NAIROBI, Kenya, March 15, 2025 -Tributes continue to flow for Kenyan athletics legend and renowned coach Peninah Talam, who passed away on Friday.
Among those who eulogised her was the 2013 world 5000m silver medalist Mercy Cherono, who described her as a mother figure.
“She was our sports mother and coach. It’s so sad that you’ve gone to be with the Lord. Rest in eternal peace madam Peninah,” Cherono said.
Talam was a long-serving coach with the National Police Service (NPS) before retiring in 2023.
Her athletics career began in 1980s and early 90s where she competed in the women’s 800m.
She then continued her love affair with the sport, as a coach, shaping the careers of numerous athletes at the local and international level.
One of them, Ishmaili Amani, credited Talam with making him the man he is today.
“Rest in peace my mentor, also my coach. I can’t believe you are now no more… I got many skills kutoka kwako (from you). Pole mama, may you rest in eternal peace,” he said.
Daughter of a former athlete Talam Keter, she served in various capacities in a number of Team Kenya contingents participating at international assignments.
In 2004, she wrote her name into history books when she tutored the men’s team to the World Cross Country Championships in Brussels, Belgium.
At the competition, Kenya finished second on the medal table with two gold, four silver and two bronze.
She was also the chaperone at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
In their tribute, Athletics Kenya (AK) said Talam will always remain an immortal figure in the country’s achievements in athletics and longstanding tradition as global powerhouse.
“Her contributions to the sport will always be remembered, and Athletics Kenya extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who were touched by her legacy,” the federation said.
Until her demise, Talam was one of Athletics Kenya Trustee for the Athletes Endowment Fund.
