Cheptegei, Chemutai home return brings business to standstill

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KAPCHORWA - Olympics medallist Peruth Chemutai and Joshua Cheptegei's triumphant return has brought Kapchorwa and Muyembe towns to a standstill.

Hundreds flocked to the two towns of Muyembe in Bulambuli and Kapchorwa to welcome home hero Cheptegei and heroine Peruth Chemutai and co, bringing business to a halt.

In a momentous celebration, Olympic gold back-to-back medalist Cheptegei and Chemutai returned to their ancestral home on Sunday, August 18, 2024, to a thunderous welcome.

The medalists’ triumphant return drew big numbers of fans, who poured into the streets to catch a glimpse of their beloved heroes.

Business in Kapchorwa town came to a standstill for as residents accorded their sons and daughters a deserved homecoming. (Credit: Javier Silas Omagor)      

Cheptegei, Chemutai were also in the company of the rest of the long distance athletes who travelled to Paris as well as coaches led by Benjamin Njia.

As their celebrated athletes’ motorcade made its way through the trading centres, small towns and into Kapchorwa municipality, traffic came to a grinding halt.

Fans of all ages packed the sidewalks, waving flags, banners, and homemade signs.
Local businesses reported a surge in sales of championship-themed merchandise, with many shops selling commemorative items among other merchandise.

Kapchorwa district local government officials, led by the sports officer Alfred Tunde Musau organised a mini celebration party which commenced with speeches of recognition.