The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has rewarded world record holder in 1,500m, Faith Kipyegon with a complimentary holiday in recognition of her remarkable achievements on the global stage.
Kipyegon, a three-time Olympic champion in the 1500 metres race, will embark on a vacation that will span the Coastal circuit, including Diani Beach and the Amboseli National Park.
The holiday, courtesy of KTB, provides the champion an opportunity to unwind and experience first-hand the incredible tourism attractions that make Kenya one of the world’s leading travel destinations.
Speaking ahead of the trip, Kipyegon expressed her gratitude to KTB for the gesture, saying: “I am extremely honored and humbled that my beloved country Kenya has blessed me with the opportunity to pursue my dreams in athletics. During my resting season, I was sure that there was no better place to take a break but to enjoy the magic of my own country so this is timely. I look forward with great anticipation to exploring the magical experiences including some adventure, the pristine beaches, and landscapes, and taking time for authentic wildlife viewing with my family. My country is such a vibrant tourist destination and I am lucky to experience it firsthand.”
She added: “This is a wonderful chance for me to appreciate Kenya’s natural beauty and diversity beyond the tracks and training grounds. I hope to return from this vacation refreshed and with amazing stories to share with the world about everything that makes our country magical.”
KTB CEO June Chepkemei noted that the holiday for Kipyegon serves to recognize her role in promoting Kenya globally thanks to her athletic excellence.
“We are delighted to host Faith and offer her a taste of the incredible magic Kenya has to offer global travelers. Her achievements on the global athletics stage have raised Kenya’s profile and inspired the world. This holiday is a small token of our appreciation for her service to the nation as a phenomenal athlete and role model. We will continue to host podium finisher athletes who have continually made our country proud”. Athletes.
Chepkemei further stated that Kipyegon’s experience will serve to enhance the “Run With Kenyans” campaign, which aims to invite international runners to experience the destination while participating in various marathon events across the country.
“As KTB continues to promote domestic tourism through our Tembea Kenya initiative, we are honored to have icons like Faith Kipyegon shine the spotlight on everything that makes our country such an exceptional travel destination even for running enthusiasts. We are confident this holiday will provide some well-deserved rest before she continues her conquests and carries Kenya’s message to the world,” Chepkemei stated.
Faith Kipyegon’s illustrious career has been punctuated by groundbreaking achievements, culminating in a series of world records and Olympic triumphs that have solidified her status as a legendary figure in middle-distance running.
In a span of just one month in 2023, she broke three world records – in the 1500 meters (3:49.11), 5000 meters (14:05.20), and the mile (4:07.64) – an unprecedented feat that solidified her status as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time.
Her remarkable achievements have earned her several accolades and awards including the World Athlete of the Year for women’s track at the World Athletics Awards 2023 in Monaco.
Meanwhile, the KTB CEO also took the opportunity to wish the runners participating in the upcoming New York Marathon a great and successful race.
