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Chebet, who earned a late call-up to the 800m Team Kenya Olympic team, has revealed how Mary Moraa has helped her improve over the weeks they have been training together.
Kenya’s rising star in the 800m, Vivian Chebet, is gearing up to make a significant impact at the Paris 2024 Olympics after securing her spot on Team Kenya in a dramatic turn of events.
Chebet, who initially finished fifth at the Kenyan Olympic trials, found herself unexpectedly called up for the global event following the disqualification of Sarah Moraa, who failed to meet the qualifying time.
Chebet’s journey to the Olympics was far from straightforward. "I did not think about making the team. I just believed in myself and consoled myself that sports is just about winning and losing, so when I lost, I decided to think about other things," Chebet told NTV.
After missing out on an automatic spot, she shifted her focus to competing in Europe. However, fate had other plans. When Sarah Moraa withdrew, Chebet received a life-changing call, inviting her to join Mary Moraa and Lilian Odira at the Olympics.
Despite the unexpected opportunity, Chebet was not unprepared. She had already qualified for the Olympics via world rankings and had claimed a bronze medal in the women’s 800m at the African Games. This accomplishment gave her an edge as Team Kenya sought to fill the vacant slot.
"I did not believe it at first. I even told the coach to cross-check the situation again because I only saw it making rounds in the media, but it was confirmed by the head coach," she recounted.
With her Olympic spot secured, Chebet and her coach adjusted her training regime to focus on the new goal. "We had to adjust our training regime because the main target was to qualify for the Olympics. Given my performance at the World Indoor Championships, he noted that there was an improvement, and that is when he assured me that I would make it."
Chebet has been working intensively on her starting and finishing techniques, aiming to improve her endurance.
"Starting and finishing was always slow but now, I have improved. I am only working on endurance," she shared, revealing her commitment to fine-tuning her performance.
Chebet’s preparation is bolstered by the experience and mentorship of Mary Moraa, the reigning 800m champion.
"In the team, Moraa is our mentor because she is the most experienced. We are working hard for each other and making the necessary changes. I believe staying together is what will make us successful," Chebet said, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual support within the team.
As the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, Vivian Chebet is determined to make her mark. Her journey from near exclusion to becoming a key member of Team Kenya underscores her resilience and dedication.
With a solid training regime and the support of her teammates, Chebet is poised to take the Olympic stage by storm and bring pride to her nation.
Kenya will be watching closely as Chebet competes, hopeful that her hard work and determination will translate into Olympic success.
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