Family of the late Hezekiah Nyamao, one of Kenya’s earliest Olympic gold medallists, is appealing for financial assistance to settle medical bills and bury their kin.

Nyamao, a sports legend aged 88 years from Kiogoro Ward in Kisii County, died at a hospital in Nakuru County after a long battle with cancer.

The Olympic gold medallist had previously sought financial aid, saying his illness had drained their resources.

Nyamao was one of the Kenyan quartet (Hezekiah Nyamao, Robert Ouko, Julius Sang and Charles Asati) of the legendary 4x400m relay team that won Olympic gold at the 1972 Munich Games and silver at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.

Speaking to the press at Nyamao’s home in Kiogoro ward, the sports veteran’s granddaughter, Felister Moige described Nyamao as a national hero who brought great honour to the country.

“We tried to reach out to the national and county governments for financial assistance when my grandfather was ill, but our efforts bore no fruit,” said Moige.

She appealed to well-wishers and the government to help clear Ksh700,000 hospital bill and accord the fallen legend a decent burial.

Nyamao’s nephews, Patrick Monyoro and Christopher Monyoroto, also called on leaders to come to the family’s aid.

The late athlete’s wife Ruth Nyamao is also reported to be in advanced age and ailing too.

For assistance, funds can be channelled to M-pesa Number 0728967653 – Felister Samuel.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Mercy Osongo