General Francis Ogolla Congratulates Hellen Obiri After Her Heroic Boston Marathon Victory

General Francis Ogolla, Chief of the Defence Forces lead the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) family in congratulating Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2) Hellen Obiri.

Obiri successfully defended her Boston Marathon title on Monday, April 15.

Based in Laikipia Air Base (LAB) Hellen Obiri showcased her remarkable talent once again as she clinched her second consecutive victory at the prestigious marathon.

In a message posted on the KDF website, General Ogolla praised Obiri saying her win was an inspiration to future generations.

“Congratulations to WO 2 Obiri on her victory, and may her triumph continue to inspire future generations of athletes and service personnel alike,” Ogolla is quoted.

The 34-year-old, pulled away from compatriot Sharon Lokedi, clocking 2 hours, 22 minutes, 37 seconds to become the first woman to repeat as champion since fellow Kenyan legend Catherine Ndereba who did the same in 2004 and 2005.

Obiri transitioned from middle to long-distance running just over a year ago.

She won the last two Olympic 5000m silver medals and moved up to the marathon in 2022.

Her trophy cabinet has three major titles:  Boston twice, New York City and is one of the favourites for the Paris Olympic marathon that will be held on the last day of the Games on August 11.

Obiri hopes to be included in the three-woman Kenyan team for the Olympics.