12 February 2024
The sporting world is in mourning after news that Kenyan marathon runner Kelvin Kiptum, the current world record holder, tragically died in a car accident on Sunday evening. He was just 24 years old.
Kiptum’s coach, Rwandan Garvais Hakizimana, also perished in the accident.
The young athlete, considered a Kenyan hero and shining star in long-distance running, had recently broken the marathon record at the Chicago Marathon with an astonishing time of 2:00:35. He was also selected to represent Kenya at the upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024.
Tributes poured in from across the athletic community, with Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga describing Kiptum as a “true hero” and World Athletics president Sebastian Coe praising his “incredible legacy.”
Initial reports indicate Kiptum was driving the vehicle involved in the accident, which occurred in western Kenya. The cause is still under investigation, but authorities suspect speeding may have played a role.
A third passenger, whose identity has not been released, was injured and hospitalized.
This sudden loss casts a shadow over the sport and leaves a void in Kenyan athletics. Kiptum’s talent, dedication, and potential were boundless, and his departure will be deeply felt for years to come.
