Eliud Kipchoge, Faith Jepkosgei and Ferdinand Omanyala were among the 25 athletes who were presented with awards following their exploits in the just concluded Tokyo 2020 Olympics Games.
The special gala event hosted by Kenya Breweries Limited’s brand Tusker at the Eka Hotel in Eldoret saw Olympians appreciated for their valiant efforts that saw the country emerge as the best African nation and 19th globally. Several legendary athletes graced the occasion including the father of Kenyan athletics, the iconic Kipchego Keino and Kenya’s first Olympic Medallist Wilson Kiprugut.
Speaking at the occasion, Uasin Gishu Governor Hon. Jackson Mandago heaped praise on the athletes for their stellar performance that once again highlighted the country’s prowess in Athletics.
“Congratulations Team Kenya, you made this country and the whole continent proud. Eldoret is the City of Champions and you have proved that once again. The medals won were just an addition to the joy you brought to all Kenyans.” said Mandago.
He added: “As the county government through the ministry of sports, I want to assure you that we will continue to invest in sports in Uasin Gishu and the larger country. Plans to finish the construction of Kipchoge Keino Stadium are underway as we continue to prioritise more sporting development projects in the county. We believe this will raise the level of sports in the country and actualise our potential as a revered commercial sporting destination.”
East African Breweries Limited’s Head of Marketing, Beer Anne-Joy Michira said that it was an honour for the company to be associated with the team as sponsors. She further noted the company’s commitment to continue supporting sports in the country. “Team Kenya we’re proud of you and as Kenya Breweries Limited and brand Tusker we are proud you continue to raise the profile of the country through your efforts and your triumphant stories. Our commitment is to continue walking with you and providing the platform for you to actualise your full potential and progress Kenya’s reputation as the Home of Champions,” said Michira.
Kenya Breweries Limited through its flagship beer brand Tusker was an official partner during the Games this year through a sponsorship of Ksh. 45 million that went towards supporting the teams’ preparations and logistics during the games. As part of the partnership, the company was also involved in the production of the Team’s official travelling kit as it also conducted a nationwide campaign dubbed “Cheer Our Champions” to rally Kenyans behind the team.
On his part, NOCK President Paul Tergat said: “We are here to celebrate Team Kenya and their excellent performance as we see all medals from Tokyo represented here. We thank you athletes, for your sacrifice, the sweat and tears you put into this competition. You have done us proud. We thank the Government and our sponsors like Tusker for the continued support. I believe the athletes are beaming with confidence for the next challenge that is the Commonwealth and I’m certain even a better showing lies ahead for that tournament”
Other athletes in attendance who received awards included; Emmanuel Korir, Faith Chepngetich Kipyegon, Peres Jepchirchir, Hellen Obiri, Ferguson Rotich, Timothy Cheruiyot and Brigid Kosgei. Kenya was ranked inside the top 50 after collecting four medals at the games. Several of the athletes now switch gears to international competitions as they gear up for the Commonwealth Games in 2022.
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