Africa-Press – Kenya. The Eldoret leg of the World Cross Country name has been changed, according to a statement by Athletics Kenya.
In the statement issued on Saturday, October 23, Athletics Kenya announced that the Eldoret leg will now be named Agnes Tirop Memorial Tour in honour of the fallen athlete.
The name change will take effect immediately as AK prepares to host the race scheduled for February 2022.
Meanwhile, athletes congregated at the home of Tirop for her burial and took the moment to mobilize support for a foundation that will be named after the deceased.
Middle distance runner and former world champion, Janet Jepkosgei, also announced that athletes were working closely with area leadership to get the foundation running, adding that it will focus on fighting gender based violence that is prevalent in the country.
She also called on female athletes and their families to watch out for predators who identify talented young women and exploit them once they get into athletics.
Athletes from Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Trans Nzoia counties on Friday, walked through Eldoret town, as they escorted Tirop and also raised awareness on GBV.
“We need a scholarship fund to help educate students who were supported by our late colleague. She loved education,” Viola Cheptoo stated.
“We also want a foundation in her name so that we help young women overcome gender violence in their relationships,” she added.
Amos Kipruto called on athletes to speak out when they are going through tough times and also challenged investigative agencies and the Judiciary to give Tirop justice.
“The first person to meet in Tokyo was Agnes. Even to men, go to your parents when things aren’t working. We need justice for Agnes. The late Samuel Wanjiru died like Agnes, and we forgot about him. Let it not happen to Agnes,” he stated.
Tirop, who was found lifeless in her home in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County last week, will be buried on Saturday, October 23, in her parent’s home in Kapnyamisa Village, Mosoriot, Nandi County.
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