Hellen Obiri explains why athletes need to fight diligently for their rights amid growing concerns of Gender Based Violence.
Two-time 5000m World champion Hellen Obiri has challenged athletes not to suffer in silence.
Obiri, who is the 2018 Commonwealth Games 5000m champion, maintained that athletes must advocate for their rights even as they aggressively pursue their dreams in athletics.
Hellen Obiri has lamented about the unfair treatment female athletes face as compared to their male counterparts.
“We need educational programs that encourage athletes not to hide their struggles. Many suffer in silence, fearing judgment from society. We must be honest with young athletes about life beyond track and field and equip them with skills to handle difficult situations,” Obiri, the two-time Boston marathon champion, told Citizen Digital.
Obiri, twice an Olympic 5000m silver medalist, spoke during the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOCK) Gender Conference. Concerns have been raised on the increased cases of Gender Based Violence, intensifying calls for action to end the vice that has become a dream killer in the country.
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Here’s all you need to know about Kenyan marathon great Hellen Obiri.
This, she said, needs to be backed by stronger support systems to help young and aspiring athletes navigate the challenges of professional sports.
“If sports weren’t a business, we wouldn’t be where we are today. It’s about finding the right partnerships and working with companies that provide the best opportunities,” she added.
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Hellen Obiri has lamented about the unfair treatment female athletes face as compared to their male counterparts.
Obiri will look to defend her Boston marathon title after winning the 2023 and 2024 editions of the event. In a bid to enjoy further success this year, Obiri is back training in the country ahead of major assignments in the busy 2025 athletics calendar.
The 35-year-old places fifth in the half marathon on the world all-time list.
