Dr Barchok Fetes World Champions During Mashujaa Day

Bomet Governor Dr. Hillary Barchok led Bomet residents in celebrating Mashujaa day celebrations at Konoin Baraza Park Mogogosiek on Sunday.

Dr. Barchok celebrated the late Dr. Joyce Laboso as a real heroine who introduced sweeping reforms that have triggered development in various sectors setting Bomet on an upward development trajectory. “She fought for the space of women in leadership and passionately advocated for gender and equality.” Dr. Barchok said.

During the celebrations, the Governor awarded trophies to World Champions Timothy Cheruiyot (1500m) and Beatrice Chepkoech (3000m steeplechase) as well as former 10000m athlete William Cheruiyot Sigei.

Bomet County has produced many international athletes who have lifted the Kenyan flag high in global and regional competitions.

“It was breath taking to watch Cheruiyot compete with such courage and romp to stardom in Doha, raising the Kenyan flag high and putting Bomet county in the world map,” said Barchok.

He added: “We celebrate Chepkoech who is the current world champion in 3000m steeplechase having ran 8:44.32 in 2018. With that time, she became the first woman to break 8:50 and 8:45 barrier.”

Dr. Barchok said the county government is committed towards creating an enabling environment for upcoming athletes and those engaged in other disciplines to improve their skills.

“The county government is constructing a high altitude athletics training ground and sports academy at Tegat Training Centre so as to help in nurturing talents among youths,” said Barchok who revealed that the county government is in talks to take over Terek training camp in Konoin.

Barchok also urged sportsmen and women to invest wisely so that their impact is felt in society.

“It is important that the athletes use their earnings to create employment opportunities for youths in the county. They should make wise investment choices so that when they are no longer active in sports, they live comfortable lives and are able to provide for their families,” advised Dr. Barchok.

The Administration Police Service Bomet FC, which was recently promoted to the National Super League, was also feted in the ceremony.

The ceremony was also attended by the County Commissioner Geoffrey Omoding, Speaker of the County Assembly Shadrack Rotich, area Member of Parliament Brighton Yegon, MCAs among other dignitaries.