CS Ababu makes donation to 17-year-old student who won race running barefoot

Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu has rewarded Mercy Chepngeno, a 17-year-old girl from Lesirwo, Kericho County, who won a race running barefoot.

Chepngeno stole the show at the Rift Valley Secondary School Sports Association games in Kipchoge Keino, when she won the girls' 3000m steeplechase race, running barefoot.

She immediately became the spectators’ favourite following how she won the race as she outsmarted other students who were geared up.

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Her resilience and push to win the race stole the attention of CS Ababu who visited her home and rewarded her.

"Born in September 2007, this young talent displayed exceptional determination and grit, embodying the spirit of the CS's "Kujituma" call, that led her to victory in the steeplechase event," the Ministry of Sports stated.

In appreciation of her achievement, CS Ababu presented her with a complete Team Kenya uniform and a personal donation of Ksh100,000 to support her education.

Ababu pointed out that the gifts will help Chepngeno advance her athletic career and also support his academic advancement.

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Additionally, CS Ababu kitted three of her fellow students, who competed alongside her and contributed Ksh100,000 to aid their educational pursuits.

During the reward ceremony, the CS outlined plans to establish a training camp in the region.

Moreover, CS Ababu vowed to integrate Chepngeno and other promising athletes into specialized programs at the Kenya Academy of Sports, citing it as a strategic approach to revitalizing Kenya's steeplechase prowess.

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"Chepngeno's resilience and talent have not only earned her acknowledgement but also educational and athletic support, highlighting the significance of determination and talent in sports development endeavours," Ababu stated.

By supporting young talents, Ababu noted that the legacy of Kenyan athletics prowess would be preserved.

The CS who was accompanied other veteran athletes vowed to continue scouting promising sportsmen and giving them opportunities to develop their talents.

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