Light moment as DP Gachagua trips, falls before winning exhibition race in Nandi
By Joel Sang, January 7, 2024
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua fell before winning a 100m race at the Barng’etuny Mountain Run in Nandi County on Sunday, January 7, 2024.
Just before finishing the race, Gachagua stumbled and rose quickly to claim the first position ahead of head of public service Felix Kosgei in an event that was attended by thousands of people.
In his post-race address, Gachagua lauded athletes who have continued to shine for Kenya on the international stage.
“Our athletes have for years remained the shining light, great motivators for young people, and the perfect representation of what hard work can deliver.
“Indeed, they are the source of inspiration for many generations because of their resilience and determination to be the best in the world in what they do,” Gachagua said.
The former Mathira Member of Parliament also praised the organisers of the Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run.
“It was a delight to witness on Sunday the great showcasing of this engrained talent in our athletics during the Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run National Championship in Tinderet Constituency, Nandi County.
“The unique competition held in the tough and challenging mountainous terrain attracted hundreds of athletes keen to explore their talents. It also opened a window of opportunity for many aspiring champions,” he continued.
Other attendees
Apart from Kosgei, other dignitaries who were present include Tinderet MP Julius Meli, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, his deputy, Yulita Mitei, Athletics Kenya Chairman Jackson Tuwei, Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum, and Nandi Woman MP Cynthia Muge.
Other MPs were Maryanne Kitany (Aldai), Abraham Kirwa (Mosop), Josses Lelmengit (Emgwen), Bernard Kitur (Nandi Hills), Chesumei), Hillary Kosgei (Kipkelion West), Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East), and Zipporah Kering (EALA).
The winners of the 12km race in both the men’s and women’s categories were awarded Ksh500,000, while the second-place finishers pocketed Ksh200,000.
Ksh100,000 was given to the third-place finishers, while the fourth- and fifth-place finishers went home with Ksh80,000 and Ksh70,000, respectively.