In the early hours of Sunday, December 31, 2023, the running community mourned the loss of Benjamin Kiplagat, a dedicated Ugandan athlete known for his prowess in middle and long-distance running. Tragically, his life was cut short as his lifeless body, marked by deep knife wounds on his neck, was discovered in his brother’s car near Kimumu Secondary School along Eldoret – Iten Road in Kenya, a place he had chosen for training alongside fellow athletes.
Kiplagat’s journey in athletics began in his homeland, Uganda, where he underwent secondary school education at Rubongi Secondary School in Tororo and later at Standard High School, Zana. Recognized by the late Treasurer of Uganda Athletics Federation, Mr. Godfrey Nuwagaba, Kiplagat found his stride in middle and long-distance running under the guidance of Standard Athletics Club and Global Sport Management, locally managed by Mr. Nuwagaba.
Born on March 4, 1989, Kiplagat made a mark as a junior athlete, discovering his passion for the steeplechase at the age of 19. In 2008, he set Uganda’s U20 National Record, and in 2010, he rewrote the senior Steeplechase record in Lausanne, Switzerland. Throughout his career, Kiplagat represented Uganda in various prestigious competitions, including three Olympic cycles and multiple World Championships in Athletics, World Cross Country Championships, and Africa Senior Championships.
In his illustrious career, Kiplagat secured three medals for Uganda, including a silver at the World Junior Championships in 2008 and a bronze at the Africa Senior Championships in 2012. His contributions also played a vital role in earning Uganda a team bronze at the World Cross Country Championships in 2008.
Apart from the major competitions, Kiplagat participated in various events such as the Commonwealth Games, Continental Cup in Athletics, Athletics Finals, World University Games, and numerous invitational meets, showcasing his commitment to representing his country on the global stage.
As the running community reflects on the life and achievements of Benjamin Kiplagat, his legacy remains etched in the annals of Ugandan athletics—a loyal and talented runner who inspired many with his dedication and achievements on the track.
