Sports

Ben Jipcho family calls on State to assist in funeral plans

Thursday, July 30th, 2020 00:00 | By
Ben Jipcho.

 David  Musundi

The family of former world 3,000m steeplechase champion, the late Ben Jipcho has appealed to the government for assistance in offsetting hospital and mortuary bills incurred following the legend’s death in Eldoret.

 “My father should not be forgetten in death since he brought glory to this country’s athletics.

The only better way to remember him now is to assist the family that is unable to pay for his hospital and mortuary bills’,’ Catherine Jipcho, the eldest  daughter of the late athlete, said.

 Ben Jipcho was among a few legends who played a great role in putting Kenya on the world map after independence and he will be remembered for being a pacesetter for many runners including Kipchoge Keino during international events.

 “We wish to thank those that have stood with the family when mzee was in Fountain Hospital in Eldoret.

We are kindly asking the government through the Ministry of Sports to assist us and give him a befitting send off,’’ said his first wife Bilha Cherotich at the legend’s Kisawai home in Saboti constituency yesterday.

 The 71-year-old Jipcho is said to have died of multiple organ failure. 

 Sabaot Council of Elders chairman Reuben Butaki described Ben Jipcho as an outstanding sportsman with unrivalled abilities.

 “We will forever remember Ben Jipcho for his ability and zeal which to date makes Kenya a sports powerhouse .

As a community we are asking for the intervention of the President to intervene and help his  family,’’ said Mzee Butaki.

 He said many other legends who brought honour to this country are languishing in poverty because there was no money set aside for their welfare.

The family has in the meantime organised a fundraiser set for Tuesday next week to raise funds for the funeral.

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