Who is Sharon Lokedi (Biography and New Worth )
Sharon Lokedi is a prominent Kenyan middle and long-distance runner, recognized for her remarkable achievements in athletics, particularly in marathon running.
Born on March 10, 1994, in Kenya’s Rift Valley region, she is a member of the Kalenjin tribe, which is renowned for producing world-class long-distance runners.
Lokedi’s journey from a small village to international acclaim is a testament to her talent, determination, and hard work.
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Early Life and Education
Sharon Lokedi was born to Jonathan and Rose Lokedi and is the eldest of four siblings. Growing up in a supportive family environment, she developed a passion for running at a young age.
Her early athletic pursuits were nurtured at Kapkenda Girls’ School, where she excelled in track events, setting school records in the 3000-meter and 5000-meter races.
In 2013, she was honored as the school’s “Best Athlete of the Year,” which marked the beginning of her recognition as a talented runner.
Lokedi’s academic journey led her to the University of Kansas (KU) in the United States, where she pursued studies in nursing and business while competing in collegiate athletics. She joined KU’s track and cross-country teams in 2015, quickly becoming a standout athlete.
During her time at KU, she earned numerous accolades, including being a 10-time All-American and a 12-time Big 12 champion in 2019.
One of her most significant achievements during this period was winning the 10,000 meters at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships in 2018.
Athletic Career
Sharon Lokedi’s transition from collegiate to professional athletics has been impressive. After graduating from KU in 2019, she signed with Under Armour and joined Dark Sky Distance, a training group based in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Her professional career took off with her victory at the Carlsbad 5000 in 2022, where she clocked an impressive time of 15:38.
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Marathon Debut
In November 2022, Lokedi made headlines by winning the TCS New York City Marathon on her debut with a time of 2:23:23.
This victory not only marked a significant milestone in her career but also established her as one of the top contenders in women’s marathon running globally.
Following this success, she finished third at the New York City Marathon in 2023 and secured second place at the Boston Marathon in April 2024 with a personal best of 2:22:45.
Personal Life
Sharon Lokedi maintains a relatively private personal life but is known to be engaged to Edward Cheserek, another accomplished Kenyan runner who has won multiple NCAA championships. The couple has been together since their time at KU and supports each other’s athletic careers.
Despite her rising fame as an athlete, Lokedi remains deeply connected to her roots. She frequently returns to Kenya for training and community engagements.
In addition to her competitive pursuits, she has established a running foundation at Kapkenda Girls High School to nurture young athletes.
Current Updates
As of mid-2024, Sharon Lokedi continues to compete at an elite level. She was recently named as one of Kenya’s representatives for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris but was ultimately not selected for the final team after finishing fourth at the Olympic marathon trials. Her recent performances have solidified her status as one of Kenya’s leading marathon runners.
Lokedi’s training regimen remains rigorous; she trains at high altitudes in Kaptagat, near her hometown. She typically runs upwards of 140 miles per week while preparing for major marathons like Boston and New York City. Her commitment to training includes extensive hill workouts to prepare for challenging courses.
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Net Worth
While specific figures regarding Sharon Lokedi’s net worth are not publicly available, it is estimated that her earnings from sponsorships, race winnings, and endorsements contribute significantly to her financial standing.
Winning major marathons can yield substantial prize money Lokedi earned $75,000 for finishing second at the Boston Marathon and sponsorship deals with brands like Under Armour further enhance her income.
Conclusion
Sharon Lokedi’s story is one of resilience and triumph against adversity. From fleeing violence during Kenya’s political turmoil to becoming an internationally recognized athlete, she exemplifies determination and excellence.
As she continues to compete on the world stage, Sharon remains an inspiration not only to aspiring athletes but also to those who face challenges in pursuit of their dreams.
Her ongoing journey reflects both personal growth and professional success as she aims for more victories and records in marathon running while uplifting future generations through her foundation back home in Kenya. With each race she competes in, Sharon Lokedi solidifies her legacy as one of the greats in long-distance running.
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