Kenyan athletes have called for an interpreter during the international championships to guide them during interviews.
Led by world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge and 800m record holder David Rudisha have tasked Athletics Kenya to source for an interpreter to give quality information that is required.
While responding to questions from journalists during the Annual Athletes Conference in Eldoret, Kipchoge questioned why Kenya has never had an interpreter in major races.
“it is high time that Athletics Kenya train an individual to interpreter our language because sometimes upcoming athletes may miscommunication,” said Kipchoge.
However, he tasked athletes to learn some communication skills that will attract.
“Many Kenyan runners just in compete in local races, failing to make it at the international level because of poor communication. Even others may miss winning the race simply they can’t communicate well and respond to questions posed by journalists,” said the Olympic marathon champion.
“As an athlete, once you hire an interpreter, you have to pay him or her for air ticket, accommodation among other expenses which the majority of them can not afford but if the federation can hire someone, it will be great for all of us,” said the two time Berlin marathon champion.
Rudisha, the former Olympic Champion added his voice to the subject calling for an interpreter.
“It will be good if Athletics Kenya gave an opportunity for an interpreter to help athletes who cannot communicate well. English as a language may not be understood by everyone, hence we miss points,” said Rudisha.
But journalists led by Dennis Okeyo and Bernard Rotich urged athletes to learn basic communication skills for the betterment of their own career.
“It is better to learn basic communication skills like tenses and confidence while addressing the media especially the international media. With that, you sell yourself as a brand,” they advised.
Source: The Star