAPITAL GROUP

"We want to see that she is given the best available medical care in this country even as we discuss how to progress further,” Tum said during the launch of the Nairobi City marathon.

Tum's announcement came on the heels of the disturbing news that Cheptegei, who suffered burns to over 75 per cent of her body, was allegedly attacked by her partner in a domestic dispute. The burns came after she was set ablaze at her home in Kinyoro location.

According to a police report filed by area chief Rose Chebet, the boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, allegedly doused petrol on the athlete, who had just returned from church with her two children, before striking a match.

Ndiema also suffered burns and was admitted to the hospital as well. Police embarked on investigations into the circumstances of the incident, believed to be instigated by a tussle over a piece of land.

“We are very sorry for that. Just like Athletics Kenya (AK) has said, the federation and the government have put in place a welfare plan for athletes and those who participate in competitions – both here and elsewhere,” the PS commented further on the incident, terming it highly regrettable. 

Speaking at the same time, AK president Jack Tuwei castigated the incident and urged athletes to resolve issues in their personal lives amicably.

“We want to condemn this act in the strongest term possible. It is a very sad affair. You cannot just harm somebody just because you do not agree on anything. We want to say sorry and wish her a quick recovery. We ask all Kenyans to pray for her recovery so that she can go on to win more titles,” Tuwei remarked.

He revealed the federation is in touch with their counterparts in Uganda to keep them abreast of any new developments.

“I know the police are already investigating it. We will be following it up…I have already talked to our counterparts in the Ugandan Federation. They are also doing something about it and we are working as a team,” the president expressed.

The attack occurred in Trans Nzoia County, where Cheptegei was staying in a house she maintains while training in Kenya.

Trans Nzoia County police commander Jeremiah Ole Kosiom confirmed that Ndiema is receiving medical care for burns covering 30 per cent of his body. The incident has since shocked both the local and international athletics communities.

Cheptegei, aged 33, finished 44th in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympics. Her condition remains critical but stable, according to doctors at MTRH. Cheptegei's case has prompted a significant response from both Kenyan and Ugandan authorities, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

The international athletics community has rallied in support of Cheptegei, with many expressing outrage over the incident. As the investigation continues, there is a strong call for justice and accountability for those responsible for the attack.

Speaking in Nairobi during the flagging off of the athletes to represent Kenya in the World Athletics U-20 Championships in Lima, Peru on Friday, August 24, Murkomen noted that the athletes have their own reasons to run for other nations.

The CS underscored Kenya's competitive nature in terms of sports, with prospective athletes striving to prove themselves.

However, because slots for representation in international competitions are limited, some athletes have no choice but to migrate to other countries to stand a better chance.

Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen speaking during a gala night hosted by the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) on August 23, 2024. /KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN

"Kenya is not an easy place to qualify. There are hundreds of athletes who could run, but Kenya being competitive has led to a situation where some of the athletes have chosen to either live in other countries or run for those countries, and we have no problem with that," said Murkomen.

The CS however observed that it is a normal occurrence that sportsmen and women seek greener pastures outside their native countries.

"This is not the first time this is happening. I have seen that debate. When I was in high school, Wilson Kiopketer decided to switch his allegiance to Denmark, Lorna got married in the Netherlands and ran for it, Bernard Lang'at moved to USA and ran for the country," he said.

Murkomen further argued that the athletes choosing to represent other countries do it in the best interest of the country, linking this to President William Ruto's commitment to export labour to increase revenues in terms of remittances.

"Athletes going to look for opportunities abroad is equal to the labour we are exporting. They must be supported the same way the president is supporting the export of labour...labour migration should not be an issue.

"Those Kenyans train here; all their money comes back home as we see them build houses for their parents," he said.

His comments came in the wake of Kenyan-born Winfred Yavi snatching gold in the 3000m steeplechase for Bahrain at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, raising serious concerns regarding the trend of Kenyan athletes switching allegiances to other countries.

Yavi switched her allegiance to Bahrain in 2016 after failing to secure a place on Team Kenya despite several trials. She has since become a formidable competitor for Kenyan athletes on the international stage, with victory in the Olympics over Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech.

The decision comes in the wake of Kenyan-born Winfred Yavi snatching gold in the 3000m steeplechase for Bahrain at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, raising serious concerns regarding the trend of Kenyan athletes switching allegiances to other countries.

Yavi switched her allegiance to Bahrain in 2016 after failing to secure a place on Team Kenya despite several trials. She has since become a formidable competitor for Kenyan athletes on the international stage, with victory in the Olympics over Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech.

Other Kenyans who have opted to run for Bahrain include Eunice Chumba, Abraham Rotich, Ruth Jebet, Eunice Jepkirui, and Miriam Jeptoo, among others.

Winfred Yavi showcasing her Olympic Gold medal to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on August 18, 2024. /WINFRED YAVI

In a statement on Thursday, August 22, the World Athletics Council approved a recommendation from the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) Board concerning the measures and corrective actions to be imposed on the Bahrain Athletics Association (BAA) following historical breaches of the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules (ADR).

In December 2023, the AIU Board issued a notice of charge against the BAA, following a thorough 18-month AIU investigation into the BAA’s compliance with ADR 15, which imposes anti-doping obligations on Member Federations of World Athletics which are separate from the obligations of the World Anti-Doping Code.

"The impetus for the investigation was the serious anti-doping rule violations committed by two BRN athletes at the Tokyo Olympic Games for homologous blood transfusions and the discovery that the BAA had engaged a coach to work with the national team between 2019 and 2021 who was in fact banned from the sport for anti-doping rule violations," the statement read in part.

The BAA was charged with conducting itself in relation to doping, negligently and/or recklessly and/or so as to prejudice the interests of World Athletics or bring the sport of athletics into disrepute (in breach of ADR 15.4.1).

Further, it was charged with failing to take reasonable measures when engaging athlete support personnel to ensure they are of good character and repute and that the risk of doping in relation to their engagement is minimised (in breach of ADR 15.4.6).

The BAA cooperated with the AIU throughout the process and admitted the charges. Additionally, it has agreed to the following consequences:

1. The BAA’s participation in both the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 will be limited to a maximum of 10 athletes.
2. The BAA will not participate in any other World Athletics Series events for 12 months from June 1, 2024.
3. The BAA will not apply for any transfers of allegiance or recruit any foreign athletes until 2027.
4. The BAA will spend up to $7.3 million over four years on the following measures to address the doping and integrity risk in athletics in Bahrain:

• implementing a detailed strategic plan and operational roadmap (SPOR) as agreed with the AIU to transform the federation and properly manage integrity matters.
• The BAA will guarantee that an independent and WADA-compliant Bahrain national anti-doping organisation will be established in Bahrain and be fully funded by the Bahrain government until at least the end of 2026 (a step which the BAA has taken, the NADO now fully operational for one year).
• The BAA will establish and fund a talent academy to prioritise the development of local talent.
• The BAA will pay the AIU’s costs of investigation and supervising the delivery of the SPOR.

The financial commitment to transform the federation, sports development and integrity in Bahrain has been welcomed and is strategically targeted at addressing the identified deficiencies in the Bahrain system, namely:

• Creating a NADO where there was none before – which is a welcome outcome with a huge benefit in managing the doping risks for BRN athletes going forward.
• Creating a talent academy which clearly signals a major change in emphasis from the BRN to identify and develop home-grown talent and not exclusively rely on recruiting foreign athletes.
• Transforming the BAA itself in accordance with the very strict requirements of the strategic plan and operational roadmap (SPOR) will ensure it has the appropriate governance and processes to manage integrity risk going forward. This will serve as an excellent model for other federations, particularly those in the region.
• The hiatus imposed from new transfers of allegiance and recruitment of foreign athletes is appropriate and will ensure that the system within BRN has been transformed by the time recruitment resumes again.

It is the ban that is significant for Kenya as it seeks to prevent the haemorrhage of athletics talent in Kenya to other countries, with the competitors claiming gold for the foreign nations at Kenya's expense.

The trend was glaringly evident at the Rio Olympics, where over 30 Kenyan-born athletes represented other countries, with Bahrain and Turkey benefiting the most.

The Paris Olympics was no exception, with two former Kenyans; Winfred Yavi of Bahrain and Norah Jeruto of Kazakhstan, lining up alongside Kenyan runners Faith Cherotich and Beatrice Chepkoech in the women’s 3,000m steeplechase final. 

Yavi clinched the gold, outpacing her former compatriots, while Uganda’s Peruth Chemutai took silver, and Kenya’s Cherotich settled for bronze.

A photo of Winfred Yavi with a Diamond League trophy. /WINFRED YAVI

On her part, Yavi recently expressed the next thing she wants to take away from her country of birth, the world record currently held by Chepkoech, who has held the world record since July 2018 when she set a new mark of 8:44.32 at the Monaco Diamond League, lowering the time of 8:52.78, set by another Kenyan-born-Bahraini Ruth Jebet in 2016.

The 24-year-old was born in Makueni but moved to Bahrain when she was 15, becoming eligible to represent the Middle East nation in 2016 and made her debut at the 2017 World Championships where she managed eighth place in the 3,000m steeplechase.

Speaking during a breakfast with Team Kenya at the State Lodge in Eldoret, Ruto criticised the businessmen for failing to make themselves known in terms of availing the Team Kenya kits and merchandise to the general masses at the French capital city and the rest of the world, and moreso because the athletes wound up doing Kenya proud.

The President noted that Kenya's performance, coupled with the huge recognition the design of the kits drew, particularly those used in the athletics finals, led to increased popularity and desire for such merchandise which they could not find.

Faith Kipyegon modelling in the Paris 2024 Olympics athletics kit on April 11, 2024. /FAITH KIPYEGON

"Let me also say that we have a whole commercial business around these sports," Ruto stated.

"Our business people are sleeping on the job. How can people be looking for Kenyan sportswear and sports gear in Paris and there is nobody to sell? What are you doing?"

The Head of State thus challenged business people to step up and commercialize the Team Kenya Olympic merchandise.

"I want to encourage more business people, enterprises and companies to commercialise our sports. Put in the money for us to have that brand that is Kenyan and a brand that will earn more money for our men and women," Ruto added.

"I look forward to expanding the sports infrastructure and I want to encourage not just government but even the private sector. I know for example that around this region, there are facilities funded by different people. Those facilities should be taken to the next level so that we can have more young people access training, sports gear, facilities, assistance and mentorship as we deal with the menace of doping."

Whereas Ruto was right to slam the Kenyan businessmen for the missed opportunities, it is worth noting that Team Kenya's deal with Nike sees them enjoy exclusive rights to design, manufacture and distribute the kits.

The kits worn by Team Kenya at the Paris Olympics were designed by Nike as part of an agreement between the clothes manufacturer and the relevant federations. The new designs were unveiled on April 11 this year with Nike as the sales partner.

In 2023, while a section of the athletes competed at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, the then Sports CS Ababu Namwamba maintained that Team Kenya was only kitted by Nike.

At the online Nike store, the Team Kenya Miller's men's Nike Dri-FIT Short-Sleeve Running Top was listed for Ksh7,000 while the Team Kenya Phoenix Fleece Women's Nike Full-Zip Oversized Hoodie retailed at Ksh12,955. Both attires were unveiled this year.

It is not clear whether the patent rights can be extended to other businessmen to sell the kits.

The kits featured Dri-FIT ADV, innovative technologies that helped create a high-performance microfibre and polyester sweat-wicking fabric. The goal was to keep athletes dry and comfortable as they competed.

Nonetheless, a spot check by Viral Tea on Team Kenya's X page revealed a post from August 13 announcing officially that some of the Team Kenya merchandise went on sale online.

#TeamKenya merchandise ????
Effortless style????????

Contact 0768948987 to get your fits????
????????Bucket hats - ksh 2000
????????T-shirts - ksh 3000
????????Polo - ksh 3500
????????Half puffer jacket - ksh 5000#TeamKenya#HesabikaNaMabingwa pic.twitter.com/qoOVgEWbbe

— TeamKenya (@OlympicsKe) August 13, 2024

Speaking on Citizen TV's JKLive Show on Wednesday, August 14, Kipyegon revealed that following the incident which sparked a dramatic night on Monday, August 5 that led to the denial of a silver medal as a result of a disqualification, but thereafter being reinstated, Tsegay approached her the following day during the 1500m heats.

According to the Kenyan middle-distance runner, the Ethiopian expressed a remarkable gesture when she knelt and sought forgiveness from Kipyegon, who on her part accepted in favour of the spirit of competition.

"The following day when we ran the 1500m heats, she came and knelt before me and told me she was very sorry, that 'it was not you, it was me...please forgive me'. So I just forgave her...this is sports and we will meet again tomorrow and we need each other.

Faith Kipyegon celebrates winning the women's 1500m at the Paris 2024 Olympics on August 10, 2024. /FAITH KIPYEGON 

"I can't compete alone, so I need someone to compete with, so forgiving Tsegay and then we came to be friends. This is sports, we have to be content with each other and keep breaking records as well as pushing each other to the limit," she revealed.

Opening up on the incident, Kipyegon recounted being on the verge of leading the 5000m race ahead of eventual winner, Beatrice Chebet in what would have been a rare double Olympic gold on her part, not knowing that the Ethiopian was in hot pursuit.

Amidst the intensity of the race coming into the final lap, Tsegay inched close, though came in too hard, a matter that led to a scuffle that almost led to her being pushed out of the race but she battled and fought her way back, at the same time maintaining her balance.

On Wednesday, August 14, Acting Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli received NPS athletes who represented Kenya in the just concluded Olympics at Jogoo House "A". 

The acting IG expressed gratitude to the athletes for their dedication and discipline and consequently promoted not just Chebet, but Abraham Kibiwott to Corporal on Merit.

"Corporal Chebet, a record holder in 10,000m, won two Gold medals after impressive outings in 5000m and 10,000m races, while Abraham Kibiwot won a Bronze medal in the men's 3000m steeplechase," the statement by NPS read in part.

Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet salutes Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli who promoted her on August 14, 2024. /NATIONAL POLICE SERVICE 

In the women's 10,000m final at the Paris 2024 Olympics in France on August 9, Chebet held off a tense showdown in the final straight between her and Italy's Nadia Battocletti to clinch victory at a time of 30:43.25, a victory being testament to her relentless dedication and months of rigorous training.

Chebet had only clinched her second gold medal in one week after clinching gold in the women's 5000m final ahead of her countrywoman, Faith Kipyegon.

In his remarks, Masengeli lauded the Officers for their discipline and commitment which steered them to success, and further urged them to keep off malpractices especially doping.

"DIG-Kenya Police, Mr Eliud Lagat similarly affirmed that the exploits by NPS Officers in both track and field are a clear indication of NPS's commitment to promoting sports in the Service, and commended the athletes and their technical team," added the statement.

Men's 800m gold medalist Emmanuel Wanyonyi, women's 800m Bronze winner Mary Moraa and Julius Yego (Javeline), a Senior Sergeant, were also present.

Moraa, who clocked 1:57.42, expressed pride in her achievement, finishing behind Britain’s Keely Hodgkinson and Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma.

Wanyonyi, on his part, clinched victory in the men's 800m at a time of 1:41.19, defeating his closest challenger, Canadian Marco Arop in a photo finish.

Kenya's Paris Olympics campaign saw the nation finish 17th in the global standings, leading Africa with a total of 11 medals, four golds, two silvers, and five bronzes, and second overall globally in athletics behind the United States (US).

Among the 11 medals that Kenya received in the Paris Olympics, four were bagged by NPS Officers, which underscores the integral role of the police service in nurturing athletic talent.

A government delegation led by Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Principal Secretary Peter Tum welcomed the athletes back, celebrating their remarkable performances on the world stage.

"We are very happy as a country and as a ministry to receive them back for a job well done," Murkomen remarked, adding that President William Ruto would host the athletes in Eldoret.

Kenyan athletes who bagged a total of 11 medals in the Paris 2024 Olympics. /VIRAL TEA KE

In a heartfelt message he shared on his social media handles, the two-time Olympic champion noted that the loss on August 10 took a huge toll on him.

However, he did congratulate Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola who crossed the line in an Olympic record time of 2:06.26, recounting his experience of previously clinching Olympic titles for two years running.

"When you are ready to lay it all on the line, to achieve something that has never been done before - one must simply accept when the Tree of Life does not grant you the fruits of your labour.

Eliud Kipchoge during training on July 23, 2024. /ELIUD KIPCHOGE

"Yesterday marks a tough loss for me as I have worked towards this goal with every bit of devotion within me. I want to share my congratulations to Tamirat Tola on a very strong race today and on becoming an Olympic Champion. It’s the most special feeling in the world and I hope you are so proud of this achievement," he wrote in part.

Kipchoge, who has wowed fans all over the world with his prowess over the years, dipped out of contention in the early stages of the men's marathon, missing out on a chance to achieve what few thought would be possible.

"I want to say a heartfelt thank you to the many fans on the course today and around the world for your endless love and support. I hope you know how much it means to me. I will be back and the sun will continue to shine down upon us," he added.

"Tonight during the closing ceremony, I will represent Africa to close the Games together with the French President Emmanuel Macron."

Kipchoge failed to complete an Olympic marathon race for the first time in his illustrious career in a moment that left fans and enthusiasts of athletics all around the world in shock.

However, these were not the only moments that captured the world's attention in terms of athletics events. Kipchoge, the former Olympic champion and Obiri battled scorching conditions and a tricky course with inclines wearing an accessory many were seeing for the very first time.

The duo were across the two days spotted wearing an Omius cooling headband. In fact, numerous top athletes in the race were sporting it as the gruelling nature of the Paris marathon saw the world's best athletes pushed to the limit.

Bashir Abdi, who won the silver medal, wore the headband during the race (he took it off for the awards), as did Abdi Nageeye, the silver medalist from the Tokyo Games, who did not finish in Paris.

Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands in action during the Paris 2024 Olympic marathon on August 11, 2024. /WORLD ATHLETICS

When she crossed the finish line with an Olympic record of 2:22.55, Hassan was captured wearing the same headband, which is a unique type of headgear designed to help regulate body temperature during intense physical exertion.

According to the Omius website, the technology inside the 15-gram headband works when sweat is absorbed into the little squares on the front of the headband.

The amplified cooling effect of the Omius technology comes from water being absorbed into the cooling pieces where it has five times more surface area for evaporation.

The transformation of water from a liquid to a gas on the surface of the graphite pulls heat from the inside of the cooling pieces which are in contact with the skin and thus cooling the skin.

Because the cooling effect is driven solely by water evaporation the effect will continue indefinitely as long as the cooling pieces are wet and have airflow across them.

These features make the Omius headband a vital accessory designed with the advancements in technology to optimise heat dissipation, a crucial factor in maintaining peak performance in marathon running.

In addition to its functional design, the headband is crafted from high-quality elastic material that adjusts to fit most head sizes, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit throughout the race. It is available in two colours, black and white, allowing athletes to select a headband that matches their personal preference or team colours.

However, it is far from any ordinary headband in terms of price, and as reported by Runners World, one piece will set you back Ksh25,800 (US$200) at current exchange rates, though it is a worthy investment for athletes seeking big goals during marathons.

Furthermore, thanks to the Omius headband's versatility, its cooling pieces used in the headband can also be transferred to other Omius products, such as visors and caps, which are designed with the same silicone grid system. This allows athletes to customize their cooling gear based on the specific demands of their sport or personal comfort.

However, it’s important to note that the headband, visor, and cap are sold separately, with each requiring 20 cooling pieces to function effectively. The price varies depending on the quality and brand.

Other Olympic-level athletes have tried out the cooling accessory recently, which has been more commonly used in triathlons. Last week, the winner of the men’s 20K race walk, Brian Pintado of Ecuador, was spotted using it during his race.

American marathoner Aliphine Tuliamuk was seen wearing a visor version before February’s Olympic Marathon Trials in Orlando, Florida, United States (US).

Kipyegon on Saturday, August 10 obliterated her competition in the final 100 metres to win gold, setting an Olympic record of 3:51.29 which now cements her status as one of the greatest Kenyan athletes of all time. 

The Kenyan star won the 1500m title at the 2016 Rio Games and 2021 Tokyo Olympics. This win ensured she stamped her dominance in the distance, becoming the first Kenyan to win three gold medals at the Olympics.

She blew past Australian Jessica Hull (3:52.56) and Briton Georgia Bell (3:52.61) to clinch the top position, as fellow Kenyan Susan Ejore settled for sixth in 3:56.07. Ethiopia's tactics through Gudaf Tsegay in starting the race on the front foot fell apart.

Faith Kipyegon crossing the finish line during the women's 1500m final on August 10, 2024. /WORLD ATHLETICS

Kipyegon's gold is Kenya's fourth gold in the 2024 Olympics, the second in a single day, coming a few moments after her male compatriot, Emmanuel Wanyonyi, clinched victory in the men's 800m at a time of 1:41.19.

Kipchoge failed to complete an Olympic marathon race for the first time in his illustrious career in a moment that left fans and enthusiasts of athletics all around the world in shock.

The 39-year-old, known for achieving what human beings believed was impossible in the 42-kilometre races, dropped out of the Paris Olympic marathon on Saturday, August 10 after running for just 31 kilometres.

This was attributed to a discomfort around his waist which was shown in front of his fans watching on TV when he appeared to clutch his backside.

Kipchoge was chasing an unprecedented third successive Olympic title in the marathon and was seen as a favourite to clinch the impossible, but his bid for immortality fell flat just over the halfway point.

Kipchoge's exit from the race was marked by a poignant reflection on his career. He expressed his honest disappointment but remained composed, acknowledging the end of a significant chapter in his life.

“It is a difficult time for me,” he admitted after dropping out just after the 30km mark after an hour and about 40 seconds of running.

Adding "This is my worst marathon. I have never done a DNF (did not finish). That’s life. Like a boxer, I have been knocked down, I have won, I have come second, eighth, 10th, fifth – now I did not finish. That’s life."

On whether he would attempt another Olympic race in Los Angeles in 2028, Kipchoge diminished any hopes fans might have had in seeing him take to the streets of the Southern California city in the United States (US).

“You will see me in a different way, maybe giving people motivation, but I will not run," he said.

"I don't know what next. I need to go back [home], sit down, and try to figure out my 21 years of running at a high level. I need to evolve and feature in other things.”

In a video seen by Viral Tea, Kipchoge had stopped and while in the crowd, handed over his shoes, bib, and socks to supporters, receiving a rapturous reception, an early indication that he had called time on his career at the Olympic Games. Held every four years, it is considered the world's foremost sports competition.

Kipchoge, the double Olympic marathon champion, sat in 63rd place after the first 25km before withdrawing after falling back, showing visible signs of discomfort as he clutched the left side of his stomach and upper hip.

Ethiopian Tamirat Tola delivered a masterclass to win the Olympic men’s marathon in Paris by clocking an Olympic record time of 2:06.26 to secure the victory and end the country's wait for a gold medal in these Games.

He dethroned Kipchoge who was the defending champion in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and ended his ambitious attempt at a third consecutive win.

The Kenyan marathon legend furthermore no longer holds the world record over 26.2 miles (42.195km), as his mark was bettered by the late Kelvin Kiptum last October, signalling the nearing of the end of his era and the start of a new one in a different athlete.

Kipchoge, who dominated the marathon scene between 2014 and 2023 with 11 major wins, excelled in Berlin (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023) and London (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019). He also boasts two World Championships’ 5,000m medals—gold in 2003 and silver in 2007—and was a finalist three other times.

Paris marked his first major global title when he won the 5,000m gold at the Stade de France in 2003. The most decorated marathoner, Kipchoge's accolades include the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports (2023), ANOC Best Male Athlete of Tokyo 2020 (2021), and BBC World Sport Star of the Year (2019). He also received the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (2019) and Laureus Academy's Exceptional Achievement Award (2019).

Additional honours include IAAF Male Athlete of the Year (2018, 2019), Kenyan Sports Personality of the Year (2017, 2018, 2019, 2022), and AIMS Best Male Marathon Runner (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018).

The announcement marks the end of an era for Kipchoge, whose remarkable career has inspired countless athletes and running enthusiasts. His retirement from the Olympic competition marks the end of an extraordinary journey, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of marathon running.

Kipchoge, who has wowed fans all over the world with his prowess over the years, dipped out of contention in the early stages, missing out on a chance to achieve what few thought would be possible.

Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola crossed the line in an Olympic record time of 2:06.26 to secure the country's first gold of these Games.

Belgium's Bashit Abdi finished second to take the silver, with Kenya's Benson Kipruto winning bronze with a time of 2:07:00. It is worth noting that in 2023, Kipruto finished second behind the late Kelvin Kiptum, who set the world record (2:00:35).

Kenyan Benson Kipruto finished third in the men's marathon on August 10, 2024. /TEAM KENYA

32-year-old Tola stood out in Paris in style, breaking the late Samuel Wanjiru's record in the event, which had stood for 16 years since the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, by six seconds.

The marathon, a gruelling test of endurance, began with Kipchoge leading a formidable group of 14 athletes. However, the 39-year-old’s quest for immortality was dashed as he fell off the pace just at the halfway mark of the race. With 25 kilometres to go, the double Olympic marathon champion sat in 63rd place. 

Kipchoge had appeared to struggle for a while, having clutched his waist in the middle of the race, a sign that all was not well in his quest to make history.

Even though he commandeered an impressive 2:01:09 minutes personal best, Kipchoge’s performance was not enough to secure him a third consecutive gold, a feat no athlete has achieved at the Olympics.

Despite the struggle at the Paris Olympics, Kipchoge’s career remains marked by a series of stunning victories, including 12 major marathons from 2014 to 2023 and a slew of prestigious awards.

On Friday, August 9, she battled hard in the final 100 metres in front of over 70,000 fans at the Stade de France in Paris to clinch victory in the 10,000m race at a time of 30:43.25, completing her sweep of an Olympic double. 

Additionally, she became the first Kenyan woman to win a gold medal in the distance and the first athlete to win two individual gold medals in the Paris Olympics.

"To do the 5,000m and 10,000m is not something easy," Chebet told reporters after the win, who added that her strategy was "just focus, and know that you can achieve. Just believe in yourself.

Kenya's Beatrice Chebet in action at the women's 10,000m on August 9, 2024. /TEAM KENYA

"I believed that I could do it. I just wanted to win the 10,000m for my country. My country has never won a gold medal (in the women’s 10,000m). So I said I wanted to be the first woman to win a gold medal in the 10,000m."

The two episodes of heroics on Monday, August 5 and Friday will see her bag a plum paycheck. On April 10 this year, World Athletics announced that athletes including those from Kenya who win gold at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France will claim close to Ksh7 million in cash.

In a statement, World Athletics announced it will become the first international federation to award prize money at an Olympic Games, financially rewarding athletes for achieving the pinnacle of sporting success.

Beforehand, the International Olympic Committee did not give out cash prizes for competitions, but the new policy will see a substantial prize pot of US$2.4 million (approximately Ksh312.34 million) earmarked by World Athletics from the International Olympic Committee’s revenue share allocation, which is received every four years.

This will be used to reward athletes who win a gold medal in each of the 48 athletics events in Paris with the beneficiaries taking home US$50,000, approximated to Ksh6.45 million in current exchange rates, bringing to an end a tradition that lasted 128 years.

Relay teams will also share the same amount among their athletes. Traditionally, Olympic medal winners did not receive prize money as the event originated as an amateur competition.

While the prize money is only for gold medalists, World Athletics expressed that it is committed to extending the bonus initiative to Olympic silver and bronze medalists at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games in the United States (US).

Now, taking into consideration Chebet's gold medals already, which are Kenya's only ones so far out of a total of six heading into the penultimate weekend of the Olympics, she will take home approximately Ksh12.9 million from the reward system alone.

The payment of prize money will depend upon the World Athletics ratification process, including athletes undergoing and clearing the usual anti-doping procedures.

That's not all. President William Ruto had on July 12, 2024, directed former Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary, Ababu Namwamba to fast-track the new rates that will also see Olympic medalists rewarded higher.

Under the new arrangement by the government, gold medalists are rewarded with Ksh3 million, up from Ksh1 million, silver medallists Ksh2 million (up from Ksh1 million) and bronze medalists Ksh750,000 (up from Ksh500,000).

Given that Chebet bagged two gold medals, she is set to bag Ksh6 million from the Kenyan government, which will push her total earnings to Ksh18.9 million. With the double Olympics gold, Chebet will also harvest more as her appearance fees will go higher in each of her next events.

2024 is turning out to be a good year for Chebet who currently wields the women's 10,000m world record. On May 25, she ran an impressive 28:54.14 to make history at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, United States (US), becoming the first woman to run below the 29-minute barrier.

Beatrice Chebet poses for pictures after winning the women's 10,000m in a world record time of 28:54.14 during the 49th Pre Classic at Hayward Field, US on May 25, 2024. /REUTERS

In the women's 10,000m final at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in France, Chebet held off a tense showdown in the final straight between her and Italy's Nadia Battocletti to clinch victory at a time of 30:43.25.

Battocletti finished second in a new national record of 30:43.35, while reigning champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands clinched bronze in third, clocking a season’s best of 30:44.12.

Hassan, just like Chebet, clinched her second medal in a week, after winning bronze in the women's 5,000m race.

Kenya's Beatrice Chebet in action at the women's 10,000m on August 9, 2024. /TEAM KENYA

Chebet has now become the first Kenyan woman to win a gold medal in the distance. She is also the first athlete to win two individual gold medals in the Paris Olympics.

Chebet headed into the race as the favourite after winning the 5,000m but was facing stiff competition from Hassan and Gudaf Tsegay of Ethiopia. She is also the world record holder in the distance.

Other Kenyans in the race, Margaret Chelimo and Lilian Kasait finished fourth and fifth, respectively. Tsegay was sixth in 30:45.21.

Chebet had played a wait-and-see game for most of the race, which was hugely competitive, with the group not breaking up all through the 25 laps, until the home stretch.

The Kenyan had set herself perfectly in the middle of the pack, keen not to power too much with some energy already used up in the 5,000m, and also careful not to let the pace get off her grasp.

Chelimo had played pace setter for most of the race, as she controlled the tempo, with the Ethiopian contingent led by Tsegay constantly in her shadow.

Reigning champion Hassan, just as she did in the 5,000m, sat quietly at the back and only moved quickly upfront with two laps to go.

At the bell, Chebet began making her move, with Chelimo still pulling strings at the front. At the back straight, the field began breaking up, the wheat being sifted away from the chaff.

Known for her devastating finishing kick, Chebet bolted upfront in the final 100m, and Italian Battocletti, who finished fourth in the 5,000m tried her best to battle the pace. However, the Kenyan offered strong resistance to sprint to the line and clinch her second gold from the Games.

Before today, no Kenyan woman had won the 10,000m at the Olympics, with Naftali Temu being the only Kenyan with a 10,000m gold at the Games. 

"Congratulations to Beatrice Chebet for a brilliant performance in the 10,000 metres, securing Kenya its second gold medal of these Olympics! A fantastic achievement on her second gold medal. Hongera!" former Prime Minister Raila Odinga wrote on his social media handles.

In a statement, Athletics Kenya disclosed that the appeal was led by Milka Chemos, Bernard Ouma and Team Manager Peter Angwenyi, who won the case to deliver Kenya's third medal of the games. 

The Jury of Appeal reviewed all available evidence and agreed there was significant contact between, and by the two athletes, but concluded that the incident did not warrant a disqualification.

"The Jury wishes to make clear that jostling of this nature is never acceptable and therefore recommends that Faith Kipyegon receives a disciplinary yellow card which would carry throughout the remainder of the Games," the appeal read in part.

Kenya's Beatrice Chebet has ended the country's wait for a medal in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, winning gold in the women's 5000m final.

Chebet on Monday, August 5 won at a time of 14:28.56, beating her fellow countrywoman, Faith Kipyegon, who finished second. However, a controversial incident saw Kipyegon disqualified, denying Kenya a 1-2 finish.

Kipyegon lost the silver medal to immediate defending champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands. This is after she was accused of pushing Ethiopia's Tsegay Gudaf. The incident is however being appealed.

Incident between Kenya's Faith Kipyegon and Ethiopian Gudaf Tsegay during the 5000M final race that resulted in Kipyegon's disqualification#ViralVideos #Paris2024 #Olympics pic.twitter.com/9b2KGRwk1F

— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) August 5, 2024

The athlete won the Paris Diamond League on Sunday, July 7 with a time of 3:49.04, which is better than the 3:49.11 she set during a Diamond League meet in Florence, Italy, on June 2, 2023.

"Faith Kipyegon breaks her own 1500m world record to finish off the Paris Diamond League in historic style," World Athletics announced, however noting that the victory is subject to the usual ratification procedures.

Kipyegon defeated Jessica Hull from Australia who came in second with a time of 3:50.83.

Faith Kipyegon in action during a past race in Paris, France. /FAITH KIPYEGON

Speaking in an earlier interview with World Athletics, Kipyegon revealed that she was making a comeback in the races with an injury though she expressed that it would not stop her from eventually retaining her title.

"I am really excited to be in Paris this year. You know, coming back with an injury and then running trials and being here in Paris, it is just really amazing," she stated.

"At first, when I got injured I was a little bit scared and you know when it comes to the Olympics and you have a little bit of irritation there and you are like 'yeah, it is the Olympic year and I want to go and defend my title, and now I have a little bit of problem but I really take it easy."

Kipyegon capped off a successful 2023 which saw her break three world records; the world mile, 1500m race and 5000m race.

In a statement on Tuesday, July 2, the decision to postpone the highly-anticipated marathon came owing to unavoidable circumstances beyond the control of the organising committee. 

The marathon has thus had its date moved to September 8, 2024.

“After widespread consultations, evaluation, and introspection, the Nairobi City Marathon, earlier scheduled for this Sunday, July 7, has been postponed to September 8.

Participants at a past Nairobi City marathon. /FILE

“The postponement has been occasioned by unavoidable, external circumstances beyond the control of the organizing committee,” the statement read in part.

The committee added that thousands of athletes who had already registered for the event had proposed for it to be shelved to a later date.

The committee further apologised to anyone who had expended resources and time preparing for this marathon and empathised with the inconvenience brought upon them by the sudden change of plans.

"We will push full steam ahead and work non-stop to ensure that the marathon is one of the biggest and most memorable events across the globe this year,” the statement added.

The committee however indicated that the postponement provides them with an opportunity to put in place measures to ensure a bigger and better edition.

It therefore urged interested participants to use the extended period to continue registering for the marathon and training for it.

Chebet on Saturday, May 25 ran an impressive 28:54.14 to make history at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, United States (US), subject to the usual ratification procedures by World Athletics.

The time is an astounding seven seconds faster than Letesenbet Gidey’s previous world record of 29:01.03, set in 2021, making her the first woman in history to go below 29 minutes on the track.

Chebet at the same time also automatically sealed her ticket to the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the women's 10,000m.

Passing the 400m mark, world 5000m record holder Gudaf Tsegay and Chebet were in the lead, closely following the pacemakers. Lilian Kasait was also in the mix, running among the top three athletes.

Beatrice Chebet during a past Diamond League event in Doha, Qatar. /FILE

Passing the 1200m mark, Chebet and Tsegay were still running in the lead, with the Ethiopian’s main focus being to attack the world record set by her compatriot, Letesenbet Gidey.

Tsegay had set the 5000m world record at last year’s Prefontaine Classic, obliterating Faith Kipyegon’s world record that she had set at the Diamond League Meeting in Paris.

Passing the 3000m mark, the two women were running in the lead with Margaret Chelimo, Catherine Reline, and Emmaculate Anyango running from the front too. Kasait still had her place, running in third.

As the athletes passed the 5000m mark, Chebet had taken the lead, with Tsegay having faded to third place and Sarah Chelangat now running in second place. Chebet looked very comfortable to have taken the role of attacking the world record.

Passing the 7000m mark, Faith Chepkoech had now taken the lead with Tsegay now running in second and Chebet dropped to third. Kasait had been pushed to fourth place but she was certainly looking comfortable.

As the women passed the 9000m mark, Chepkoech was still running in the front with Tsegay running in second place and Chebet in third. Kasait was running in fourth, looking very poised.

However, it was Chebet who had better legs and took the top prize, winning in a world record time of 28:54.14.

Chebet won world championships silver and bronze medals in the 5000m the last two years. Among the prominent figures who led in congratulating her was President William Ruto who flew back to the country from his state visit to the United States (US).

"Congratulations Beatrice Chebet for breaking the women's 10,000m world record in Oregon. Your extraordinary performance, becoming the first woman in history to break 29 minutes on the track, fills us with pride," he wrote on social media.

For breaking the world record, Chebet is now in pole position to pocket Ksh5 million in line with President Ruto's order.

Kwemoi, a rising star in road running, had represented Kenya in numerous events, including the World Championships and the Commonwealth Games.

The AIU in a statement disclosed that Kwemoi was informed about irregularities in his Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) profile and warned of potential charges.

However, he failed to respond within the specified timeframe, leading to strict sanctions from the doping authorities. 

Former World Under-20 champion Rodgers Kwemoi during a past race. /FILE

The ban will be retroactive to August 8, 2023, and Kwemoi’s competition results from July 18, 2016, to August 8, 2023, will be annulled.

The Japan-based athlete will forfeit the Istanbul Half Marathon title, his 2018 Commonwealth Games bronze medal, and his 2016 World Under-20 Championship gold in the 10,000m.

The AIU stated that in May last year, they informed Kwemoi of the irregularities in his ABP profile and considered bringing charges against him. He was invited to explain the discrepancies but did not respond within the deadline.

Kwemoi later argued that the irregularities were due to natural variations influenced by changes in climate, altitude, and other environmental factors. However, the panel rejected his explanation.

Despite this, he insisted that the AIU's explanation was insufficient to conclude that he violated anti-doping rules.

According to the AIU, inconsistencies in the Japan-based runner’s samples were noted before the 2016 World Under-20 Championships, leading to the ruling that his ban started from that time, disqualifying his results since then.

The disciplinary tribunal's decision indicated that Kwemoi engaged in a deliberate, systematic, and sophisticated doping scheme, which would not have been feasible without intentional effort and expert assistance.

Kwemoi rose to prominence in 2016 by defeating Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo to win gold in the World Under-20 Championships in Bydgoszcz, Poland. He later secured a bronze medal as a Commonwealth debutant in 2018. He finished fourth in the 2019 World Championships and seventh in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

The 28-year-old athlete is part of the Kogyo Corporate team in Japan but splits his time between Kogyo and the Global Communication camp in Kaptagat, Kenya under coach Patrick Sang.

This is notably the same training camp where global superstars Eliud Kipchoge, Faith Kipyegon, and Geoffrey Kamworor train.

He may challenge the decision through an appeal made to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Kenya’s Rodgers Kwemoi (bronze) poses with his medal a day after the athletics men’s 10000m final during the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games at the Carrara Stadium on the Gold Coast on April 14, 2018. /AFP

The five were sued by Joyce Komen, a senior lecturer at Moi University in Eldoret and whose wife is former runner Daniel Komen, whom she has also sued.

Also sued alongside Kipchoge is Brimin Kipruto, the 2008 winner of the 3,000-metre steeplechase in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and two cereal farmers-cum-businessmen over what she terms as illegal sale of their matrimonial property.

In the case that has been filed at the High Court in Eldoret, Komen, who heads the university’s Department of Management Science, claimed that her husband sold the family property to the four defendants without involving her, despite having equal shares in the disputed parcel of land.

Signpost leading to the High Court in Eldoret. /PEOPLE DAILY

Kipchoge, who spoke during an interview with BBC Sports, alleged to have received death threats from users on social media, something he termed as a nightmare in his entire life.

In particular, some netizens claimed that Kipchoge was part of a conspiracy to kill Kiptum, who had won the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon with a time of 2:00:35, causing an upset by breaking the world record set by the two-time Olympic champion.

Eliud Kipchoge crying during an interview with BBC which was aired on May 7, 2024. /BBC

"I was shocked that people [on] social media platforms are saying 'Eliud is involved in the death of this boy'," the 39-year-old narrated, adding "That was the worst news ever in my life."

"I received a lot of bad things; that they will burn the (training) camp, they will burn my investments in town, they will burn my house, they will burn my family. It did not happen but that is how the world is."

Kipchoge would go on to reveal that on seeing the abuse and false rumours circulating social media, his first instinct was to check if his family was safe.

He noted that he didn't have the power to go to the police and inform them about the threats to his life, thus his concern was the well-being of his family, whom he told to be extra conscious...and cautious.

"I started to call a lot of people. I got really scared of my children going to school and coming back.

"Sometimes they bike around, but we had to stop them because you never know what will happen. We started to drop them [off] and pick them [up] in the evening. My girl was in boarding school - that was positive that she had no access as far as social media is concerned - but it’s tough for my boys to hear 'Your dad has killed somebody'," he added.

Kipchoge was overtaken by emotion during a candid interview at his home in Eldoret when discussing the impact the campaign of abuse had on his mother.

"My worst moment was (when) I tried to call my mum. She told me 'Just take care' and 'A lot has been going on'," he went on.

"Where I come from is a local area. And with the age of my mum, I realised that social media can go everywhere. But she gave me courage. It was a tough month."

However, Kipchoge opted not to take precautions for his safety, including changing training venues owing to his open life.

He also alleged to have "lost about 90%" of his friends amid the wrongful link to Kiptum's accident and online abuse.

As a result, Kipchoge's team decided to take the distance runner off social media in the wake of the abuse, but he said he never considered deleting his accounts, arguing that he had nothing to hide and didn't do anything wrong.

However, he believes the social media abuse affected his performance in competition. Kipchoge came 10th in the Tokyo Marathon on March 3, his lowest finish since his debut in 2013, crossing the line over two and a half minutes behind the winner Benson Kipruto.

"When I was in Tokyo I had three days which I did not sleep. It was my worst ever position," he continued.

Despite the setback, he was named to Kenya's marathon team for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and is aiming for redemption by becoming the first athlete to win three Olympic marathon golds following his successes at Rio in 2016 and Tokyo in 2021.

Athletics Kenya (AK) named the final list of the marathon team, which was slimmed down to eight from a stacked squad of 11 runners named last month.

Munyao last week defied all odds to defeat Bekele on Sunday, April 21 in the final kilometre of the London Marathon, as he pumped up the pace to convincingly win the title, ensuring the title won by the late Kevin Kiptum last year remains with Kenya.

He clinched the win with a time of 2:04.01 which was better than Bekele's 2:04.15.

Alexander Munyao crossing the finish line to win the 2024 London Marathon on April 21, 2024. /VOA NEWS

Wanyonyi won the Adizero Road to Records event in Herzogenaurach, Germany, on Saturday, April 27 with a time of 3:54.5, subject to the usual ratification procedures by World Athletics.

Deciding to make his mile debut rather than race his specialist distance, the 19-year-old improved the previous world record of 3:56.13 set by USA’s Hobbs Kessler at the World Athletics Road Running Championships Riga 23 in October, despite celebrating on his way to the tape.

Kessler was second on this occasion, chasing Wanyonyi over the finish line in 3:56.1, while South Africa’s Ryan Mphahlele was third in 3:56.4.

Graphic of Emmanuel Wanyonyi breaking the World Road Mile record. /WORLD ATHLETICS

On a busy day of racing in Herzogenaurach, the men’s mile followed a rare road 800m which was won by Canada’s Marco Arop, who beat Wanyonyi to the world title in Budapest last year. Arop clocked 1:45.

The road mile was officially recognized as a world record discipline in September 2023, which puts Wanyonyi's performance among great athletics achievements.

While the world record for the mile on track remains at 3:43.13, set by Morocco's Hicham El Guerrouj in 1999, Wanyonyi's performance is a landmark for road racing.

Wanyonyi recently cruised to his third straight win at the Kip Keino Classic held at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Saturday, April 20, setting a world-leading time of 1:43.57 to claim top honour ahead of the Olympic trials.

African Games 800m champion Aron Kemei clocked a personal best of 1:44.10 while finishing second. Olympics silver medalist Ferguson Rotich finished third in a season’s best of 1:44.90. 

In 2023, Wanyonyi was nominated for the year's Rising Star Awards World Athletics Awards 2023. 

Meanwhile, Kenya's Agnes Ngetich threatened the women-only world record for 10km by running 30:03.

With that performance, the 23-year-old was just two seconds off the record set by the late Agnes Tirop at this event in 2021. In Herzogenaurach, athletes wore limited-edition kits in honour of Tirop.

In the women’s 5km, world U20 5000m champion Medina Eisa clocked a winning 14:38 – the fastest-ever women’s road 5km by a U20 athlete.

Kenya's Agnes Ngetich during a past race. /CAROL RADULL

Munyao sprinted away from Bekele in the final kilometre of the race, as he pumped up the pace to convincingly win the title, ensuring the title won by the late Kevin Kiptum last year remains with Kenya.

He clinched the win with a time of 2:04.01 which was better than Bekele's 2:04.15.

"Alexander Munyao fights off Kenenisa Bekele and wins the 2024 TCS London Marathon," announced the London Marathon through its official channels.

Ethiopia's Kenenisa Bekele in action during the 2024 London Marathon on April 21, 2024. /WORLD ATHLETICS

Bekele, 41, is a veteran on the athletics scene with three Olympic golds and five world titles to his name but a win on the streets of London continued to elude him.

However, by finishing second today, he ran his fastest marathon since 2019!

Britain's Emile Cairess finished third in the marathon followed by another Brit, Mahamed Mahamed who is expected to head to the Paris Olympics after the race.

The third, Cairess, and fourth, Mahamed, contestants managed a time of 2:06:46 and 2:07:05 respectively.

According to the World Athletics website, Munyao is relatively a new entrant in the marathon race having only previously won a bronze medal during the World U18 Championships.

The win for Munyao in London on April 21 caps a fine day for Kenya in the marathon. In the women's edition, Peres Jepchirchir broke the women's only world record in the 2024 London Marathon.

Jepchirchir won the marathon on Sunday, April 21 clocking 2:16.16, which was better than the 2:17.01 set by Mary Keitany.

She was racing against Tigist Assefa (Ethiopia), Megertu Alemu (Ethiopia) and Joyciline Jepkosgei (Kenya). Assefa who had been lauded as a favourite before the race finished second with Joyciline Jepkosgei taking bronze.

The Olympic champion was overwhelmed with emotions after winning the race, a redemption from her third-place finish in the 2023 edition, which was won by Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands.

Jepchirchir won the marathon on Sunday, April 21 clocking 2:16.16, which is better than the 2:17.01 set by Mary Keitany.

She was racing against Tigist Assefa (Ethiopia), Megertu Alemu (Ethiopia) and Joyciline Jepkosgei (Kenya).

Assefa who had been lauded as a favourite before the race finished second with Joyciline Jepkosgei taking bronze.

Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir receives a Guinness World Records certificate on April 21, 2024. /GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS

Ethiopian Tigst Assefa clocked 2:16:23 while Joyciline Jepkosgei came third after clocking 2:16:24.

No athlete from the United Kingdom where the race is being held managed to be in the top 10. Mhairi Maclennan was the first British woman to cross the finish line taking an overall 11th position.

The Olympic champion was overwhelmed with emotions after winning the race, a redemption from her third-place finish in the 2023 edition, which was won by Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands.

Jepchirchir finished third behind Hassan who won the marathon on her first attempt, having switched from track and field where she dominated the 5,000 and 10,000 km races, finishing at a time of 2:18:34.

Jepchirchir had lost in the latter stages after being sidelined for months with an injury, despite taking control of the race in the earlier stages.

Hassan, who had fallen behind in the latter stages, pulled a stunning comeback to bag the coveted title in her debut marathon.

Among those who congratulated Jepchirchir for her amazing feat on April 21 was Guinness World Records, with an official photographed handing her one of the official certificates.

"What a fantastic marathon! Peres Jepchirchir runs the fastest female marathon ever with a time of 02:16:16," GWR wrote on X.

Her first major tournament win was in 2019 after she won the Luso Meia Maratona, Lisboa, Half Marathon in Portugal. 

Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir competing in the 2023 London Marathon on April 23, 2023. /FACEBOOK

Kenneth Bednarek of the United States of America (USA) clinched victory in front of Kenyan fans at the Nyayo National Stadium, clocking a time of 9.91 seconds.

Omanyala finished at a time of 10.03 seconds in his first race in 2024, but ahead of his fellow countryman Mark Odhiambo who finished sixth with 10.22.

Kenyans watching the leaderboard showing results of the men's 100 m race during the Kip Keino Classic at Nyayo Stadium on April 20, 2024. /X

Liberia's Emmanuel Matadi came second with a 9.99 behind Bednarek while Great Britain's Jeremiah Azu came third with a 10.00-second result.

Italy's Chituru Ali emerged fourth with a 10.01 finish and finished moments before Omanyala. 

During the race, there was a small hitch as the starting blocks were not in line hence causing the athletes to restart. 

On the women's side, Kenya's Esther Mbagari emerged seventh in the women's 100-metre category, clocking in at 12.08.

Ghana's Gina Mariam Bittaye scooped the top position with 11.33, followed by Egypt's Basanta Hemida (11.51) and USA's Shannon Ray (11.53).

Prior to the race, Bednarek, a world silver medallist, expressed optimism of victory, going by his peerless form that has seen him bag a couple of races in the new season.

"I'm glad to be back (in Kenya), I'm excited for this week. I'm ready to take on Omanyala and the other competitors, and to have some fun too," Bednarek underlined.

It is worth noting that Bednarek came second to Omanyala in the 2023 Kip Keino classic with 9.98 seconds while Omanyala won with 9.84 seconds, considered the latter's best time in the 100 metres race in the 2023 season and the best time in the world in the 2023 season.

Omanyala's 9.84 seconds that year was better than his record of 9.85 during the same event on May 7, 2022, which earned him the title of Africa's fastest man, officially, setting the world's fastest time for 2022.

On the bright side, Kenya's world 800m silver medalist Emmanuel Wanyonyi cruised to his third straight win at the Kip Keino Classic, setting a world-leading time of 1:43.57 to claim top honour ahead of the Olympic trials.

African Games 800m champion Aron Kemei clocked a personal best of 1:44.10 while finishing second. Olympics silver medalist Ferguson Rotich finished third in a season’s best of 1:44.90. 

Kenya's Emmanuel Wanyonyi in action during a past race. /FILE

Beijing Half Marathon organisers in China on Monday, April 15 launched an investigation into possible race fixing after a clip surfaced showing the three athletes deliberately slowing down to let Chinese counterpart He Jie break a national record.

The Chinese national who is the 2023 Asian Games marathon gold medallist went on to win the race, with clips also showing him celebrating his victory by a second even though he was handed a visible advantage by his colleagues.

In what appeared to be a predetermined result, the two Kenyans and the Ethiopian national hugged He Jie and congratulated him after the deliberate slowdown towards the finish line. At one point, they had frantically waved him to overtake them as they headed towards the finish line. 

Athletes in action at the Beijing Half Marathon held on April 14, 2024. /XINHUA.SHUTTERSTOCK

According to World Athletics, one of the Kenyans who deliberately sidestepped to let He Jie win is represented by a Chinese agent.

He Jie nonetheless faced criticism from his fans who noted that the win could ruin his athletics career. This is despite Chinese media celebrating him without mentioning the help he got from the three athletes.

Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, however, Mnangat defended Jie stating that he, Robert Keter and Dejene Hailu from Ethiopia were pacesetters in the race who were contracted to help Jie win the race and break the Chinese half-marathon record of 1:02:33.

This is despite only one out of the four pacesetters not making it to the finish line.

"I was not there to compete. It was not a competitive race for me. My job was to set the pace and help the guy win, but unfortunately, he did not achieve the target, which was to break the national record," Mnangat responded. 

"I don't know why they put my name on my bib/chest number instead of labelling it as a pacemaker."

The Kenyan athlete attributed his longstanding friendship with Jie as another reason for letting him win.

“He comes to Kenya and I was pacing for him in the Wuxi Marathon, so he is my friend, OK,” Mnangat added.

A spokesperson at the Beijing Sports Bureau told AFP they were investigating the incident, adding: "We will announce the results to the public once they are available."

Xstep, a Chinese sports brand that sponsored the event and has a contract with He, told Chinese state-owned The Paper, that the situation was still being confirmed and verified by multiple parties and that further information would be communicated as soon as possible.

World Athletics on its part stated that it was aware of the footage circulating online from the Beijing half marathon during this past weekend and understands an investigation is currently being conducted by the relevant local authorities.

"The integrity of our sport is the highest priority at World Athletics, while this investigation is ongoing we are unable to provide further comment," the athletics body stated.

Collage of He Jie who won the Beijing Half Marathon on April 14, 2024. /NINES WIDE WORLD OF SPORTS

Obiri on Monday, April 15 successfully defended her Boston Marathon title, crossing the finish line at a time of 2:22.37. She is the first woman to win back-to-back titles since Catherine Ndereba who did it in 2004 and 2005.

The 34-year-old led a Kenya 1-2-3 sweep with Sharon Lokedi and Edna Kiplagat clinching the second and third positions respectively.

Hellen Obiri in action during the 2024 Boston Marathon on April 15, 2024. /SPRINGBAK INC.

She prevailed by eight seconds over Lokedi, the 2022 New York City Marathon winner. Kiplagat, a 44-year-old Kenyan and two-time Boston winner, was third.

Obiri, who won the last two Olympic 5000m silver medals, moved up to the marathon in 2022 and has now won three major titles -- Boston twice, plus New York City last November.

Unlike the men’s race where Ethiopian Sisay Lemma took off early and never looked back, the women stayed together for most of the race until when it mattered most.

Obiri, Lokedi and Kiplagat would exchange leads but stayed close to each other in the final stretch. The 44-year-old Kiplagat appeared set to pull an upset, and perhaps win her third title in Boston, but she ran out of steam when Obiri and Lokedi pulled away.

Obiri then waited until the business end to sprint away from Lokedi to win her second straight title in a time of 2:22:37 and defend her crown.

Obiri became the sixth woman to make it back-to-back titles in Boston in what is now becoming her favourite course after her maiden marathon victory last year.

The New York Marathon champion has effectively sealed her place in Team Kenya at the Paris Olympics after being named in the final team of six over a week ago.

In the men's edition, Evans Chebet’s dream of becoming the first man since Robert Cheruiyot in 2008 to win the Boston Marathon three times in a row was shattered, as the defending champion settled for third place, clocking 2:07:22.

Boston Marathon History

Boston Marathon remains the oldest marathon in the United States (US) and the second oldest in the world, after Osaka-Lake Biwa Marathon, with the 2024 race being its 128th edition.

The men’s race was previously a preserve of Americans, who won it 45 times from 1897 to 1988, with Canadians, Europeans and Asians claiming the other titles until Africans took over.

The first African man to win it was Kenya’s Ibrahim Hussein, who clocked 2:08:43 in 1988, and it seems to have opened the door for his country to dominate the race.

Since then, 25 of the 35 titles have gone to Kenya men, including 10 straight from 1992-2000, while runners from the East African nation have also won five of the last six, among them titles from 2019 to 2023.

Sisay Lemma wins the 2024 Boston Marathon. /CITIUS MAG

For the women's edition, it was run much later in 1966 as Americans claimed the first nine crowns followed by six more from 1975-1985. There were winners from Canada, Germany, Norway, Portugal, New Zealand and Russia until 1997 when Africans took over.

That was Ethiopian Fatuma Roba, who won three straight from 1997-1999, before Kenyan legend Catherine ‘The Great’ Ndereba won two of her four Boston crowns back-to-back in 2000 and 2001, handing the mantle to compatriot Margaret Okayo, with Russian Svetlana Zakharova winning it 2003, after which Ndereba won again in 2004 and 2005.

Since then, Kenyan women have won 10 of the last 17, including the last three. Over that period, Two Kenyan women have won it twice; Edna Kiplagat (2017 and 2021) and Rita Jeptoo (2006 and 2013), although she was stripped of her second title due to a doping offence.

In a statement on Wednesday, April 10, World Athletics announced it will become the first international federation to award prize money at an Olympic Games, financially rewarding athletes for achieving the pinnacle of sporting success.

Beforehand, the International Olympic Committee did not give out cash prizes for competitions, but that is now set to change.

The new policy will see a substantial prize pot of US$2.4 million (approximately Ksh312.34 million) earmarked by World Athletics from the International Olympic Committee’s revenue share allocation, which is received every four years.

Collage of Faith Kipyegon named the World Athlete of the Year in Track events. /WORLD ATHLETICS

This will be used to reward athletes who win a gold medal in each of the 48 athletics events in Paris with the beneficiaries taking home US$50,000, approximated to Ksh6.51 million in current exchange rates.

This initiative by World Athletics also includes a firm commitment to extend the prize money at a tiered level, to Olympic silver and bronze medal winners at the LA 2028 Olympic Games.

When sharing details of the decision, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe commented that the introduction of prize money for Olympic gold medallists is a pivotal moment for World Athletics and the sport of athletics as a whole, underscoring its commitment to empowering the athletes and recognising the critical role they play in the success of any Olympic Games.

He added that the initiative is the continuation of a journey started back in 2015, which sees all the money World Athletics receives from the International Olympic Committee for the Olympic Games go directly back into the popular sport.

“We started with the Olympic dividend payments to our Member Federations, which saw us distribute an extra US$5m a year on top of existing grants aimed at athletics growth projects, and we are now in a position to also fund gold medal performances for athletes in Paris, with a commitment to reward all three medallists at the LA28 Olympic Games," he stated.

“While it is impossible to put a marketable value on winning an Olympic medal, or on the commitment and focus it takes to even represent your country at an Olympic Games, I think it is important we start somewhere and make sure some of the revenues generated by our athletes at the Olympic Games are directly returned to those who make the Games the global spectacle that it is.”

The payment of prize money will depend upon the World Athletics ratification process, including athletes undergoing and clearing the usual anti-doping procedures.

Each Olympic champion will receive Ksh6.51 million, with relay teams bagging the same amount, to be shared among the team. The format and structure of the LA28 Olympic bonuses will be announced nearer the time.

The prize rewards are likely to motivate Kenyan athletes who powered the country to four gold medals in Tokyo three years ago courtesy of Eliud Kipchoge, Faith Kipyegon, Emmanuel Korir, and Peres Jepchirchir.

Kenya, renowned for its dominance in distance running, has already unveiled its marathon team for the upcoming Olympics, headlined by the illustrious Eliud Kipchoge, a two-time defending champion.

Joining Kipchoge are seasoned athletes including Benson Kipruto, Timothy Kiplagat, Vincent Ngetich, and Alexander Munyao.

The selection process, overseen by Athletics Kenya, was based on stringent criteria including the 2023 World Marathon rankings and performances at the prestigious World Marathon Majors.

Notable inclusions in the women's squad are reigning Boston and New York Marathon champion Hellen Obiri, and two-time Chicago Marathon winner Ruth Chepngetich, bringing a wealth of experience to the team. Athletics Kenya will announce the rest of the Olympics later this month.

President Ruto and Sports CS Ababu Namwamba with athletes Faith Kipyegon and Ferdinand Omanyala at State House, Nairobi on June 13, 2023. /WILLIAM RUTO

It is worth noting that the government on Tuesday, March 12 struck a deal with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to end what athletes considered double taxation upon winning any sports competitions abroad.

This is with the sole aim of shielding Kenya’s top brand ambassadors and ensuring that excessive taxes do not diminish their hard-earned winnings during international competitions.

There is already a Ksh5 million cash reward in place for athletes who break world records in any international competition.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba disclosed this development to the media, during the unveiling of the team leading the 'Road To Paris' Olympic preparations at the ministry's Talanta Plaza headquarters in Upperhill, Nairobi.

The CS noted that his ministry worked closely with KRA to mitigate the issue for athletes who achieve success on the international stage.

Athletes protesting at the Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi over biased selection criteria on March 5, 2024. /MICHELLE KATAMI

This is with the sole aim of shielding Kenya’s top brand ambassadors and ensuring that excessive taxes do not diminish their hard-earned winnings during international competitions.

“By advocating for this cause, my Ministry strives to uphold principles of fairness and equity, recognizing the dedication and sacrifices made by athletes,” explained CS Ababu.

The Cabinet Secretary stressed that this effort aligns with the Ministry's Talanta Hela goal of nurturing sporting talents through effective partnerships, creating a supportive environment for athletes to excel on and off the field.

“This underscores the government's commitment to realize the Talanta Hela vision of not only celebrating talents but also transforming them into tangible monetary value towards empowering athletes to maximize their potential and contribute to Kenya's sporting legacy,” he quipped.

Double taxation was halted in 2013 after the election of Wesley Korir as the Cherangany Member of Parliament.

During his tenure as the legislator, he lobbied Parliament to pass a motion requiring KRA to give concessions to athletes. 

Team Kenya Olympics Kits

Meanwhile, the event also included a detailed update on Team Kenya's ceremonial kit, being designed by talented Kenyan designers.

CS Namwamba emphasized the importance of inclusivity, transparency, and openness in every investment made for the Paris Olympic project.

Highlighting the significance of showcasing Kenya's heritage and promoting the country, the Cabinet Secretary stressed the need for a kit that reflects Kenya's diverse culture while staying trendy.

"The game is about showcasing the finest aspects of Kenya's heritage as we promote and market our country. Therefore, it's crucial to create a kit that embodies Kenya's diverse heritage while also being fashion-forward," he noted.

National Olympics Committee of Kenya SG Francis Mutuku added: “We have created a pathway towards creating the best kit through our formed opinion team that is looking at the designs. We are open to public consultation and engagement throughout the process.”

Sports CS Ababu Namwamba during the unveiling of the team leading the 'Road To Paris' Olympic preparations at Talanta Plaza headquarters in Nairobi on March 12, 2024. /MINISTRY OF SPORTS

Speaking during Kiptum's burial at Chepkorio, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Ruto urged the athletes participating in the games to put their best foot forward as a positive performance would adhere to the late Kiptum's wishes.

“We had faith and hope that he would keep Kenya on the world map even in the coming Olympics. But since we have you, our athletes, and you have heard from all of us…Paris is going to be the Olympics that is going to define this man, Kelvin," Ruto declared.

“We want you to make Paris an Olympics of Kelvin Kiptum. Help us and we know you can do it.”

On his part, Tuwei expressed regret over the absence of the late World marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum at the upcoming Paris Games, stating that Kiptum was among those initially selected for the event where he was meant to go head-to-head with the legendary Eliud Kipchoge.

He encouraged participants to train diligently in France and run as a cohesive team, dedicating their victory to Kiptum. 

"We wish to ask those who will be in Paris to train hard and run tactically as a team and bring the victory back to Kenya in honour of our departed Kelvin Kiptum," he said.

Additionally, he appealed to Elgeyo-Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich to consider employing Kiptum's widow within the county to support the young family, a request President Ruto later revealed he would honour.

Tuwei also mentioned plans to collaborate with the county, Nike, and other partners for an appropriate tribute to Kiptum. 

He thanked President Ruto for backing Kiptum's family and highlighted the government's support, including a furnished house and covering burial expenses. 

"Kiptum's dream was to make sure that a training field is established in Chepkorio. He was a real superstar whose career was on a spectacular upward trajectory," Tuwei recalled while praising Kiptum.

Kiptum voted the world's best male athlete in long-distance running in 2023, tragically lost his life along with coach Gervais Hakizimana in a road accident on February 11, 2024.

He was laid to rest later on Friday in Naiberi in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, where the government built a new home for his family.

Athletics Kenya President Jackson Tuwei speaking during the burial of Kelvin Kiptum on February 23, 2024. /PCS

The organisers had revealed to the media that the venue change resulted from strong winds which impacted the Chepsamo venue, wreaking havoc on property including tents erected on the grounds.

The damage was quite significant in that vehicles, according to photos seen by Viral Tea, were damaged by the tents which were blown off due to the impact of the strong winds.

Cars damaged by tents blown off by strong winds at Chepsamo grounds on February 22, 2024. /EVANGELINE MUKUA

At least two cars had suffered extensive damage; one with a smashed windscreen and frontal bonnet damage, while another had damage to the body. 

Meanwhile plans for the late Kiptum's burial at his home in Naiberi, Iten on Friday, February 23 after the funeral service were left intact.

Awuor further noted that she had been living with Kiptum from the onset of the intimate relationship, the only exception being the time she had to return to her parents' home when she gave birth.

The woman, Edna Owuor, claimed to have a child with the late marathoner and appeared in court while in the company of the child seeking to postpone the burial scheduled for the following day.

However, Justice Wananda, in response to the application presented by Owuor through her lawyer Joseph Oyaro, declined to issue an order preventing the burial, indicating that it would proceed as planned.

Collage of Kelvin Kiptum and a woman who moved to court to stop his burial from taking place on February 23, 2024. /GHETTO RADIO

Owuor argued that the rights of their one-year-and-seven-month-old child would be compromised if the burial was to proceed without her involvement.

She asserted that she was not included in funeral arrangements and also requested the court to authorize DNA testing to confirm the paternity of the child.

In declining to issue the orders, Justice Wananda noted that the burial preparations had been underway for a considerable period, involving substantial costs, and deemed it unjust to halt the interment at this stage.

Kiptum is set to be buried on Friday, February 23 in a state accorded funeral, which was approved by the cabinet and will be attended by President William Ruto, among other dignitaries.

On Thursday at 9:00 a.m., the marathoner's body left the morgue in a funeral procession that is expected to head on to Eldoret town for a public body viewing ceremony.

Later on, the funeral procession will head on to church for a funeral service before proceeding to his home in Naiberi, Iten.

Kelvin Kiptum, will laid to rest two days after the burial of his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who was buried yesterday in his home country Rwanda.

The burial date was moved up from the initial date of Saturday, February 24 owing to President Ruto's scheduled trip to Namibia.

A collage photo of Kelvin Kiptum's funeral procession in Eldoret on February 22, 2024. /VIRAL TEA KE

Speaking to the press, a family spokesperson explained that the changes were in adherence to President William Ruto's calendar.

Kiptum's family indicated that the changes were necessitated by President Ruto's trip to Namibia the following day, although State House is yet to confirm this.

"It is a state function. The President will be in attendance on Friday so the burial was moved up from 24th to 23rd," she explained.

"The President will be available on Friday before flying out to Namibia."

Namibia's President Nangolo Mbumba had announced that his predecessor Hage Geingob would be laid to rest on February 24, following his death on February 4. 

In reaction to the news of Geingob's demise, Ruto had condoled the late president's family for their loss while celebrating Geingob as a distinguished leader who served with diligence.

This was confirmed by Citizen TV's Mike Okinyi who revealed that Ruto had directed that the house be completed ahead of the athlete's burial on Saturday, February 24.

Once complete, the Head of State is expected to inspect the house before handing it over to Kiptum's widow and children before the deceased is laid to rest.

The late Kelvin Kiptum during a conversation with Sports CS, Ababu Namwamba in October 2023. /ABABU NAMWAMBA

"We had very special guests today visiting Kiptum’s family and they were sent by Dr William Ruto because they want to put in a house for him, they want to build a house for Kelvin Kiptum’s family and that’s a 3-bedroomed house that has to be ready before he is buried on the 24th.

"The engineers were on site today. The President says he wants to be in that house before this guy is sent off as a hero," Okinyi reported.

Furthermore, in effect of the directive, the engineers are expected to begin construction work on Friday following consultations between them and the family of the athlete yesterday.

The agenda of the Thursday discussions revolved around whether the house should be constructed at Kiptum's father's home or on land the athlete had bought.

Kiptum's last wish before dying in an accident on Sunday, February 11 was to build a home for his family. According to his wife, Asenath Jeruto, the athlete had already drafted his architectural plans for the dream house which was approved by the county government.

"We had very many good plans with my husband. Even in April, I was to go with with to the Rotterdam Marathon. The house was to be done in June and we planned to move out after that.

"He also had plans to open a business for me because I am a stay-at-home mom," she stated.

Ruto's order came notably after the Cabinet resolved to give the late athlete a befitting send-off, given that he set a new world record of 2:00:35 in Chicago, USA in October 2023.

Sharon Kosgey Who Survived Kiptum Accident Speaks

Meanwhile, the only survivor of the grisly road accident, Sharon Kosgey, recorded her statement with the police amidst ongoing investigations into what actually caused the accident.

While revealing the last moments of the crash that also claimed the life of Kiptum's coach, Gervais Hakizimana, Kosgey revealed that the vehicle was in good condition and had not experienced any hitches till the moment of the crash. 

In her statement, she indicated that she had warned Kiptum, who was driving at the time, that the vehicle was veering off the road, but the warning came too late when Kiptum was unable to steer the vehicle back onto the road

Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers investigating the incident revealed that they would continue gathering more information about the late Kiptum's final moments from individuals who were in his vicinity. The findings will be presented to the public upon completion.

Three mysterious men were interviewed to resolve the case. The individuals claimed that they had paid a visit to Kiptum's family at their home to resolve a Ksh45 million contract dispute between an unidentified Chinese company and the marathon star.

In a statement on Thursday, February 15, AK revealed that the former athlete died this morning while receiving treatment at the Nairobi South Hospital.

"Athletics Kenya is saddened to announce and notify the public of the demise of former Athlete Mr Henry Rono which occurred today at 10.30 am.

The late former world record holder, Henry Rono. /ATHLETICS KENYA

"He had been hospitalized at the Nairobi South Hospital for the past 10 days," the statement read in part.

AK praised Rono as a Kenyan retired track and field athlete who specialized in various long-distance running events.

He is remembered as the former record holder for the 3000-metre steeplechase for over a decade.

In 1978, Rono produced one of the greatest performances in athletics history, breaking four world records in 81 days.

Rono also ran 27:22.50 to smash the existing 10,000m world record in an event staged in Vienna, Austria in the same year.

A further addition to his accolades included his stint in the United States where he worked as an athletics coach, managing to produce a team of successful athletes.

"On behalf of Athletics Kenya Executive Committee and athletics fraternity, we wish to convey our sincere heartfelt condolence to his family, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity during this trying moment. May his soul rest in eternal peace," concluded the statement.

Rono's death came days after the world was stunned by overnight news that world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum died in a gruesome road accident in the Kaptagat area along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine Road alongside his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.

Burial preparations for the late Kiptum have begun with the organising committee indicating that the late athlete will be interred at this home on Saturday, February 24. 

The Cabinet on Wednesday announced that Kiptum would be accorded a State funeral to honour his exceptional achievements.

According to Elgeyo Marakwet CCIO Joshua Chelal, based on the accounts the suspects had given during their interrogation, the men were representatives of a Chinese company which was to supply sports equipment to Kiptum to be used during the Chicago marathon in April 2024 under a Ksh45 million signed contract.

"It is alleged that Kiptum opted to use a different brand and not the Chinese brand as agreed," Chelal told Citizen TV.

The CCIO further indicated that the men were sent in response to Kiptum rejecting the offer, thus prompting a more assertive approach by visiting the late marathoner's home in an attempt to make him change his mind.

"Therefore they (the Chinese company) were aggrieved and sent the four men to negotiate whether they could be compensated or whether they would be given another opportunity to supply Kiptum equipment for the forthcoming Rotterdam race slated for April 2024."

On their part, the men, through their lawyer, argued that they were well-known to Kiptum's family, further adding that the four had a fruitful discussion with the late marathoner during their interaction.

They were shocked at being linked to Kiptum's death, bearing in mind that they had good intentions for him.

They further denied reports that they were sent by State House as representatives, however, one of them completely refused to respond to questions regarding Kiptum's accident.

While three of the four men surrendered themselves to the authorities, the fourth one was arrested on Wednesday, February 14.

The men were grilled for hours as investigations into Kiptum's death continued, and will be required to report back to the CCIO on Friday.

The Sub-county Commander Keiyo South Abdullahi Dahir stated "What made us look for the four suspects is the allegation made by the father of the dead, we never had any prior allegation or report."

In the meantime, burial preparations for the late Kiptum have begun with the organising committee indicating that the late athlete will be interred at this home on Saturday, February 24. 

Through an official statement on his social media pages, Kipchoge remarked that Kiptum had a whole life ahead of him and was destined for greatness at the age of 24.

He further offered his condolences to the family of Kiptum, who died in a tragic road accident in the early hours of Monday morning.

"I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of the marathon world record holder and rising star Kelvin Kiptum," stated Kipchoge in part.

"An athlete who had a whole life ahead of him to achieve incredible greatness. I offer my condolences to his young family. May God comfort you during this trying time."

The two were expected to go head to head during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. In October 2023, during the Chicago Marathon, Kiptum broke Kipchoge's record after clocking 2:00:35.

Kipchoge, who spoke to the media in Spain where he was awarded the prestigious Princess of Asturias Sports Award for 2023 on October 20, 2023, expressed his happiness for Kiptum.

However, he revealed that he was not surprised that the late 24-year-old had broken his record, expressing his delight at setting the stage for other athletes to break records.

Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Peter Mulinge while speaking to the Nation revealed that the accident occurred on Sunday, February 11 at 11 pm, which also claimed the life of his Rwandese coach Gervais Hakizimana at the Kaptagat area along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road.

Kiptum and his coach died in an accident along the Eldoret-Kaptagat road. The Standard reported that this was confirmed by his family and traffic base commandant Dennis Muga.

Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ababu Namwamba, who was the first government official to react to the demise, wrote "Devastatingly sickening!! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words."

Former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, termed the demise of Kiptum a devastating affair and sent his condolences to his family.

Kelvin Kiptum in action during the 2023 Chicago Marathon. /X

"Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, World Record holder and Kenyan athletics icon. Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight.

"My deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity. Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero," he wrote.

Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi on his part wrote "He made an indelible mark not only through his achievements but also through mentorship and leadership, guiding aspiring athletes to reach their full potential. The legacy he leaves behind is a testament to his passion and commitment to excellence."

His untimely demise at the age of 24 comes almost a week after World Athletics announced the ratification of his world record.

Ratification is an official recognition and approval of a performance or record achieved by an athlete and formally cements the fete in the global scene.

According to the World Athletics, the marathon record was considered official based on the statement released. The previous world record at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon was 2 hours and 1 minute (2:01) based on World Athletics data.

In the statement ratifying the world record, World Athletics stated “Kenya’s Kiptum became the first athlete to break 2:01 in a record-eligible marathon, taking 34 seconds off the world record”.

Kiptum became the first athlete to break 2:01 in a record-eligible marathon, taking 34 seconds off the world record at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on 8 October.

With that performance, Kiptum improved his personal best by 50 seconds to surpass the world record of 2:01:09 set by his compatriot Eliud Kipchoge in Berlin on 25 September 2022.

He pushed the pace throughout the race in Chicago and broke away from a seven-strong lead group after reaching 5km in 14:26, joined by his compatriot Daniel Mateiko. They were on world record pace at 10km and passed in 28:42, but the tempo dropped a little and they reached halfway in 1:00:48.

After 30km was passed in 1:26:31, Kiptum kicked and dropped Mateiko. A blistering 5km split of 13:51 took him to the 35km checkpoint in 1:40:22 and he was on sub-2:01 pace, 49 seconds ahead of Mateiko.

Continuing to run with urgency, Kiptum passed 40km in 1:54:23 – after a 27:52 10km split. He went on to win the race by almost three and a half minutes, crossing the finish line at 2:00:35.

“I knew I was coming for a course record, but a world record – I am so happy,” he said. “A world record was not on my mind today, but I knew one day I would be a world record-holder.”

World Athletics announced that Ngetich smashed the record by 28 seconds to secure victory, clocking 28:46 during the 10,000 Valencia Ibercaja 2024 race.

"Kenya's Agnes Ngetich smashes the 10 kilometres road race world record by an astonishing 28 seconds at the 10,000 Valencia Ibercaja 2024 and becomes the first woman in history to break 29 minutes," announced the athletics body.

Kenyan Athlete Agnes Ngetich breaks the 10,000 race in Valencia, Spain, on Sunday, January 14, 2024. /WORLD ATHLETICS

Her record is subject to the usual ratification procedures by the World Athletics before it can be made official.

The news was well received by Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ababu Namwamba who temporarily suspended his church schedule to call the athlete to congratulate her.

"Stepped out of church this blessed sunny Sunday to the beautiful news of Agnes Ngetich smashing the World Record in the 10km Road Race in Valencia Spain.

"I have spoken with Agnes on the phone to congratulate her on this superb feat. The Whole of Kenya is proud of you Agie," he stated on X.

The 22-year-old who is a world cross-country bronze medallist was paced in the Spanish coastal city by her compatriot Japheth Kipkemboi Kosgei and the first world record fell at halfway as Ngetich went through the 5km checkpoint in 14:13.

That is six seconds faster than the women’s world record achieved in a mixed race, set by Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye in Barcelona in 2021, and matches the time Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet set in a woman-only race in Barcelona a fortnight ago.

Ngetich’s 10km time is also faster than the women's world record for the distance on the track, with Letesenbet Gidey’s world 10,000m record standing at 29:01.03.

Emmaculate Anyango also dipped under 29 minutes in Valencia, clocking 28:57 to finish runner-up to her compatriot Ngetich.

"I am so happy. I didn't expect this world record," said Ngetich.

"I was coming to improve my time, at least somewhere around 29:14, but I am happy that I ran a world record of 28 minutes. I didn't expect this."

Ngetich will now focus on the World Athletics Cross Country Championships Belgrade 24 in March and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where athletics will be the No.1 sport in August.

For breaking the world record, Ngetich is now in pole position to pocket Ksh5 million in line with President William Ruto's order.

Meanwhile, the men’s race was won by Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo at 26:48.

Moiben Sub-County Police Commander Stephen Okal revealed that one of the suspects was arrested in Uasin Gishu County, while the second was traced to Trans Nzoia County.

Police positively identified the athlete and according to Moiben sub-county police commander Stephen Okal, Kiplangat's body was found with a deep knife cut on the neck.

The body was found in a car in Texas near Kimumu Secondary School along the Eldoret-Iten Road.

“Our officers are on the ground following crucial leads”, Okal told the media, adding that the victim was an athlete aged 37 years.

Edward Kiplangat in action during the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. /FILE

The Police Commander further stated that the runner was found in his brother’s car and they both live in the same area, adding that detectives are pursuing leads in the case.

Kiplangat is a long-distance runner specialising in the 3,000m steeplechase and previously represented Uganda at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016.

World Athletics Rankings placed him at 38th overall in the men's 3000m steeplechase and is ranked position 1,229 overall.

He has competed in a series of competitions including the Shanghai Samsung Diamond League, Lausanne Athletissima in Switzerland, Paris Meeting Areva and Hengelo Fanny Blankers-Koen Games in the Netherlands. 

Kiplagat took up running following the success of Boniface Kiprop, who is from the same village as Kiplagat, in the 2004 World Junior Championships. He began by competing in the 10,000 metres, but on the advice of his coach, he dropped down to the 1500 and 5000 m

He made his international debut at the 2006 World Cross Country Championships, having qualified by finishing 6th in the Ugandan Junior Cross Country Championships. That year he also qualified for the World Junior Championships where he set a new national junior record of 8:35.77, which he then lowered to 8:34.14 in the final, where he finished 6th.

In 2008, he finished 4th in the World Cross Country Championships. That year, he lowered the Uganda record to 8:16.06 and then 8:14.29 before finishing second in the World Junior Championships.

His 2009 season was disrupted by malaria and typhoid, but he still managed to further lower the Ugandan national record to 8:12.98.

He was again affected by malaria, and a boil on his leg, in 2010, but again lowered the Ugandan record to 8:03.81. He finished 4th at the 2010 Commonwealth Games

The 34-year-old received several accolades in the course of his 17-year career including World Under 20 Championships Silver medallist, African Championships Bronze medallist, and was ranked in the Top 8 category in the Commonwealth Games as well as the All-African Games.

The circumstances surrounding the incident have raised numerous questions and concerns within the tight-knit athletic community in Eldoret.

The murder bears near-similarities to Agnes Tirop, who was murdered in September 2021, weeks after she broke a world record in Germany. 

Tirop's body was found with multiple stab wounds at her home in Iten, signalling the brutality of the crime. Her husband, Ibrahim Rotich, is the main suspect in her murder and is still in custody and facing trial over the incident.

"Our athletes continue to excel at various global events as is well exemplified by the shining performance in long-distance races.

"Today, I have conferred upon our world-beating athlete Faith Kipyegon the status of Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart, the highest honour our country awards its citizens who illuminate the path of excellence," he stated while addressing the nation at Uhuru Gardens during the 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations.

"She has earned her place at the very top from running bare feet to breaking two world records within a year is the ultimate state of heroism," he added.

Kenyan athlete and two-time Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon on Monday, December 11 led three of her fellow countrymen and women in dominating the 2023 World Athletics Awards held in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Kipyegon was named the Female World Athlete of the Year in track events in a new format that saw winners categorized according to their disciplines.

Unlike in the previous editions where one winner was crowned in the men’s and women’s categories, World Athletics utilized the following disciplines; track, field events and out-of-stadia events.

Kipyegon claimed the Female Athlete of the Year track events with Tigist Assefa of Ethiopia being crowned the best female athlete in out-of-stadia events and Yulimar Rojas of Venezuela named the best female athlete in field events.

Kipyegon was on Wednesday, October 11 nominated for the prestigious global award owing to her successful 2023 which saw her break three world records; the world mile, 1500m race and 5000m race.

Obiri pulled away from Ethiopia's Letesenbet Gidey in the final 400 metres of the pro-women's open division race to cross the finish line at a time of 2:27:23.

Gidey followed in second at a time of 2:27:29 ahead of another Kenyan athlete, Sharon Lokedi, who came third at a time of 2:27:33.

The win is Obiri's second victory of the year following her victory during the Boston Marathon, which is considered the world's oldest annual marathon, with a time of 2:21:38.

Here is the video:

Hellen Obiri of Kenya wins the women's open-division of the 2023 #TCSNYCMarathon at 2:27:23. pic.twitter.com/A9Jw5JSYE7

— TCS New York City Marathon (@nycmarathon) November 5, 2023

Prior to the New York Marathon, Obiri expressed confidence in conquering the tough marathon course following her disappointing full marathon debut in the same race last year.

Obiri noted that she had learnt from her mistakes, which saw her finish a disappointing sixth after timing 2:25:49.

“In a debut, anything can happen and sometimes you go and learn how to do it. For me, from the word go, I think I felt like there was no need to take water. I didn’t know it was going to cost me towards the end of the race,” she was quoted by Capital FM.

The two-time World 5000m champion added that she would recreate the running strategy that she used to power her to victory in the Boston Marathon.

“For Boston, we said we have like four weeks so we said we were going to practise a lot…taking water and setting tables along my way. Like when I did long runs, they were setting tables from where I could pick the water bottles while running. I took like five good drinks so when I went to Boston, that (constant rehydrating) was on my mind,” Obiri explained.

Having enjoyed success on the track, the two-time Olympics 5000m silver medalist opened up on her chances of more glory in the road races, revealing that her coach has been a source of inspiration to propel her to transcend the boundaries of that which is normal in the women’s marathon.

“I do…and I can (run 2:11 on a flat course) because you know a coach is the one who understands the athlete better. He always tells me that I am in good shape and I can run 2:11…but not now, maybe in two or three years. I do believe I can,” the New York City Half Marathon champion stated.

The race kicked off on Sunday at Staten Island and attracted 55,000 athletes who competed in all categories. The marathon covered 26.2 miles (42 kilometres) and cut through all five boroughs within the Big Apple.

The professional women’s division kicked off at exactly 8:40 a.m. (New York Time) with the race ending at Central Park.

State House Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, Felix Koskei, led Kenyans in congratulating Obiri by stating "Congratulations to Hellen Obiri for winning the 2023 New York Marathon in a sprint finish!"

In the men's race, Kenya missed out on a gold medal opportunity with Albert Korir beaten to the top by Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia.

"The men's open-division winner is Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia, in a course-record time of 2:04:58," stated the Marathon's X (formerly Twitter) page.

Tola overcame Korir, who finished second at a time of 2:06:57, defeating Ethiopia's Shura Kitata who finished third at a time of 2:07:11.

Kenya's Albert Korir competes against Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia during the 2023 New York City marathon on November 5, 2023. /ESPN RUN

Legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge on Friday, October 20 finally broke his silence regarding the exploits of Kelvin Kiptum, who won the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon with a time of 2:00:35, causing an upset by breaking the world record set by Kipchoge.

Kipchoge was speaking to the media in Spain where he was awarded the prestigious Princess of Asturias Sports Award for 2023. The award ceremony took place in Oviedo, Spain and was presided over by Spain’s Royal Family.

He expressed his happiness for Kiptum, though he revealed that he was not surprised that the 23-year-old had broken his own record, expressing his delight at setting the stage for other athletes to break records.

Kelvin Kiptum in action during the 2023 Chicago Marathon. /X

"I was not surprised about [Kiptum] breaking the world record,” Kipchoge said.

Ruto was leading the country in marking the 60th Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kericho County at the stadium where thousands of Kenyans filled it to the rafters ahead of the fete.

"In conclusion, allow me to celebrate Kiprugut Chumo, the first Kenyan to win an Olympic medal, by renaming the Kericho Green Stadium after him. I think he deserves it," he announced in his speech.

An old photo of legendary Kenyan athlete, Wilson Kiprugut Chumo. /X

Kiprugut was a Kenyan sprinter and middle-distance runner who competed at the 1964 Tokyo and 1968 Mexico Olympics and won two medals in the 800-metre event. He wrote history books by being the first person from Kenya to ever win an Olympic medal.

In 1964 he also ran 400 metres but failed to reach the final.

His final major international tournament was the 1968 Summer Olympics, where he won silver in the 800 metres after being edged out of first place by Ralph Doubell of Australia.

During his career, Kiprugut held East African records in both the 800-metre and the 880-yard events.

Kiprugut got his start in track and field athletics as a schoolboy and participated in his first major tournament in 1958 when he ran in that year’s East African championship. It was here that he was spotted by scouts from the Kenyan Army and brought into military service, where he eventually rose to the rank of sergeant.

His main job, however, was to train for middle-distance track events, and he made his intercontinental tournament debut at the 1962 British Empire and Commonwealth Games. 

He retired from active competition in 1969 and remained with the army as a fitness instructor until 1974. He later ran a farm near his home town of Kericho prior to his death on November 3, 2022, after a long illness.

Kiprugut was notably not the only Kenyan athlete honoured during the Mashujaa Day celebrations. President Ruto also celebrated Faith Kipyegon for breaking world records in the 1,500 and 5,000-metre races, becoming the first woman to win titles at both races in Budapest, Hungary, and Paris, France respectively. 

She also set a mile world record at the Monaco Diamond League on July 21, 2023.

"Faith is celebrated for her dedication to sports. She is the current world record holder for 1500 metres and a former world record holder for 5000 metres. She won a gold medal in 1500 metres at both the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and 2020 Tokyo Olympics," he said. 

Kipyegon was among 157 heroes and heroines honoured from across divides for their contributions. Others included World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum, and former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta's trainer, Douglas Wakiihuri.

"He (Kiptum) has competed in and won three marathons so far, including two top-tier World Marathon Majors, securing between December 2022 and October 2023 three of the top six times ever run."

Wakiihuri became the first Kenyan to win a gold medal in the 1990 Commonwealth Marathon. He held the record for 17 years until 2007 when Luke Kibet became the second Kenyan to win a gold medal at the same event.

Kiptum on his part was honoured for his exploits during the Chicago marathon when he broke legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge's world record.

The Kericho Green stadium was upgraded to a 10,000-seater capacity stadium with two VIP lounges, two changing rooms, terraces and paved parking.

It was upgraded for the event at a cost of Ksh400 million, according to the Ministry of Sports. 

In a statement on Monday, October 16, AIU disclosed that Ekiru had colluded with a doctor at a Kenyan hospital to use prohibited substances as well as forge medical documents in an effort to mislead the anti-doping body.

“The AIU has banned Titus Ekiru (Kenya) for 10 years, from 28 June 2022, for the Presence of Prohibited Substances (Triamcinolone Acetonide and metabolite; Pethidine and metabolite) and for Tampering," AIU's communique read.

A photo of Kenyan athlete Titus Ekiru grimacing during a past race. /GETTY IMAGES

AIU further stated that Ekiru tested positive twice for the three substances in his in-competition urine samples at marathons which he won in 2021. These are the Generali Milano Marathon on May 16, 2021, and the Abu Dhabi Marathon on November 26, 2021.

The ban runs from June 28, 2022 (the date Ekiru was suspended) to June 27, 2032.

“In addition to the ban which runs from 28 June 2022 (the date of Ekiru’s provisional suspension) until 27 June 2032 – Ekiru’s results on and since 16 May 2021 have been disqualified, resulting in the forfeiture of all prizes and money. Ekiru’s victory in the Generali Milano Marathon would have made him the sixth-fastest marathoner of all time,” added the statement.

According to AIU, Ekiru was charged with two counts of the presence of a prohibited substance in July 2023 as per Rule 2.1 of the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules (ADR) and two counts of Tampering or Attempted Tampering with any part of Doping Control (ADR Rule 2.5).

Initially, Ekiru signalled his intention to contest the charges. However, faced with substantial evidence against him, AIU revealed that the Kenyan athlete decided that he no longer wanted to pursue the case.

The international body also disclosed that it accessed Ekiru’s hospital records in conjunction with the Anti Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) which showed discrepancies in the marathoner’s explanations and supporting documentation.

“It was the testimony of the Nandi County Director of Medical Services which solidified the case against Ekiru with a series of damning conclusions while also exposing the complicity of the senior doctor,” AIU added.

The period of ineligibility is based on the violation that carries the more severe sanction – four years for tampering, plus two years for Aggravating Circumstances, totalling six years.

Another mandatory four-year sanction has been imposed for the second Tampering violation committed by Ekiru in connection with his explanation for the second Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF), which is to be served consecutively to the six-year period for the two Presence charges and the First Tampering or Attempted Tampering Charge, thereby totalling 10 years’ ineligibility.

Prior to today's ban, Ekiru held the joint sixth-fastest marathon time of 2:02.57, set en route to winning the Milano City Marathon in 2021.

He joins a long list of athletes in Kenya, including Betty Wilson Lempus, Eglay Nafuna Nalyanya and Rhonex Kipruto, who have been banned or received provisional suspensions in recent months.

The athlete was provisionally suspended in June 2022 after the AIU reopened an investigation into his doping charges with help from ADAK.

The 2019 African Games half marathon champion's explanations were rejected by AIU and was charged with Pethidine ADRV in March and with Triamcinolone Acetonide ADRV in April 2022.

Titus Ekiru celebrates after winning in a past race. /CAPITAL GROUP

Belet won after clocking a time of 2:04:18 on Sunday, October 15, which is however short of the record held by Ethiopian Tamirat Tola who set a time of 2.03.39 set in 2021.

The race, which saw several elite athletes contend with the cold streets, saw Belet lead Kenya to its third clean sweep in two weeks.

Kenya's Joshua Belet in action at the Amsterdam Marathon on October 15, 2023. /TRACK FIELD KE.X

Kenyans Cyprian Kotut came second, finishing 16 seconds behind Belet, recording a time of 2:04:34 while Bethwell Chumba came in third after clocking 2.04.37.

Belet burst the race open at the 30-kilometre mark by accelerating at a pace that proved tough for other athletes to keep up with.

All eyes were on Ethiopia's Birhanu Legese and Kenya's Bernard Koech as stiff competition was expected between the two.

However, Legese finished fourth recording a time of 2:04:44. Meanwhile, Koech was unable to complete the race, limping out halfway, in a possible injury.

This is Belet's first gold medal in the marathon races having bagged silver in the Haspa Hamburg Marathon in Germany on April 23, 2023, finishing at a time of 2:04:33.

Meseret Belete of Ethiopia clinched the women's marathon after clocking a time of 02:18:21. The TCS Amsterdam Marathon 2023 in Amsterdam Netherlands recorded 47,000 runners participating.

On Sunday, October 1, Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir won the women's half marathon, leading the country to sweep the top three positions at the inaugural World Road Running Championships in Riga, Latvia.

Jepchirchir bagged her third world half-marathon title, clocking a time of 67:25 (1:07:25). Her fellow countrywoman, Margaret Chelimo won silver in 67:26 (1:07:26), while Catherine Reline Amanang'ole bagged bronze in 67:34 (1:07:34).

Speaking at Citizen TV's JKLive show, Kipyegon narrated how Fraser-Pryce's comeback from maternity leave in 2019 inspired her to dominate world athletics in 2023 which saw her break three world records; the world mile, 1500m race and 5000m race.

In 2019 during the World Athletics Championship in Doha, Fraser-Pryce won her fourth world title, becoming the oldest woman and first mother to win a 100m race.

Faith Kipyegon speaking during a Citizen TV interview on October 11, 2023. /JEFF KOINANGE

Following Kipyegon's meeting with Fraser-Pryce that occurred during the Doha showpiece in Qatar, the female Kenyan superstar went on to win gold in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games as well as three World Championship golds before breaking the aforementioned world records.

“Shelly-Anne really motivated me even to go on maternity leave when we met in 2019 in Doha and she won a gold medal. I got the courage like we still have the energy to of winning a gold medal after maternity leave and that should be an encouragement to many other athletes,” Kipyegon shared.

The Olympic gold in 2020 (games held in 2021) is not her only one though as she clinched her first Gold medal in the 1,500 metres race at the Rio Olympics in 2016. She is now eyeing history by being the first Kenyan to bag Gold at three consecutive Olympic games when they return in Paris, France in 2024.

The games are set to be held between July 26, 2024, and August 11, 2024, with Kipyegon stating that achieving the feat would guarantee that her name goes down in the annals of athletics history.

Furthermore, Kipyegon shared her early struggles as an upcoming athlete running without shoes and how her success was purely a result of hard work and determination.

“I didn’t have shoes in my first race in Poland so I decided to run that way. It was my first international race I was competing in the 6km race during the cross country Mercy Cherono won the race I was fourth and I won the race in 2011,” Kipyegon revealed.

Hours before the interview, Kipyegon was nominated for the World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year Award following her exploits that saw her also win two world titles, becoming the first woman to win both 1500m and 5000m titles in a single world championship competition.

She will be up against formidable opponents who are also battling for the award, including Sha’Carri Richardson of the United States (USA), a reigning world 100m champion who had an impeccable 2023 season that included handing shock defeats to the Jamaican duo of Shericka Jackson and Shelly-Anne Fraser-Pryce to win the 100m at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

Tigst Assefa and Gudaf Tsegay, both Ethiopians have also been nominated alongside Kipyegon.

Kipyegon was on Wednesday, October 11 nominated for the prestigious global award owing to her successful 2023 which saw her break three world records; the world mile, 1500m race and 5000m race.

She also won two world titles, that is, becoming the first woman to win both 1500m and 5000m titles in a single world championship competition.

Faith Kipyegon looks up after winning the women's 1500m semi-final at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary. /AP

How To Vote

According to The World Athletics, the World Athletics Council and the World Athletics Family will cast their votes by email, but fans will arguably have the easiest voting method online.

All they have to do is like and retweet its posts of Kipyegon and other women athletes nominated for the awards shared on its official social media platforms.

“Individual graphics for each nominee will be posted on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube this week; a 'like' on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube or a retweet on X will count as one vote,” World Athletics said in a statement.

Kipyegon will be up against formidable opponents who are also battling for the award, including Sha’Carri Richardson of the United States (USA), a reigning world 100m champion who had an impeccable 2023 season that included handing shock defeats to the Jamaican duo of Shericka Jackson and Shelly-Anne Fraser-Pryce to win the 100m at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

She clocked 10.65, equaling Jackson’s world leading time to clinch the top prize at the global showpiece. She won almost all her 100m races, as well as won the women's 200m at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi.

Richardson lost only twice; at the Gyulai István Memorial, a Hungarian Athletics Grand Prix where she finished second and proceeded to finish fourth at the Prefontaine Classic.

Tigst Assefa and Gudaf Tsegay, both Ethiopians have also been nominated alongside Kipyegon.

Other nominees include Femke Bol (Netherlands-Track & Field Athlete), Shericka Jackson (Jamaica-athlete),Haruka Kitaguchi (Japan- Javelin), Yaroslava Mahuchikh (Ukraine- High Jump), Maria Perez (Spain- Race Walk), Yulimar Rojas (Venezuela- Triple Jump), Winfred Yavi (Bahrain- Steeplechase).

Kipyegon is aiming to become the first Eastern African woman since Almaz Ayana of Ethiopia in 2016 to clinch the prestigious award, etching her in world sport's history books.

The World Athletics Council’s vote holds a 50% stake in the final result. The remaining 50% split evenly between the votes from the World Athletics Family and the public. 

Voting is underway and will continue until October 28, 2023. The eagerly awaited announcement of the winner is scheduled for December 11, 2023. 

American Sha'Carri Richardson celebrates as she crosses the finish line at Kip Keino Classic on May 13, 2023. /TWITTER.BERNARD NDONG

On Sunday, October 1, Jepchirchir bagged her third world half-marathon title, clocking a time of 67:25 (1:07:25). 

Her fellow countrywoman, Margaret Chelimo won silver in 67:26 (1:07:26), while Catherine Reline Amanang'ole bagged bronze in 67:34 (1:07:34).

Jepchirchir is only the fourth woman in history to win three half-marathon gold medals. 

Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir competing in the 2023 London Marathon on April 23, 2023. /FACEBOOK

She now becomes the fourth woman to successfully win three tiles over the distance after Kenya’s Tegla Loroupe, Britain’s Paula Radcliffe, and the Netherlands’ Lornah Kiplagat. 

Jepchirchir, who celebrated her 30th birthday last Wednesday, unleashed a super kick in the final 50 metres to seal a hat-trick in world half-marathons.

The top three Kenyan trio set up a thriller after they dropped Ethiopia's Tsigie Gebreselama in the last kilometre.

Following one of the greatest track campaigns in the history of athletics, Kipyegon lost the women’s mile in the inaugural World Road Running Championships in Riga, Latvia.

She was upset by Ethiopia's Diribe Welteji who won the race in a sprint finish, setting a new world record of 4:23.06.

Faith Kipyegon looks up after winning the women's 1500m semi-final at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary. /AP

During the previous five appearances, Kipchoge set two world records while scoring four victories, making this race one of his favourites. Prior to today, he clinched victories in the 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2022 editions.

"History maker. Eliud Kipchoge becomes the first man in history to win the Berlin Marathon for the 5th time. 2:02:42 for the win," World Athletics said in a statement.

Marathoner Eliud Kipchoge's mural is unveiled in the streets of Berlin, Germany on September 21, 2023. /NN RUNNING TEAM

World and Commonwealth champion Mary Moraa is one such superstar in the athletics world who when not conquering competitors on the track, is serving in the police force mandated to maintain law and order across the country.

On Wednesday, August 30, she met Inspector-General of Police (IG) Japhet Koome at the NPS Headquarters, hours after she returned from Hungary where she won the women's 800m race at the World Athletics Championships.

"Congratulations and well done, you have made NPS proud", praised IG Koome, when he met Moraa at his office, dressed in a jungle-green police uniform and her gold medal draped around her neck.

The meeting followed Moraa's stunning performance in the championships where she won at a time of 1:56.03, proving too good on the final straight for race favourites Keely Hodgkinson (Great Britain) and Athing Mu (USA & defending champion) in a reshuffle of the medals from last year.

Olympic and defending champion Mu, 21, set the pace from the gun but, having barely run the distance this season, was never able to open a gap.

Moraa stayed on her shoulder throughout and delivered her trademark final 100-metre burst to move past the American to triumph in a personal best 1:56.03, leaping and punching the air in celebration as she crossed the line.

Speaking after the race, Moraa described it as the hardest she has ever tackled in her athletics career, adding that she had to run with her head and a lot of calculation went into the race.

"After bronze last year I wanted to improve and I have. Everyone in the final was so fast that I knew I would have to have a fast finish. I came from a long way behind but I managed to do it," she told Reuters.

Mary Moraa Police Career

Moraa who was enlisted in the Administration Police Service as a Police Constable in 2021, currently serves under the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) responsible for emergency response to public disorders.

The IG advised Corporal Moraa and her fellow NPS athletes to uphold discipline and shun malpractices, particularly doping.

"Of the 10 Medals won by Kenya in Budapest, 5 were bagged by NPS Officers.

"The National Police Service remains committed to its Constitutional mandate: To strive for the highest standards of professionalism," added NPS.

Millions Kenyan Athletes Bagged In World Athletics Championships

Moraa joined the golden girls’ category after a scintillating win in the 800m women’s final, with the ‘dancing queen’ pocketing $70,000(Ksh10,178,000).

Her fellow female athlete, Faith Kipyegon, who established herself as a one-woman-army claimed a double-golden victory in the 1500m and 5000m finals. Each victory added to her purse $70,000, which means for two gold medals she earned $140,000 (Ksh20,356,000).

In the silver medal category, Emmanuel Wanyonyi came second in the 800m, while Daniel Simiyu Ebenyo emerged as first runner-up in the 10,000m. Beatrice Chepkoech also claimed a silver medal in the women’s 3000m steeplechase. In this victory, each of them pocketed $35,000 (Ksh5,089,000).

IG Japhet Koome meets Mary Moraa who won gold in the women's 800m race at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, at his office on August 30, 2023. /NPS

As far as bronze goes, Faith Cherotich (3000m steeplechase), Beatrice Chebet(5000m), Jacob Krop (5000m) and Abraham Kibiwott (3000m steeplechase) all claimed medals.

At the Budapest championship bronze medalists were reserved $22,000. Out of this, the bank balance of each athlete is projected to have some Ksh3,198,800.

Meanwhile, Ferdinand Omanyala, the Kenyan sprint sensation, secured the seventh position in the 100m final. In a dazzling display of resilience and tenacity, Omanyala captured the hearts of millions at the international event.

Beyond, the mere numbers on the scoreboard, he pocketed a prize award of $6,000 (Ksh872,400), for finishing seventh in the 100m final. He shrugged stiff competition to qualify from the Heats and the Semis, becoming the first Kenyan to ever compete in a World Championship 100m Final.

The heroic Kenyan athletes are expected to be treated to a red-carpet luncheon by the State in the coming days, where more awards await them.

The athlete stumbled on the final lap and injured his arm in the process, with World Athletic stating that Kibiwot clipped a barrier but showed incredible determination to come back and win a major medal.

The Kenyan athlete fought back and outsprinted his teammate Leonard Kipkemoi Bett to finish at a time of 8:11.98

"Well in Abraham Kibiwot, despite the heavy fall, for bagging Bronze in 3,000m Steeplechase," Ruto stated in part on his social media handles.

Abraham Kibiwot competing during the World Athletics Championships Budapest, on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. /TWITTER

After the race, Kibiwot expressed that the stumble did not prevent him from clinching a medal but rather served as the ignition key to his determination to finish strong in the race.

"It's my first time actually to win a medal at the World Championships. I came here to finally take a medal home with me," a buoyant Kibiwot told Reuters. 

"It was a good race - even if I fell when we started the last lap, there was no question I would make it to the podium."

Medical emergency personnel attended to the bronze winner after the race, carefully examining the extent of the injury. After he was cleared by the medics, Kibiwot congratulated his teammate Bett who performed well in the race, despite finishing fourth with a time of 8:12:26.

“Even when you stumble, never give up the chase. Congratulations to Abraham Kibiwot in the 3,000m steeplechase – his first major medal on the world stage,” Adidas, a multinational corporation invested in sportswear, also joined those who publicly acknowledged the Kenyan athlete for his never-give-up attitude.

Olympic gold medallist, Soufiane El Bakkali of Morocco, emerged first at 8:03.53 marking his second consecutive world championship title in the men's 3,000 metres steeplechase. Ethiopian International, Lamecha Girma, won silver at 8:03.53.

Abraham Kibiwot made his international debut at the 2013 African Youth Athletics Championships, emerging fifth in the 2000 meters steeplechase event. 

The 27-year-old also one bronze at the African Championships in Athletics in 2016. His personal best is 8:09.25 minutes, set in 2016.

Meanwhile, it was a typical GOAT performance for Kenya's Faith Kipyegon who bagged the country's first gold medal in the women's 1500 metres, beating Ethiopia’s Diribe Werlteji, who took silver in 3:55.69, as well as Dutch star Sifan Hassan who finished third at a time of 3:56.00. 

Kipyegon bagged $70,000 as a result of winning gold in the race, converted to approximately Ksh10.13 million.

Faith Kipyegon after winning the women's 1500m race during the World Athletics Championships Budapest, on Tuesday, August 22, 2023. /WORLD ATHLETICS

Addressing the nation from State House Nairobi where he hosted Kipyegon, her family, and other athletes for breakfast, Ruto announced that Kipyegon would be given a house worth Ksh6 million.

She would also receive a cash reward of Ksh5 million for breaking the 1,500 and 5,000 meters record.

Faith Kipyegon and Sports CS Ababu Namwamba at the JKIA on June 13, 2023. /WILLIAM RUTO

"For every world record broken by a Kenyan, the government of Kenya is going to award Ksh5 million.

"She has won and broken two world records in 1,500 meters and 5,000 metres. The government of Kenya is going to award her Ksh5 million for one record and we are going to give her a house worth Ksh6 million," Ruto added.

Kipyegon's three-bedroomed house is based in Parklands, Nairobi and was built under the Affordable Housing programme.

The Head of State noted that the reward is part of a new scheme that will see athletes rewarded for exemplary performances.

"I have also asked the ministry that the government of Kenya should review the reward scheme so that we can recognise and reward appropriately the men and women who attain excellence in sports, arts, and creative economy. 

"And going forward we have decided as the government of Kenya that any Kenyan who participates in a world event and breaks a world record, unlike in the past, when there was no recognition, going forward, for every world record broken by a Kenyan, the government of Kenya is going to award five million shillings," he added.

At the same time, Ruto announced that athletes such as Kipyegon who excel will receive diplomatic passports to facilitate their movements locally and abroad. 

Speaking after the awarding, Kipyegon tearfully narrated that the cash would allow her to buy her father a car.

"I promised my father that if I smash the world record I will buy him a car. I am happy to receive the cash as it will enable me to buy him the car," Kipyegon said. 

The Head of State also gifted 100 metres African Champion for 2023, Ferdinand Omanyala, Ksh2 million for setting the pace for other athletes in the short races.

"I want to promise you in two weeks' time we are going to get a medal in the championship. And it has never happened in Africa," Omanyala promised in his speech before he was presented with the dummy cheque.

The Head of State argued that the awards were meant to celebrate athletes who were progressing in different economic sectors.

President Ruto and Sports CS Ababu Namwamba with athletes Faith Kipyegon and Ferdinand Omanyala at State House, Nairobi on June 13, 2023. /WILLIAM RUTO

Kipyegon broke her second world record, this time during the women’s 5000m at the Diamond League in Paris, France on Friday, June 9, setting a new time of 14:05:20 and outpacing previous holder Letesenbet Gidey of Ethiopia.

"Wow! Just one week after shattering the 1500m world record. Faith Kipyegon breaks the 5000m World Record in an astonishing time of 14:05.20, making history once again! 

"What an epic run. Congratulations," tweeted Raila, who was once again the first political leader to congratulate Kipyegon.

"Tenacity, focus, hunger for excellence, and a winning mindset are the formula for greatness. Faith Kipyegon has done it again.

"Another World Record this time in the 5,000 metres. What an athlete! What an inspiration! What a champion! Congratulations, Kenya is immensely proud of you," President William Ruto weighed in.

The feat comes a week after she smashed the women's 1500m world record, clocking 3:49.11 at a Diamond League meet in Florence, Italy, on Friday, June 2.

Regarded as the greatest athlete of all time in her discipline, Kipyegon took 96 hundredths of a second off Ethiopian Genzebe Dibaba‘s world record from 2015, having begun the day as the second-fastest woman in history at 3:50.37.

Meanwhile, Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala on Friday, June 9 finished second behind Noah Lyles of the USA, who won with 9.97 seconds ahead of Omanyala with 9.98, though it was better than the 10.04 seconds second place finish last week in the Diamond League in Florence.

Former World Under-20 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi became the fastest man in the world this year in the men's 800m during his win in the Paris Diamond League in a new personal best of 1:43.27.

Emmanuel Wanyonyi celebrates after winning the men's 800m during a Diamond League meet in Paris, France on June 9, 2023. /WORLD ATHLETICS

She smashed the women's 1500m world record, clocking 3:49.11 at a Diamond League meet in Florence, Italy, on Friday, June 2.

Regarded as the greatest athlete of all time in her discipline, Kipyegon took 96 hundredths of a second off Ethiopian Genzebe Dibaba‘s world record from 2015, having begun the day as the second-fastest woman in history at 3:50.37.

Faith Kipyegon celebrates with other athletes after breaking the world record during a Diamond League meet in Florence, Italy on June 2, 2023. /WORLD ATHLETICS

"Hard work, determination and consistency has been crowned this evening.

"Congratulations Faith Kipyegon for shattering the 1500m World Record in Florence, Italy and writing your name in the history of athletics. Kenya also salutes Ferdinand Omanyala for second position in 100m. Keep going," President William Ruto wrote on his social media.

"Faith Kipyegon, congratulations on your fantastic and spectacular feat of breaking the 1500m world record at the Florence Diamond League! Your run was amazing!" tweeted former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.

The reigning world champion missed the world record by a whisker in last year’s (2022) Monaco Diamond League when she clocked 3 minutes, 50.37 seconds against the world record mark of three minutes, 50.07 seconds formally set by Dibaba.

Even her competitors were in awe of her performance. Britain’s Laura Muir, who finished second behind her, was excited to be part of the race. Muir clocked 3:57;09 while Australia's Jesicca Hull finished third in 3:57.29.

“It was great to be part of the world record race. But it was not the first world record race I was running in, I was in previous ones. I am so happy for Faith. I would have loved to be closer to her. But for the first race of the season, this is really decent. I have never gone through the first 800m as fast as today,” she stated.

The 29-year-old opened her 2023 season with a routine victory at the Doha Diamond League last month where she clocked a world-leading 3:58.57.

“I am delighted to be here in Florence for the second time. I came here in 2021 and managed to run 3:53 and so everything is possible. I am looking forward to a nice race.  The world record is still on my heart and my mind and I hope this year will be perfect for me,” Kipyegon told journalists.

Meanwhile, in Florence, Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala finished second to world champion Fred Kerley of the USA who extended a year-plus win streak in the men’s 100m, prevailing in 9.94 seconds over Omanyala (10.04) and American Trayvon Bromell (10.09).

Omanyala suffered his first 100m loss of the season at the Rabat Diamond League last Sunday where he finished third in 10.05 seconds behind Kerley who won in 9.94 seconds and South Africa’s Akani Simbine who finished second in 9.99 sec.

Omanyala beat Kerley at the Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour last year before the American went on to win the world title on home soil at the Oregon World Championships which Omanyala missed on the finals owing to late arrival in the US due to a visa hitch.

Kipchoge was among the winners who walked away with a cash prize of Ksh7.42 million (50,000 euros), according to the foundation.

"In keeping with these principles, the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports is to be granted to careers which have become an example of the benefits that practising sports can bring to people, via their promotion, fostering and advancement of the sport and sense of solidarity and commitment," the foundation stated.

Kipchoge also received a Joan Miró sculpture representing and symbolising the Award, a diploma, and a symbol conferred by Princess Leonor of Asturias, born on October 31, 2005.

Eliud Kipchoge named the 2023 Princess of Asturias Award winner on May 18, 2023. /FPA

"It is an absolute honour to receive the Princess of Asturias Award. To be amongst a list of extraordinary laureates, all people from different walks of life.

"It motivates me in my goal to leave a legacy in this world through running since a running world is a more peaceful world, a happier world and a more healthy world," stated Kipchoge in part through his social media pages.

The marathoner thanked Her Royal Highness The Princess of Asturias, and her parents, Their Majesties The King and Queen of Spain, for granting him the honour.

The Princess of Asturias Foundation convenes the Princess of Asturias Awards, which are presented at an academic ceremony held each year in Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias.

The Foundation’s aims are to contribute to extolling and promoting those scientific, cultural and humanistic values that form part of the universal heritage of humanity and to consolidate the existing links between the Principality of Asturias and the title traditionally held by the heirs to the Crown of Spain.

Omanyala lifted the roof off the half-packed stadium in the final race of the event to win with a time of 9.84 seconds. This is his best time in the 100 metres race in the 2023 season and the best time in the world in the 2023 season.

Olympics 200m silver medalist Kenneth Bednarek finished second in 9.98 as another American, Marvin Bracy came third in 10.03.

“It feels so amazing to win at home in front of such a huge crowd. I am now focused on my next assignment, which is the Rabat Diamond League.

Watch a video of the race:

NEWS JUST IN: Ferdinand Omanyala wins the men's 100M at the #KipKeinoClassic in Kasarani at a time of 9.84 seconds

????: @marvin_chege10 pic.twitter.com/xzWxZSXAns

— Viral Tea Ke (@ViralTeaKe) May 13, 2023

"I know it will not be easy but I will give it my all as I always do,” Omanyala said after winning the race.

The race, which was part of the highly-anticipated event attended by Viral Tea's Marvin Chege, was filled with its own drama after two false starts saw Kenyan Stephen Odhiambo shown the red card following a false start, leading to his disqualification.

“I was ready and my body was good enough to handle the pressure, especially after the false start,” added Omanyla.

The sprinter dazzled special VIP guests as well including President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who watched from the stands at Kasarani, having spent a full day together physically for the first time since the 2022 general elections.

Omanyala also received his award from Ruto, the chief guest at the annual event.

What Viral Tea noticed was that his 9.84 seconds this year was better than his record of 9.85 during the same event on May 7, 2022, which earned him the title of Africa's fastest man, officially, setting the world's fastest time for 2022.

This was Ferdinand Omanyala last year when he won the #KipkeinoClassic with 9.85 seconds.

He's bettered his record ???????????? https://t.co/1T4gdoq9oP pic.twitter.com/gmBSufr22A

— Marvin Chege (@marvin_chege10) May 13, 2023

At the time, he beat Fred Kerley of the USA and Isaiah Young to win the race in front of his elated home crowd, including Raila, former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Sports Cabinet Secretary, Amb Amina Mohammed.

President William Ruto, Raila Odinga, Musalia Mudavadi and CS Ababu Namwamba during the Kip Keino Classic on May 13, 2023. /WILLIAM RUTO

Sha'Carri Produces GOAT Performance

Meanwhile, American sprint sensation Sha’Carri Richardson produced a Greatest Of All Time (GOAT) performance to win the women’s 200m at a time of 22.07 seconds ahead of fellow countrywomen, Kyra Jefferson (22.77) and Shannon Ray (22.82) in second and third respectively.

“I am really elated to have won today. I did it for my fans…Nairobi is just great and a huge thanks to the fans who have shown me love,” the world’s sixth fastest woman in the 100m said.

Richardson was expected to go head-to-head with three-time Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica in the 100m in another highly-anticipated duel but Fraser-Pryce pulled out of the event on Friday, May 12 after sustaining a knee injury during training.

This forced the organisers to shift the 23-year-old to the women’s 200m, as they felt the need to enhance the profile of every race at the World Continental Tour Gold event. 

“Unfortunately, Shelly-Ann will not battle Richardson because she will be running in the women’s 100m while Richardson will be in the 200m.

"The reason why we did that is because we wanted to enhance the events. If we have Shelly-Ann in the 100m and Richardson in the 200m, it will give us more value and points in both races,” meet director Barnaba Korir explained at the time.

Richardson had on Tuesday, May 9 revealed via an Instagram video that she would be competing in the 200m albeit she had wanted to run in the 100m, following on from last week’s Botswana Grand Prix where she was compelled to run in the women’s 200m in which she eventually finished second.

Notwithstanding, Korir explained that putting the two sprinters in different races will in the long term aid Kenya’s bid to host a Diamond League event.

“World Athletics also considers the value of the events that you have. If you want to be upgraded to Diamond League, they’ll look at the results of your events and that is why we thought it wise to separate the two athletes and put them in different categories,” he said.

Whereas Richardson competed in the Kip Keino Classic for the first time, it was to be Fraser-Pryce’s second after last year’s edition where she clocked a world lead of 10.67 to win the women’s 100m at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.

American Sha'Carri Richardson celebrates as she crosses the finish line at Kip Keino Classic on May 13, 2023. /TWITTER.BERNARD NDONG

Other Highlights

In other races, former world under-20 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi edged out two-time Commonwealth Games 800m champion Wycliffe Kinyamal to win the 800m title.

He set another championship record, the second one in his career after setting the world under 20 championships way back in 2021 when he won the world title.

Wanyonyi cruised to a world-leading time and personal best of 1:43.32 and was followed by Kinyamal with a meet record time of 1:43.36 with former world 1,500m champion Timothy Cheruiyot closing the podium in 1:44.99.

Commonwealth champion Mary Moraa reclaimed her 800m title at the Kip Keino Classic with a season-best 1:58.83 ahead of Netsanet Desta of Ethiopia and Vivian Chebet.

The tour has established itself as a top-ranking one-day-meet athletics championship and is part of the Continental Tour Gold series by World Athletics.

“The fourth edition of the Kip Keino Classic is going to be one of the most thrilling events that will take place in Kenya, Africa, and the most spectacular in terms of the value and content that World Athletics will bank on for the future of Africa in event organizations,” revealed Moses Tanui of Athletics Kenya during the event’s launch at Safari Park in Nairobi.

The event is divided into three categories: the national event, the core event, and the junior category.

Multiple Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce poses for a photo during the 2022 Kip Keino Classic on May 10, at Kasarani Stadium. /FILE

In an effort to elevate the event’s status, Athletics Kenya President Retired Lieutenant-General Jackson Tuwei announced that they have applied to World Athletics to upgrade the Kip Keino Classic from a Gold to a Diamond-league certified event in Africa.

In addition, Tuwei announced that Absa Bank, the event's official sponsor, funded Ksh60 million up from last year's Ksh23 million in support of the event.

Viral Tea takes a look at crucial events Kenyans should expect ahead of the Kip Keino Classic 2023:

Ferdinand Omanyala Eyes Another Record

Omanyala officially became Africa's fastest man when he won the Kip Keino Classic on Saturday, May 7, 2022, at Kasarani, Nairobi after clocking 9.85 seconds in the 100m race. 

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, and former Sports Cabinet Secretary, Amb Amina Mohammed watched him blitz past the likes of US's Fred Kerley and Isaiah Young to win the race in front of his elated home crowd.

Omanyala's 9.85 seconds is the fastest time in the world in the 100 meters race for 2022, with all eyes focused on him this year as he aims to smash his record, again.

“This year, we want to break records because it is that year in which we want to hit hard. Later on, we are going for the world title so we have to start it (the journey) at home.

"Come watch it live on the stands, when I promise a show, I always give a show. So, I welcome the rest of the world to come and compete with me and for you (the fans), I want to give you a show,” the Commonwealth Games 100m champion told Capital FM.

Omanyala is coming off a fruitful past weekend where he produced another record-breaking performance at the Atlanta Adidas City Games, timing a new national record of 14.89 as he finished third in the men’s 150m.

However, he will be met with formidable opponents in Olympic and world 100m silver medalist Kenneth Bednarek of the United States, world 4x100m relay champion Jerome Blake of Canada and the world 100m silver medalist Marvin Bracy of the United States, among others.

Sha’Carri Richardson v Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce

After Omanyala, the second most-anticipated showdown of the Kip Keino Classic will involve American sprint sensation Sha’Carri Richardson and double Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica.

The 23-year-old is among 204 international athletes who will be competing at the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold event, in addition to 68 local athletes who will be participating across three categories of the competition.

Richardson is the sixth fastest sprinter in the history of the women’s 100m after she clocked 10.72 at the Miramar Invitational Games in Florida in 2021. The feat came two years after she burst onto the athletics scene as a freshwoman, clocking 10.75 at the NCAA Championships to become the 10th fastest sprinter of all time in the women’s 100m.

Fraser-Pryce competes in 60m, 100m and 200m. The 36-year-old is the most decorated 100m sprinter in history and is widely regarded as one of the greatest sprinters of all time.

She has won the diamond league a record five times in her 100m speciality. She also boasts of five five gold medals in the World Championships and has shown no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

New Developments: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce pulled out of the Kip Keino Classic on Friday, May 12 after sustaining a knee injury during training.

Double Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon

Kipyegon is eager to defend reclaim the women’s 1500m title in the fourth edition of the Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour Gold meeting and will be inspired following her victory in the opening leg of the 2023 Diamond League Series in Doha, Qatar on Friday, May 5 where she set a world lead of 3:58.57.

Kipyegon destroyed a large field of international stars in the second edition of the Kip Keino Classic in 2021 but did not defend the title last year.

“I’m very much ready to go for the honours at the Kip Keino Classic, but again this will depend on the final decision by my agent.

“I will make up my mind by Tuesday or Wednesday. At the moment, I’m wishing all the athletes preparing for the race success. Hopefully, I will be able to join them on track on Saturday,” she said on Monday, May 8.

Former European women’s 1500m champion Angelika Cichocka, who will be taking part in the World Athletics Series event for the first time after successfully overcoming a protracted injury that has put her out of competition for years, expressed her confidence in going toe-to-toe with Kipyegon, having faced off against her in Doha on May 5.

Free Entry & Music Performances

Amidst the hype surrounding the Kip Keino Classic, arguably the best thing about it is that it is free for anyone to enter and watch.

Kiptum on Sunday, April 23 set a new course record of 2:01:27, which is the second-fastest time in a marathon.

He broke the course record set in 2019 by legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge by over a minute, in only his second career marathon.

Kiptum, who ran the fastest-ever debut Marathon in Valencia in 2022 repeated the feat but cut down the course record by slightly more than a minute from Kipchoge’s course record of 2:02:37.

Kelvin Kiptum during a past marathon. /FILE

With the super-fast time, Kiptum also ran the second fastest-ever marathon in history, 17 seconds shy of Kipchoge’s World Record of 2:01:09

Jepchirchir finished third behind Hassan who won the marathon on her first attempt, having switched from track and field where she dominated the 5,000 and 10,000 km races, finishing at a time of 2:18:34.

Alemu Megertu of Ethiopia finished second at a time of 02:18:37 with Jepchirchir following with a time of 2:18:38

Jepchirchir had lost in the latter stages after being sidelined for months with an injury, despite taking control of the race in the earlier stages.

Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir competing in the 2023 London Marathon on April 23, 2023. /FACEBOOK

Hassan, who had fallen behind in the latter stages, pulled a stunning comeback to bag the coveted title in her debut marathon.

Race favourite Brigid Kosgei, also the reigning world record holder, was forced to pull out of the race shortly after the start due to a foot injury.

Kosgei set the current mark of 2:14:04 during the 2019 Chicago edition staged on Sunday, October 13, smashing Paula Radcliffe’s record that lasted for 16 years.

Others who participated in the race were defending champion Yalemzerf Yehualaw of Ethiopia, World Athletics Championships silver medalist Judith Korir, Genzebe Dibaba and Sheila Chepkurui.

The defeat is Kenya's first in a week after the country dominated the 2023 Boston Marathon on Monday, April 17, with 2022 Defending Champion Evans Chebet winning the race with a time of 2:05:54 ahead of Tanzanian Gabriel Geay (2:06:04) and Benson Kipruto (2:06:04) who finished second and third respectively.

Chebet's winning time was the third-fastest in the history of the race after Geoffrey Mutai (2:03:02) and Robert Cheruiyot (2:05:52). He finished ahead of Eliud Kipchoge, who finished in sixth in a major upset after the legendary marathoner was considered the favourite to win.

In the women's category, Kenya's Hellen Obiri won her first-ever major marathon in Boston, crossing the finish line in 2:21:38. With the victory, she became the only woman in history to win world titles in indoor and outdoor track, cross country, and marathon races.

She survived an intense battle against Ethiopian Beriso Amane and Lonah Salpeter (Israel) who finished second and third respectively.

Amane clocked 2:21:50, finishing seven seconds ahead of Salpeter (2:21:57).

Kipchoge, who led the race in front of 11 athletes to break away, began to drop off after 25 kilometres, finishing at a time of 2:09:23

2022 Defending Champion Evans Chebet won the race with a time of 2:05:54 ahead of Tanzanian Gabriel Geay (2:06:04) and Benson Kipruto (2:06:04) who finished second and third respectively.

Kenyan athlete Evans Chebet crosses the finish line at the Boston Marathon on April 17, 2023. /BOSTON MARATHON

Chebet's winning time is the third-fastest in the history of the race after Geoffrey Mutai (2:03:02) and Robert Cheruiyot (2:05:52).

Other Kenyans in the race include Augustine Choge, Albert Korir, Hassan Chahdi, John Korir, and Mathew Korir.

On Thursday, January 5, he met Sebastian Coe, who is the President of the world athletics body, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), at State House in Nairobi.

While stating that the government will go the extra mile in protecting the integrity of athletics, President Ruto and Coe pledged to work together in creating the right frameworks for athletes to succeed.

President Ruto with IAAF President Sebastian Coe, Athletics Kenya (AK) boss Jackson Tuwei (far right) and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba at State House on January 5, 2023. /PCS

“We will collaborate with partners, sportsmen and their contacts to tackle doping that threatens our heritage,” said President Ruto.

The Head of State added that the government was willing to work with Kenya's athletes as well as other stakeholders to deal with the doping menace that almost threatened to destroy the country's reputation.

"We are determined to protect Kenya's reputation and heritage as an athletics powerhouse. We are ready to work together with athletes, their contacts, and partners to confront the doping menace and protect the integrity of our champions.

"We thank the World Athletics for its consideration of Kenya’s situation. Met the President of World Athletics Sebastian Coe at State House, Nairobi; pledged to partner in creating the right frameworks for athletes to thrive," he stated.

Coe was received at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by Athletics Kenya boss Lt. Gen (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei and Chief Executive Officer Susan Kamau on Wednesday, January 4. He was expected to hold a meeting with AK officials as well as Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.

Coe’s visit comes at a time when the country is grappling with the scourge of doping which has threatened to taint the image of the sport, with Kenya having survived a possible suspension from the World Governing body.

There have been increased cases of doping over the last year with close to 40 bans imposed by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

The government promised to step up its commitment especially financially to help curb the vice and prevent Kenya from going the Russia way.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) handed Russia a two-year ban, among the most severe sanctions it had given to a country, down from its original four years for its state-sponsored doping program leading up to the Sochi Olympics in 2014.

Kenyan athletes in international competitions who were suspended for doping (left to right): Diana Kipyokei, Marius Kipserem, Philemon Kacheran. /ATHLETICS WEEKLY

In his remarks, before the investiture of ranks, the leader of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) congratulated Jepkosgei for her good work in representing the country in major races and for improving on her timings which have seen her break multiple world records.

“We are very grateful for your continuous hard work and for representing Kenya and KDF well.

Newly-promoted Sergeant Joyciline Jepkosgei. /KENYA DEFENCE FORCES

"We wish you the best as competing at such high levels requires a lot of hard work and determination. I am confident that you will continue doing better since you are still young,” said General Kibochi.

Sergeant Jepkosgey clinched the silver medal with a time of 2.18.07 and was thankful to the CDF for the promotion citing it as, “an honor.”

She also appreciated how the KDF takes care of its athletes more so with special regard to physiotherapy.

Investiture of the rank of Sergeant to Jepkosgey was witnessed by the Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Peter Njiru, Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics Major General Muthuri Kiugu, Colonel Physical Readiness and Sports Defence Headquarters Colonel Benjamin Kiprop and the Defence Forces Sergeant Major WOI Elijah Koranga.

The sergeant is the second in command of a troop of up to 35 soldiers and is responsible for advising and assisting junior officers in a mission.

Sergeant Jepkosgei’s major breakthrough took place in 2019 when she won both the half marathon and marathon in New York City in a time of 1:10:07 and 2:22:38 respectively.

Two years later, she followed the win with another gold medal at the 2021 London Marathon, improving on her earlier time in New York with five minutes less registering a time of 2:17:43.

At the Prague Half Marathon in 2017, Sergeant Jepkosgei represented Kenya and became the first woman to break 65 minutes (1hr 05 min) for the half marathon with her 64:52 world record 13.1-mile.