‘I used to run to and from school barefoot’ – Faith Kipyegon narrates how her journey to success began
By Mary Ouko, October 12, 2023
World record holder Faith Kipyegon has revealed how she ventured into athletics from a tender age.
Speaking during an interview with a local TV station, the double world champion narrated that her journey to stardom began at Chebara Primary School in Nakuru County when she used to run to and from school barefoot.
The mother of one who has been nominated for the World Athlete of the Year award also attributed her success to her participation in routine school games at her school.
“My journey began in Chebara primary school in Nakuru county. I used to run going to school, coming back barefoot. Tulikua tunaenda mguu tupu ukipata ile barafu iko huko chini ya mto unaskia moto. We also had school games unapewa na mwalimu ukimbie like 2 kilometres around the school,” she stated.
The 29-year-old also gave insight into her day-to-day activity in the world of athletics and set the record straight on doping claims.
“We are always being tested every time. Testing is a must because we need sportspeople to be clean. They test us after and before the race, during the competitions or even without competitions,” she stated.
The athlete also offered nuggets of wisdom to her fellow athletes urging them to run clean to protect the image of the country. She also encouraged fellow athletes and all those wishing to take on the journey to be humble and patient in order to fulfil their dreams.
“I want to urge athletes wa run clean, we want to protect the image of our country for the next generation to come and benefit in sports,” she stated.
The Olympic champion also revealed that her goals are to ensure that she wins three times back to back, this according to her, will motivate the young generation.
” If I win 3 times back-to-back Olympic titles, it will motivate the young generation and it will motivate me as well. It will be a legacy that I have left behind, winning 3 gold medals in the Olympics will be incredible,” she said.
Parting shot, Faith disclosed that she will be participating in the Berlin marathon promising to give her best to make the country proud.