- Standard Six learner Rebecca Cherop has earned a place in Team Kenya after an impressive athletics campaign.
- The 11-year-old from Chemweisus SA Comprehensive School lacks basic athletics gear despite qualifying for FEASSSA Games.
- School leaders are appealing to leaders, Athletics Kenya and well-wishers to help the young athlete compete in Tanzania.
For most athletes, qualifying to represent Kenya is the hardest part.
For 11-year-old Rebecca Cherop, it may only be the beginning.
The Standard Six pupil from Chemweisus SA Comprehensive School in Mt. Elgon has already conquered every competition before her, winning zonal, sub-county, county and regional titles before finishing second nationally to earn a coveted place in Team Kenya for the FEASSSA Games.
Now, the youngster faces a different challenge: finding the basic equipment needed to compete.
School Headteacher Emily Kimtai said Rebecca’s family cannot afford essentials such as track shoes and training attire.
“She comes from a very poor background and is being raised by her elderly grandmother. As a school, we have nurtured her talent as far as we can, but our resources are limited,” Kimtai said.
Rebecca will compete in the 3,000 metres during the FEASSSA Games in Morogoro, Tanzania, where Kenya will once again seek to dominate regional athletics.
Kimtai described Rebecca as one of the most gifted athletes the school has ever produced.
“This talent has the potential to transform her life and lift her family out of poverty. We are appealing to the leadership of Mt. Elgon, Bungoma County, Athletics Kenya and all well-wishers to support her,” she said.
The school fears the lack of athletics gear could prevent Rebecca from taking part in the championships.
“If she is not helped, then she may fail to proceed to the regional competition despite earning her place through hard work and merit,” Kimtai said.
Hope
Rebecca is among 71 athletes selected to represent Kenya and one of only 10 from the Western Region.
The headteacher believes supporting the young athlete would send a powerful message to other children in rural communities.
“It will encourage other children to take up athletics and believe that talent can change their lives. Rebecca has already made history for our school, and with the right support, she can make Kenya proud,” she said.
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As the countdown to the FEASSSA Games continues, the tiny village of Chemweisus is rallying behind one of its own, hoping that the next chapter of Rebecca Cherop’s remarkable journey will be written on the track in Tanzania—not halted by poverty.
By Kimutai Langat
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