How Agnes Ngetich's success influenced Bundotich's global acclaim
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 01.12.25. | 08:33
The Woman of the Year Award celebrates individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the sport, particularly in advancing opportunities for women and girls
Renowned Kenyan coach Ruth Bundotich has acknowledged that her athlete Agnes Ngetich's global success played a role in her being named 2025 World Athletics Woman of the Year Award winner.
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In a quick rejoinder, however, she says her success represents something much larger; a collaborative approach to athlete development.
The award honours her outstanding leadership, commitment to athlete development and exceptional contributions to the growth of women’s athletics in Kenya and beyond.
"While Ngetich’s achievements, among others, have brought visibility to this work, her success represents something much larger: a collaborative approach to athlete development," she told World Athletics while receiving her Award.
A trailblazer in the coaching community, Bundotich has become one of Kenya’s most influential figures in youth and women’s athlete development.
Through her work with Ikaika Sports Agency and Adidas Running, she has helped create a sustainable and supportive pathway for emerging talents, ensuring young athletes, particularly girls, are empowered both on and off the track.
"It takes an ecosystem of committed people to nurture talents responsibly and sustainably. This recognition truly belongs to a village of more than 15 individuals, coaches, support staff, family members and mentors who have each played a vital role," she continues.
Her holistic approach has been widely credited with shaping the environments that produced breakout stars such as world record-holder Ngetich, whose achievements helped spotlight the wider ecosystem Bundotich has built.
Ng’etich is the current world record holder over 10km with a blistering 28:46 set in Valencia in 2024.
She is also the second-fastest woman in history over the half marathon with an impressive 1:03:04.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition from World Athletics,” Bundotich said. “This acknowledgement reflects not just one athlete's journey but the collective commitment to nurturing, developing and safeguarding young talents, particularly young girls in athletics.
I am grateful for this honour and remain committed to continuing this work, ensuring that young athletes have the support, protection and guidance they need to reach their full potential.”
Bundotich becomes the latest in a distinguished line of recipients recognised for driving progress and equity in athletics.
