Athletics Kenya Mourns the Loss of Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum
KERICHO, Kenya – Athletics Kenya (AK) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Kelvin Kiptum, a world marathon record holder, who died in a tragic road accident along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road in the Kaptagat area five days ago. The accident also claimed the life of his Rwandese coach, Gavais Hakizimanana.
According to Kenya News Agency, the first vice chairman of Athletics Kenya’s Kericho branch, the athletic community has suffered a great loss with Kiptum’s passing. He extended condolences to Kiptum’s family, friends, and the wider athletic community, recognizing Kiptum as one of the country’s most outstanding road runners. Kiptanui highlighted Kiptum’s significant achievements and his legacy of determination that has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Kiptanui remarked on Kiptum’s aspirations to break the two-hour barrier at the upcoming 2024 Rotterdam Marathon scheduled for April 14, as well as his ambition to compete in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. He noted Kiptum’s role as a source of inspiration for many emerging athletes in Kericho, describing him as a simple, friendly, and disciplined individual whose death has deeply affected the local athletics community.
Kiptum’s remarkable performance at the Chicago Marathon in October, where he finished in two hours and 35 seconds, surpassing Eliud Kipchoge’s previous record of 2:00:9 set in 2022, was a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.
The funeral for Kelvin Kiptum will be held at his family home in Chepsamo, near Eldoret, on February 24th of this year.