The gruesome death of an Olympic runner from Uganda is the latest incident in the wake of violence against female athletes in Kenya

Tirop was one of Kenya's brightest talents when she was stabbed to death in her home in Iten, the other world-famous training town for long-distance runners in Kenya (besides Eldoret). Her husband, who was on the run, was arrested days after the killing and charged with murder. His trial is still ongoing.

Like Cheptegei, 25-year-old Tirop had just competed in an Olympic Games – the 2021 Tokyo Games – and set a new world record in the 10-kilometer road race at another competition a month before her death. Her body was found with stab wounds to her stomach and neck, and blunt trauma injuries to her head.

In the weeks following Tirop's death, current and former athletes spoke out about what they say is a long-standing problem of domestic violence against female athletes in the region. Some marched through the streets of Iten to demand better protection for female athletes and tougher laws against abusers.

Other Kenyan athletes, such as former African steeplechase champion Ruth Bosibori and marathon runner Joan Chelimo, said Tirop's killing had encouraged them to speak out about their own abusive relationships.

Both said they escaped violent partners who made them fear for their lives.