Kenya’s ex-world record holder Agnes Tirop found dead in Iten

Kenya’s Agnes Jebet Tirop (right) competes in the Women’s 5,000m race heats during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo on July 30, 2021.

Tirop was found dead in her house on Wednesday morning, in what the neighbours said is a suspected homicide.

The 25-year-old long distance runner, was part of Team Kenya for the Tokyo Olympics where she finished just outside the medals bracket in fourth behind winner Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands, Hellen Obiri and Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay.

Kenya’s former women’s only world record holder in 10km road race Agnes Tirop is dead.

Tirop was found dead in her house on Wednesday morning, in what Athletics Kenya said is a suspected homicide.

“Atheltics Kenya are this afternoon distraught to learn about the untimely death of World 10,000 metres bronze medallist Agnes Tirop,” AK said.

“Kenya has lost a jewel who was one of the fastest-rising athletics giants on the international stage, thanks to her eye-catching performances on the track… We pray that God may grant strength to family and friends at this difficult time.”

The 25-year-old long distance runner, was part of Team Kenya for the Tokyo Olympics where she finished just outside the medals bracket in fourth behind winner Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands, Hellen Obiri and Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay.

The event saw athletes participate in the men’s and women’s half marathon race, men’s and women’s 10km road race and the 5km road race in both categories.

“I’m delighted by my performance because I didn’t expect to run a world record time. This is a good start as we start another season,” said Tirop after the race.

Bahrain’s Kalkidan Gezahegne then lowered the mark last week during the Giants Geneva 10km in Geneva, Switzerland, setting a new world record in 29:38 in a race that Tirop was second. Kenya’s steeplechase specialist Celliphine Chespol was third. – nation.africa.