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As athletes Ruth Chepngetich and John Korir celebrate after clinching gold in the 2024 Chicago Marathon, leaders have also joined in celebrating and congratulating them.
President William Ruto congratulated Chepngetich and Korir, saying the nation has taken great pride in their stellar performances and for flying the flag high.
“I salute Chepngetich for breaking the World Record and becoming the first woman in history to break the 2:10:00 barrier,” he said.
He also congratulated Bravo Irine Cheptai for securing the third position, noting that she had added bronze to Kenya’s basket of medals.
“Congratulations Mr Korir for taking the top spot in the men’s race, and Amos Kipruto for bringing home the bronze medal,” the President added.
Joining him in sending congratulatory remarks, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said Kenya is “super proud” of Chepngetich’s “amazing achievement”.
“Hearty congratulations to Ruth Chepngetich for setting a new World Marathon Record at today’s Chicago Marathon,” he said. “Bravo John Korir for winning the men’s race and all Kenyans who performed well at the event.”
Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen recognised the champions and all Kenyans who took part in the race.
“Congratulations, Ruth Chepng’etich for such a phenomenal run to win the Chicago Marathon and break the world record! That was an incredible run leading from gun to tape,” he said.
“Well done to Irine Cheptai for coming 3rd in the same race. Congratulations, too, John Korir, for winning the men’s race with such ease. Amos Kipruto, big up for coming in 3rd.”
He expressed gratitude for honouring the late Kelvin Kiptum.
“Thank you very much, Chicago Marathon, too for honouring Kelvin Kiptum’s memory with a moment of silence at the start and for the special tribute stickers that the runners wore,” Murkomen said.
Chepng’etich clocked a time of two hours, nine minutes and 57 seconds to surpass Ethiopian Tigst Assefa’s previous record by nearly two minutes.
Chepngetich is the first woman to run a marathon in under two hours and 10 minutes.
“I feel so great, I’m proud of myself. This is my dream that has come true,” said Chepngetich, the 2019 world marathon champion.
“I’ve fought a lot thinking about the world record and I have fulfilled it.”
by SHARON MWENDE