The association of veteran athletes in Kenya have appealed to both county and national governments to set up structures that will acknowledge retired celebrated athletes in their old age.
According to Simon Biwott, a retired athlete who spoke during Mashujaa celebrations at Central Primary School in Uasin Gishu, many athletes who brought fame to the country during their prime running age have nothing to write home about.
“We have so many athletes that carried the flag of our country internationally but once they retire we do not acknowledge their contribution to our nation. Governor, we hope your government and the
national one will come up with a kitty that can help these heroes of our nation,” said Biwott, who is the Kenyan Veteran Athletes Association Secretary.
Biwott cited decorated athletes in the country including world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge, and 100m national and African champion Ferdinand Omanyala among others.
In his response, Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim said his administration is keen on celebrating athletes he called heroes with most of them hailing from the North Rift region and Uasin Gishu in particular.
Bii said there are elaborate plans his county has put in place which will unveil soon to promote athletics.
“On this, as we celebrate our heroes, we recognize our athletes who have always been representing our county and the country at large. I will make sure that the request my administration works towards promoting athletics soon, ” said Governor Bii.
Kenya is known internationally for its prowess in athletics, especially the long races. Most of the athletes come from the North Rift – with counties seeking to use them to enhance sports tourism.
Uasin Gishu’s capital Eldoret has branded itself as the city of champions, Nandi County – Source of Champions while Elgeyo Marakwet describes its biggest town – Iten as the Home of Champions – with champions, in this case, being athletes.
Yeah there is need to support these guys