Kipyegon Bett: A Life Cut Short

Kipyegon Bett, the former world under-20 800-meter champion, passed away on October 6, 2024, at the age of 26. Bett's death came as a shock to the athletics world, as he was still considered one of the most promising young middle-distance runners in the world.
Bett was born in Kenya on February 1, 1998, and began his running career at a young age. He quickly rose through the ranks and made his international debut in 2015 at the World Youth Championships in Cali, Colombia. There, he finished second in the 800-meter race.
In 2016, Bett won the 800-meter title at the World Under-20 Championships, becoming the first Kenyan to win the event. He also won a bronze medal in the 800 meters at the 2017 World Championships.
"I slept in the same room with him. We went through the same battles together. He was like a brother to me," said Kipruto, Bett's close friend.
"He started struggling just after he came back from the United States. We took him to the hospital, but it was already too late. He had been struggling with kidney and liver failure," said Bett's coach, Boniface Tiren.
The news of Bett's death was met with sadness and disbelief by the athletics community. Many of his fellow runners took to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of him.
Bett was a rising star in the world of athletics, and his death is a great loss to the sport. He was a talented runner with a bright future ahead of him. He will be remembered for his determination and his love of running.
In a cruel twist of fate, Bett's death came just a few months after he had signed a contract to compete for a professional running club in the United States. He had been excited about this next chapter in his career, and he was looking forward to making his mark on the world stage.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Kipyegon Bett," said the club's president in a statement. "He was a talented young runner with a bright future ahead of him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time."
Bett's death is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of making the most of every moment. He was a talented athlete with a promising future, but his life was cut short by illness. We will remember him for his talent, his determination, and his love of running.