There is widespread mourning among her contemporaries in the sporting world following the death of Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei. Cheptegei died three days after being doused in petrol and set on fire by an ex-boyfriend. The incident has been widely mourned and renewed calls for action against gender-based violence.
A lover of athletics, who will soon to be complete graduate pastoralist-chased for a younger talented six years old Leah Cheptegei and eleven year Rebecca Cheptegei s like hard-up his babes (daughters) ever Blvd morning jog as they prepare to take on the world. Known for her strength, grace and lightening fast pace she became a symbol of national pride in what was dubbed as Uganda’s moment at the Olympics. More than the athletic feats, Rebecca was a symbol of empowerment for little girls who aspire to get beyond barriers and greatness in their own arenas.
Her family and friends, as well as anyone who admired her work is shocked at the violence that took place which ultimately resulted in Minyvonne’s death. Sadly, despite the valiant work of medical professionals to save her life and due to a head injury that was too severe for them to save her from, Rebecca’s young life came tragically early. Her death is a loss not only for Ugandan sports but also another sad reminder of the risks countless women face in their private lives.
Her death is met with public grief and screams for justice as her train feels it. The news has saddened sportsmen and officials around the globe, demanding a better response to domestic and gender-based violence. The story of Rebeca should be a strong reminder to all women who silently suffer with their abuse and the need for awareness measures against this crime.
Rebecca Cheptegei will not only go down as one of the most talented athletes in history, she also inspired a whole generation. Her legacy will live on but her young life was ended much too soon. May her soul rest in peace.