Athletics Kenya helps in repatriating body of athlete who met shocking death in Cameroon

Athletics Kenya has stepped in to help the bereaving family of the late athlete Charles Kipkorir Kipsang who died in Cameroon after participating in a mountain race.

In a statement issued by Athletics Kenya on Friday March 15, the body of the late athlete had been repatriated into the country to allow the family accord him a befitting burial.

Athletics Kenya noted that they collaborated with Cameroon Athletics federation to fly back the body of the athlete.

"The body of the late Charles Kipkorir is scheduled to arrive into the country today, 15 March 2024 at 20:05hrs via KQ flight KQ577 from Douala, Cameroon," the statement read in part.

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"Athletics Kenya (AK) received notification of the athlete's death that occurred on 24th February 2024 after taking part in a mountain race in Cameroon. AK has worked together with Cameroon Athletics federation (CAF) to bring the body home to be laid to rest. May he rest in eternal peace."

Kipsang collapsed immediately after finishing the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope in Buea, South West of Cameroon on Saturday February 24.

The 32-year-old had completed 39 kilometres of the mountain running, which he had led for the better part before slowing down towards the end, finishing 16th after developing pains.

“Athletics Kenya would like to confirm that Charles Kipkorir Kipsang died on Saturday in Cameroon after taking part in a mountain race. As a federation, we would like to take this opportunity to condole with Kipsang’s family during this difficult time.," Athletics Kenya wrote.

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“This is indeed very sad considering it is coming just a day after burying the world marathon record holder Kevin Kiptum who died in a tragic road, and when we are preparing to bury the legendary Henry Rono…”

Family's Plea

His family had pleaded for help in bringing back the body for burial. Speaking to a section of the media, the family lamented that they were unable to facilitate the process of airlifting the body from Cameroon to Eldama Ravine.

They appealed to well-wishers and the government to intervene.

"The body is in Cameroon yet right here at home we have nothing. The whole family depended on him," Kipsang's sister, Jepng'etich Kipsang stated adding that the burial plans have been halted.

The widow, Isabella Kigen, also appealed for help in raising their kids and supporting their education.

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