At just 17 years old, the form three students at Friends School Poroko in Narok County has already achieved what many only dare to imagine standing on an international podium with Kenya’s flag draped across his shoulders. In July, Sang stunned the continent when he clinched silver in the 400 metres at the third edition of the Confederation of African
Sang who came second at the Athletics (CAA) U-18 and U-20 Championships in Abeokuta, Nigeria keeps his hopes high after bagging silver medal after posting an impressive 47.87 seconds.
But for Sang, silver is just the beginning. His eyes are firmly set on a bigger goal: the 800 metres crown and, eventually, the global stage. Not merely to participate but to inherit the legacy of his hero, David Rudisha, the two-time Olympic champion and world record holder who, like Sang, hails from the same region.
“I want to one day take Rudisha’s place in the 800 metres. I know it will take time, sacrifice, and hard work. But that is the dream I’m chasing,” said Sang, calling Rudisha his icon.
“When I consistently run sub-47 seconds in the 400m, then I know I’m ready for the 800m. That’s where my future is,” he said confidently.
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Sang’s journey to Nigeria was ignited at the national trials held at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru, where he proved his mettle against Kenya’s best school-aged athletes. His performance in Abeokuta not only turned heads but solidified his name among Africa’s most promising talents.
Despite his newfound fame, Sang remains grounded. He is still a full-time boarder at Friends School Poroko and adheres to a strict daily schedule that hasn’t changed even after his continental success.
“He wakes up before sunrise for his road runs, attends all his lessons, and trains again in the evening within the school compound. His work ethic is unmatched,” said games teacher Esther Ogembo.
His coach, Enock Sunkuli, is already guiding him through a gradual transition to the 800m, a race that demands both tactical precision and raw endurance.
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“He has the raw ability, but more importantly, he listens. He is coachable, humble, and mentally tough,” Sunkuli said. Transmara region is no stranger to greatness. From the red-earth trails of Oltanki, where Rudisha once trained, to the rugged footpaths of Poroko, this region has produced a constellation of champions: Wycliffe Kinyamal, Billy and Patrick Konchellah, Daniel Rudisha, Stephen Marai, Charles Kokoyo, and Dr. Darius Taruru among others.
“We don’t just grow athletes here. We grow legacies,” said Principal Titu Musyoki.
Musyoki describes Sang as a symbol of hope, a living reminder that with discipline, support, and community, young people can rise above any challenge
“Robert is not just running for medals. He’s running to inspire a generation. He’s writing the next great chapter in Transmara’s rich sporting history,” he said.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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