Beatrice Chebet has opened up on the secret recipe that propelled Kenya's senior women's team to a top-five sweep at the World Cross Country Championships.
The women’s senior race at the World Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia witnessed Team Kenya take the top five slots in style.
Defending champion Beatrice Chebet managed to retain her title with Lilian Kasait and Margaret Chelimo settling for silver and bronze in the tight race. Emmaculate Anyango finished fourth as world 10km record holder Agnes Jebet finished fifth to seal the top five places.
Such a sweep was last witnessed in 2017 when the Kenyan charge claimed the top six positions in Kampala, Uganda and this year’s contingent was able to restore the country's pride in ruling cross country. Speaking after returning home, Chebet disclosed what helped the team achieve such honours to take home the team title.
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“After trials, a team was selected and we stayed together, trained together, we talked together, and ate the same food," Chebet said.
“We also slept together in the same place and that helped a lot to achieve the best. Being together helped us to achieve a lot.”
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Meanwhile, Chebet, the reigning world 5km record holder admitted that she was unsure about defending the title since all the women were strong.
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She noted that the presence of Jebet and Anyango sent shivers down her spine but her hard work and resilience paid off well with a win.
“I wasn’t sure of defending the title because when we came with a strong team and we weren’t sure who would win the game because everyone was very strong," she added.
“Agnes was here and Emmaculate…Lilian and Margaret were also on the team. I told myself that I had to do my best and I thank God I was able to win.
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“I just had to persevere in the race and have a strong mindset because I knew my compatriots also had their tactics. As we were approaching the finish line, I felt strong and decided to go,” she said.