World and Olympic marathon champion, Stephen Kiprotich was honoured on Tuesday evening at the Ugandan parliament in a session that was particularly set aside to honour his recent triumph at the World Athletics Championships in Moscow.
In Kiprotich’s presence, several members of Parliament congratulated him upon his victory and urged the government to put the proposed plan and construction of the high altitude training centre in Kapchorwa yet to be named after Kiprotich into reality.
“Year in, year out, we have been promised that Akii-bua stadium will be constructed but up to now, the work has not even started. But since the world of ‘KiptoRICH’ is still hot, let the government make the centre a reality” said Hon. Cecilia Atim, Woman representatibe for Dokolo district.
“During CHOGM, government spent billions to promote the image of Uganda, but Kiprotich did it in a period of two hours free of charge, so my appeal to the minister is to make sure what we promise comes to pass” said Hon. Atiku Benard, member of Parliament for Ayivu County.
Stephen Kiprotich won the 42KM marathon at the IAAF World Athletics championships in majestic fashion crossing the finishing line after 2 hours, nine minutes and 51 seconds.
Other members of Parliament were also vocal on the need to honour Kiprtotich’s achievements on the global stage. “On the last day Kiprotich saved the nation, I wish the name Kiprotich will be everywhere in Kampala and also name one of the streets after Kiprotich” said Mr.Wafula Ogutu. “It is a very big challenge for the government as far as sports is concerned, we are looking forward and that is why Kiprotich is a celebrated Ugandan” said Hon. Moses Kasibante.
Kiprotich had earlier won Uganda her first medal in 16 years and the first gold since John Akii Bua’s triumph in 1972 by winning the marathon in the last day of the 2012 London Olympics.
