Mary Moraa has left fans amazed after sharing a throwback photo of herself as a youngster
Reigning 800m world champion Mary Moraa has left fans in stitches after sharing a throwback photo of herself as a youngster, years before she became the dominating track star she is today.
Taking to her Facebook page, Moraa, who clinched bronze at the Paris Olympic Games in the 800m, was photographed standing next to a portrait of herself in front of a hut as a child.
In the portrait, young Moraa is seen wearing patched-up second-hand clothes and standing barefoot with her legs unoiled, a stark contrast to her current status as an elite athlete.
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The picture, illustrating her rise from grass to grace, left fans amused and amazed at her transformation. Comments flooded in, expressing admiration and pride in her journey.
Replying to the post, one user, Thomas Bwonda, wrote, "God is great. I first watched you run for Nyamira county at Cardinal, Mosocho. Then you were running 400m.
“ I saw a great future athlete. Your then coach, Mr. Mayaka (St Don Bosco Nyabiosi), told me you would do extremely well in 800m. It happened. Congratulations. You've done Abagusii proud. With your much training, now you can do 1500m. Give it a try."
Others echoed similar sentiments, with Vincent Kipngetich remarking, "Testament of good things at an appointed time. Soar high."
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Ngola Batangire Marwa suggested, "Make a big frame of that. Let it be a reminder of your scars and God's mercy upon you."
Shiko Wa Kibiriu added, "Keep soaring our Kenyan Queen... and may the Almighty God keep shining His face upon you."
Jared Maobe chimed in, "If our lives could have video recordings, the audience could run out of serviettes... It's grace."
Bishop Samuel Oyaro reminisced, "God is so great, where He has brought you from is far... I can recall back when we were in Ibacho High School... God's grace be with you, Mary Moraa."
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Moraa's journey to the top has been anything but easy. She lost both parents when she was just two years old, leading her and her three siblings to be raised by their grandparents.
Growing up, she developed a passion for sports, participating in various activities such as football, volleyball, high jump, and running events ranging from 100m to 400m.
She often competed against older students, including her sister, and by Standard Five, she was competing at regional levels, advancing to nationals the following year.
The six-kilometer run to school each day showcased her dedication and laid the foundation for her athletic career. Despite financial challenges, she secured a scholarship to Mogonga Secondary School, where she initially played football before focusing on athletics.
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Moraa's breakthrough came at the 2017 World U18 Championships in Nairobi, where she won a silver medal in the 400m.
Encouraged by Kenyan athletics star Hellen Obiri, Moraa transitioned to the 800m in 2019, a decision that eventually led to significant achievements, including a gold medal at the 2023 World Athletics Championships.
Her journey from a challenging childhood to international acclaim serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and determination.