By Teddy Namayanja
Tragedy has struck the Ugandan athletics community with the sudden passing of long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei, a talented and dedicated athlete.
Rebecca passed on early this morning at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city where she was being treated after 80% of her body was burned in an attack by her partner. She was 33.
“With deep sorrow, I regret to confirm that Ms. Rebecca has departed from us. We did our best, but her organs failed”. Owen Menach, the Spokesperson, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital announced.
According to Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah Ole Kosion, Rebecca’s partner Dickson Ndiema bought a jerrican of petrol, poured it on her and set her ablaze during a disagreement on Sunday August 1, 2024.
Ndiema, who was also burned and is still in the intensive care unit at the same hospital with 30% burns, is reported to be improving and stable.
A report filled by local police states that, the two were heard fighting over a piece of land Cheptegei had bought in Trans Nzoia, where her house was built before the attack on Sunday.
Cheptegei’s parents said that their daughter had bought the land to be near the county’s many athletic training centers.
The exceptional athlete who was an inspiration to many young Ugandan, regional and international runners is known for her impressive performance in the 5000- and 10000-meters race. She represented Uganda at several International competitions, including the World Championships and Commonwealth Games.
Cheptegei competed in the Women’s Marathon at the Paris Olympics less than a month before the attack. She finished in 44th place. Her dedication and passion for the sport were evident in everything she did.
She has left an incredible mark and will be deeply missed but her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and inspired.
May her soul Rest in Peace.
