For many elite athletes, the journey to success begins long before they step onto the global stage. Behind their grueling training sessions, disciplined routines, and unwavering determination are the unsung heroes—mothers who dedicate their lives to shaping future champions. From early morning drills to strict nutrition plans, these mothers have played a crucial role in nurturing the talent that propels their children to greatness.
One such mother is Wanjiku Laborde, whose son, Kenyan Olympian Issa Laborde, has made waves in international skiing—a sport rarely associated with Kenya. Despite hailing from a country with no natural snow, Issa has defied the odds, training at Vaujany Ski Resort in France to compete at the highest level. His mother, Wanjiku, recalls the early years when she recognized his talent and went to extraordinary lengths to ensure he had access to the right training.
“People thought I was crazy for pushing my son into skiing,” Wanjiku admits with a smile. “But I saw something in him—his balance, his speed, his determination. I knew he had potential, and I refused to let circumstances limit him.”
Her unwavering belief in Issa’s abilities led to a life-changing decision—relocating to Europe so he could train under the best coaches. The move was not easy, requiring financial sacrifices and emotional resilience, but today, as Issa takes on global competitions, it is clear that the sacrifices were worth it.
The Early Training and Sacrifices
For many mothers raising star athletes, the journey begins with a delicate balance of discipline and encouragement. From the moment their children show an inclination towards sports, these mothers take on multiple roles—coaches, nutritionists, motivators, and even unofficial managers.
Take Mary Atieno, the mother of a top Kenyan sprinter. She vividly remembers waking up at 4 a.m. to accompany her daughter to the track for training sessions. Rain or shine, Mary made sure her daughter stuck to her routine, often sacrificing her own comfort to help her child chase a dream.
“It wasn’t just about talent; it was about consistency,” Mary explains. “There were days she wanted to sleep in, but I had to remind her that champions don’t take breaks. I became her biggest cheerleader, but also the strictest coach in our home.”
Nutrition also played a key role. Understanding the importance of diet in athletic performance, Mary learned about the best foods to fuel her daughter’s body. With limited resources, she had to be creative—incorporating affordable yet high-energy meals rich in proteins and carbohydrates.
“I didn’t have the money to buy expensive supplements, but I knew that local foods like sweet potatoes, millet porridge, and beans were just as powerful,” she says. “I made sure she had the best nutrition possible without breaking the bank.”
Mental Strength and Emotional Support
Beyond physical training, these mothers also recognize the importance of mental strength. The pressure of competition, fear of failure, and the expectations of an entire nation can weigh heavily on young athletes. For this reason, emotional support becomes just as crucial as physical preparation.
Wanjiku Laborde recalls how she helped Issa overcome moments of doubt. In a sport dominated by athletes from snow-rich countries, Issa often felt like an outsider.
“There were times he questioned if he belonged,” she admits. “I had to remind him that talent knows no borders. I told him that the only thing that matters is what he does on the slopes—not where he comes from.”
Similarly, Mary Atieno helped her daughter navigate the pressures of fame. When critics doubted her ability to compete internationally, Mary became her source of motivation.
“The world will always have opinions, but I told her that hard work silences doubt,” Mary says. “She learned to channel negativity into fuel for her performance.”
The Reward: Watching Their Children Shine
For these mothers, the greatest reward is witnessing their children achieve their dreams. Whether it’s Issa Laborde carving through the snow at an international ski competition or Mary’s daughter sprinting past the finish line, the joy of seeing their hard work pay off is unmatched.
“I still get emotional watching him compete,” Wanjiku confesses. “Every time he races, I see all those years of sacrifice, the early mornings, the struggles. It’s all worth it.”
Their stories serve as a testament to the power of a mother’s unwavering support in shaping world-class athletes. While the spotlight shines on the competitors, behind them stand mothers whose dedication and sacrifices make all the difference.
As Kenya continues to produce top-tier athletes across various sports, it’s clear that their success is not just a result of talent and training—it’s also the product of the silent, relentless efforts of the mothers who