Wilson Kiprugut Chumo: Africa's first Olympics medalist

Former athlete Wilson Kiprugut Chumo at his residential home in Kericho County.  {Peter Ochieng, Standard}

Wilson Arap Kiprugut Chumo was the first Kenyan to win an Olympic medal.

The middle-distance runner and sprinter first participated in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and ended up scooping a bronze medal in an 800-metre race. This made him the first African to win a medal.

In the subsequent event that was held in Mexico, Chumo won two medals, a bronze in the 400-metre race and a silver in the 800-metre one.

Chumo began his athletic journey at Kaptebeswet Primary School and Sitotwet Intermediate School where he actively participated in the schools’ athletic events.

His talent was first recognised professionally when he participated in the East and Central Africa Championship where he won over three 880-yard titles.

Chumo’s 13 year-success in athletics was attributed to his high sense of discipline and hard work. 

Even after retiring from active sports in 1969, he strongly advised young people who wanted to be successful in life to emulate him by working hard and remaining grounded.

He remained with the Kenya Army where he had been serving as a fitness instructor until 1974. He later started and managed farming and agri-business ventures at his home in Kericho.

Many years later, he continued to receive accolades from different quarters including Athletics Kenya who recognised his pioneering in the Olympics for the nation.

In 2021, the National Olympic Committee of Kenya also honoured Chumo as the country’s Olympics trailblazer.

Chumo collapsed and died at his home on November 1, 2022, after suffering a long illness. He was 84 years of age when he died. Chumo was described by many as a kind and loveable person who selflessly made the nation proud on the international stage.

Besides, he was considered as a trailblazer who opened the way for Kenyan athletes in the Olympics.