58-Year-Old Priscilla Biwott Clinches Gold in Africa Masters Athletics Championships.

Priscilla Biwott, a 58-year-old marathoner, secured Kenya’s inaugural gold medal in the 5,000m race during the 14th Africa Masters Athletics Championships in Pretoria, South Africa. Clocking in at 21:15.88, she triumphed over her competitors, including Elmarie Pretorius from South Africa (21:23.25) and Daleen Sonnekus (21:15.12).

Representing the category of women marathoners aged 50 to 59, Biwott’s victory marked a historic moment for Team Kenya. Team Kenya expressed pride in her achievement, emphasizing the country’s abundance of talent.

Biwott, the oldest member of the Kenyan team, joined other athletes led by officials Rose Tata (Head of Delegation), Julius Kipkoech Chemitei (Assistant Manager), and Patrick Makau (Team Manager/Head Coach) for the continental championship.

With a four-decade running legacy since her primary school days, Biwott’s recent win in South Africa set the stage for her participation in Kenya’s 10,000m race. Her athletic journey has included remarkable feats, such as surpassing 50 younger athletes to secure 16th place in a regional tournament held in Kericho.

Beyond competitions, Biwott has engaged in charitable endeavors, including races aimed at fundraising for refugee shoes in Kenya. Encouraging elderly participation in athletics as a means to stay fit and deter age-related illnesses, Biwott serves as an inspiration.

Aside from Biwott, Kenya’s representation in the championships included athletes like Sylvia Chematui, Elizabeth Mutuka, Rebecca Kosoro, Regina Mulatya, Erick Sikuku, Kenneth Mburu, Abednego Chesebe, Mercy Jepkemboi Kiptoo, and Geoffrey Kipkemboi Terer, competing in various categories and events.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.