Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum, the 24-year-old men’s marathon world record holder, and his coach, Rwanda’s Gervais Hakizimana, tragically lost their lives in a road accident in western Kenya on Sunday.
The accident occurred around 23:00 local time, with Kiptum driving and the vehicle losing control, resulting in a fatal rollover.
Kiptum had emerged as a formidable marathon runner, surpassing the achievements of compatriot Eliud Kipchoge.
In October of the previous year, he broke Kipchoge’s record by completing the Chicago Marathon in an impressive two hours and 35 seconds.
Both athletes were part of Kenya’s provisional marathon team for the upcoming Paris Olympics.
Kenyan Sports Minister Ababu Namwamba expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Devastatingly sickening!! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words.”
Lost for words.” Opposition leader Raila Odinga mourned the loss of “a true hero” and a “remarkable individual” in Kenyan athletics.
Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics, acknowledged Kiptum’s incredible legacy as an athlete. The accident also left a female passenger injured, who was rushed to the hospital.
Kiptum’s recent announcement to attempt a sub-two-hour marathon at the Rotterdam marathon showcased his determination.
His rapid rise to fame began in 2022, running his first full marathon and winning the Valencia Marathon with the then-fourth fastest time on record.
The father-of-two continued to make headlines, setting a course record at the London Marathon in April 2023 and ultimately breaking the world record in Chicago later that year, just his third marathon.
Kiptum’s unique tactical approach involved running with the pack for 30 kilometers before accelerating and leading the race alone.
Facing financial challenges, Kiptum, who competed in his first major competition in 2018, started his career on the road due to a lack of resources.
His coach, Hakizimana, a retired Rwandese runner, played a crucial role in Kiptum’s success, having known him since childhood.
Hakizimana recalled meeting Kiptum when he was a young boy herding livestock barefooted, emphasizing his gratitude for the athlete’s remarkable achievements.
Source-BBC
