Women marathon world record holder Brigid Kosgei arrived in the country on Tuesday night from Chicago following her mileage in shuttering a 16-year-old women marathon world record.
The 25-year-old was received on Wednesday morning at Riadha house by AK president Gen (Rtd) Tuwei Jackson and senior vice president Paul Mutwii among other officials.
World women marathon record holder Brigid Kosgei and her coach Eric Kimayo (in maroon), AK senior VP Paul Mutwii (at right end) and former athlete Boit (in blue suit) at AK Riadha house. [Source/Kennedy Mutunga]
Kosgei shed by a 1 minute and 21 seconds Britain's Paula Radcliffe 16 years standing record and set up a new time of 2:14:04.
It was an improvement of her personal best with four minutes ( 2:18 to 2:14).
Kosgei and her coach Eric Kimayo, AK senior VP Paul Mutwii and former athlete Boit are received at AK Riadha house. [Source/Kennedy Mutunga]
AK senior vice president was impressed by the athlete's performance and noted, "We are proud of Brigid and those that assisted her to break the record."
AK boss, Gen (Rtd) on his part lauded Brigid for the record and all Kenyans for cheering her.
"We are happy to welcome world record holder, her victory was a surprise considering the far she has come and more so encouraging coming on the backdrop of Eliud Kipchoge INEOS achievements," said Tuwei.
Kosgei was delighted of her achievement and urged upcoming athletes to be patient and respectful if they want to reach her level.
"I am happy for the victory. I was well prepared, knowing I wanted to achieve something for Kenya. I thank the pacemakers and the coach for enabling me to get these results," she said pointing out that she will aim to improve the Chicago time and that she is ready for the Olympic if given chance.
"I will try to reduce the time by at least one minute. I also thank other athletes for great work they have put to lift the status of this country," added Kosgey.
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