The Ugandan athletics community is in mourning following the murder of Benjamin Kiplagat, a renowned 3,000-meter steeplechase champion, in Eldoret, Kenya. Athletes expressed their grief and paid tribute to Kiplagat, remembering him as a role model and a generous supporter of fellow athletes.
Stephen Kiprotich, the Olympic and World Marathon Champion, emphasizes Kiplagat’s role as an inspiration to many young athletes in Uganda, including Jacob Araptany, Peruth Chemutai, and Joshua Cheptegei. Kiprotich urges athletes to prioritize their security in the wake of Kiplagat’s untimely death.
Joshua Cheptegei, the three-time world champion in the 10,000 meters, describes Kiplagat’s death as a significant loss to Ugandan athletics, especially in supporting emerging talents. Cheptegei fondly remembers Kiplagat’s generosity and motivation during their training in Kenya in 2014.
Moses Kipsiro, the 2010 Commonwealth double gold medalist in 10,000 and 5,000 meters, emphasizes Kiplagat’s irreplaceable role in the 3,000-meter steeplechase and his commitment to team spirit while representing Uganda in international competitions.
Stella Chesang, Uganda’s national record marathon holder, recalls Kiplagat’s support and generosity toward fellow athletes, providing essential training kits and competition gear. Chesang acknowledges Kiplagat’s positive impact on the athletic community.
Isaac Kiplagat, the 2014 World Mountain Champion, remembers Benjamin as an athletics patriot with a passion for running. He shares Kiplagat’s motivational slogan, “If you don’t know what you want in running, running will forget you,” highlighting the inspiration Kiplagat provided to fellow athletes.
Dominic Toucher, the President of Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), expresses condolences, describing Benjamin Kiplagat as a loyal middle and long-distance runner. Kiplagat’s career achievements, from setting national records to his international participation, have left a lasting legacy in Ugandan athletics.
Kiplagat’s athletic journey began with the 2004 World Junior Championships, and he continued to make significant contributions to Ugandan athletics, setting records and representing the country on the global stage.
