Kenya Mourns a True Champion
Kenya’s athletics fraternity is in mourning following the death of Hezekiah Nyamau, one of the country’s earliest Olympic heroes. Nyamau, who helped Kenya win gold at the 1972 Munich Olympics, passed away after a long battle with bladder cancer.
He died at Nakuru War Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his family, who described him as a fighter till the very end.
“He was a strong man, even in his final days. We will always remember his discipline, humility, and love for the country,” said his granddaughter, Felister Nyamau.
🇰🇪 From Kisii to the Olympic Podium
Born in Kisii County, Hezekiah Nyamau’s story is one of passion, discipline, and determination.
In the 1960s and 70s, when Kenyan athletics was still finding its global footing, Nyamau and his teammates shocked the world by sprinting alongside the best.
He represented Kenya in two Olympic Games — Mexico City (1968) and Munich (1972) — winning silver in 1968 and gold in 1972 in the 4x400m relay.
The 1972 victory remains a proud moment in Kenya’s history, as Nyamau and his teammates — Charles Asati, Robert Ouko, and Julius Sang — brought glory to the nation at a time when few African countries had reached such heights in sprint events.
💔 A Brave Fight With Cancer
In February 2025, Nyamau was diagnosed with bladder cancer.
His family revealed that he had been in and out of hospitals in Kisii and Nakuru, fighting the illness with remarkable courage.
Even as his condition worsened, Nyamau remained hopeful and continued to speak
about the importance of discipline and faith — values he carried throughout his life.
“He never complained, even when in pain. He would always say, ‘God’s will is perfect,’” said one of his relatives.
🏃♂️ A Pioneer and a Patriot
Beyond his athletic triumphs, Nyamau served in the Kenya Defence Forces from 1963 until 1997, dedicating more than 30 years of his life to national service.
Friends describe him as a humble man who always put others first.
Despite his fame, he lived a quiet, simple life in retirement, occasionally appearing at athletics events to mentor young runners.
His passing has sparked renewed debate about how Kenya treats its sports legends, with many calling for stronger support systems for retired athletes facing health or financial challenges.
🌅 Farewell to a Legend
With Nyamau’s death, Charles Asati remains the only surviving member of the legendary 1972 relay team.
The athletics community, led by Athletics Kenya (AK), has paid glowing tributes, describing him as “a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of Kenyan sprinters.”
Plans are underway for a state-assisted funeral, and several former athletes have pledged to honour him by launching an athlete welfare fund in his name.
🌍 A Legacy That Will Never Fade
Hezekiah Nyamau’s story is not just about medals — it’s about courage, patriotism, and hope.
From running barefoot in Kisii’s dusty tracks to raising Kenya’s flag in Munich, he showed that greatness begins with determination.
His name will forever shine among Kenya’s greatest athletes — a reminder that heroes live on through the lives they inspire.
