Jacob Kiplimo's father dead

Eastern Uganda woke up to the shocking news of the passing of Stephen Chebet on Friday morning at Mbale hospital.

Chebet was father to 2017 IAAF World Cross Country gold medalist Jacob Kiplimo and three other leading national athletes Robert Chemonges, Victor Kiplangat and Oscar Chelimo.

Funeral plans were not readily available on Friday but Uganda Athletics Federation secretary Beatrice Ayikoru, said an official had been dispatched to link up with the bereaved family to discuss the burial arrangements.

"Our thoughts are with the bereaved family at this difficult time, one of our officials is travelling to Kapchorwa to meet up the family of the deceased after which we will get more details," Ayikoru said.

Chelimo and Kiplangat are currently based in the Tuscany Camp in Italy.

Kiplimo ran the race of his life to win gold in the U-20 men's race during the March 2017 IAAF World Cross Country at Kololo ground in Kampala. The 16-year-old became the first Ugandan to win a gold medal at the event when he crossed the finish line in 22.40 minutes.