Why Beatrice Chebet Shifted Her Training From Kericho To Eldoret
By Martin Cheruiyot |
It was a golden weekend for Kenyan athletics at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon, USA. Faith Kipyegon broke her own 1500m world record, and Beatrice Chebet made history by becoming the first woman to run the 5000m in under 14 minutes.
In recognition of their incredible achievements, the two stars were each awarded KSh 5 million by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya upon their return to Kenya.
Beatrice Chebet the 10000m and now 5000m record holder sat down with Kass Sports to reflect on her Prefontaine Classic performance
First of all, congratulations on breaking the world record! How did it feel to break the 5000m record?
Beatrice Chebet: First of all, I want to thank God for helping us arrive safely in Kenya. I also want to appreciate everybody who came to welcome us at the airport led by Athletics Kenya President Jack Tuwei.
About the Prefontaine Classic, I can say I am the happiest person in the world right now, having smashed the 5000m world record and become the first woman to run under 14 minutes.
It’s my joy to make history and inspire the next generation. We ladies are capable of achieving many things, and I believe we are going to do wonders after breaking this record.
This year, you’ve already run the second-fastest time in the 3000m and now you’ve broken the 5000m world record. What’s the secret behind your stellar form?
Beatrice Chebet: What I can say is just discipline and hard work. Once you’ve known what you want in life, you have to focus on achieving it.
I’ve been motivated since 2022 when I won silver at the World Championships that’s when I realized I am capable. Faith Kipyegon has been close to me and has shown me that I can achieve anything in life. That’s the only secret.
This year is a World Championship year. You’ll be lining up in the 5000m alongside Faith Kipyegon and Agnes Ngetich. How do you feel about that level of competition and your shot at gold?
Beatrice Chebet: Everybody is seeking a gold medal at the World Championships including me since I only have silver and bronze so far.
What I can say is that we are going there to work as a team. I am praying for God to give us good health. We will work together and bring the medals home that’s the priority. I believe we’ll support each other since we are all friends.
Earlier, you mentioned inspiring the younger generation. How proud are you to see young girls looking up to you?
Beatrice Chebet: I am very happy to inspire them. All I can tell upcoming athletes and young girls is to work hard and remember that everything has its own time.
If you become disciplined and put in the work, you will achieve what you want in life. For example, myself I started as a junior, and my progression to senior level has been smooth.
All I can say is, don’t rush, don’t be greedy just go slowly in your career, and you will achieve what you want in life.
Right now in the country, training tracks are in poor condition. How does this affect your preparation for major competitions?
Beatrice Chebet: Right now, as you’ve said, tracks are the most challenging part. I used to train in Kericho, but since the track at Kericho Green Stadium got damaged, the only available field is the Kericho Teachers’ College field, which has grass.
That’s why I had to relocate to Eldoret, Kipchoge Stadium for training but even that is not available at the moment.
We’re left with murram tracks, which become slippery and bad when it rains. All I can ask is for the government to help us install proper tracks as we gear up for the World Championships.
Beatrice Chebet’s record-breaking run isn’t just a personal milestone it’s a statement to the world. With humility, focus, and a burning passion for greatness, she continues to rise not only as a champion, but as a role model for a new generation of Kenyan stars.
