Uganda made global news at the Olympics and yes everyone beginning with the head of state is exhilarated and jubilant. I can’t put to words the feels that were going on as our National flag was raised and the anthem played, the announcer saying, “The people of Uganda will be proud. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth and is the most hospitable country.” It is so true. My country has been declared the most hospitable country over years and by various global rating agencies including NYT.
Anyway, we are talking about the gold which was scored by our one and only Peruth Chemutai. All 50+ tribes want to associate with this gold and the bearer of the gold. The winner of the gold medal in the 3000M steeplechase at the 2020 Tokyo olympics is the first Ugandan woman to win any gold in the Olympics. She won two silver medals during the 2015 Commonwealth games but even then her name has been in the shadows leading to the Tokyo olympics.
One of the most outstanding lessons I learn from our gold medalist is to never discount yourself or anyone. When the Uganda team was flagged off, everyone knew that we were assured of the men’s 10,000m gold because Cheptegei has already proven himself as a world record breaker. We were almost absolutely certain that a gold medal was coming; just not from our lady Chemutai but from our silver back from the East Joshua Cheptegei.
But as of today all I can think about is the underdog, Peruth Chemutai who who has become the talk of the nation and muse of the world. So, do not discount yourself. In any case, simply show up and show out; do your very best and trust that it is enough and you can go to bed knowing you left it all out there. Maybe then you who came to the concert as an opening act may end up becoming the class act.
Once again congratulations to the golden lady.
Disclaimer: I know that all medals are valuable and congratulate all our Ugandans and other talented participants. Being in the Olympics already sets them apart and so we can’t underestimate and downplay their genius.
Leave a Reply