Condolence Message- The Late Samuel Wanjiru

H.E. Elkanah Odembo and the entire staff of the Embassy of the Republic of Kenya in Washington D.C. are truly saddened by the sudden death of Samuel Wanjiru, which occurred on May 16th 2011. We wish to convey our greatest sympathy to the family and friends on the passing of a reigning Olympic Champion. Samuel Wanjiru was the first Kenyan to win a gold medal in the Olympic marathon and is the current Chicago marathon champion.

Samuel Wanjiru was without doubt one of Kenya's most talented athletes and had a brilliant future ahead of him. In Chicago, last year, he demonstrated his talents and strength in Marathons. The organizers of the Chicago marathon had already extended an invitation to him to participate at the 2011 marathon in Chicago.

Those of us who were with him in Chicago last year, feel privileged and honored to have shared some special moments with a world champion and a Kenyan hero.
Kenya has lost a hero.

May his soul rest in peace.