Kenya’s local athletics family is once again in mourning following the sudden death of 1968 Olympics Silver medalist Daniel ‘Matasi’ Rudisha.
Daniel Matasi who is the father of two-time Olympics and World 800m champion David ‘Lekuta’ Rudisha passed on Wednesday night aged 73.
His son David Rudisha confirmed the shocking news on Thursday morning.
The late Daniel Matasi Rudisha, made his name during the Mexico 1968 Games where he was part of the Kenyan quartet that bagged Silver medal in the 4X400m relay final.
According to his son, his father succumbed to a heart attack Wednesday evening having spent his last few days in hospital.
President Uhuru Kenyatta and Athletics Kenya were among the first to send a message of condolence to Rudisha’s family and the people of Kilgoris.
“We mourn with you and celebrate the extraordinary life of this remarkable athlete who devoted his life to athletics.
In a statement, AK said Rudisha will always be remembered as a legend and one the pioneer athlete who set the foundation for the current crop of athletes.
“Rudisha is among the first lot of athletes who represented the country, not for monetary gains but for the love of the game. His love for athletics inspired one of his sons @rudishadavid to take up athletics and he is currently the world 800m record holder and two-time Olympic champion”