“Kenya’s Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum Dies in Tragic Car Accident at 24”

Kelvin Kiptum car accident
Kelvin Kiptum marathon record holder.

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Kelvin Kiptum, the world record holder for the marathon from Kenya, tragically passed away on Sunday in a car accident. The 24-year-old athlete, who had been on track to become the first person to run the race in under two hours, died after his Toyota Premio veered off the road and collided with a tree in western Kenya, not far from his childhood village, according to Elgeyo-Marakwet County Police Cmdr. Peter Mulinge.

The accident claimed the lives of both Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, 37. A 24-year-old woman named Sharon Kosgey, who was also in the car, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. Police authorities have confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the crash.

Kiptum made headlines around the world in October when he won the Chicago marathon, completing the race in an astounding 2 hours and 35 seconds. This achievement made him the first man to officially run a marathon in under 2 hours and 1 minute, surpassing the previous record set by fellow Kenyan runner Eliud Kipchoge. Remarkably, Kiptum had only started participating in marathons a year prior to this remarkable accomplishment.

Reflecting on his unexpected success, Kiptum humbly expressed his surprise, stating in an interview after his Chicago victory, “I didn’t know I’d be a great marathon runner.” He attributed his natural skill to his ability to excel in the sport. Nahashon Kibon, a retired runner and professional coach in Kenya, shared fond memories of training with Kiptum just a day before the accident, describing him as a great man and a jovial individual. Kibon mourned the loss of such a young talent, emphasizing the sadness that surrounds Kiptum’s untimely death.

The news of Kiptum’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the global running community. David Rudisha, a two-time Olympic champion runner representing Kenya in the 800-meter race, expressed his deep sorrow on social media, describing himself as “shocked and deeply saddened” by the tragic deaths of Kiptum and Hakizimana. Rudisha acknowledged the magnitude of their loss and the impact it would have on the sport.

Raila Odinga, a prominent opposition leader in Kenya and former prime minister, also extended his condolences, referring to Kiptum as a “remarkable individual” and a “Kenyan Athletics icon.” Odinga emphasized the profound loss the nation has experienced and paid tribute to Kiptum’s heroic achievements.

Kiptum’s aspirations were not limited to his previous accomplishments. He had been preparing to participate in the 2024 Rotterdam Marathon in the Netherlands, with the goal of completing the race in under two hours. Additionally, he had his sights set on the Paris Olympics, scheduled for this summer. In an interview with World Athletics in December, Kiptum expressed his determination to push his limits and beat his own records, stating, “I try each time to push my limit.”

The untimely death of Kelvin Kiptum has left the world of marathon running mourning the loss of a true talent and inspirational figure. As the running community reflects on his remarkable achievements, they also mourn the potential that was tragically cut short. Kiptum’s legacy will undoubtedly live on, reminding aspiring athletes of the dedication, skill, and passion required to excel in the sport..

– Kelvin Kiptum marathon world record holder Kenya car accident
– Kelvin Kiptum dies Kenya car accident marathon world record holder.