Chebet, Kipyegon call out government over deplorable training facilities

Kenyan women star athletes Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet have called out poor training facilities in the country, urging the government to address the issue.

Chebet broke the world record in the women’s 5000m race, clocking 13:58:06, while on the other hand Kipyegon won gold in the 1500m with a world record time of 3:48:68.

“I am grateful to the University of Eldoret and the School of Law training grounds in Eldoret for providing training opportunities.

"I was disappointed that the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret was closed when I needed to train there ahead of the Breaking4 mile in Paris,” said the three-time Olympian Kipyegon.

She further explained that the improved facilities would enhance performance for many Kenyan athletes.

 “We endure a lot in training, and as Kipyegon experienced, the facilities aren’t always up to standard. We are not asking for much, just adequate training facilities,” said Chebet, who has been training in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The minister Salim Mvurya further clarified that Olympic packages for both Olympic and Paralympic awards have been reviewed, and a Sh70 million reward will be given in the coming weeks to compensate previously unrewarded athletes.

The Cabinet Secretary awarded the two athletes Sh5m each, a government reward for breaking world records.

“The ministry is already heavily investing in high-altitude training areas like Kamariny, Keino, and Kapsabet stadiums,” Mvurya stated.