Race day botos, and what an unforgettable morning it was! Today, I had the rare opportunity to step inside the stadium and line up for the media 800m race – an experience that I will treasure forever. From the moment I put on the Kenyan jersey, I felt a deep sense of pride and excitement. There’s something special about standing on the same track as world-class athletes, knowing that in just a few hours they’ll be chasing glory on the very lanes I was about to run on.
It was pure fun from start to finish. Around 195 media members took part in the race, and the organizers really made it feel official by giving us bibs. It was pretty cool to see everyone smiling and laughing as we warmed up together. Still, I think they missed a golden opportunity by not putting “Kipchumba” on my bib – that would have been legendary! When the announcer called my name, he even joked about whether I had changed my allegiance to Kenya. That made me laugh and feel even more welcomed by everyone around.
The race itself? Well, let’s just say 800m is way too short for me, and I definitely wasn’t in top form today. But it wasn’t about times or fitness – it was about joy. I ran hard, had a blast, and crossed the finish line with a big smile on my face. All smiles post-race, I just felt blessed to have had the chance to live this experience.
I have to thank Kelly Ayodi for the “vere nais botos” – it’s moments like these that remind me why I love athletics and storytelling so much. Getting to share the same energy as the athletes, and to race in the same stadium where history is being written, is a memory I will carry with me for a long time.
And now, after my own little race, it’s time to turn into a fan again and enjoy what promises to be an electric Day 6. The schedule is stacked with events that Kenyan fans can’t afford to miss. At 13:05 EAT, the women’s 5000m heats will see Beatrice Chebet, Faith Kipyegon, Agnes Jebet, and Margaret Akidor step onto the track. These four will look to dominate and secure spots in the final. Then at 13:23, all eyes will be on Julius Yego, “Mr. YouTube,” in the men’s javelin throw final.
Later in the day, we will have the women’s 800m heats featuring Mary Moraa, Sarah Moraa, Lilian Odira, and Vivian Chebet at 13:58. The afternoon will also bring finals in the men’s and women’s 400m and the women’s triple jump, as well as the semis for both the men’s and women’s 200m.
A very special thank you goes out to Pura Vida Sports Africa for making this possible and trusting me with media credentials. Please support them by following their work. Good morning Kenya – from the wild mzungu living his dream and cheering on our athletes with pride. More medals are coming! Nawapenda sana wote ❤️
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