Asbel Kiprop, a high jumper from Kenya, is aiming to make a significant impact on the global athletics stage. While he shares a name with the legendary middle-distance runner who has won multiple world titles and an Olympic gold, this new Kiprop is focused on achieving greatness in the high jump event. Despite facing several challenges, Kiprop is determined to rise to prominence in the sport, inspired by the achievements of his namesake and the potential he believes Kenya holds in field events.
In Kenya, track events are widely recognized, with athletes excelling in disciplines like sprints and long-distance running. However, field events have often been overlooked, and Kiprop is striving to change that perception. One of the primary obstacles he faces is the lack of proper equipment, which has hindered the development of field events in the country. Despite Kenya’s strong reputation as a sporting powerhouse, there is a shortage of modern stadiums and facilities equipped to support field athletes.
Kiprop believes that with more support and access to the right equipment, Kenyan athletes can perform at the highest level in field events, just as they do in track events. He has expressed frustration at the unavailability of the necessary tools to excel, noting that field events are often marginalized in favor of track disciplines. His call for greater attention to field events is a plea for the country to invest in the resources that would enable athletes like him to compete on the global stage.
The high jumper credits much of his progress to his coach, Chepsongor, who has played a crucial role in shaping his technique and physique. Kiprop recounts how his coach helped him refine his jumping form, adjusting his stance, steps, and body curve to improve his performance. This guidance has been instrumental in Kiprop’s growth as an athlete, and he attributes much of his success to the foundation laid by his coach.
Kiprop’s journey to the top of his sport began in 2018 when he turned professional. Since then, he has been working tirelessly to improve and has made significant strides in his career. One of his key achievements so far has been making his first national team for the 2022 African Athletics Championships. This milestone marked a major step in his career, and Kiprop is determined to continue pushing forward in his quest for global success.
Despite the challenges, Kiprop remains optimistic and committed to his goal of becoming a world-class athlete. He hopes that his journey, combined with the recognition of his namesake, will open doors for him on the international stage. Kiprop is not only focused on his own success but also on the broader development of field events in Kenya. He believes that with the right support, Kenyan athletes can excel in both track and field disciplines, further solidifying the country’s status as a dominant force in global athletics.
As he continues to work hard and pursue his dreams, Kiprop’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of support, infrastructure, and resources in the development of athletes. His determination to overcome obstacles and make a name for himself in the high jump event reflects the resilience and ambition that define many of Kenya’s top athletes.
