Kipyegon was honored with status of the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (E.G.H.)

• This comes after several athletes were honoured at the World Athletics Awards held in Monte Carlo in Monaco, France,  on Monday night.
• Among them was Faith Kipyegon who flew Kenya’s flag after she won the Athlete of the Year Award.

During the 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens on Tuesday, President Ruto expressed that Kenya’s highest honor is bestowed upon exceptional individuals. He announced, “Today, I have conferred upon our outstanding athlete, Faith Kipyegon, the rank and status of the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (E.G.H.), the highest recognition for citizens who exemplify excellence.” He acknowledged Kipyegon’s remarkable journey from running barefoot to breaking two world records within a year, declaring her an inspiration to aspiring athletes.

The Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya is awarded for exceptional services to the nation in various capacities. These honors are granted by the president based on the recommendations of the National Honours and Awards Committee.

This recognition follows the recent World Athletics Awards in Monaco, where several Kenyan athletes were honored. Faith Kipyegon received the Athlete of the Year Award, while Kelvin Kiptum, the marathon world record holder, was named World Athlete of the Year – Men’s Out of Stadia. Faith Cherotich and Emmanuel Wanyonyi were celebrated with the Rising Stars of the Year awards.

president Ruto, commending Faith Kipyegon’s achievements, referred to the award as a fitting crown for the Queen of the track. He praised her as an embodiment of excellence, versatility, fortitude, humility, and purpose.

In congratulating Cherotich, Kiptum, and Wanyonyi, Ruto stated, “Congratulations to the very deserving Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Faith Cherotich, the winners of the Rising Star in male and female track events. Your promise is undeniable, and we look forward to many victories in the seasons ahead. A soaring tribute to Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, now recognized as the World Athlete of the Year for out-of-stadia events.”

Ruto emphasized the significance of these accolades in highlighting Kenya’s prowess on the global stage. He underscored the undeniable promise of rising stars like Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Faith Cherotich, expressing anticipation for their future victories. Kelvin Kiptum, with his dual distinction as the world marathon record holder and World Athlete of the Year for out-of-stadia events, was hailed as a testament to Kenya’s athletic dominance.

In extending his congratulations, Ruto conveyed admiration for the hard work and dedication exhibited by Faith Kipyegon, labeling her a true champion and a once-in-a-lifetime talent. He encouraged other aspiring athletes to draw inspiration from her journey and strive for excellence in their pursuits.

The president concluded his message with a resounding acknowledgment of Kenya’s rich legacy in athletics, expressing pride in the athletes who continue to elevate the nation’s standing on the global sports platform. He pledged continued support for the sports sector, affirming the government’s commitment to nurturing and celebrating excellence in all fields.

As Kenya basks in the glory of these international recognitions, president Ruto’s words echo a collective sentiment of pride and celebration for the outstanding achievements of the country’s athletes, reinforcing Kenya’s reputation as a powerhouse in the world of athletics.