By Debra Rono
President William Ruto has come to the defense of two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge following significant criticism from Kenyans regarding his inability to complete the Olympic marathon held on Saturday, October 10, 2024, in Paris, France.
The five-time Berlin Marathon champion was unable to defend his title as a three-time Olympic champion, withdrawing from the race shortly after the 30-kilometer mark.
“Eliud is a great legend. I know how people were disappointed that he did not finish the race but we celebrate you, you have held our flag high you are our great Kenyan, you are a great legend,” stated President Ruto.
During a breakfast meeting with the Kenyan Olympic team at the Eldoret State Lodge, the president underscored the importance of providing unwavering support to Kenyan athletes while minimizing criticism, as they represent the nation on the global stage.
“Same to many other athletes please let us celebrate them let us criticize them less they do go out of their way, they make sacrifices to make our flag be flown in capitals around the world,” added President Ruto.
As Eldoret prepares to be elevated to city status today, the president highlighted the need to honor the athletes in Eldoret, known as the city of champions. He remarked that the elevation of Eldoret to city status symbolizes the journey of young athletes aspiring to become champions.
“It is only befitting that we celebrate our athletes in the city of champions as a new city today. It is from this highland that many of our athletes have been natured. The elevation of Eldoret to a city is a bold statement about our future,” the president noted.
The Kenyan team arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Tuesday evening, where they were welcomed by Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
Kenya ranked 17th globally in the medal standings and first in Africa, securing a total of 11 medals: 4 gold, 2 silver, and 5 bronze.
The gold medal winners included Beatrice Chebet in both the 5000M and 10,000M events, Faith Kipyegon in the 1500M, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi in the 800M.
The silver medalists comprised Faith Kipyegon in the 5000M and Ronald Kwemoi in the same event.
The bronze medal recipients were Mary Moraa in the 800M, Faith Cherotich and Abraham Kibiwot in the 3000M steeplechase, as well as Hellen Obiri and Benson Kipruto in the marathons.