Grace Adhiambo Okulu: From a Curious 12-Year-Old to an Olympian
Grace Adhiambo Okulu’s rugby journey began in the unlikeliest of places: a casual conversation at Free Hold Primary School in Nakuru. She was 12 years old when a classmate named Bernard boasted that some girls they knew were traveling to the UK to play rugby. Intrigued, Grace’s immediate question was a simple but telling one: “What do people use to get to the UK?”
At the time, Grace was no stranger to sports. A natural athlete with a passion for football, she spent her school days chasing the ball across the pitch. Yet, the idea of rugby—and the opportunities it seemed to offer—sparked something new in her. That spark would soon ignite a journey that would take her to the pinnacle of international competition.
A Rising Star
Grace quickly found her footing in rugby, developing into a versatile player capable of excelling in multiple positions. As a utility back, she often plays as a Fly-half but is just as effective in other roles. Her dedication and talent did not go unnoticed. In 2015, she earned her first call-up to the Kenya Women’s Rugby Sevens team – Lionesses. It was a moment that validated her hard work and set the stage for an incredible career.
One of the defining moments of Grace’s rugby journey came in 2021 when she represented Kenya at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, held in Japan. Competing on the global stage was a dream come true and a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport.
Inspired by Greatness
Like many athletes, Grace draws inspiration from those who have come before her. Her idol is none other than Portia Woodman, the legendary New Zealand rugby player and two-time Olympian. Portia’s record-breaking career—incl0uding her historic achievement of becoming the first woman to score 200 tries in the Rugby World Sevens Series—is a beacon of ex0cellence for Grace.
“Her dedication and discipline on the pitch are what I admire most,” Grace says. “She’s shown what’s possible in this sport, and that’s what I aspire to.”
Dreams Beyond the Pitch
Grace’s ambitions extend far beyond her current accomplishments. She dreams of playing rugby in the UK, following in the footsteps of the players who first inspired her curiosity. More importantly, she hopes to become an ambassador for the sport, using her platform to encourage more girls to pick up the game.
“Rugby has given me so much,” she says. “I want to help others discover the same passion and opportunities that I’ve had.”
A Life of Balance
Off the pitch, Grace serves as a Corporal in the Administrative Police. Her demanding career is a testament to her discipline and ability to balance multiple responsibilities. Rugby, she says, plays a crucial role in maintaining her mental and physical well-being.
“The sport keeps me fit, both mentally and physically,” she explains. “It’s not just a game for me; it’s a way of life.”
Words of Wisdom
For the young girls looking up to her, Grace has simple but powerful advice: “Put in the work, be disciplined, and never give up.” Her journey from a curious 12-year-old to an Olympian is proof that these principles can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Grace’s love for rugby is the driving force behind everything she does. It’s what gets her out of bed every morning, ready to tackle the challenges ahead. And as she continues to chase her dreams, she remains a shining example of what’s possible when passion meets perseverance.
