Kenyan athlete Sharon Bitok from Eldoret is determined to win gold in the women's 800m and 1500m at the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo. After securing three silver medals in 2022, she is building confidence and preparation to outperform rivals. Her motivation stems from cash prizes and improving her family's life.
Sharon Bitok made her international debut at the 2021 Deaflympics in Lublin, Poland, where she finished among the last in the women's 800m and 1500m events. However, in 2022 at Caxias do Sul, Brazil, she won three silver medals in the 800m, 1500m, and 4x400m relay.
At 29 years old and from Iten, Eldoret, Bitok is a mother of one and one of 31 athletes honored at the 2024 Heroes Day celebrations in Kitui. Heading to the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo, she is determined to claim gold not just for national pride but to improve her family's life.
“In Poland, I was scared and inexperienced, but in Brazil, I gained confidence and won three silvers. This time, I want gold in the 800m and 1500m,” Bitok said.
She has intensified speed training for the 800m and endurance for the 1500m. “I’ve gained motivation and feel capable of beating my rivals. My European competitors have better equipment, but I’ve prepared sufficiently. See you on the track,” she added confidently on Friday, November 7, 2025.
She will represent Kenya in the 800m alongside Aidah Odero, and in the 1500m with Viola Chelimo and Rebecca Matiko, under coaches Sammy Kibet and Caroline Kola. A major incentive comes from cash prizes announced by President William Ruto, including Sh3 million for gold winners. “I want to win gold to get the Sh3 million prize to care for my child and improve our lives,” Bitok vowed, admiring world 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon.