Kenyan Athletes have a trifecta of traits to thank for their success which is preserved in wealth and prestige.
Their prowess in their niche has seen them climbing the ladder of success with just talent, determination, and resilience.
However, in some instances their star dims, making them wallow in poverty as they watch their wealth evaporate into thin air.
Below are some of the athletes whose stories tell a tale of riches to rags;
Raymond Yator
Yator was one of the most promising steeplechasers in the country.
Owing to his exemplary performances in steeplechase Yator is remembered in the athletes' industry as the best steeplechaser of all time.
During his heyday, Yator who is known for breaking the world Junior 3,000 metres record was crowned as the leader of the junior season in steeplechase.
Yator's star shined on until he got into alcoholism in 2004. This saw his dreams and ambitions melting away leaving him a shadow of himself.
His battle with alcoholism saw him abandoning his training as he was fooled into believing that he was able to reset back and win.
Delilah Asiago
Known for her speed and agility, Asiago was a record-breaker who posted stellar performance throughout her career as an athlete.
Asiago bagged gold medals in different events such as the steamboat classic where she set a world record.
She also set records in the World championships, Bay to breakers event and the All Africa Games.
Everything went well as she earned millions from bagging gold medals at the international events, however, the glory was short-lived.
The former athlete now picks tea in Cherangany, Trans Nzoia county.
In a past interview, she intimated that she was unable to account for her money.
Peter Kosgei
Kosgei was arguably one of the best athletes renowned for opening doors for Kenyan athletes such as Kipchoge Keino following his feat at the Olympic games in 1964.
Kosgei just like other renowned athletes scooped gold medals in both national and international events minting millions doing what he loves.
However, Kosgei intimated in a past interview that his millions did not represent the kind of life he was living, concluding that he was trapped in poverty.
“I made at least Ksh5 million in athletics. But I have nothing now except a half-acre piece of land I bought in Kerio Valley. I think I need to get back to serious athletics to escape poverty,” he noted at the time.
Anthony Kiprono
Kiprono was arguably one of the best athletes in the country during his heyday.
He gained world recognition after representing g the country in the world cross country championships.
His hard work and unflinching determination saw him rise to the pinnacle of his career.
Kiprono's career however crumbled down after his wife allegedly swindled him all his money.
Speaking to the media, Kiprono previously intimated that his wife took up his money and left him wallowing in poverty.
“I now do manual jobs here and there to earn Ksh200 or Ksh300, which helps me buy a tin of maize and some household items. It’s just terrible. I need help,” he said at the time.
