Obiri urges athletes to open up, calls for stronger support against GBV in sports

Two-time Boston Marathon champion Hellen Obiri has urged athletes to speak up and advocate for their rights as they pursue their dreams.

Speaking during the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOCK) Gender Conference that concluded Wednesday in Nairobi, emphasized the need for stronger support systems to help young and aspiring athletes navigate the challenges of professional sports.

Reflecting on the struggles athletes endure, Obiri highlighted both the physical and mental demands of training.

"Sometimes, it's tough to wake up at 5 a.m. to train on dusty roads, often in darkness, with concerns for our safety. But in the end, hard work pays off," she said.

She also stressed the importance of viewing sports as a business and making informed career decisions.

"If sports weren’t a business, we wouldn’t be where we are today. It’s about finding the right partnerships and working with companies that provide the best opportunities," she added.

Obiri, who was a panelist in the two-day event, expressed deep concern over the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) in sports.

She called for more proactive measures to protect athletes and ensure they have the knowledge and resources to defend themselves.

"First, we need educational programs that encourage athletes not to hide their struggles. Many suffer in silence, fearing judgment from society. We must be honest with young athletes about life beyond track and field and equip them with skills to handle difficult situations," she said.

Her remarks come amid growing concerns over GBV in sports, with calls for urgent interventions to safeguard athletes’ welfare.

"The good news is that Athletics Kenya (AK) and NOC-K have already launched programs to educate athletes on these issues. This is a significant step in supporting those who have faced such challenges," she concluded.