Athletics Kenya president Jack Tuwei has led Kenyan athletes in mourning the death of former Olympic Games 3,000m bronze medalist Jairus Kipchoge Birech.
As serving as the World Athletics vice president, Tuwei mourned the steeplechaser saying that he was a great athlete, representing the country in various events.
The former Commonwealth Games 3,000m steeplechase silver medalist died tonight Thursday night (18) following a short illness and we dmitted at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret where he was pronounced dead.
“So sad to learn about the loss of Jairus Birech. May the Almighty grant his entire family peace, strength, and courage to bear the pain,” Tuwei said.
A very humble guy who spoke a few words. He could only talk loudly at the barriers! Go well,” Yego mourned the 2014 Diamond League winner.
His younger brother, Dennis Kibet, also an athlete confirmed his brother’s death.
“We are very devastated by his death. It is not easy to lose a mentor and a brother. We were in and out of the hospital, but he lost the fight last night. Birech loved athletics very much, and after retiring from the track, he did a few road races. He motivated and mentored many, including me, to take up athletics. He will be missed dearly.