Kipyegon and Chebet honoured with eminent awards in New York
Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet have been awarded the esteemed Golden Plate by the Academy of Achievers of the United States of America. This marks a fitting conclusion to their remarkable 2024 track season.
The recognition came just three days before Kipyegon is set to participate in her final race of the year at the Athlos Meeting in New York, the same city where she received the award.
The two athletes were celebrated for their outstanding performances in the recent track seasons, which saw them bring home gold medals from the 2024 Paris Olympics and break world records at various elite competitions.
Acclamaton from the Head of State
“Congratulations Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet for being recognised and awarded by the Academy of Achievement. The extraordinary honour is a solid tribute to your hard work, talent, and dedication to athletics.” Said President William Ruto via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, who was present at the award ceremony held at the Lincoln Centre in New York.
President Ruto, who was also honored by the Academy just two weeks prior, added, “No doubt, it will inspire upcoming athletes and help shape our country’s sports.”
Kipyegon’s stellar athletic campaign
Faith Kipyegon, who has long been a dominant force in middle-distance running, continued her reign in 2024 by claiming her third Olympic title in the 1500m at the Paris Games. That solidified her legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Earlier in July, Kipyegon shattered her own 1500m World Record at the Paris Diamond League, showing her incredible consistency and ability to perform at the highest level.
Chebet’s consistency and dominance in her respective disciplines
Beatrice Chebet has similarly enjoyed a historic season. In May, she stunned the world by breaking the women’s 10,000m record at the Eugene Diamond League.
Chebet’s dominance in long-distance events continued throughout the year, as she bagged gold medals in both the 5000m and 10,000m events at the Paris Olympics.
Other athletes who have previously received this fete
Kipyegon and Chebet’s recognition with the Golden Plate places them in the company of other legendary athletes who have been honored by the Academy of Achievement, including the likes of multiple Olympic champion Allyson Felix, celebrated gymnast Simone Biles, and the late Sir Roger Bannister, the first man to run a mile in under four minutes.
History of the Golden Plate Award
The Golden Plate Award, established in 1961, is given to high achievers across various fields, ranging from sports to science to the arts.
The Academy was founded by acclaimed photographer Brian Blaine Reynolds. Who is best known for his work in Life magazine and Sports Illustrated.
He created the Academy with a mission to bring young aspiring achievers into contact with real-life heroes. Thus offering them opportunities to learn from individuals who have persevered and excelled in their fields.
