Kenya’s Olympic Reset: Can NOCK’s New Leadership Spark a Golden Era for Runners?

Kenya’s long-distance running legacy is unmatched. From record-breaking marathons to Olympic podiums, the nation’s athletes have long defined global excellence. Yet behind the scenes, organizational chaos—from the Rio 2016 fiasco to logistical stumbles at Paris 2024—has held runners back.

Now, change is in motion.

At a ceremonial handover August 8 at the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) headquarters in Nairobi, outgoing president Dr. Paul Tergat—a former Olympic silver medalist—passed the baton to Shadrack Maluki. The new leadership promises more than a symbolic shift. For many athletes, it’s a chance to finally be heard.

“We must ensure this institution doesn’t remain strong but underutilized,” Maluki declared in his inaugural speech.

“To our sportsmen and women: we hear you, we see you, and we are here for you. Your welfare, training environments, and post-competition careers are top priorities.”

Paris Lessons, LA Dreams

Kenya’s runners delivered once again in Paris, particularly in the middle- and long-distance events. But that success came despite—rather than because of—the system. Delayed travel, unpaid allowances, and chaotic planning marred preparations.

With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics just three years away, runners and fans alike are hoping this new leadership shifts Kenya from reactive fixes to long-term strategy.

Maluki says the focus will be on structure, inclusivity, and excellence. As one former elite marathoner told My Best Runs, “Athletes don’t need promises. They need systems that work.”

Barnaba Korir: A Voice from the Track

A key figure in this transition is Barnaba Korir, now First Vice President of NOCK. Known for his role as Director of Youth Development at Athletics Kenya (AK), Korir has helped shape the careers of many emerging talents.

“This is not about power,” Korir said. “It’s about turning sport into an industry. Our athletes should chase medals—but also earn livelihoods, build legacies, and inspire the nation.”

Korir’s grassroots focus has already produced results—several Paris Olympians came through AK’s youth system. His appointment signals a stronger bridge between elite runners and the Olympic bureaucracy.

Tergat’s Legacy: Progress, But Not Perfection

Dr. Tergat, who helped stabilize NOCK during his tenure, reflected on his leadership with pride.

“This is the delivery secret behind our transformation of NOCK into a respected and enviable institution,” he said, while acknowledging that more needs to be done.

He thanked corporate partners like Nike, IOC, Safaricom, and Kenya Breweries—and reminded the country that athletes remain Kenya’s “most successful international brand.”

Still, critics argue that reforms under Tergat moved too slowly—especially around athlete support and coordination with federations.

Not Just a Ceremony—A Mandate

The official handover included Olympic charters, financial instruments, and office keys. But the moment wasn’t just ceremonial—it was a mandate.

“There is no reinventing the wheel,” Maluki said. “Only oiling and reinvigorating the parts that drive our momentum.”

Athletes are now watching to see whether these words turn into action.

What Kenya’s Runners Expect

For the thousands training daily across Kenya’s highlands, this isn’t politics—it’s personal. The hope is simple:

No more last-minute chaos. No missing uniforms. No unpaid dues.

Athletes want elite coaching, consistent support, clean sport policies, and long-term investment. As global rivals close the gap, Kenya must evolve—or risk being outpaced.

The Baton Has Been Passed. Can They Run With It?

Kenya’s runners continue to carry the nation’s Olympic dreams. Now it’s up to NOCK’s new leadership—anchored by Maluki and powered by Korir—to return the favor.

From the heartbreak of Rio to the high points of Paris, Kenya stands at a pivotal moment. The goal ahead is clear: build a system worthy of its champions—and make the road to Los Angeles 2028 one of purpose, preparation, and pride.

posted Friday August 8th
by Robert Kibet