Faith Cherotich has emerged as one of Kenya’s most promising young athletes, known for her fierce determination and raw talent. Growing up modestly, Faith has faced numerous challenges, including limited access to professional coaching and training facilities. Yet, she has refused to let these obstacles define her future.
Faith often trains with minimal resources, sometimes barefoot, and has had to borrow equipment to hone her skills. Without a dedicated coach early in her career, she has relied on self-motivation and learning from peers and online resources.
Her commitment to improvement and relentless work ethic have quickly started to pay off, as she has now begun to dominate local and national competitions, catching the eye of Kenya’s athletics selectors.
Overcoming Challenges with Grit and Innovation
Faith’s rise is a testament to her resilience. In a country famous for producing world-class distance runners, she has carved out her path in the javelin.
The 19-year-old from Kericho County, fresh from school, is already making waves in Kenya’s athletics circles and throwing like a champion. While at he 5th Athletics Kenya (AK)track and Field Meet, held at Ulinzi Sports Complex on 26 April, Nairobi, Faith Cherotich finished fourth with a personal best of 43.99 metres.
At the 6th Athletics Kenya Track and Field meet at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Faith Cherotich finished fourth a second time with a throw of 43.46m. Gladwel Chepcheieng topped, followed closely by Damacline Nyakeruri with a throw of 49.92. But something caught the attention of the people—Faith Cheroitich`s determination.
Despite being born in an avid sports family and a region well known for long-distance runners, Faith explains her javelin journey.
” I first saw Javelin when I was in Primary school. I liked how the athletes looked powerful,” Faith recalls while talking to Daily Nation.
However, Faith Cherotich started participating fully in various events in 2021, when she joined Moi Sitotwet Secondary School, with Javelin being one of them.
While at Moi, Faith Cherotich tried discus throw, triple jump and the gruelling 400m hurdles. However, in 2024, Faith Cheruiyot had made up her mind that it was the Javelin and not any other event. That year, Faith qualified for the National School Championships with a throw of 37.47m.
” That`s when I decided to focus fully on Javelin,” said Faith. My parents advised me to choose one event and master it. I chose Javelin,” she added.
Javelin Star Julius Yego, World Record Holder
Moreover, Cherotich is highly inspired by two Javelin stars, Kenya`s National Women`s Javelin record holder Irene Chepkemboi and former World Champion and African record holder Julius Yego.
“I’m inspired by Chepkemboi`s progress. She shows it’s possible to rise through hard work,” says Faith.
Faith Cherotich: Beyond Athletics
Cherotich has another dream, and that dream is joining the Kenya Police Service or the Kenya Defence Forces.
“Since I was young, I`ve always wanted to serve in the police or the defence Forces. I believe sport can open that door for me,” says Faith Cherotich.
Her barefoot training sessions and borrowed gear symbolise a journey fueled by hope and courage. Faith’s story is more than an athletic journey—it is a powerful narrative of resilience, inspiring a new generation to believe that no matter where you come from, your dreams are valid and achievable.
