Ruth Jepchumba Bundotich, coach to women’s 10km world record holder Agnes Ng’etich, has earned global acclaim after being named the 2025 World Athletics Woman of the Year.
The prestigious award celebrates individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the sport, particularly in advancing opportunities for women and girls.
Bundotich has been instrumental in moulding Ng’etich into a dominant force on the roads.
Ng’etich is the current world record holder over 10km with a blistering 28:46 set in Valencia in 2024.
She is also the second-fastest woman in history over the half marathon with an impressive 1:03:04.
In a statement, World Athletics confirmed that Bundotich had been named the 2025 Woman of the Year.
“Ruth Jepchumba Bundotich has been announced as the recipient of the 2025 World Athletics Woman of the Year Award, honouring her outstanding leadership, commitment to athlete development and exceptional contributions to the growth of women’s athletics in Kenya and beyond,” the statement read.
The announcement further highlighted her legacy in coaching influential figures and nurturing youth talent.
“A trailblazer in the coaching community, Bundotich has become one of Kenya’s most influential figures in youth and women’s athlete development.
“Through her work with Ikaika Sports Agency and Adidas Running, she has helped create a sustainable and supportive pathway for emerging talents, ensuring young athletes, particularly girls, are empowered both on and off the track,” the statement added.
Among her standout proteges is 10km world record holder Ng’etich.
“Her holistic approach has been widely credited with shaping the environments that produced breakout stars such as world record-holder Agnes Ng’etich, whose achievements helped spotlight the wider ecosystem Bundotich has built.”
Bundotich said the award was a testament to her commitment to nurturing young talent.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition from World Athletics.
“This acknowledgement reflects not just one athlete’s journey but the collective commitment to nurturing, developing and safeguarding young talents, particularly young girls in athletics.”
She reserved special praise for Athletics Kenya for recognising her efforts.
“I want to especially acknowledge Athletics Kenya for inspiring, motivating and recognising my work. My work with Ikaika Sports Agency and Adidas Running has always centred on creating sustainable pathways for young athletes to thrive, both on and off the track. It’s gratifying to see these efforts recognised at this level.”
“While Agnes Ng’etich’s achievements, among others, have brought visibility to this work, her success represents something much larger: a collaborative approach to athlete development.”
She also paid tribute to her support team.
“It takes an ecosystem of committed people to nurture talents responsibly and sustainably. This recognition truly belongs to a village of more than 15 individuals, coaches, support staff, family members and mentors who have each played a vital role.
“I am grateful for this honour and remain committed to continuing this work, ensuring that young athletes have the support, protection and guidance they need to reach their full potential.”