Deaflympics: From setback to stardom, Sharon Bitok plots to break 800m, 1500m silver jinx in Tokyo

When Kenyan deaf runner Sharon Bitok made her international debut at the 2021 World Deaf Athletics Championships in Lublin, Poland, she knew she had fallen short of glory after finishing among the basement competitors in both the women’s 800 meters, and 1500m categories.

But less than a year later, at the 24th Summer Deaflympics held in Caxias do Sul, Brazil, the 29-year-old middle-distance runner, who hails from Iten in Eldoret redeemed herself in style by clinching three silver medals - in the women’s 1500m, 4x400m relay, and 800m.

Now with the Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics on the horizon, Bitok says she is gunning for the gold medal – not just for glory but to secure a better life for her family.

The two-week Deaflympics will start from Saturday, November 15 to 26 in the Japanese capital.

“The first time I participated in athletics was in the Poland showpiece, I did not know how to compete, I was also a bit scared, I finished among the last,” recalled Bitok, who was among the 31 athletes, who were recognised as national heroes during this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations held on October 20 at Ithokwe Stadium in Kitui.

“However, when I proceeded for a second showdown at the Deaflympics in Brazil, I had great confidence, this saw me nestle three silvers. That was so unexpected. I could not believe it. I was so motivated.

“This time around, as I head to Tokyo, my plan is to smash the silver linings, I want gold in the women’s 800m and 1500m. My goal is not only to reach the podium, but to come back home with a gold medal in the categories, so I’m training hard, I’m so hopeful that the dream will be accomplished,” the mother of one underlined.

To boost her chances of winning gold, especially in the women’s 800m, Bitok noted that she is now working on her speed in the remaining days to the Games kick-off.

As for the 1,500m, she said she feels well-prepared, with endurance, since it is a longer race.

“I feel inspired and strong. I feel capable of flooring any rivals who will be up against me,” she highlighted.

“I know my opponents who are training in European countries have better resources to work on things like speed, endurance and the finishing kick, but I have also done my home work well. Let’s meet on the track and see how it all pans out,” the triple Deaflympics silver medalist cum hairdresser stated.

The Eldoret based hairstylist will ply trade for Kenya in the women’s 800m alongside Aidah Odero. Bitok’s other compatriots in the women’s 1,500m are Viola Chelimo, and Rebecca Matiko.

Bitok said they have developed a game plan, together with their coaches Sammy Kibet and Caroline Kola, to dominate the races.

“We have had a conversation with our instructors. They have taught us how to go about the races to ensure that Kenya lands in medal brackets in the contests,” she noted.

Beyond the quest for glory in the races, Bitok draws motivation from the cash rewards, especially those recently put across by the State, as they will go a long way in securing her family’s future.

“I want to win that gold so I can get the Sh 3 million reward recently announced by His Excellency President William Ruto. The money will help me provide for my child. With that cash reward, I believe I can do much more for my family with ease” stated Bitok who idolises 1500m world champion and record holder Faith Kipyegon.