Born: 1979 (Kapsait, West Pokot District, Great Rift Valley)
Biography:
Tegla Chepkite Loroupe, born on 9 December 1979, is a Kenyan long-distance track and road runner. She is renowned not only for her athletic achievements but also for her activism in promoting peace, women’s rights, and education. Loroupe has left an indelible mark on the world of distance running, setting multiple world records and becoming a trailblazer for African women in the sport.
Born in the village of Kapsait, located in the West Pokot District of the Great Rift Valley, Loroupe grew up in a polygamous family with 24 siblings. Her father, belonging to the Pokot tribe, told her that she was useless and limited to a career in babysitting. However, Loroupe’s mother recognized her athletic potential and supported her dreams, despite the lack of support from her community.
Loroupe’s journey as a runner began at the age of six when she had to run ten kilometers to and from school every day. Even at a young age, she displayed remarkable talent by winning races against older students over distances of 800 and 1500 meters. These early victories ignited a passion within Loroupe and solidified her decision to pursue a career in running.
Initially, Loroupe faced skepticism and resistance from the Kenyan athletics federation, Athletics Kenya, due to her petite stature and slender frame. However, her outstanding performance at a barefoot cross-country race in 1988 changed their perception. In 1989, she received her first pair of running shoes and began training for international competitions.
Loroupe’s international breakthrough came in 1994 when she won the New York City Marathon, defeating some of the world’s strongest competition. This victory marked her as the first African woman to win the prestigious event. In the same year, she won the first of her three World Half-Marathon championships. Loroupe went on to conquer marathons in London, Rotterdam, Hong Kong, Berlin, and Rome, leaving an indomitable mark on the sport.
In 1998, Loroupe achieved a significant milestone by setting the world marathon record, becoming the first African woman to hold the record. Her record-breaking time of 2:20:43 stood for over three years, inspiring a new generation of African female distance runners.
Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Loroupe has become a global spokeswoman for various causes. She is known for advocating peace in war-torn regions, particularly in her homeland of Kenya and neighboring countries. Loroupe has used her platform to promote women’s rights and fight against female genital mutilation, a practice prevalent in some African cultures. Additionally, she has been a staunch advocate for education, recognizing its transformative power in empowering individuals and communities.
In 2016, Loroupe took on a leadership role as the organizer of the Refugee Team for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. This initiative aimed to provide a platform for athletes displaced by conflict to compete on the global stage and raise awareness about the struggles faced by refugees worldwide.
Loroupe’s remarkable achievements, both on and off the track, have cemented her as a true legend in the world of distance running. Her journey from a humble village in Kenya to becoming a world record holder and advocate for social change exemplifies the power of determination and a strong will. Tegla Loroupe’s legacy will forever inspire future generations to push boundaries, pursue their dreams, and make a positive impact on society.
Awards:
– World Marathon Record Holder (1998-2001)
– Three-time World Half-Marathon Champion
– First African woman to win the New York City Marathon (1994)
– Winner of marathons in London, Rotterdam, Hong Kong, Berlin, and Rome