Kelvin Kiptum had achieved the men’s marathon record in Chicago in October 2023, completing the race in an impressive two hours and 35 seconds.
Kelvin Kiptum, the 24-year-old world record holder in men’s marathon, met a tragic end in a fatal car accident on the Eldoret-Kaptagat road in Kenya on February 11. The accident claimed not only Kiptum’s life but also that of his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
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According to Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge, the incident occurred as Kiptum, the driver, lost control of the vehicle, leading to it veering off the road.
Thomas Bach, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), expressed profound sadness over the untimely demise of Kiptum, noting the anticipation of his participation in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris 2024.
Kiptum had achieved the men’s marathon record in Chicago in October 2023, completing the race in an impressive two hours and 35 seconds. He was also scheduled to compete in the Rotterdam Marathon on April 14.
Sports fraternity mourned the death of Kelvin Kiptum
The tragic news prompted an outpouring of grief from the sports community, with colleagues and leaders expressing shock and sorrow. Colleagues such as two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge and former world record holder Paul Tergat mourned Kiptum’s passing, highlighting the promising future that was cut short.
Faith Kipyegon, the 2023 World Athletics Awards Athlete of the Year, shared a photograph with Kiptum, offering condolences and expressing how he would be missed in the athletics community.
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World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, who recently presented Kiptum with the 2023 World Athlete of the Year for men’s out-of-stadia award, paid tribute to the “incredible athlete” and acknowledged the legacy Kiptum leaves behind.
The loss of Kelvin Kiptum has deeply impacted the world of sports, leaving a void in the hearts of those who admired his athletic prowess and potential.