Ruto, ODM lead nation in celebrating Kipyegon’s gold championship glory
By Joel Sang, August 23, 2023President William Ruto and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party led the country in celebrating Faith Kipyegon’s gold medal at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest on Tuesday, August 22, 2023.
Kipyegon managed to defend her 1500m title in fantastic fashion despite facing stiff competition from Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji and Sifan Hassan from the Netherlands. Kipyegon emerged as the winner in 3:54.87, while Welteji and Hassan finished second and third in 3:55.69 and 3:56.00, respectively.
Ruto’s praise
While describing Kipyegon in glowing terms, Ruto also lauded Abraham Kibiwott, who won gold in the 3,000m steeplechase.
“Peerless, a legend, and a once-in-a-generation talent.
“Congratulations, Faith Kipyegon, for winning our first gold after defending the 1500m title for the third time in a row at the Budapest World Championships. Well done, Abraham Kibiwott, despite the heavy fall, for bagging bronze in the 3000m steeplechase,” Ruto said in a statement.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was also not left behind in celebrating Kipyegon. The second in command wished that the athlete’s star continued to shine.
“Triple 1500m World Champion! Faith Kipyegon’s star continues to shine brightest!
“The nation’s golden hero brings home Kenya’s first gold in the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary. What a gem we are lucky to have! May your star continue to shine, Faith!” Gachagua said.
Racheal Ruto, the first lady, said the country is proud after Kipyegon, the triple world record holder, won the first gold for the country in the ongoing global showpiece.
“Faith Kipyegon does it again! Congratulations on winning the gold medal in the women’s 1500m race at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest! Kenya is proud of you, Faith!” the first lady said.
ODM’s applause
ODM described the 29-year-old runner as an icon and a legend; “Congratulations, Faith Kipyegon, for winning our beloved country, Kenya, her first gold medal. You are a legend and an icon,” the Orange Party said.
Former Baringo County Senator Gideon Moi said the Budapest achievement has solidified Kipyegon’s status as a legendary runner for the country.
“Thank you, Faith Kipyegon, for your outstanding achievement in securing the gold medal for Kenya. Your remarkable performance has solidified your status as a true legend,” the former Baringo Central Member of Parliament said.
Hassan Joho, a two-term Mombasa County Governor, also joined the millions of Kenyans who celebrated the outstanding performance by Kipyegon in the championships.
“Congratulations, Faith Kipyegon, for winning a gold medal in the women’s 1500m race at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest! Keep flying the Kenyan flag high globally, as well as being a great role model for all the athletes in our nation,” Joho said.
Kipyegon has been in sensational form this season, as she has posted record-breaking performances in the Diamond League series before switching focus to the ongoing competition that will end on August 27.