The late President Mwai Kibaki became the first Kenyan Head of State to appreciate the efforts by athletes in placing the country on the global map.
On April 22, the announcement of his death revived memories of his contributions to the sporting world.
The late president died at the age of 90 having served as the Commander-in-Chief for 10 years. During his tenure, sporting activities in the country were appreciated, leading to an enormous growth.
One of the highlights he will forever be remember for was gifting sports personalities who succeeded in different competitions.
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In 2007, he rewarded successful athletes and coaches who had represented the country in that year's summer World Championships and African Junior championships, giving them a total of Ksh7.1 million.
During the award ceremony, which took place at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, the President presented cheques to the two national teams.
In what was referred to as the richest ever award scheme, the runners, who won medals, also got presents from a community development organization in the form of animals.
Gold medalists in the World Championships were awarded Ksh500,000 each, while silver medalists got Ksh300,000 and bronze medalists collected Ksh200,000. In addition to the money prize, those at pole position received heifers while the other medalists were given a sheep each.
The African junior team members who won gold medals received Ksh150,000 each, silver medalists were awarded Ksh100,000, and bronze medalists got Ksh75,000.
Officials from the World championship team were promised Ksh10,000 each, with the government giving Ksh5,000 and Kenya Pipeline Ksh5,000.
This was the third time athletes who took part in international competitions were rewarded in the same year.
In April 2007, Kibaki gave the team that competed in the World Cross Country Championship in Mombasa Ksh100,000 each, with juniors getting Ksh50,000.
On August 4, 2007, the former President rewarded the teams that participated for the All Africa Games and World Youth Championship in a similar ceremony held at Kasarani Sports Complex.
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