Grace Kidake: The Sprint Queen Who Defies Time!

For two decades, she has been sprinting, not ready to hang spikes yet!

Grace Kidake is not just known for her speed but also for her striking natural complexion and elegant long strides—a presence that stands out both on and off the track.

Humble Beginnings

Born in Hakedohi Village, Chavakali town, in Vihiga County, western Kenya, home of some of Kenya best sprinters like Ferdinard Omayala, John Anzarah , Joy Sakari, Jacinta Shikanda just to mention a few . Grace is the last-born in a family of six girls and two boys. Though raised in the Coastal region and partially in Nairobi, her passion for athletics started at home. Her sports-loving family played a big role in shaping her career, with her elder siblings actively involved in sports.

“I used to watch my brother and sisters train and get praises from my parents and villagers each time they had good results, I wished to be like them. My parents didn’t know much about sports, but they believed rubber shoes were the best shoes for sports, which they used to buy for us for training,” Grace recalls.

Early Education & Athletic Spark

Grace attended Chandumba Primary School in Vihiga County before transferring to Chugi Primary School, where she juggled traditional dancing and running. “I really appreciate my Chugi Primary School head teacher Mr. Mugoma, he saw my talent and encouraged me to pursue athletics. 

Grace later joined Lusiola Secondary School in Kakamega (2001), where her passion for sports grew. Initially as a footballer and still running, but with time she eventually chose to focus solely on athletics. Her breakthrough came in Form Three, when she dominated the regional competitions and won the 400m National Championships in Mombasa.

Breaking Into the Big League

After high school, Grace’s outstanding performance caught the attention of Kenya Postal Corporation, where she was employed as a Human Resource Officer—thanks to her sports ability.

“Sports changed my life. I am grateful to Postal Corporation of Kenya (PCK) for believing in me and giving me a job opportunity”.

Dominance at KECOSO Games

The Kenya Communications Sports Organization (KECOSO) Games are an annual sporting event for civil servants in Kenya, featuring a wide range of disciplines, and are known for promoting unity and physical well-being for civil servants and promote sportsmanship. 

Since joining PCK, Grace has won her event every year for the last 12 years!

Her debut at the Kinoru Stadium, Meru, saw her sweep six events at KECOSO games —100m, 200m, 400m, long jump, 4x400m, and 4x100m relays—earning herself, nickname “Posta Express” due to her speed and consistency.

International Achievements

In 2010, she got her first taste of international competition in Khartoum, Sudan, representing Kenya in 200m and 400m, she bagged gold in the 200m and silver in the 400m. The same year, she won the 400m National Championship at Nyayo Stadium, leading to her selection for Team Kenya for Commonwealth Games in India and later All-Africa Games in Maputo, Benin (2012) and Angola.

Master’s Athletics – A New Challenge

Even after her senior-level career, Grace continued to shine at the master’s Athletics level. In 2024, she travelled to South Africa, where she excelled in 200m and 400m. Her biggest master’s achievement came in Albania, where she won five gold medals—a historic feat for a Kenyan athlete! One of the gold medals came from a mixed relay, where she was invited to run for Team Great Britain.

During the Albania Championship, Grace was going through hard times, as her father was unwell. “My father was sick, and I was not sure if I was going, but he insisted I must go and do my best. I believe my good performance came from my dad’s blessings, and that’s why I dedicated the five medals to him. He passed away before the championship started. I miss him so much—he is my role model.”

In Sweden, Grace clocked 56:00 in 400m, won silver in 800m in time of 2:08.00  and helped her team secure third place in the 4x400m relay.

The Secret to Her Longevity

Grace credits her mental strength, hard work, and discipline for keeping her competitive for over 20 years.

“Balancing family life and training is tough, but with a supportive family, it’s possible. I believe I still have surprises up my sleeve—watch out this season!”

Grace is a proud mother of two girls, Ryann and Ruhainna, whom she says are the pillar of her life. Outside training, she enjoys traveling, counselling, coaching, and mentoring young athletes.

Advocating for Sports in the Coastal Region

Having grown up in the Coastal region, Grace is passionate about developing sports facilities to keep young people engaged and away from drug abuse.

“If the leadership prioritizes sports, this region has immense talent. I hope to be part of that change.”

Diet & Fitness

Even at 40, Grace remains cautious about her diet, emphasizing healthy eating to maintain peak performance.

“I’m not quitting anytime soon! Nutrition plays a huge role in my success.”

Special Thanks

Grace expresses gratitude to Postal Corporation of Kenya, her longtime supporters, and her coaches, Stephen Mwaniki and Raphael Odaro, who shaped her running mechanics.

Career Highlights

• 2010 Kenya National Champion (400m) – 54.31s
• 2010 African Championship (Nairobi) – Silver in 4x400m relay
• 2010 African Championship (Nairobi) – 5th place in 4x100m relay
• 2012 African Championship (Benin) – 6th place in 4x400m relay

Advice to Young Athletes 🎤

“Running is painful, and discouragement is common. But with discipline, focus, and dedication, you can surpass your-self—and I truly believe that’s possible!”. Grace said with her signature smile.