Kenya’s athletic excellence at the 2024 Paris Olympics has not only garnered global acclaim but also substantial financial rewards, thanks to a pioneering initiative by World Athletics and the Kenyan government. This innovative reward scheme highlights the incredible achievements of Kenyan athletes and sets a new standard for recognizing sporting success on the international stage.
Beatrice Chebet: Setting New Records and Earning Big
Beatrice Chebet has captured the spotlight by becoming the first Kenyan woman to win gold medals in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events at the Olympics. Her historic feat has resulted in a record-breaking reward of Ksh19 million, combining the prize money from World Athletics and the Kenyan government. Chebet’s performances in Paris have been exceptional, with her win in the 10,000m race, finishing in 30:43.25, edging out Italy’s Nadia Battocletti and the Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan.
World Athletics has set a precedent by offering significant prize money for Olympic track and field events this year. The organization has allocated Sh6.5 million for each gold medal, part of a broader prize pool of US$2.4 million funded by its share of the International Olympic Committee’s revenue. This groundbreaking move marks the first time an international sports federation has awarded cash prizes for Olympic victories.
Chebet’s total earnings reflect her outstanding achievements and the newfound emphasis on rewarding Olympic success. Her Sh13 million prize from World Athletics, combined with Sh3 million from the Kenyan government for each gold medal, underscores the value placed on her incredible performances.
Faith Kipyegon: Dual Medalist with a Lucrative Return
Faith Kipyegon has also made headlines with her achievements in Paris, winning gold in the 1,500m and silver in the 5,000m. Kipyegon’s impressive performances will net her Sh11 million, further enhancing Kenya’s reputation in middle-distance running. Her success contributes to a broader trend of rewarding Olympic excellence.
Rising Stars: Wanyonyi and Kwemboi
Emmanuel Wanyonyi, who emerged victorious in the men’s 800m, is set to receive Sh8.5 million. Ronald Kwemboi, who took silver in the men’s 5,000m, will enjoy a Sh2 million reward. Their achievements highlight Kenya’s continued dominance in track and field, supported by the new reward scheme.
Recognizing Bronze Medalists and Government Support
Bronze medalists in the Paris Olympics will each receive Sh1 million. This group includes Mary Moraa (800m), Faith Cherotich (3000m steeplechase), Abraham (3000m steeplechase), Hellen Obiri (marathon), and Benson Kipruto (marathon). The Kenyan government’s additional rewards of Sh3 million for gold, Sh2 million for silver, and Sh1 million for bronze medals further emphasize the value of Olympic achievements.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Kenyan Athletics
For Beatrice Chebet, this year’s successes have not only brought financial rewards but also solidified her status as a leading global athlete. Her impressive performances at the Olympics, combined with her world record in the 10,000m at the Prefontaine Classic and World Cross-Country titles, position her for continued success and lucrative endorsement opportunities.
The 2024 Paris Olympics have set a new benchmark for rewarding athletic excellence, and Kenya’s athletes are at the forefront of this exciting development. This innovative approach to recognizing and rewarding Olympic success promises to inspire future generations and elevate Kenyan athletics to new heights.