Athletics

Kipyegon and Kiptum shine bright at 20th SOYA Gala

Kenyan athlete Kelvin Kiptum, who died in a road accident on the night of February 12, 2014. (Photo: Michael Reaves/ Getty Images/ AFP)

By Rama Mohammed | Saturday, March 2, 2024

The late Kelvin Kiptum and double world record holder Faith Kipyegon emerged as the shining stars of the 20th edition of the Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) Gala. Kiptum, honored posthumously after his tragic passing in a road accident last month, was recognized for his outstanding achievements, including breaking the Chicago Marathon record with a staggering time of 2:00:35.

The late Kelvin Kiptum and double world record holder Faith Kipyegon emerged as the shining stars of the 20th edition of the Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) Gala held on Friday evening.

Kiptum, honored posthumously after his tragic passing in a road accident last month, was recognized for his outstanding achievements, including breaking the Chicago Marathon record with a staggering time of 2:00:35.

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Faith Kipyegon, the double world record holder and Olympic gold medalist, clinched the coveted Sportswoman of the Year award for the third time, solidifying her status as one of the greatest athletes of our time.

Faith Kipyegon is the SOYA SportsWoman of the Year - 3 years in a row. pic.twitter.com/1M5ZbuMx8u
— Lynne Wachira (@WachiraLynne) March 1, 2024

Her exceptional performance in 2023 saw her make history by becoming the first woman ever to complete a 1,500-5,000 meters double at the World Championships, and she capped off her remarkable season by shattering three world records - in the 1,500m, mile, and 5,000m events.

Expressing her gratitude via video, Kipyegon said, “I am greatly honored to receive this award for the third time. To all athletes, I wish you a successful year ahead. Thank you for this recognition.”

Meanwhile, in the women's category, Mary Moraa, the 800m world champion, secured the second runner-up position, while Beatrice Chebet claimed the first runner-up spot.

In the men's category, Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Daniel Simiu were named the second and first runners-up, respectively, highlighting their remarkable achievements in a fiercely competitive field.