Why Ruto Renamed Kericho Green Stadium to Kiprugut Chumo

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Saturday, October 21, 2023 –Kericho Green Stadium has been renamed to Kiprugut Chumo Stadium in recognition of Wilson Kiprugut.

Chumo who has since died was the first Kenyan to win an Olympic medal who died last year aged 84

President William Ruto renamed the iconic Kericho Green Stadium to Kiprugut Chumo Stadium after the late Wilson Kiprugut Chumo, in recognition of achievements by the Kenyan first Olympic medal winner.

The President made the announcement during this year’s Mashujaa Day fete held on Friday at the stadium in Kericho County.

“Allow me to celebrate Kiprugut Chumo, the first Kenyan athlete to win an Olympic medal by renaming this Kericho Green Stadium after him, I think he deserves it,” said President Ruto.

Chumo, a legendary middle-distance runner, won Kenya her maiden medal at the Summer Games in 1964 during the Tokyo Olympic Games, striking a bronze medal in 800 Metres.

During his trailblazing career, Kiprugut also bagged silver at the 1966 Commonwealth Games before claiming another silver at the 1968 Olympic Games.

Born and raised in Kericho, Kiprugut took up running career during his time at Kaptebeswet Primary School and later Sitowet Intermediate School.

He also won two Gold medals at the 1965 All Africa Games held in Brazzaville, Congo.

The late athlete’s budding talent began to blossom during the East and Central African Championships where he won three 880-yard titles in 1958.

He retired from competition in 1969, but continued working as a coach and fitness instructor in the Kenyan army for another five years.

Chumo died last year aged 84.