Peruth Chemutai is a Ugandan Steeplechase runner. The 22-year-old made history last year at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after becoming the first woman ever to win a gold Olympic medal in the country.
Peruth is also the national record holder for the 3000m steeplechases at 9.07.94. The 2015 commonwealth youth games in Apia saw the 22-year-old win two silver medals in the 1,500 metres and 3,000 metres. She also won a silver medal at the 2018 world junior championships.
Here are some of her success tidbits; be inspired!
COURAGE AND DETERMINATION
As a kid, Peruth Chemutai was a regular at local sports championship events. But it was after witnessing Stephen Kiprotich’s Gold Olympics win in 2012, that the then 12-year-old was inspired to bet on herself.
“I didn’t watch but I saw Steven in newspapers. I promised myself I would train for some years then I would make it like Steven.”
HARD WORK
“We wake up around 6:30 and sometimes 5:30 am. We train three times a day at the camp; morning, afternoon and evening but it’s not easy.”
PASSION
“My secret is I just love running so much.”
HUNGER FOR SUCCESS
“My plan now is to prepare for World Championships and then the 2024 0lympics. I want to defend my title in the Olympics.”
MENTORSHIP
Peruth credits her coaches Benjamin Njia and Addy Ruiter, as well as her fellow athletes like Stephen Kiprotich, Jacob Kiplimo and Joshua Cheptegei for giving her encouragement.
“They instil in me a lot of confidence and give me training.”
PAYING IT FORWARD
“Since I came from Tokyo, I am seeing many guys are training seriously. I always meet and give them mentorship, especially the young girls. I love them all so much.”
