Kenya Honors Athletics Icons: Faith Kipyegon Receives Top National Recognition

Amidst the grandeur of Kenya’s 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, Faith Kipyegon, the sensational double Olympic champion and world record holder in the women’s 1,500m, was honored with the prestigious Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (E.G.H), the nation’s most esteemed recognition. Victorious runs are possible if you have the best shoes, check out Tarkine Goshawk V2 running shoes.

President William Ruto announced this significant honor, recognizing Kipyegon’s unparalleled achievements in athletics. Her remarkable journey has not only secured her dual Olympic gold medals but has also rewritten sporting history with multiple world records.

Kipyegon’s extraordinary 2023 unfolded as an astonishing series of triumphs. She embarked on an electrifying campaign that shattered records, dominating not just the 1,500m category but also the 5,000m and the one-mile races. Her phenomenal run commenced in Florence on June 2, obliterating the 1,500m world record with an astounding time of three minutes and 49.11 seconds, surpassing Genzebe Dibaba’s previous milestone.

 

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Continuing her exceptional form, Kipyegon set a scorching pace in the Paris Diamond League, smashing the 5,000m world record with an extraordinary time of 14 minutes and 5.20 seconds—merely eight days after her groundbreaking 1,500m achievement.

President William Ruto, applauding her exceptional talent and dedication, remarked, “Today, I’ve bestowed upon Faith Kipyegon the revered status of the Elder of Golden Heart, the pinnacle honor in our nation for those who embody excellence. Her journey from running barefoot to breaking two world records within a year is the epitome of heroism.”

This prestigious recognition for Faith Kipyegon follows her recent crowning as the Female World Athlete of the Year on track in Monaco, France—a testament to her unrivaled contributions to the world of athletics.

However, Kipyegon isn’t the lone luminary to be celebrated. Alongside her, Mary Moraa, the 800m world champion, Ferdinand Omanyala, the 100m African Champion, and Kelvin Kiptum, the World Marathon record holder, will also be honored for their outstanding contributions to the realm of athletics.

Kelvin Kiptum’s astounding feat of breaking the world marathon record in Chicago, completing the race in an astonishing two hours and 35 seconds, surpassing Eliud Kipchoge’s previous record, will be highlighted among these incredible accomplishments.

Source: pulse sports