Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei is in critical condition following a horrific attack that left her with severe burns covering more than 75% of her body. The incident occurred at her residence in Endebess, Kenya, where she was reportedly assaulted by a former boyfriend, who allegedly doused her in petrol before setting her on fire.
The 33-year-old athlete, who competed in the recent Paris Olympics, was ambushed while returning home from church with her two children. Neighbors intervened and rushed her to Moi Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where she is currently receiving treatment. Local authorities have confirmed that the assailant also sustained serious injuries.
Police investigations suggest that the attack erupted from a dispute over a piece of land Cheptegei had purchased in Trans Nzoia county, indicative of ongoing tensions related to domestic violence against female athletes in Kenya. There is rising concern about the alarming trend of violence targeting women in sports, with multiple incidents resulting in fatalities over recent months.
The tragic nature of this attack brings to light previous cases involving female athletes, including the brutal murders of Damaris Mutua and Agnes Tirop in the Rift Valley region, which highlight the urgency of addressing violence against women in athletics. Tirop’s husband currently faces murder charges, while authorities are actively seeking Mutua’s boyfriend.
As an athlete who has achieved remarkable success, including winning gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in 2022, Cheptegei’s current plight serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by women in the sports community. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring justice and improving safety measures for athletes.
