This archive report was first published on 22 June 2020.
Janet Songoka, a Kenyan marathoner, has found herself in an unexpected situation amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite being stranded in Mexico, she has discovered a sense of comfort and belonging in the country.
With travel restrictions in place, Songoka's plans to return to Kenya and then head back to Mexico were put on hold. However, she has adapted to her new circumstances and is now enjoying the opportunity to train and compete in local races.
According to Songoka, who has a personal best of 1:23:42 in the half marathon, life became difficult when races and flights were cancelled in March. However, she has found solace in the kindness of a Mexican family who took her in when she was struggling to pay rent.
"When things became difficult, a family took me in and I thank them a lot," Songoka said. "The only challenge is that I can't send some money home as I had done before the cancellation of races."
Despite the challenges, Songoka has been able to continue her training and compete in local races, including the half marathon Mexicali, where she recorded her personal best just before the pandemic struck.
On May 5, five Kenyan athletes were evacuated from India, but Songoka remains in Mexico, where she has found a new sense of purpose and belonging.
