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Kisii sports icons have united in celebrating Hellen Obiri's remarkable triumph at the 2024 Boston Marathon, where she secured her second Boston Marathon title and led a historic Kenyan podium sweep.
The victory marked Obiri's third consecutive win in a World Marathon Majors race, solidifying her status as one of Kenya's most dominant long-distance runners.
Obiri, who completed the race in a stellar time of 2:22:37, crossed the finish line ahead of her compatriots Sharon Lokedi (2:22:45) and Edna Kiplagat (2:23:21), showcasing an extraordinary display of strength and endurance.
The Kenyan trio's outstanding performance underlined the country's continued dominance in long-distance running on the global stage.
In response to Obiri's achievement, revered Kisii sports figures Elijah Onsika, Charles Asati, and Hezekiel Nyamao conveyed their heartfelt congratulations and reflected on the significance of Obiri's success, particularly within the Gusii community.
Former Harambee Stars and Shabana football legend Elijah Onsika, who has had a distinguished career in both football and post-retirement contributions, emphasized the inspirational impact of Obiri's accomplishments.
"Obiri's achievements at the age of 34 should motivate not only Gusii athletes but all Kenyans," Onsika remarked, highlighting the enduring power of athleticism and determination.
Charles Asati, celebrated as one of Kenya's most accomplished long sprinters of the 20th century, added perspective to Obiri's current dominance in the athletics world.
Asati, whose Olympic and Commonwealth Games accolades are etched in Kenya's sporting history, stressed the significance of Obiri's achievements on a global scale.
"Obiri's success should not be underestimated; it speaks volumes about her talent and dedication," Asati affirmed, drawing attention to Obiri's impact beyond national borders.
Asati won a 4x400 m relay gold at the 1972 Olympics and silver in 1968. He also finished fourth in the 400 metres at the 1972 München Olympics.
At the Commonwealth Games, Asati won 400 m and 4x400 m relay golds in 1970 and 1974 and also won a 200 m bronze at the 1970 Commonwealth Games. Asati won both 400 and 4x400 relay golds at the 1973 All-African Games.
He was also the East and Central African champion at 200 metres in 1968-69 and 1976; at 400 metres in 1969 and 1975; and in the 4x400 m relay in 1967-72 and 1976.
Hezekiel Nyamao, a decorated Olympian and member of Kenya's gold-winning 4x400m relay team at the 1972 Munich Olympics, echoed the sentiment that age should not limit one's pursuit of greatness.
Nyamao praised Obiri's resilience, illustrating that age indeed remains just a number in the pursuit of athletic excellence.
Obiri's victory not only symbolizes her personal triumph but also underscores the enduring legacy of Kenyan athletes on the international stage.
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