New Delhi, Feb 12 (IANS): Kenyan Long-Distance Runner Kelvin Kiptum and Coach Gervais Hakizimana Killed in Tragic Road Accident

New Delhi, Feb 12 (IANS): In a tragic turn of events, Kelvin Kiptum, the 24-year-old Kenyan long-distance runner and current marathon world record holder, along with his coach Gervais Hakizimana, lost their lives in a devastating road traffic accident. The incident occurred on Sunday at 11 pm (local time) on the Eldoret-Kaptagat road, as confirmed by Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge.

According to reports from the Kenyan newspaper Daily Nation, Kiptum was driving a Toyota Premio with two passengers on board – his coach Gervais Hakizimana and a lady named Sharon Kosgey. The trio was en route to Eldoret when the accident took place.

Tragically, Kiptum and Hakizimana lost their lives at the scene of the accident, while Sharon Kosgey sustained serious injuries and was immediately rushed to Racecourse Hospital for medical attention. The bodies of the athlete and his coach were taken to the Racecourse Hospital mortuary. The vehicle involved in the accident suffered significant damage and was subsequently towed to Kaptagat Police Station.

Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge stated, “This was a self-involved accident where 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.” Investigations revealed that Kiptum lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the road, collide with a large tree, and eventually land in a ditch approximately 60 meters away.

Kelvin Kiptum’s Remarkable Running Career

Kelvin Kiptum was a rising star in the world of road running, capturing attention with his exceptional performances. The Kenyan athlete made his marathon debut in December 2022, achieving a remarkable time of 2:01:53 to secure victory in Valencia. In less than a year, during only his third marathon, Kiptum shattered the world record, completing the course in an astonishing 2:00:35 to win the Chicago Marathon.

His outstanding achievements continued with a course record-breaking victory at the 2023 London Marathon, where he finished with a time of 2:01:25. These impressive victories led to Kelvin Kiptum being named the 2023 World Athlete of the Year for men’s out-of-stadia events.

Prior to transitioning to the marathon distance, Kiptum showcased his talent in half marathons. He made his international debut in 2019 as a teenager, finishing fifth at the Lisbon Half Marathon with a time of 59:54. Over the years, Kiptum consistently improved his performance, achieving a personal best of 58:42 at the 2020 Valencia Half Marathon. Notably, he broke the 60-minute mark for the half marathon on six occasions between 2019 and 2021.

Kelvin Kiptum’s remarkable talent earned him a spot on the Kenyan team for the upcoming Paris Olympics, where he was expected to compete against the world’s best athletes.

A Heartbreaking Loss for the Athletics Community

The news of Kelvin Kiptum and Gervais Hakizimana’s tragic passing has sent shockwaves through the athletics community. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe expressed his deep sadness and extended his heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, and the entire Kenyan nation.

Coe remarked, “We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana. On behalf of World Athletics, we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates, and the Kenyan nation.”

He further added, “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.”