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Former marathon star Beatrice Murugi opens up on illness, lost property and struggle to raise her child
21st September, 2026 02:59 AM
Former marathon star Beatrice Murugi has opened up about the challenges she has faced since her athletics career was cut short by injury.
Speaking in an interview on Sunday, September 20, 2026, Murugi revealed that she is battling an illness, financial difficulties and a dispute over a parcel of land she bought as an investment.
Murugi, who represented Kenya in international competitions, is now living in a single-roomed house in Nyahururu, Nyandarua County, as she seeks support to rebuild her life and pursue her dream of returning to athletics.
Career cut short by injury
Murugi developed a passion for athletics while in Grade Four before pursuing the sport professionally.
Her career picked up in 2009 when she moved to Japan, where she competed in half marathons and other races.
She recalled leaving her young daughter, Patience, with her mother while she travelled to Japan to compete.
However, her career was cut short in 2014 after she suffered a tendon injury.
Battling illness
After her athletics career ended, Murugi developed an illness that left her with severe swelling in her abdomen.
She said treatment has been expensive, with the cost of medication putting further pressure on her finances.
“Hii matibabu imekula pesa mingi sana,” Murugi said, explaining that some of the medicines she has had to buy cost thousands of shillings.
The illness has also affected her hopes of getting back into competitive athletics.
Property dispute and struggle for her child
Murugi also revealed that she is involved in a dispute over a parcel of land she bought as an investment.
She said she had entrusted a close relative with the property but now fears that the person wants to take it away from her.
“Mimi naweza taka hiyo ploti irudi kwa mikono yangu saa hii,” she said.
Murugi said reclaiming the property would help her secure a place to live with her child and provide a more stable future.
She also expressed her desire to see her child continue with education, saying she is currently carrying a heavy burden.
Dream of returning to athletics
Despite the challenges, Murugi remains hopeful of returning to athletics.
She is seeking assistance to access proper treatment and hopes to get back on track ahead of the 2029 World Athletics Championships in Kenya.
She appealed to Athletics Kenya officials, fellow athletes and other well-wishers to support her and athletes facing similar challenges.
“Salim Mvurya, naweza taka hii wakati usimame na mimi,” Murugi said.
She also called for greater support for athletes going through difficult circumstances.
Author
William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
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