Beatrice Chebet and Abraham Kibiwott left Kenya for the Paris Olympics games as a constable in the police service, but ascended to the rank of Corporals, upon landing back.
Chebet was promoted to the rank by acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli at Jogoo House on Wednesday, after grabbing gold in the women's 5000m and 10000m races.
Meanwhile, Kibiwott won bronze in the men’s 3000m race, to also get one star added on his sleeve, moving to the Corporal rank.
It is a custom that officers in the discipline forces are always promoted one rank higher for their stellar performances in all disciplines on the international stage.
Chebet who is based in Kericho couldn’t hide her joy, saying she achieved her goals through hard work and discipline and promised to continue making Kenya proud.
“It feels good to be promoted and I thank my boss Masengeli, for awarding my efforts handsomely. I also appreciate my collogues, teammates, and my family for pushing me towards this achievement.”
The Olympics debutant beat an experienced field of runners on August 6t, to claim the 5000m gold in 14 minutes and 28.56 seconds, finishing ahead of compatriot Faith Kipyegon and Dutch legend Sifan Hassan respectively.
The 24-year-old national police officer is based in Kericho and is coached by Peter Bii.
The best performer in team Kenya’s camp completed her historic double on August 9th 2024 in style grabbing the 10,000m race in 39:43.25.
She beat Italy's Nadia Batocletti and Sifan in that order, at the iconic Stade de France.
Chebet’s historic performance places her among the legends of long-distance running, becoming only the third woman to win both events at the same Olympics.
