Marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge and an elderly woman who volunteered to cook for political prisoners during the struggle for independence were among 180 personalities honoured for their actions yesterday.

President Uhuru Kenyatta bestowed Kipchoge with the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (EGH), days after the 34-year-old became the first man to run a marathon in under two hours.

The star athlete’s award during the 10th Mashujaa Day celebrations in Mombasa placed him in a distinguished category of Kenyans. 

In his address to the country, Uhuru urged Kenyans to emulate the world marathon record holder.

Kipchoge was among more than 100 other personalities that were garlanded during the day set aside to honour those who have brought honour and glory to the country.