By JOSEPH NGURE
University of Eldoret has offered 3,000 metres steeplechase sensational Conseslus Kipruto the opportunity to further his education at the institution.
Eldoret University Vice-Chancellor Prof Teresa Akenga said Kipruto, a Diamond League Meeting 3,000m steeplechase winner, will be assisted should he take the offer to acquire further education.
“Can the coaches find out what grade he attained in his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education and give me the feedback. We are ready to admit him on a special arrangement,” said Akenga.
The don was responding to a request by athletics coaches who are asking local universities to offer scholarships to bright athletes to study locally instead of them going to Europe and America.
The Vice-Chancellor added the university was looking into a possibility of opening up bursaries and scholarships at different levels for the best sports men and women who wish to join the institution.
“We hope the scholarships will encourage the best sports men and women to join our university. We are inviting all athletes to consider their further studies at the University of Eldoret,” she added. Kipruto, who was born on December 8, 1994, is currently in top form after beating two-times Olympic champion Ezekiel Kemboi in 3,000 metres steeplechase.
The 19-year-old shot into the limelight with his maiden victory during 2011 World Youth championship in Lile, France.
He reconfirmed his superiority again in the last year’s World Junior in Barcelona when again he clinched a medal in his speciality.
He has won four Diamond League Meetings and is currently ranked number one in 3,000m steeplechase this year and his 8:01.16 Personal Best makes him the eighth fastest runner in the event worldwide.
His present form is sending shivers down the spines of elite class of steeplechasers who have dominated the event for the last 10 years.
Meanwhile, Olympic champion Usain Bolt believes he is getting back to his best after the Jamaican trials gave him a confidence-boost in the build-up to next month’s world championships in Moscow.
The world record holder won the 100 metres at last month’s trials to secure his place at the worlds, having been given a wildcard entry into the 200 by Jamaica as defending champion.
—Additional report by Reuters
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