Obiri initially participated in race walking, triple jump, and running events. After joining the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), she played netball in inter-unit tournaments. It was KDF athletics coach Sam Maina who encouraged her to return to athletics. She then began training seriously, inspired by athletes competing internationally.

Training and Coaching

Obiri trains with the Kenya Defence Forces team and is coached by her husband, Tom Simon Nyaundi, and personal coach Ricky Simms from Ireland. She prefers training with men as it motivates her more. "When you train with men, they will push you so when it comes to racing ladies competing will be easier," she said.

Memorable Achievements

One of Obiri's most memorable achievements is winning the individual race at the 2019 World Cross-Country Championships in Aarhus, Denmark. She considers her family the most influential people in her career and looks up to Kenyan runner Vivian Cheruiyot as her idol.

Challenges and Injuries

Obiri faced a significant challenge in February 2020 when she pulled out of the Kenya Defence Forces Cross-Country Meeting due to a back injury. A month earlier, she experienced back pain at a running event in Seville, Spain. Despite these setbacks, she remains committed to her sport.

Philosophy and Personal Life

Obiri lives by the motto "Smile and live long." She resides in Nairobi with her husband Tom Simon Nyaundi and their daughter Tania, born in 2015. Motherhood has renewed her motivation. "Sometimes when you become a mother you need to work extra hard because you have somebody who looks up to you," she said.

Future Plans

After the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Obiri plans to switch to road races. "The Olympic gold medal is the only one that is missing from my pocket," she said. She aims to transition from track events to road races starting in 2022 due to age and the emergence of younger athletes.

London 2012 Experience

The 2012 Olympic Games in London were a low point for Obiri. She placed 12th (later upgraded to eighth) in the 1500m event and considered quitting athletics. "It remains my worst performance ever," she said. Despite this setback, she continued to pursue her athletic career.

Transition to Middle-Distance Events

Initially a short and long-distance runner with the Kenya Defence Forces, Obiri was convinced by Kenyan athlete Noah Ngeny to switch to the 1500m event and middle-distance races. Though hesitant at first, she became more comfortable with these events after competing in Morocco and Russia.

Hellen Obiri's journey from school competitions to international acclaim showcases her dedication and resilience. As she prepares for new challenges on the road racing circuit, her story continues to inspire many aspiring athletes worldwide.