President Ruto awarded Faith Kipyegon, the double Olympic champion and current world record holder in the 1,500-meter event, the highest state honor on Tuesday, the Order of the Golden Heart.
At the 60th anniversary of Jamhuri Day celebrations held at Nairobi’s Uhuru Gardens, President Ruto made the announcement.
Kipyegon has a wild campaign in 2023, breaking world records in the 1,500-, 5,000-, and one-mile distances.
As President William Ruto announced the award, he praised Kipyegon’s skill on the track.
This is happening against the backdrop of Kipyegon’s stunning season, which saw her shatter three world records in the 1,500, 5000, and one mile sprints, culminating in her crowning as the Female World Athlete of the Year on track last night in Monaco, France.
“Today I have conferred upon our world beating athlete Faith Kipyegon the ranked status of the Elder of Golden Heart, the highest honour the country awards its citizens who illuminate the path of excellence.”
“She has earned her place at the very top from running bare feet to breaking two world records within a year is the ultimate stage of heroism,” noted Ruto.
The 800m world champion Mary Moraa, 100m African Champion Ferdinand Omanyala, World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and World’s crowned rising stars Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Faith Cherotich will also be feted, Ruto said.
