Meshack Kitsubuli Babu has achieved a remarkable feat—becoming the 2024 Africa Military Games 100m Champion. His victory, clocking in at 10.55 seconds, took place at the prestigious games held in Abuja, Nigeria. But behind this extraordinary achievement lies a journey of resilience, determination, and a relentless drive to succeed.
Babu’s life story is nothing short of inspiring—a young orphan from Sarura Village, Uasin Gishu County, who rose from tragedy to become a celebrated athlete.
A Challenging Start
Babu’s childhood was anything but easy. As one of four siblings, he lost both parents within two years. Left with little hope, the children moved in with their grandparents, living in a single-room hut, struggling to make ends meet. Just when it seemed like all was lost, fate intervened. Good Samaritans stepped in, enrolling Babu in Discover to Recover, a children’s orphanage run by Pastor Patricia Sawa. This life-changing opportunity opened a door for Babu to rebuild his life and reignite his dreams.
Rising Through the Ranks
In 2016, Babu transferred to Kibomel Secondary School, where his athletic potential began to shine. Robert Masinde, a dedicated teacher and mentor, took notice of Babu’s raw talent and guided him through various school competitions. But it was Coach Phillip Ndura who played a pivotal role in shaping his athletic career.
“Coach Ndura offered me a roof over my head, food, and coaching. He believed in me when no one else did,” Babu recalls. Under Ndura’s mentorship, Babu represented his school in Mombasa in 2017, where he qualified for the East African School Games, securing a third-place finish in the 100m final.
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In 2018, Babu made history by winning gold in the 200m at the national level, earning the coveted Best Athlete Award. His victory earned him a spot on Team Kenya for the East African Secondary School Championships in Burundi. His success continued as he trained under Coach Ndura at his running camp until 2019, when a stellar performance at the Nyayo AK Weekend Track and Field Meeting led to his recruitment by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
Joining the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF)
Babu’s recruitment into the KDF in 2019 marked a turning point in his life. After completing his military training, he continued his athletic journey under Coach Perpetual Mbutu at the Utawala Star Sprinters Club. This partnership refined Babu’s skills and instilled unparalleled discipline in him, paving the way for a standout achievement in 2024—winning the 100m title at the Kenya National Championships, solidifying his place among Kenya’s top sprinters.
International Stardom
Babu’s meteoric rise continued as he earned a spot on Team Kenya at the All Africa Games Trials in South Africa. Although the relay team did not qualify, Babu’s performance was hard to ignore, earning him a place at the World Relay Series in the Bahamas. This international exposure showcased his immense potential and marked the beginning of his global athletics journey.
Future Aspirations
With an eye on the future, Babu has set his sights on the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo. His personal best of 10.20 seconds, achieved at the 2023 Kenya National Trials, is a testament to his readiness to compete at the highest level. Babu is determined to qualify in the individual sprint and take his place among the world’s best.
Key Highlights
2018: Gold medallist in the 200m and Best Athlete Award at the Secondary School National Championships.
2018: Represented Kenya at the East African Secondary School Championships (Burundi).
2024: Winner of the 100m at the Africa Military Games (Abuja, Nigeria).
2024: Member of Team Kenya Relay at the World Relay Series (Bahamas).
Personal Best. 10.20 seconds in the 100m (2023).
Inspiring the Next Generation
Babu’s journey from adversity to triumph has made him a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes. He shares this powerful message with the next generation:
“Stay focused, disciplined, and committed to your training. Put in the hard work, and the victories will follow.”
The Legacy of Resilience
Meshack Kitsubuli Babu’s story is not just about athletic achievement. It is a story of triumph over tragedy, of an orphan boy who defied the odds to become an international sprinting star. His journey inspires not only Kenya but the entire world, proving that with unwavering resilience, mentorship, and dedication, greatness is always within reach.