Kiptum, Kipyegon Among Stars Feted at SOYA Awards [FULL LIST]

The late world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon were among Kenya’s finest athletes feted during the Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) 2023 gala.

Kiptum and Kipyegon were honored during the gala held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on March 1, 2024, night.

Ministry of Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ababu Namwamba and Permanent Secretary (PS) Eng. Peter Tum graced the event. 

Achieving a remarkable fete, double record holder Kipyegon bagged the Sportswoman of the Year Award for a third successive year. 

On the other hand, the late Kiptum was honored in his death with the Sportsman of the Year Award.

“His award was received amidst emotional tributes celebrating a life that though cut short, inspired millions and left a lasting legacy in the world of sports,” said the Ministry of Sports in a statement.

Kiptum honored

CS Ababu got emotional as he announced Kiptum as the winner of the Sportsman of the Year Award

Ababu took a few deep breaths before stating, “This is a difficult one. How I wish he was here to pick this accolade himself.”

The recognitions of the two rounded off an incredible year during which the Kenyan sensations achieved a series of historic feats.

Also Read: Kipchoge Breaks Silence After Kiptum Burial, Pays Tribute

Kiptum was posthumously awarded for leaving an indelible mark in the world of marathon with his 2:00:35 record.

This record set him as the only human being to ever run a 2 hourr sub 1 minute marathon.

At the same time, SOYA celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of recognizing and honoring outstanding achievements in the world of sports.

Other winners featured in the ceremony included the best sports secondary schools, rising sports stars, and the best coaches.

SOYA 2024 Winners List

Sports Men of the Year

Winner: Kelvin Kiptum (Athletics), 1st Runners Up: Daniel Simiyu (Athletics), 2nd Runners Up: Emmanuel Wanyonyi (Athletics).

Sports Women of the Year

Winner: Faith Kipyegon (Athletics), 1st Runners Up: Beatrice Chebet (Athletics), 2nd Runners Up: Mary Moraa. (Athletics).

School Team of the Year – Boys

Winner: Koyonzo High School (Rugby), 1st Runners Up: Namwela Boys (Volleyball), 2nd Runners Up: St. Anthony Kitale (Football).

School Team of the Year – Girls

Winner: Kwanthanze (Volleyball), 1st Runners Up: Butere Girls High School (Football), 2nd Runners Up: Nyamira Girls High School (Hockey).

Most Promising Athletes – Boys

Winner: Ismael Kipkurui (Athletics), 1st Runners Up: Adraian Kibet (Football), 2nd Runners Up: Nathaniel Muchoki (Chess).

Most Promising Athletes – Girls

Winner: Nancy Cherop (Athletics), 1st Runners Up: Valeria Nekesa (Football), 2nd Runners Up: Bianca Ngecu (Golf).

SOYA Men Sports Team of the Year

Winner: Kabras Sugar Rugby, 1st Runners Up: Rollball Men’s Team, 2nd Runners Up: Rising Stars Football Team.

SOYA Women Sports Team of the Year

Winner: 3×3 Women Basketball Team, 1st Runners Up: Malkia Strikers (Volleyball), 2nd Runners Up: Rollball Women Team.

Also Read: Faith Kipyegon: Details of Prestigious Awards Kenyan Star Has Been Nominated for 

Special Categories

Men Special Category Winner: Handball Team and Women Special Category Winner: Special Olympics Beach Volley Team Women.

Sports Men Living with Disability

Winner: David Nganga (Special Olympics), 1st Runners Up: Kelvin Kipkogei (Deaf Athletics), 2nd Runners Up: Titus Maundu (Para Athletics).

Sports Women Living with Disability

Winner: Asiya Sururu (Para-Rowing), 1st Runners Up: Purity Kandie (Special Olympics), 2nd Runners Up: Nancy Chelangat (Para Athletics).

SOYA Hall of Fame Winner: Henry Rono, School Coach of the Year: Isaac Muresia (Namwela Boys) and Coach of the Year: Evelyn Kedogo (3×3 Women Team).