Wilson Chuma Kiprugut, one of Kenya’s most decorated athletes, died on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, after a long illness.
Athletics Kenya (AK) broke the news on Wednesday, November 2, describing the late Kiprugut as a pioneer of the country’s sporting success.
“We are deeply saddened by the death of one of Kenya’s pioneering athletes, Wilson Chuma Kiprugut.
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“The renowned Kenyan middle-distance legend passed away in Kericho county on Wednesday evening after a long illness. He was 84 years old at the time of his death.
“Kiprugut made a breakthrough on the international stage after storming to the silver medal at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico,” read part of the press release from AK.
AK also sent a message of condolence to the family and friends of Kenya’s first Olympic medalist.
“Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends and all Kenyan sports stakeholders.
“We will surely miss the presence of a truly lovely and kind person who selflessly made the country proud on the global stage,” stated the Nairobi West-based federation.
Kiprugut represented Kenya in numerous international competitions, winning medals for the East African nation.
He bagged two gold medals (800m and 400m) at the maiden All African Games, which was staged in Congo in 1965.
At the 1966 Commonwealth Games, Chuma ran a tactical race in Kingston, Jamaica, to win an 880 yards bronze medal for Kenya.