Chebet placed Kenya on the world map after winning the 1999 New York City and Boston Marathons titles.
The late Joseph Chebet’s death came as a shocker to the world since he was one of the greatest long-distance runners in the world.
Chebet placed Kenya on the world map after winning the 1999 New York City and Boston Marathons titles. He died on Friday, June 7, aged of 52.
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One of the athletes who was taken aback by his death was former American 50km record holder Josh Cox who took to his Twitter handle to mourn the loss of Chebet.
Cox expressed his sadness towards the loss of Chebet and recalled the special moments he once shared with the late athlete.
“This one hurts. I signed with Fila in 2000 and spent a month training over in Kenya that winter. Joseph Chebet and Moses Tanui were the two guys that always looked out for me.
"On the day we ran up to Eric Kimaiyo’s camp at Kapsait (9,600 ft), Joseph grabbed me an orange Fanta and wanted to show me everything he was building for his extended family.
"He was so generous and so happy he could do so much for so many. They say a shared joy is a double joy, Joseph shared the joy and fruits of his Boston and NYCM wins with hundreds. Talk about joy multiplied. As a young runner, it was incredible to see how transformative the sport could be for so many.
"Oddly, he came to mind on Thursday night in Eugene and I recounted this story with my buddy, Sam. Joseph was a gifted runner but what I will remember most is his beautiful smile, his generous spirit, his kindness, and his huge heart. Mine is broken today. May he rest in peace.”
As reported by Nation Sport, Chebet died after being hospitalized for three days in Eldoret, following a short illness.
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Others who have mourned the loss of Chebet include Athletics Kenya Jack Tuwei who said: “We have lost an icon. He was one of the legends who brought fame to our country. I want to send my condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and athletics fraternity for their loss.”