The inspiring story of US-based Wesley Kiptoo using athletics to escape poverty

Wesley Kiptoo is a true testimony of how athletics can transform the life of an individual.

Wesley Kiptoo, 24, left his home in pursuit of changing his fortunes and found refuge in athletics which has been a saving grace to him and his community.

The father of two knew that he had the talent and he developed it at the Transcend Academy–a school founded and run by former Boston Marathon Champion, Wesley Korir.

Korir helped Wesley find a new home in the United States where he moved in 2018 to attend Colby Community College. It was there that he met his now wife, Maribel.

“For me, running is about self-belief. The struggles I’ve been through in my life give me strength when I race.

"I run for something bigger than myself. My mission to run is because of my family…it is very large because my father had three wives. We are 12 in number and I am the second-last born and no one has been employed.

"I decided to run so that I can give them a better life than the one they were living,” Kiptoo said in a video clip shared by his management, Hoka Naz Elite Athlete group.

He added that every time he runs, his family gives him the morale that one day, he will be a household name. Ben Rosario, the head coach of his management, also stands by the words that Kiptoo will be a great athlete since he has many features that make him stand out.

Meanwhile, Kiptoo returned home from the USA this year and received a grand welcome. His life has now changed and he was able to make an impact on children and elders.

He made visits to different schools, talked to the youngsters, and also hosted a party for his family and community.

He attested that life can be difficult for people in the village but when they come together, many things work out for their good.

“I left this village five years ago and went to America for two things, education and running. That’s what brought me back, I want to encourage the same thing.

"We need to encourage our children in their pursuits. When we come from here and get successful, it’s not just for us, it’s for everyone,” Korir said.

posted Friday December 22nd
by Abigael Wuafula