Kenya’s athletics community is in mourning following the tragic death of marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his Rwandan coach Gervais Hakizimana. The duo lost their lives in a road accident in northwest Kenya while en route to Kaptagat for training.
The accident occurred late Sunday night when Kiptum’s sedan lost control and crashed in Uasin Gishu County. Sadly, both Kiptum and Hakizimana were killed instantly, while a third passenger, Sharon Kosgei, sustained serious injuries and was hospitalized in Eldoret.
World Athletics president Sebastian Coe expressed profound condolences, highlighting Kiptum’s remarkable achievements and legacy in the sport. Kiptum’s recent world record-setting performance at the Chicago Marathon was officially ratified just days before his untimely passing.
David Rudisha, another renowned athlete, joined in expressing sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the impact on Kiptum’s family, friends, and the entire athletics community.
Kiptum, aged 24, had been training to break the sub two-hour marathon barrier in Rotterdam, scheduled for April 23. His exceptional performances, including smashing the Valencia Marathon record and defending his titles at the London and Chicago Marathons, marked him as one of the sport’s rising stars.
Having been included in Kenya’s provisional squad for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Kiptum was poised for a showdown with fellow countryman Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic champion.
Kiptum’s passing leaves behind a grieving widow, son, and daughter, as the athletics world mourns the loss of a talented and promising athlete.
Source: Amnon Free Press
