President William Ruto and Azimio La Umoja – One Kenya coalition leader Raila Odinga have extended heartfelt congratulations to Beatrice Chebet following her historic achievements at the Paris Olympics 2024. Chebet’s remarkable performance has not only brought glory to Kenya but has also etched her name into the annals of Olympic history.
On August 10, 2024, President Ruto took to his official X account to celebrate Chebet’s extraordinary feat. The seasoned athlete had previously clinched gold in the Women’s 5,000m race, and just days later, she made history by winning the Women’s 10,000m race. This victory makes her the first Kenyan woman to secure an Olympic gold medal in the 10,000m race and the first athlete to win two individual gold medals at the same Olympics. Ruto expressed his immense pride and admiration for Chebet’s spectacular double win, calling it a significant milestone for Kenyan athletics.
“Congratulations Beatrice Chebet for winning the Women’s 10,000m race. We are proud of your spectacular Double Olympic Gold — the first for an individual athlete at the Paris 2024!” President Ruto wrote in his congratulatory message. His praise reflects the deep sense of national pride felt across Kenya, as Chebet’s achievements are seen as a testament to the country’s prowess in long-distance running.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also joined the celebration, praising Chebet’s outstanding performance. In a post shared on social media, Gachagua described Chebet as a champion whose remarkable achievements have solidified her place in Olympic history. “Beautiful run, scintillating win! Congratulations, Beatrice Chebet, for winning the 10,000m race at the Paris Olympics, bringing home the second gold medal. We are extremely grateful for your top-drawer performance that has forever cemented your two heroic wins at these games in the annals of Olympics history. You are a hero, our Champion,” he wrote.
Chebet’s performance has not only captured the hearts of her fellow Kenyans but has also drawn admiration from across the globe. Her victory in the 10,000m race came as a culmination of years of dedication and hard work. It is a reflection of the strong athletic traditions that Kenya is renowned for, especially in long-distance running. Chebet’s ability to excel in both the 5,000m and 10,000m races is a testament to her exceptional skill and endurance.
Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio La Umoja – One Kenya coalition, also joined the chorus of congratulations. In his message, Odinga praised Chebet’s brilliant performance and celebrated her achievement as a significant milestone for Kenya. “Congratulations to Beatrice Chebet for a brilliant performance in the 10,000 metres, securing Kenya its second gold medal of these Olympics! A fantastic achievement on her second gold medal—Hongera!” Raila said.
Chebet’s success at the Paris Olympics is a moment of great national pride and a source of inspiration for many. Her accomplishments highlight the exceptional talent that Kenya continues to produce in the realm of athletics. As the country celebrates this historic achievement, Chebet’s name will undoubtedly be remembered as a beacon of excellence and a symbol of Kenyan prowess on the global stage.
The reverberations of Chebet’s triumph will be felt for years to come, and her story will inspire future generations of athletes. Her achievements not only bring honor to Kenya but also elevate the nation’s status in the global athletic arena, reinforcing Kenya’s reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running.