Ngetich's Historic Win: The Gold, Guidance, and Greatness Behind Her Success

And standing just off the course, watching every step, was the person who had guided her through the pressure: her coach, Ruth Jepchumba Bundotich. Recently named World Athletics Woman of the Year, Bundotich was recognised for her leadership and for building a supportive ecosystem that nurtures women and young athletes in Kenya – the very environment that allowed Ngetich to thrive. “My coach never gave up on me,” Ngetich said, eyes lighting up. “Most of the time she’s been motivating me. Even today, she was like, ‘Don’t panic. Just go. Be yourself.’” It’s a bond forged through patience and belief, built across years of near misses and incremental progress. Ngetich’s career has been a study in perseverance: a breakthrough bronze in Bathurst, the frustration of fourth in Belgrade and in the 10,000m at the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25, and now, finally, the crowning achievement of a world gold medal. Even her world record over 10km on the road, an extraordinary accomplishment, could not replace the significance of this cross-country title. “This one is special,” she said softly. “Records are meant to be broken. Maybe tomorrow, maybe any time. But to be a world champion, that stays. It’s always there.” After the race, Ngetich returned repeatedly to the people who had carried her through the pressure. “My family was there for me,” she said. “My teammates. My coach. They were all like, ‘Don’t fear anyone.’”