The sporting world is in mourning following the devastating loss of Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who passed away at the age of 33.
Cheptegei, a celebrated Olympian, tragically succumbed to injuries after a brutal attack in Kenya, where she lived and trained. Her death has sent shockwaves through the international sports community.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Rebecca Cheptegei was born on February 22, 1991, in Bukwo District, Uganda. Her athletic career spanned over 14 years, with Cheptegei specialising in marathon, cross-country, and mountain running events, where she proudly represented Uganda on the global stage.
Her journey into athletics began in 2010, when she competed in the U20 category at the 38th IAAF World Cross Country Championships. From there, she rapidly established herself as a formidable talent, competing in numerous international events, including the 2010 Munchen Fingst meeting in Germany, the Madrid Half Marathon, and several European competitions.
Cheptegei’s tenacity and skill saw her rise through the ranks of Ugandan athletics. Over the years, she secured podium finishes in various prestigious events, including the African Cross Country Championships and the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships, where she won gold in 2022. That same year, she triumphed at the Padova Marathon and earned a spot at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she competed in the marathon, placing 44th.
Military Service
Beyond her accomplishments in athletics, Cheptegei was also a dedicated member of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), where she held the rank of Sergeant.
As a member of the UPDF Athletics Club, she represented Uganda in military sports events, earning a bronze medal in the 1500m race at the 2011 Rio de Janeiro CISM Military World Games.
A Tragic Loss
Cheptegei’s life, though marked by success, was not without personal challenges. She was a mother of two and had recently separated from her husband in Uganda. Seeking a fresh start, she relocated to Trans Nzoia County, Kenya, where she purchased land and focused on her training.
Tragically, Cheptegei’s life was cut short in a violent incident on September 1, 2024. After returning home from church, she was allegedly attacked and sustained life-threatening burns. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Cheptegei passed away on September 5, surrounded by her loved ones.
Her death has been met with widespread sorrow and calls for justice. Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, described his daughter as “very supportive” and passionate about running, urging the authorities to ensure those responsible for her death are held accountable.
A Lasting Legacy
Rebecca Cheptegei leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of Uganda’s top athletes. Her dedication to her sport, combined with her service to her country, earned her respect both at home and abroad. As the world mourns her untimely death, her achievements on the track will not be forgotten.
She will be remembered not just for her victories, but also as a symbol of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
