'I'm glad I made that decision' - Sharon Lokedi on why relocating to the US was the masterstroke in her career from

Sharon Lokedi: "Relocating to the US was the Masterstroke in my Career"

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From humble beginnings in Kenya to a thriving career in the US

** Sharon Lokedi's journey to becoming a successful runner is an inspiring tale of determination, perseverance, and the power of opportunity. Born in a small village in Kenya, Lokedi's talent for running was evident from a young age. However, limited resources and a lack of proper training facilities hindered her progress. Undeterred, Lokedi continued to train, often running barefoot on dirt roads. Her dedication caught the attention of a local coach who recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue her dreams. With support from her family and community, Lokedi set her sights on competing in the United States, where she believed she could access better training and competition opportunities. **

A difficult decision and a leap of faith

** The decision to leave Kenya was not an easy one for Lokedi. She had to leave behind her family, friends, and the familiar surroundings of her village. However, she knew that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take her running career to the next level. With a heavy heart but unwavering determination, Lokedi arrived in the United States in 2016. She faced numerous challenges as she adapted to a new culture, language, and training environment. However, she never gave up on her dream. **

Support and success in the land of opportunity

** Lokedi's talent and hard work soon caught the attention of the University of New Mexico, which offered her a scholarship to run for their track and field team. With access to world-class facilities and coaching, Lokedi thrived in her new environment. She quickly became one of the top runners in the NCAA, breaking school records and earning All-American honors. Lokedi's success on the track translated into opportunities on the international stage. She represented Kenya at the 2019 World Athletics Championships, where she finished 15th in the 10,000 meters. Her performance earned her a spot on the Kenyan Olympic team for the 2020 Tokyo Games. **

A reflection on the journey

** Looking back on her journey, Lokedi is grateful for the opportunity to pursue her dreams in the United States. She believes that relocating to the US was the masterstroke in her career. "I'm glad I made that decision," Lokedi said. "It was a difficult decision, but it was the right one. I've had so many opportunities here that I wouldn't have had in Kenya. I'm so grateful for the support I've received from my coaches, teammates, and the entire running community in the US." Lokedi's story is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of achieving great things. It shows that with determination, perseverance, and the willingness to take risks, anything is possible.