Calls for support and protection of athletes by the government have dominated the sendoff of the fallen world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum, at Chepkorio in Keiyo South Constituency in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
Active athletes, retired athletes and officials who rose to eulogise the 24-year-old star insisted on the importance of athletes’ welfare, reflecting on several world beaters who have perished at young age, Kiptum being the latest.
Athletics Kenya (AK) president Jackson Tuwei and the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) boss Paul Tergat have recommended legislation from the law makers which will accord athletics champions VIP lifestyles.
“On behalf of the athletes I humbly request the members of parliament to put up legislation which will take care of our heroes. They’ve really sacrificed for this country and therefore they need that special treatment to match their efforts,” said Tuwei.
Tergat echoed Tuwei’s sentiments even as he called on the Ministry of Sports to come up with measures to safeguard the welfare of sportsmen who have put Kenya on the global map.
“Our sportsmen and women need support from the government in order to enjoy their sweat. We request you the president (William Ruto) to help us accord respect to these great people of athletics.”
Former Javelin world champion Julius Yego, speaking on behalf of athletes, said, “Kiptum could have survived” had he been given security.
“Mr. President, these athletes are requesting just a little recognition and support. The place where we are today is a place of champions but we do not have the training facilities at all. Across the North Rift, the three counties which are athletics bastions, unfortunately there are no training facilities. I also want to urge the three governors in this area to please unite your minds and give us good training facilities.”
“Again president, for these world record breakers please we request to be given securities. The loss we’ve encountered in Kiptum is very huge to the country and the world. If he had a security detail and a driver that time, maybe he would have survived,” he added.
At the same time, Athletics Kenya president Jackson Tuwei has said the Golazo Company which was working with the late athlete will set-up a foundation to take care of the athlete’s two children and the community.
“To keep the memory of Kelvin Kiptum alive and support his family and community, Golazo is launching The Kelvin Kiptum Foundation and the fund will predominantly provide continued financial support for education and infrastructure.”
World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said he was still devastated by the passing on of the marathon sensation.
Kiptum, 24, was killed alongside his coach Gervais Hakizimana on February 11 in a road accident near the Rift Valley town of Eldoret, leaving Kenya and the world of athletics reeling.
On the eve of Friday’s funeral, Kiptum’s coffin, encircled with flowers, was carried in a hearse through Eldoret, some people watching in silence, others singing hymns.
