Renowned marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge has delivered an inspiring message to young athletes during his recent visit to Uganda, emphasizing the importance of passion, values, and discipline over the pursuit of financial gain.
Speaking to aspiring runners at the Christmas Kids run 7th edition, Kipchoge underscored the dangers of focusing solely on money in any profession.
“If you begin with money in your mind, you will not go far,” he said.
He compared this mindset to driving while looking in the rearview mirror—a distraction that hinders progress. Instead,
Kipchoge advised young athletes to pursue athletics for passion, good health, and unity, noting that success and money naturally follow when one’s focus is on excellence.
During his visit, Kipchoge expressed his admiration for the talent he witnessed among Uganda’s youth.
“Uganda and Kenya have immense talent and the potential to dominate world athletics,” he said, adding that seeing children as young as five and six years old passionate about running was deeply inspiring.
Kipchoge emphasized the role of mentorship in shaping future champions.
“We believe the next generation is our future,” he said, highlighting the importance of instilling good values in young athletes to ensure their legacy endures.
World champion Joshua Cheptegei, inspired by Kipchoge since his teenage years, reiterated the marathoner’s wisdom.
“While I was in high school, I watched Kipchoge compete in the Olympics in Beijing and dreamed of being like him,” Cheptegei shared. Years later, training with Kipchoge at the Kaptagat camp in Kenya was a life-changing experience.
“I asked Eliud what I must do to become a champion,” Cheptegei recalled. “
He told me, ‘Don’t run for money. Run to achieve medals and break world records. Money will come, but let passion be your motivation.’”
Cheptegei credits discipline and the values imparted by Kipchoge as the foundation of his success.
“Discipline is fundamental in sports. Eliud’s consistency and longevity are a testament to the importance of values in building a successful career,” he said.
Kipchoge’s message resonates far beyond sports.
He urged professionals in all fields—journalism, teaching, engineering, and leadership—to prioritize passion and service over financial rewards.
“If all professionals put money first, they cannot be legends. We need people who serve and mentor others,” he stated.
As Kipchoge and Cheptegei continue to inspire the next generation, their shared vision of passion-driven success serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness lies in values, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence.