Born on Kamaura Farm in Uasin Gishu County, Rebecca Kerubo Koroso’s athletic journey is nothing short of inspiring. Qualifying for Team Kenya in the 2025 World Masters Indoor Championship in the USA, she earned her spot in the hammer throw after a remarkable progression from an unexpected start in sports.
While most athletes begin their sports journey during their school years, Kerubo discovered her passion much later. Throughout her time in primary and secondary school, she never participated in any sports. In fact, it wasn’t until much later that she recognized her true potential.
A qualified electrical engineer from a local college, Kerubo stumbled upon her talent in field events by pure chance. At the age of 23, she began working with Athletics Kenya (AK) as an official in Uasin Gishu County. It was at one of AK’s weekend track and field meetings that she met Flavian Atieno, a reigning field events champion from the Kenya Navy. Inspired by Atieno’s success, Kerubo thought, “Why can’t I be like her? I have the physique and drive to excel.” And that’s when her journey in sports truly began.
Determined to succeed, Kerubo made the bold decision to leave her role at AK and join the Kenya Navy Camp as a civilian athlete at Ngong Township. Under the guidance of Coach (RTD) Sgt. Koech, who was based at the Kahawa Garrison Barracks, she honed her basic skills and developed the foundation for her future success. Kerubo credits Coach Koech for his instrumental role in her growth and skill development.
Her passion for the sport led her to join the Kenya Police Service (KPS) as an athlete under the mentorship of Mr. Jonathan Kosgei, the former Chairman of Kenya Police Sports. Despite her accomplishments, Kerubo’s current coaching situation mirrors the struggles many Kenyan field athletes face — relying on an online coach based in the USA, with occasional support from Mr. Kosgei.
In 2005, still training at Ngong, Kerubo made history by breaking the national hammer throw record, previously held by veteran Elizabeth Olaba with a massive throw of 43.55 meters, she surpassed Olaba’s 34.85 meters. This impressive feat led to her transfer from the Kenya Navy to the Kenya Police, where she continues to serve both as a police officer and an athlete.
Kerubo’s list of accomplishments speaks volumes about her dedication and talent:
-2015: All Africa Games, Congo — 5th place
-2016: Africa Championship, South Africa — 7th place
-2018: Kip Keino Classic, Nairobi, Kenya — 6th place
-2019: World Masters Championship, Spain — 4th place (finalist)
-2019: Master Africa Championship, Tunisia — Winner (Hammer, Shot Put, Discus)
-2023: World Masters Indoor Championship, Poland — 1st place
-2023: Africa Championship, South Africa — Hammer (1st), Shot Put (2nd), Weight Throw (1st)
-2024: World Masters Championship, Sweden — 4th place (Pentathlon 7th, Weight Throw 3rd)
-Ranked 4th in the world and 1st in Africa in weight throw.
Looking ahead, Kerubo has promised to make history again at the 2025 World Masters Indoor Championship in the USA. She is not only aiming for a podium finish but also a new national indoor record. “I’m not just going to be on the podium — I’m looking for a new record and aiming to be among the top two,” Kerubo confidently assures.
Beyond her athletic career, Kerubo is a proud mother of three children: two daughters and a son. Her first-born daughter, inspired by her mother’s success, represented Team Kenya at the World U-17 Championship in Nairobi in 2017, with a throw of 39.48 meters. Her second-born daughter has added a new dimension to the family’s sporting legacy by excelling in sprints while also participating in discus throw. Her son supports his mother and sisters in every way possible, proving that teamwork and family values are at the heart of their achievements.
Kerubo’s advice to aspiring athletes is simple but powerful: Stay focused, have discipline, and respect. These are the key values that will shape your success in life.”
Rebecca Kerubo Koroso’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of believing in oneself, no matter when you begin. With her sights set on the 2025 World Masters Indoor Championship, there’s no doubt that she will continue to inspire and break new records along the way!