The world of professional sports witnessed the rise of several athletes every year who try to make a name for themselves. These athletes strive for greatness and to channel their true passion for a sport. However, while fame and passion serve as great motivating factors, they didn’t contribute to the making of this track and field star.

The 2x Olympic gold medalist is known for her speedy performances on the track as a long-distance track and field runner. While Faith Kipyegon currently rules the long-distance running events, there was a time when she was very far away from the success she enjoys today. But she powered through with whatever she had and also made use of what she didn’t have.

A champion emerges amid the run for the basic need

The track and field star was asked about the beginning of her career in an interview. To this, she painted a very detailed picture, with both grim and positive aspects. Most prominently, it was the status of her financial security, or its lack, that pushed her forward. 

The track and field star recently said to Pulse Sports, “Since I won in Punta Umbria in Spain, it opened my mind. I learnt athletics could put food on my table and that is when I got a serious coach and focused myself towards where I am now.” While this isn’t in line with what one usually hears, like passion and a journey of self-actualization, money does act as a strong motivator.

While money did provide her with a strong sense of motivation, she hadn’t seen any cash in the beginning. During this time, however, it was Kipyegon’s parents who pushed her into track and field. She said, “My parents are my heroes, they have taken me from far. They are the ones who used to motivate me to run and they said I could change our family background through athletics.”

The journey of a thousand miles that began with a barefooted step

Faith Kipyegon currently holds two world records and had three world records to her name previously. Interestingly, her journey of world domination started with a barefoot run that sowed the initial seeds of confidence in her. And when the track and field star received some quality shoes, she became unstoppable.

Although it takes her back to a time of struggle, Kipyegon is proud of the fact that she started her journey shoeless. She said, “For me, the biggest thing is when I ran barefoot. If I had not done that, I would not have motivated the younger generation, those who are running now and do not know where they will get shoes. They can see Faith started barefoot.”

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 Faith Kipyegon now wants more girls to enter track and field and other sports by inspiring them with her story. Kipyegon is the reigning Olympic Champion in the 1500m dash, who successfully defended her Rio Olympics title in Tokyo. Will she be able to surpass everyone and hit a threepeat at the Paris Olympics?

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