In the heart of Kilgoris town, where the endless plains of Narok County meet the indomitable spirit of its people, Zachary Onyimbo’s journey began. The second-born in a family of five, Zachary grew up surrounded by stories of triumph. Inspired by his uncles and fueled by the legendary success of fellow Kilgoris native David Rudisha, he set his sights on the world of athletics. But Zachary’s story isn’t just about running—it’s about perseverance, sacrifice, and the unrelenting pursuit of dreams.

The Early Steps

Zachary’s athletic journey started during his final year of high school. Encouraged by family members who had once thrived in athletics, he discovered his talent for middle-distance running. “They kept encouraging me that I could go beyond their level,” he recalls. David Rudisha’s dominance in the 800m further spurred his ambition, planting a seed that would grow into a lifelong passion.

After high school, Zachary pursued a diploma in journalism at Kabete National Polytechnic from 2019 to 2022. Balancing academics and athletics was no small feat, but his challenges went deeper than time management.

A Balancing Act

To support himself, Zachary worked grueling night shifts at an industrial plant in Nairobi’s Industrial Area. His days were a whirlwind: 13-hour shifts from 6:00 pm to 7:00 am, an hour of training, a brief nap, and then off to class. “I barely slept for an hour,” he shares, reflecting on the toll this took on his body and mind.

Despite the exhaustion, Zachary excelled in athletics, earning respect as the institution’s athletics captain for three consecutive years. He led the college’s physical fitness club, training over 150 students free of charge. His leadership and athletic prowess earned him recognition not only from peers but also from staff and administration

Obstacles on the Track

Zachary faced injuries, financial constraints, and logistical challenges that often forced him to make tough choices between academics and sports. He recalls a particularly difficult moment: “I had to choose between competing at the national level and sitting for my main exams. It was one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever made.”

Another major setback came when he deferred his studies to join the Kenya Prisons Athletics Team, only to be overlooked during recruitment. “I regretted deferring a whole semester, but it taught me resilience,” he says.

The Champion Within

Despite these struggles, Zachary’s achievements in athletics are a testament to his grit. He dominated regional and national college athletics competitions, representing Kabete National Polytechnic in KETTISA, KETTISO, and KATTI games. His success even earned him opportunities to compete against renowned athletes like Wycliffe Kinyamal and Emmanuel Wanyonyi at Athletics Kenya weekend meets.

Zachary’s triumphs also brought financial rewards, as institutions and clubs invited him to represent them in competitions. “These opportunities gave me hope,” he says, “and showed me that hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.”

A Vision Beyond the Finish Line

Today, Zachary is navigating the challenges of unemployment while holding onto his dreams. Though he has yet to secure a job as a sports journalist, he remains optimistic. “One day, I’ll prosper in sports and start my own media house,” he says with conviction.

He also envisions a future where he can blend his dual passions. “I want to be an athlete and a sports journalist—representing my country on the track while reporting on global sports events,” he explains.

Zachary is already giving back to the community, training aspiring athletes from Kabete National Polytechnic and PC Kinyanjui Technical Institute. His ultimate goal is to mentor the next generation of athletes, passing on the knowledge and resilience that have defined his journey.

Running Towards Greatness

Zachary Onyimbo’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about talent—it’s about perseverance, sacrifice, and the ability to rise above adversity. Whether on the track or in the newsroom, Zachary embodies the unyielding spirit of a true champion.

In his words: “The journey has been tough, but every step has shaped who I am. I believe the best is yet to come.”

As he trains the next generation and chases his dreams, Zachary’s story is far from over. It’s a testament to the power of resilience and the belief that, no matter the obstacles, the finish line is always within reach.