The streets of Eldoret were filled with joyous celebrations on Thursday, August 15, as the Kenyan Olympic Team returned home after their remarkable performance at the recently concluded Paris 2024 Olympics.
The team, which landed at Eldoret International Airport in the early hours, received a hero’s welcome from hundreds of locals who thronged the airport and surrounding roads.
The enthusiastic crowd showcased their national pride, with many waving flags and cheering for the athletes who had brought home multiple medals.
Among the dignitaries present to welcome the team were Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago and Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who expressed their pride in the athletes’ achievements.
“Landed safely at the Eldoret International Airport together with 2024 Paris Olympics medalists, ready for the grand reception to be held by H.E. the President in honour of our athletes at State Lodge, Eldoret,” Murkomen tweeted.
Following the warm reception, the athletes were escorted through the town by boda boda riders, who led a colorful convoy to the Eldoret State Lodge.
President William Ruto hosted the team for breakfast at the lodge in recognition of their hard work and dedication during the games.
Among the notable athletes in the convoy was Faith Kipyegon, celebrated for winning her third consecutive Olympic gold medal in the 1500m race. Kipyegon made history as the first woman to achieve this feat, an accomplishment that has garnered national and international praise.
However, in a related note, a statue erected in Kipyegon’s honor in Eldoret was recently taken down following mixed reactions on social media.
Additionally, President Ruto is set to elevate Eldoret to city status later on Thursday, marking a significant milestone for the town alongside its celebration of the Olympic heroes.
