Kevin Kiprop wants to keep family traditions in athletics excellence by reaching the podium at this weekend’s International Schools Sports Federation Cross Country at Ngong Race Course.
Kiprop, the form three student at the Sininin Secondary School in Baringo County wants to medal and keep the family name on the global map — including his father Christopher Soget and elder brothers Justus Soget and Evans Kipkosgei.
Kiprop (under 18 category) is putting faith in the training he has undergone at the Team Kenya camp in Ngong.
“Making Team Kenya was not easy. The training here is better than at home,” said Kiprop, a product of the Barnabas Kitilit-coached Torongo Athletics Camp conveyor belt.
On the track, he wants to emulate his father by conquering the 5,000m race.
“Our father is our hero. He advises me on how to run and shows me the way. I want to run like him. He takes care of my training and advises me on what to do and reach his level and I want to surpass him,” said Kiprop. “He trains me on speed work and helps me financially.”
Elder brother, Justus, has also been of great help in training.
Team Manager Koech Kirwa said the athletes are in high spirits as they make the final touches to their preparations.
“The athletes have promised to deliver good results when they line up for competition on Saturday,” said Kirwa.
Head coach Robert Ngisirei believes Kenya will sweep the podiums in the various categories.
“We have prepared well for the event. We have some of the best athletes,” said Ngisirei.
Overall team captain Fanuel Koech, who will compete in the under-18 category, said: “Training has been great. We are now finalising our preparations. We know it will not be easy but we shall do our best since we are running at home. It is so sweet when you are being cheered by the fans at home.”
Kenya will field 61 athletes across the boys’ and girls’ under-12, under-15 and under-18 categories.
