Three athletes based at Lemotit Athletics Training camp say Covid-19 pandemic has dealt a huge blow to their training routine.

Speaking in Kericho town, the reigning world under-20 cross country champion Beatrice Chebet, 2018 Valencia 10km road race winner Sandra Chebet and former 800m world champion Emily Cherotich Tueithe said it has become difficult to train individually for future events as it requires teamwork for one to gauge his or her performance rate.

“When we train as a group, it is very easy to gauge our performance and subsequently adjust or correct where necessary to match or to meet that what is needed to be done to break world records in different races.

But the way the situation is across the world, there’s nothing we can do about it,” said Cherotich.

They, however, said despite the challenges, they are trying everything possible to keep fit as they  prepare for future events once the virus is crushed.

“Despite these challenges, we remain focused in our careers and we are not about to look back. We are in fact preparing for future athletics events once the virus is defeated,” added Sandra.

They said they are preparing for next year’s Tokyo Olympics, the Diamond League and continental championships.

“Despite all these, we’re up to the task for the upcoming events,” said Beatrice.

The world beaters urged the Athletics Kenya to continue advising and counselling athletes during this difficult time.

“Budding and seasoned athletes require advice and counselling during this difficult times. So we urge AK to continue doing these,” Cherotich added.

Meanwhile, the athletes and the camp coach Paul Kemei commended the county government of Kericho for revamping the Kericho Green stadium.

They said the move is in line with developing young talent in a bid to take athletics to the next level.