The story of Janet Rurugu

Since I was a little girl, I’ve dreamed of being an athlete. I’ve always wanted to be the best. I had a dream, which nobody understood. My family never understood either. The rule was clear: study first and then your dreams can follow. I was the best athlete at my primary school, as I played football and also did running, but I loved the running more.

Especially athletics

When I got to secondary school, they never supported talent, especially athletics, as it was a high school, a provincial school, and I had done well in all of my exams.

I really wanted to be the best but I didn’t know how to go about it. I used to do just enough. I didn’t know how to deal with pain, how to push myself, or awaken the fire in me. After my first trip to Europe, which I had feared so much, I knew I had to do more. I wanted more. I knew I could do it. I also learned to close my ears and focus, to shun any negativity and negative energy along my way.

I also aspired to work with a big management company. I didn’t know which one, and I now thank God that I am part of one, which I never thought I could be.

I was also given a coach who guided me through, on my journey. I fought a lot with my coach and his support staff as they knew I could do even more, even though I felt I had given it my all. But I thank God that they pushed me to where I am today. I was very fearful of marathons but they made me face my fears and go for it. I am really thankful to my management, my coach and his support staff for getting me this far. I has always had one rule: “To be the best, among the best.” 😊

My journey is still on course and I am still aiming for the highest.