Kenyan native Nicholas Kiprotich’s path to prolonged success at Liberty
Flames track and field athlete Nicholas Kiprotich never thought his interest in running would bring him to a different continent. Through his faith and outstanding running abilities, however, Kiprotich has not only found a new home in Lynchburg, Virginia, but has transformed his time on the Mountain into an abundance of success.
Hailing from the city of Eldoret, Kenya, Kiprotich found his niche in long distance after first getting into running in high school. He graduated in 2018 from Makongi High School in Kenya, where he began training rigorously, and from there he was able to transfer to Iowa Western Community College.
While at school in Iowa, he caught the attention of Flames recruiters, who eventually gave him an offer to join the program in Lynchburg.
“I am thankful I can come run at a Christian school, and to continue my career subject and education,” Kiprotich said. “I am also thankful I have gotten to the place (where I am).”
Hailing from Africa, Kiprotich has definitely faced a few challenges in his time since being in the States — whether it be his visa, the time difference or climate. With all of those struggles, however, the biggest for him has surprisingly been the weather.
“It is so tough to me, but it is much better here than Iowa — not as much snow— but still cold,” Kiprotich said.
Through prayer and perseverance, however, Kiprotich extends his praise to God for the moments he has had here at Liberty.
He also expressed gratitude for Liberty’s indoor training facilities during the winter time. As for Kiprotich’s training, he is thankful to cross country Head Coach Isaac Wendland for the help he has brought not only to himself but also the team.
“Coach (Wendland) is a good guy — he makes sure we are in good shape to maintain our mileage and I am comfortable through the program and the team we have,” Kiprotich said.
Last season Kiprotich battled through an injury, but after a few months off, he feels confident in his training and is ready to continue to propel Liberty this season.
Most recently, Kiprotich’s 24:03.0 time in the men’s gold race secured him a fourth-place spot out of 392 runners at the Paul Short Run in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The Kenyan native helped the Liberty cross country team walk away with a new team-best and, out of 43 opposing teams, Liberty took fourth overall.
As the team takes a look at the season ahead, Liberty’s track and field is looking to further its success.
“We train like a team; we are motivating each other … Cross country is not an individual sport, it is about working together to become a good team,” Kiprotich said. “I like the team and we are training hard and praying hard to move Liberty up.”
Jolly is a sports reporter for the Liberty Champion