Kenya's Faith Kipyegon Clinches World Athlete of the Year Award

Kenya's Faith Kipyegon proudly represented her country at the prestigious World Athletics Awards in Monaco, France, on Monday evening.

Kipyegon received the prestigious Athlete of the Year Award in recognition of her outstanding accomplishments. She achieved a remarkable feat at the 2023 World Athletics Championships by breaking both the 1500m and 5000m world records. Kelvin Kiptum, a renowned long-distance runner who holds the marathon world record, was also honoured as the World Athlete of the Year - Men's Out of Stadia. Furthermore, Faith Cherotich and Emmanuel Wanyonyi were acknowledged for their exceptional performances and were presented with the Rising Stars of the Year awards.

Displaying remarkable talent at just 19 years old, Wanyonyi captured the attention of the world when he emerged victorious in the world U20 800m championship and earned an impressive silver in both the 2023 World Championships and Diamond League Trophy. Meanwhile, Cherotich, 18, triumphed as well, blazing ahead to claim the gold in the women's 3000m steeplechase at the World Athletics U20 Championship in Cali, Colombia. Without a doubt, Kenya can't help but be proud of what these incredible athletes have accomplished.

It is vital to acknowledge that the selection of recipients for the World Athletics Awards involves a voting process that merges the perspectives of the World Athletics Council, the World Athletics Family, and the general public. Those who emerge victorious will join a distinguished group of individuals who have been honoured with the World Athlete of the Year award since its inception in 1988.

Meanwhile, President William Ruto has bestowed Faith Kipyegon with the esteemed title of Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (E.G.H.) during the 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens. Ruto emphasizes that this is the highest accolade Kenya bestows upon its exceptional individuals. He further praises Kipyegon's journey from running barefoot to breaking two world records in a year, stating that it symbolizes the epitome of heroism.

Ruto concludes by stating that Faith's story serves as an inspiration for all aspiring young athletes. The Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya award acknowledges exceptional and distinguished service rendered to the country in various capacities and responsibilities. These awards are granted by the president based on recommendations from the National Honors and Awards Committee in the president's office.