In a press statement seen by KUTV, Athletics Kenya stated its offices will remain closed on Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd February 2024 in honour of the late Kelvin Kiptum.
The late champion will be laid to rest on Friday, 23rd February 2024 at his home in Chepkorio Village, Elgeyo Marakwet.
The burial of the marathon record holder was moved ahead of schedule. Explaining the move, a family spokesperson remarked that this was to align with President William Ruto’s calendar.
Ruto mourned Kiptum as an extraordinary sportsman who had left an indelible mark on the world.
He is expected to travel to Namibia for a state burial of the late president, Hage Geingob who will be laid to rest on Saturday, February 24th.
The office is set to resume normal operations on Monday 26th February 2024.
On February 14th, Athletics Kenya cancelled the Trials for the African Games which were scheduled for 16th and 17th Feb 2024 at Nyayo Stadium in honour of the late Kelvin Kiptum. The selection criteria are set to be announced later.
On February 15th, the body announced the demise of former Athlete Mr. Henry Rono. He had been hospitalized at the Nairobi South Hospital for a short while.
Henry was a Kenyan retired track and field athlete who specialized in various long-distance running events. Rono is remembered as the former record holder for the 3000-metre steeplechase for over a decade.
Rono also set the world record for the 5000 metres twice: once in 1978, then again in 1981.