Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has implored Kenyan athletes to avoid doping for quick wins in races saying they risked killing their talent before they fully explored it.
Mr Gachagua said success on the tracks follow hardwork and sticking to training plans and tactics adding that drugs will lead to an immature end to their careers.
“Every champion must keep to the outlined track to be counted a winner. Doping is dangerous for your career. It goes against the tenets of discipline and responsibility. You can run clean and win,” said the DP.
He spoke during the Third Edition of the Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run National Championship in Tinderet Constituency, Nandi County where he was a chief guest.
Noting that renowned and successful athletes from the region had shown the way in what clean sport can do, he asked upcoming athletes to emulate their seniors who he also challenged to be good role models.
“Iconic athletes from this backyard have registered astounding global records by running clean. I implore you to not only be role models, but also mentor budding runners to sustain the legendary title of Kenya beating the world clean,” he added.
Further, the DP asked the athletes to make good financial decisions and invest to secure their future.
“Current and retired athletes have heavily secured their future through prudent investment. For the upcoming and thriving champions, it is important to think of tomorrow,” said the DP.
The Third Edition of the Run saw over 1000 athletes compete for the title to represent Kenya in the World Mountain Run in Spain later in the year.
Fredrick Domongole won the Senior Men Race followed by defending champion Patrick Kipng’eno and Richard Atunga who emerged 3rd.
In the Women’s race Sharon Cherotich won the race followed by Hellen Chepkorir and Marion Chepkoech.
The Run was sponsored by Athletics Kenya, Tinderet NG-CDF and Nandi County Government.
The Mountain Run Patron Julius Melly, also Tinderet MP, said it was an honour for the Deputy President to grace the event in its third edition.
