Ben Jipcho was a two-time world record holder in the 3,000 metres steeplechase.
On June 19, 1973, he set a world record of 8:19.8 at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium.
This achievement broke the previous record of 8:20.8 held by Sweden's Anders Garderud.
Jipcho's entry into global steeplechase competition began in 1970 when he represented Kenya at the Edinburgh Commonwealth Games, winning a silver medal in the 3,000m steeplechase.
Two years later, he competed at the 1972 Munich Olympics, once again claiming silver in the same event, finishing behind compatriot Kipchoge Keino.
In 1973, Jipcho's athletic dominance peaked as he clinched gold in both the 5,000m and 3,000m steeplechase.
The following year, at the 1974 Commonwealth Games, he again won a gold medal in both 5,000m and 3,000m and added a bronze medal in the 1,500m.
Jipcho died on July 24, 2020, aged 77, in Eldoret. He had been receiving treatment at Fountain Hospital, where he succumbed to multiple organ failure after a prolonged illness.
Medical reports indicated that he had been battling prostate cancer at the time of his death.
His final days were marked by financial hardship.
Despite his monumental contribution to Kenyan athletics and his achievements on the Olympic and Commonwealth stages, Jipcho lacked access to comprehensive medical insurance or a reliable pension scheme.
His family struggled to meet rising hospital bills, highlighting the broader issue of insufficient support for retired athletes in Kenya.
His death sparked national debate over the need for structured welfare and retirement support systems for sports veterans.
Fellow athletes, sports administrators, and officials called for urgent reforms to ensure that those who have brought global glory to Kenya receive the dignity and care they deserve in retirement.
