Wilson Kipsang speaks up why many Kenyan Runners are moving to other countries

A top Kenyan athlete has opened up on why many of his colleagues have been opting to change nationality and represent other countries in global sporting events. According to Wilson Kipsang, the former world record holder in the marathon, Kenyan athletes are moving to other countries due to lack of motivation by the government. "It’s so unfortunate that the government of Kenya does not motivate their athletes and yet they expect results," said Kipsang in Iten, Kenya on Tuesday. He further said some of the allowances allocated to athletes who represent the nation on international events are always not sufficient. “If Kenya wants results then they should make athletes happy by motivating them," noted Kipsang. The bronze medallist in the marathon at the 2012 Summer Olympics further regretted government's delay in paying athletes are being underpaid. “Winning a Gold medal for Kenya could cost a million shillings ($10,000US) only which is so little compared to other countries where a Gold medal can cost up to Sh50 million ($500,000US)," said Kipsang. He called for concerted efforts between the government and other sports stakeholders so as more investment is put in developing and motivating athletes and other sportsmen and women.

posted Friday April 20th