Nairobi — Eastern Province's celebrated athlete Cyprian Kiogora, the two-time Hong Kong Marathon champion, was on Tuesday feted by National Bank of Kenya in a colourful ceremony at a Nairobi hotel in recognition of his achievement.

Two years ago the bank's managing director, Reuben Marambii, agreed to sponsor the athletics cross country event in the Eastern Branch of Athletics Kenya. But he never knew they had a world champion in the making.

"Today is proof that our initiative to support the region, considered a non-starter in athletics, was the best. Kiogora has moved on to claim one of the big city marathons and made the region proud," said Marambii.

Chip off old block

Kiogora is a chip off the old block.

Brought up under the wings of former world marathon record holder Paul Tergat, he has showed his mentor that, with patience, he too can achieve the biggest feat.

"Now my sight is on representing this country at either the Commonwealth Games or the 2012 Olympics in London. It feels nice to be the first athlete to receive such an honour for winning a marathon, bearing in mind that Kenya has very many marathon champions," said Kiogora.

Also feted were Julius Karinga, the Limasol Marathon champion in Cyprus, and Vienna Marathon winner Lucy Karimi.

The two, together with Kiogora, returned home from their competitions on the same day. The trio hail from Meru region of the province.

"Before many would have asked, 'Is there anything good that can come from Meru? They can't run or sing'. But, today, you have helped us demystify the fable," Marambii said of the trio's triumph.

Tergat, who was present at the Serema function, noted that it was hard to prepare a marathon but he took pride that another of his students has found success.

True success story

"Kiogora is a true success story. He stands as a pillar of hope and cradle for inspiration to many others in his locality who may take up athletics just by looking at his success," said Tergat.

AK Eastern Branch chairman Joseph Kinyua, credited with revamping the sport in the region, said personal esteem to the athletes and recognition with such gestures was important to keep them focussed.

"Being the first to come from Meru and win in such a competitive event is a bonus to the young athletes in the area," Kinyua said.