Time check is 0755hrs and almost the British Airways flight is getting empty when a jolly Stephen Kiprotich touched base on Ugandan soil for the first time since his gold medal triumph at the just concluded London Olympics. Donning black trousers and a Uganda Olympic Committee jacket, and a stylish hat Kiprotich held the Ugandan flag with both hands at his back.
The 23 year old was without a doubt overwhelmed by the number of people who turned up to welcome him back. From family members to politicians, friends, fellow athletes, airport staff, everyone wanted a glimpse of not Kiprotich, but the medal, which he did not have around his neck like expected.
Much as he tried to stay strong, tears of joy could not stop flowing as he tried to hide them by pulling the hat close to the eyes. Now it was time to speak, Kiprotich looked anxious faces as they looked back in return desperate to hear the voice of a champion.
“Am grateful for all the love you have shown me at the airport.” “This reception has made me realize how important this Gold Medal means to this country,” a soft-spoken Kiprotich said.
Commissioner General Uganda Prisons, Johnson Byabashaija recommended Kiprotich for a promotion to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Prisons. Later he was whisked from the Airport to State House where he dined with the Head of state Yoweri Museveni and his Cabinet. Where His Excellency ordered that US$80,000 be wired to Kiprotich’s personal account.
clive@kawowo.com, @clive412 on Twitter
