President William Ruto has congratulated Lilian Odira after winning the gold medal in the women’s 800 metres at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Odira bagged the gold medal after clocking a championship record of 1:54.62.
She crossed the line ahead of Georgia Hunter-Bell and Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson, who settled for silver and bronze, respectively.
In a statement on X, the President celebrated Odira’s victory saying she has proudly placed the country's name on a global platform.
“Hats off to Lilian Odira for a remarkable display of talent. Your triumph in the women’s 800m at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships, crowned with a new championship record, has brought immense pride to our nation. Thank you,” the President said.
“With your victory, our team now stands at seven gold medals and a total of eleven medals, securing second position in the championship so far. Well done, team Kenya. You continue to inspire our nation and prove that the spirit of greatness runs deep in our people.”
Her time not only secured victory but also marked a historic moment as, for the first time, three women dipped under 1:55 in a world championship final.
Interior PS Raymond Omollo congratulated Odira saying she has proudly lifted the country's name on a global stage.
"Kenya celebrates Lilian Odira's golden finish in the 800m at the World stage. Your gold glows and grows our medal table!" He said.
Labour CS Alfred Mutua celebrated the win, congratulating the young athletes who are winning in the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
"Your brilliance and determination have made Kenya proud and inspired a new generation of champions. We also celebrate the Moraa sisters; (Sarah Moraa & Mary Moraa) for their outstanding performances. Well done! the future is bright. Mbele iko sawa. for winning gold in the 800M finals! Odira, congratulations, Lilian," he said.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also commended Odira's win, attributing it to hard work, discipline and resilience.
“All we do is win. Big applause, Lilian Odira, for bagging us a gold medal in the women’s 800m at the Tokyo World Athletics Championships," Murkomen said.
"Your triumph is a shining example of Kenya’s athletic excellence and a testament to the hard work, discipline, and resilience that continue to inspire our nation.”
