Sports

Jepchirchir pushes for reduction of taxes on foreign athletes in European competitions

Thursday, April 8th, 2021 00:00 | By
World Half Marathon record holder Peres Jepchirchir during the SOYA awards in February. Photo/PD/PHILIP KAMAKYA

World Half Marathon record holder Peres Jepchirchir is among the athletics stars who have provided suggestions on how to improve the sport both  nationally and globally, following last month’s launch of the Global Conversation for the Future of Athletics.

Jepchirchir has lauded the move by World Athletics to have an all-inclusive progressive agenda for the betterment of sports.

Her suggestions are part of the World Plan for Athletics 2022-2030, which will be a guiding document for the growth and development of the sport within the next decade. 

The plan will comprise clear time-lines, measurable outcomes, roles and responsibilities as well as resources and budgets required.

“That is a brilliant initiative from the world governing body. For a long time, the views of athletes and other stakeholders have not been taken into consideration, it is my hope that this is the first for many good things to come,” said Jepchirchir who in September last year clocked 1:05:34 erasing the previous record of 1:06:11.

Jepchirchir is hoping that the world Athletics in collaboration with race organizers will address the thorny issue of taxation which she feels is too high.

“I am hoping race organisers will be slightly lenient with the taxes rates. Lately we have been witnessing abnormal taxes on winning monies, sometimes going up to 33 percent.

I think we should have a middle ground for athletes,” explained Jepchirchir on phone.

World under 18 race walk bronze medalist Dominic Ndigiti too lauded the World Athletics for the opportunity to join the global conversation and contribute to the growth of our sport.

“As race walkers we need more exposure and my biggest concern is for us to get invitations to attend international championships, that is something I want to see happen in the future.

I also hope we can be considered for one mile or even 10k events at the Diamond League,” weighed in Ndigiti.

Long distance runner Eva Cherono too challenging the global body to bring back 10,000m to the Diamond League.

“As a long distance athlete I want more opportunities to compete at the global arena. I for example want to see 10,000m back in the diamond league circuit very soon.

I have joined the global conversation, I urge my fellow athletes and Kenyans to speak out and be heard,” offered Cherono. 

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