Kenyans have been left in disbelief following the untimely death of World Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum.
Kiptum died together with his Rwandese coach Garvais Hakizimana in a road accident on Sunday at 11pm, at Kaptagat area along Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road. They were heading to Eldoret before the unfortunate incident.
According to Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Peter Mulinge, Kiptum was driving the vehicle, before he veered off the road hit a tree and landed into a ditch 60 metres away.
“This was a self-involved accident where one Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, was driving his vehicle with two passengers. Kiptum and Hakizimana died on the spot and the third person was rushed to Racecourse Hospital in Eldoret,” said the County Commander.
The survivor has since been identified as Sharon Kosgey.
The wreckage of the car involved in the accident that claimed the life of Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum along the Eldoret- Kaptagat Road pic.twitter.com/0Z9S63gJTs
— Kenyans.co.ke (@Kenyans) February 12, 2024
Following the untimely death of the marathon star, President William Ruto has joined Kenyans in mourning him.
In an message via social media, the had of state noted that Kiptum was disciplined.
“Kelvin Kiptum was a star. Arguably one of the world’s finest sportsmen who broke barriers to secure a marathon record. He was only 24 yet, as a hero, triumphed in Valencia, Chicago, London and in other top competitions. His mental strength and discipline were unmatched. Kiptum was our future. An extraordinary sportsman has left an extraordinary mark in the globe. Our thoughts are with the family and the sporting fraternity. Rest In Peace,”: Ruto stated.
Kelvin Kiptum was a star. Arguably one of the world’s finest sportsmen who broke barriers to secure a marathon record.
He was only 24 yet, as a hero, triumphed in Valencia, Chicago, London and in other top competitions. His mental strength and discipline were unmatched. Kiptum… pic.twitter.com/Ff7nild1CG
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) February 12, 2024
Kiptum’s death however comes just days after World Athletics ratified his Marathon record of 2hrs 35secs, in Chicago where he broke the record.
The record was previously held by Eliud Kipchoge for running the marathon at 2hrs 1 min 9 secs.
World Athletics President Seb Coe has also expressed his shock on the athlete’s death.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.On behalf of all World Athletics we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates and the Kenyan nation.
“It was only earlier this week in Chicago, the place where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon World Record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time. An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly,” he shared on X.
The deceased was set to run Marathon under two hours this April 14 in Rotterdam. He was also in the team that was to represent Kenya in 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.