DP Gachagua’s minor stumble in Tinderet Barngetuny run elicits reactions online
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took center stage in an online debate on Sunday, January 7, 2024, after a minor stumble during the Tinderet Barngetuny Mountain Run.
The DP, leading Nandi County residents in the athletic race, fell a mere 2 meters before crossing the finish line in a video that quickly went viral.
Dressed in a white and black tracksuit with a hat, Gachagua experienced a slight mishap on the hilly terrain where the finishing strip was set.
A spectator is heard remarking, “He is coming, climbing the mountain… Climbing a mountain is not easy at all”.
Assisted by fellow participants, including notable politicians, Gachagua quickly resumed the race after the fall.
And despite the stumble, the Deputy President ‘won’ the contest, clocking an impressive 59 seconds, closely followed by Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei.
The race also saw the participation of Nandi County Governor Stephen Sang, Deputy Governor Dr Yulita Mitei, Athletics Kenya Chairman Lt (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei, Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum, and County Woman Rep Cynthia Muge, among other political leaders from the region.
Gachagua, expressing delight in the event, acknowledged the showcased talent in athletics during the challenging Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run National Championship in Tinderet Constituency, Nandi County.
He promised support for the winners through the Talanta Hela Initiative to help them fully exploit their potential.
The third edition of the annual Tinderet Barngetuny Mountain Run was organised by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, the Patron, in collaboration with Athletics Kenya, Nandi County Government, and other key partners and stakeholders.
The government, led by President William Ruto, demonstrates a keen interest in empowering athletes, offering substantial awards, including houses, cars, and cash, to those who excel in international competitions.