Age is nothing but a number: The inspiring story of Leonida and Kiptanui
.jpg)
Reading Time: 4min | Wed. 22.05.24. | 19:14
One sunny afternoon, Kiptanui was doing his regular laps around the campus track, and Leonida, intrigued by his dedication, approached him
There is a timeless proverb that goes, "Age is no barrier. It's a limitation you put on your mind."
This proverb finds its rightful place in the inspiring journey of 71-year-old Julius Kiptanui and his 57-year-old wife, Leonida Opiyo. The two discovered their passion for running later in life but embraced it with zeal and passion.
They hail from Kimobo Village in Kapsabet, Nandi County. However, their journey together began in 2010 at Baraton University. Kiptanui trained at the university track, where his prowess was well-known by the locals, although he had not participated in any major competitions.
Leonida had moved to Baraton to live with her brother, seeking solace and new opportunities after being diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2008. She would often run to take her mind off the devastating news.
One sunny afternoon, Kiptanui was doing his regular laps around the campus track, and Leonida, intrigued by his dedication, approached him. She asked about his training, and Kiptanui offered to coach her. Their daily training sessions soon turned into a beautiful friendship, and within a year, blossomed into love. They got married in 2011.
“He was just running when I approached him. He started training me, and before long, he realized he had found a wife in me. I was also starting to like him, so all was okay," she recounted.
Despite their dedication to running, life has not been easy for the couple, including the heartbreaking reality of being unable to have children. Leonida's cervical cancer diagnosis left them without the privilege of starting a family. She was, however, determined to fight back. Inspired by the potential impact of running on her health, she found the strength to run it off. Every stride became a step away from her illness. By 2017, she was declared cancer-free.
“I was diagnosed with cancer in 2008, but I took up running to help clear my mind. Before that, I was just a runner, but the diagnosis inspired me to run more. Nine years later, in 2017, I did not have cancer,” she told Mozzart Sport.
The couple has also faced significant financial challenges. They often had to sell their belongings, including farm produce and livestock, to compete in master's events.
“In 2016, we heard there was a race at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, and the best performers were promised a trip to Australia. We sold our only cow to go and compete in the race. We performed well, but we have never flown to Australia,” Kiptanui shared.
Their commitment to running has taken them to competitions they once only dreamed of attending. They have participated in several master's events, including the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run, a World Athletics Bronze level event, Sirikwa Cross Country World Tour Gold, and the Safaricom Kisumu City Marathon, among others.
Their highest moment was during the 2019 Touch FM marathon, where they emerged as winners in their respective categories. However, it was a bitter disappointment, as they were not given the promised prize money. Instead of Ksh500,000 each, they received only Ksh20,000 per head. This, as they explained, is the norm in many races. Sometimes, they do not receive any prize money at all.
“Every time we go for a race, we are promised good awards, but once we complete the races, we are not given anything and return home with our own money. Sometimes they give us water, glucose, and t-shirts only. It is heartbreaking,” Kiptanui said.
“The organizers should have local people handling the prize money for our category because it pains us to run and not receive anything despite our sacrifices. Sometimes, you register for a race at Ksh100, and if you win, you’re paid Ksh400. That is bad,” Leonida added.
While their story has inspired many in their community, the couple often faces criticism from family and neighbors who sometimes call them crazy.
“We are called crazy sometimes by our relatives and friends. They often refer to us as jobless people who have nothing to do and decide to run,” Leonida revealed.
On the positive side, they have found a network of people who believe in them, rally behind them, and offer support in various ways. They remain dedicated, hoping that someday their efforts will pay off. Both are certified Level 1 coaches and look forward to coaching the next generation of stars if given a chance.
They advised budding athletes to always put their best foot forward and put God first in everything. They also warned against the use of performance-enhancing substances, noting that it is the fastest career killer.
“Eat well, rest, drink lots of water, eat fruits, avoid drugs and bad relationships, and your career will blossom,” Kiptanui said.
For married people, they recommended openness and support for each other. Unity, according to the couple, is crucial in stabilizing any home.
"Find something you both love and pursue it together. Face challenges as a team, celebrate each other's victories, and always communicate openly and honestly,” Leonida urged.
.jpg)
.jpg)
