Javelin Champion Julius Yego has been appointed to head Africa at a global organisation, The Athletics Association.
The association's president Christian Taylor announced on Thursday, July 16, during the formal launch of the company that was necessitated by an outcry from athletes globally.
Athletes had called for representation and Taylor disclosed that the organisation was aimed at providing athletes with a voice to fight for their rights.
"The Athletics Association aims to engage in positive dialogue with the sport’s governing body, World Athletics, and their own athletes’ commission, but will of course hold World Athletics to account when necessary and challenge them if they are not acting in the best interest of the athletes," she stated.
Taking to Twitter, Yego was elated by the appointment and thanked people who helped him clinch the seat.
"I am very much happy and humbled to have been elected board member of The Athletics Association, as the African representative.
"Thank you everyone who took part in this process. I will strive to help all and sundry, for the rights of athletes," stated Yego.
The athlete was the 2016 Rio Olympic Games javelin silver medallist after teaching himself the craft through watching youtube videos.
The National Olympic Committee of Kenya also congratulated Yego for his new appointment.
"Julius Yego, congratulations on your selection as board member representing african athletes. July 16, 2020 Today marks the formal launch of The Athletics Association, an independent organization established for athletes, by athletes," read a statement from the organisation.
