Grieving Kenyans honor renowned steeplechaser Jairus Birech
Kenyan Athletics Star Jairus Birech Passes Away
Jairus Birech, a celebrated Kenyan athlete and the 2014 World Cup and African 3,000m steeplechase champion, passed away on Thursday night. Birech's family confirmed that he had been unwell for about three weeks before his death, and he was admitted to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County for two weeks.
Birech's last competition was at the 2020 Guadalajara Marathon in Mexico. Born on December 14, 1992, Birech was a mentor and a source of motivation for many athletes, including his younger brother Dennis Kibet. Kibet, who made his debut in his first full marathon at the Schneider Electric Marathon in Paris, France, described Birech as a humble individual who could only talk loudly at the barriers.
Julius Yego, the 2015 world javelin champion, mourned Birech as a very humble guy. Milcah Chemos, a 2012 London Olympics bronze medallist, also expressed her condolences. Jackson Tuwei, World Athletics vice president and Athletics Kenya president, led the country in mourning Birech's death. Tuwei described Birech as a talented athlete who brought glory to the country.
Birech's death has left his family and friends deeply devastated. Tuwei asked the Almighty to grant Birech's family peace, strength, and courage to bear the pain. Birech's body still lies at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret. Birech's family and friends will start making plans for his funeral at Elgon View Estate and at Chebarus in Kesses.
Birech loved athletics and continued to participate in road races after retiring from the track. His passion for the sport was evident in his performances, which included winning the 2014 World Cup and African 3,000m steeplechase title. Birech last competed at the 2020 Guadalajara Marathon in Mexico.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Birech's family and friends during this difficult time. May his legacy live on in the hearts and minds of all those he inspired.
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