- Abel Kirui, a two-time world champion and Olympic silver medallist, has retired
- Ends career after 20 years of clean and elite performance in marathons
- Now appointed Deputy Director of Sports and Chaplaincy in the Administration Police
- Known for winning Berlin 2009 and Daegu 2011 World Championships
- Also won Chicago Marathon (2016) and silver in the 2012 London Olympics
Kenya’s celebrated long-distance athlete, Abel Kirui, has officially retired from competitive athletics. The 42-year-old marathon icon made the announcement this week, marking the end of a 20-year journey on the global stage.
“It’s been twenty years in active sport, always running clean,” Kirui said. “I think it is my time to say bye. I’ve had my time, and now it’s time to support others.”
After hanging up his running shoes, Kirui has now taken a new path as the Deputy Director of Sports and Chaplaincy at the Administration Police. He believes the role allows him to guide young talents and promote discipline.
“I will make sure I use this position to produce even more Abel Kiruis,” he added.
Kirui’s track record places him among the greatest in marathon history. He won back-to-back gold medals at the World Championships in Berlin (2009) and Daegu (2011). The Daegu win stood out for having the biggest winning gap in championship marathon history 2 minutes and 28 seconds.
He also bagged a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics, proudly flying the Kenyan flag on the biggest stage.
Outside championships, Kirui impressed with big marathon wins like the 2008 Vienna City Marathon and the 2016 Chicago Marathon, where he beat Dickson Chumba in a tight finish. He was also runner-up in Berlin 2007 and Chicago 2017.
Even towards the end of his career, he remained competitive, running under 2:08 in both the 2017 and 2018 London Marathons.
Kirui’s journey was more than just about medals; it was about discipline, clean sport, and dedication. As he starts a new chapter in leadership, he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire Kenya’s next generation of runners.
