Jairus Kipchoge Birech stood tall among Kenya’s greats, an African champion, a devoted father, and a man who turned dreams into reality. Crowned the 2014 Diamond League winner in the 3000m steeplechase, he etched his name as one of the fastest the event has ever seen. With every stride and leap, he carried a nation’s pride, inspiring generations to chase history. But tragically, Kenya will no longer witness his relentless pursuit, as the champion who once soared over barriers on the track has been stopped far too soon in life, leaving behind not just an empty lane in athletics, but a nation in heartbreak.

Born on 14 December 1992, Birech burst onto the steeplechase scene as a teenager. He announced his arrival in style with silver at the 2011 African U20 Championships in Gaborone, before

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