How Hellen Obiri’s Move to the US Enabled Her to Chase Two Dreams Simultaneously
Despite her status as one of the world’s top athletes, Hellen Obiri admits to feeling apprehensive as she prepares for this weekend’s London Marathon. Her nerves are a testament to the immense pressure that comes with competing at the highest level. Yet, her accomplishments speak volumes—having claimed double world titles in the 5000m, three Olympic medals, and four major marathon victories after shifting to the longer distance. Still, the weight of public scrutiny and expectations can shake even the most seasoned competitors.
“I do get nervous because sometimes you get to the start and see that runner is here and that runner is there,” she explained to CNN Sports. “Millions of people are also going to watch you and you have all your fans. If you see social media before the race, there’s sometimes a lot of people … saying she’s tired, she needs to retire.”
Obiri’s journey to becoming a marathon star is deeply rooted in her Kenyan origins, where she first discovered the joy of running. Growing up in a community that prioritized other pursuits, she faced challenges in finding guidance for her athletic ambitions. However, her high school years in Nairobi opened new doors, allowing her to explore track and field and gradually expand her focus beyond short-distance events.
At 14, she competed in 200m and 400m races, while also dabbling in triple jump. Her talent was evident, but her passion for running initially sparked debate within her family. Her parents were divided in their support, with her father taking the lead in encouraging her early on. “My dad used to wake me up at around 5:30 in the morning and tell me to go outside and run,” she recalled, highlighting how her childhood shaped her path.
By 2011, Obiri had begun experimenting with longer distances. She progressed to the 800m and 1500m, while immersing herself in the cross-country scene in Nairobi. Though her ambitions for marathons were still nascent, she steadily earned medals across various disciplines, laying the groundwork for her future success. Her breakthrough came in 2022, when she accepted an invitation to join On Athletics Club (OAC) in Boulder, Colorado—a decision that fulfilled both her athletic goals and her dream of living in the United States.
Boulder’s combination of high altitude, scenic trails, and consistent weather proved ideal for distance runners. Obiri embraced the challenge of adapting to a new environment while honing her marathon skills. “You have done a lot of work. You already know how your body is and you are prepared,” she said, emphasizing her approach to staying composed under pressure. “I just need to concentrate on what I’m going to do, and I need to focus.”
Her move to the US also brought unexpected cultural adjustments. While the training regimen and climate were beneficial, navigating a new lifestyle required resilience. Yet, the rewards of her decision are clear: with victories in Boston and New York already secured, London now joins her list of targets, underscoring her determination to thrive in both sport and life.
