World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum is dead. Kiptum and his coach died after he was involved in a road accident at Kaptagat along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road.
Kiptum was driving a Toyota Premio with two passengers onboard. One of the passengers was his Rwandese coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who also perished in the accident.
The other occupant of the vehicle, Sharon Kosgey, survived with serious injuries, according to a report by the Nation.
Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander told the Nation that the accident happened on Sunday at 11 p.m.
“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,” the county commander told the publication.
The marathoner’s sudden demise was met with consternation from leaders and netizens. Here are some of the reactions:
Raila Odinga: “Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, a world record holder and Kenyan athletics icon. Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight.My deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire athletic fraternity. Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero.”
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach. His remarkable talent and unwavering dedication to athletics inspired countless individuals.
He made an indelible mark not only through his achievements but also through mentorship and leadership,… pic.twitter.com/DQxeAdPuXN
— Musalia W Mudavadi (@MusaliaMudavadi) February 11, 2024
Kimani Ichung’wah: It is shocking and devastating to learn of the untimely passing of Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder. Rest in peace, champion.
Oscar Llach: “RIP, Kelvin Kiptum. He was the chosen one; he would’ve broken the 2-hour mark. What a great loss for athletics and sports in general!”
Sylvinho: The death of this champ is so heartbreaking. A devastating blow to the sport. Well on course to officially becoming the first human to run a marathon under 2 hours. RIP, Kelvin Kiptum.
Sen Methu Muhia: “It’s sad that you have left us following a tragic accident just days after your World Marathon record was ratified. May you RIP, Kelvin Kiptum.”
Tragic death of 24 year old World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach night. These are truly sad news for the country and the whole world.
Reminds us of Kamau Wanjiru’s death at his young age of being a record holder.
May the Champion rest in peace.
May God… pic.twitter.com/1l19NvtYyT— Boniface G. Mwangi (@BonifaceGMwangi) February 12, 2024
Duval County Sheriff: RIP Kelvin Kiptum, man. It hurts to see someone so young go away in the blink of an eye. I wish we could’ve seen him at his peak, man. I’m always going to wonder if he would’ve been the first person sub 2. RIP.
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… pic.twitter.com/dDBKgjXNKL
— Seb Coe (@sebcoe) February 11, 2024
Gideon Kibicho: “RIP, Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder!!! He broke the world record in the marathon last year, which had been set by Eliud Kipchoge and was ratified last week. He died when his career was at its peak. Unbelievable! Life is so unfair.”
Nick Gornick: I couldn’t believe this headline when I saw it. Seeing him in Chicago last year was very cool; he was just getting started. RIP, Kelvin Kiptum.
READ ALSO: Kelvin Kiptum Beats Eliud Kipchoge’s Record to Become New King of Marathon
The budding marathoner’s record of two hours and 35 seconds was ratified last week by the World Athletics.
Kiptum was preparing to run under two hours at the Rotterdam Marathon in April this year.
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