World 800m record holder David Rudisha gets engaged to his long-term partner
From left: Dr Philip Osano, Stockholm Environment Institute Centre Director of Africa, former 800m Olympic champion David Rudisha and Ms Susan Mbae of Global Climate Action field questions from ‘Nation’ journalist Hellen Shikanda at COP28 in Dubai in 2923.
What you need to know:
- Fans from across the globe celebrated this personal milestone, wishing Rudisha and Chumba happiness in their future together.
- The after-party was held at TimberXo Club, owned by Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi, where the celebrations continued into the night.
World 800m record holder David Rudisha marked a significant milestone in his life on Saturday, getting engaged to his long-time partner, Dr Mercy Chumba, in a stunning ceremony at the picturesque Sergoit Gardens in Uasin Gishu County.
The intimate event, attended by close family and friends, symbolised a new beginning for the Kenyan athletics icon, renowned for his record-breaking performances and unwavering humility.
"David Rudisha’s fiancée wore a breathtaking floor-length gown crafted from delicate lace and flowing chiffon, featuring intricate floral embroidery on the bodice and subtle shimmering accents that added a touch of glamour," described one attendee.
World 800m record holder David Rudisha and his long-time partner, Dr Mercy Chumba during their engagement ceremony at the Sergoit Gardens in Uasin Gishu County.
Rudisha, who retired from competitive athletics and has since maintained a low-profile life, was joined by prominent figures from the athletics fraternity.
Among those present were Olympic 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi, who danced alongside Rudisha during the joyous occasion, and former Commonwealth Games 5,000m champion Augustine Choge, who served as one of his best men.
Notable guests included 1998 Commonwealth Games 800m champion Japheth Kimutai, multiple 3,000m steeplechase world champion Ezekiel Kemboi, former 1,500m world champion Asbel Kiprop, Rudisha’s former pacemaker Sammy Tangui, 2007 world 800m champion Janeth Jepkosgei, and retired marathoner Jerry Maritim, among others.
Rudisha, celebrated worldwide for his historic 800m world record of 1:40.91 set at the 2012 London Olympics, has inspired many, including Emmanuel Wanyonyi. Ahead of last year’s Olympics, Rudisha provided Wanyonyi with advice on how to remain competitive through the finals—a tip that helped Wanyonyi secure gold and a Diamond League title in the two-lap race.
Fans from across the globe celebrated this personal milestone, wishing Rudisha and Chumba happiness in their future together.
The after-party was held at TimberXo Club, owned by Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi, where the celebrations continued into the night.
