Kelvin Kiptum, the Kenyan marathon world record holder, tragically lost his life in a car crash along with his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, in their native Kenya. The accident occurred on a road in western Kenya, where Kiptum, 24, was driving a Toyota Premio at around 11:00 PM local time.
Reports from local authorities indicate that the vehicle lost control, resulting in a fatal rollover. Both Kiptum and Hakizimana died at the scene, while a third passenger, a female, sustained injuries and was rushed to the hospital for treatment, according to the police.
Tributes Pour In for the Kenyan Athletic Icon
Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya celebrates after winning the 2023 Chicago Marathon professional men's division and setting a world record marathon time of 2:00.35 at Grant Park on October 08, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.
The news of Kiptum's untimely death has elicited an outpouring of grief from the global athletics community, with tributes pouring in from fellow athletes, sports officials, and political figures.
Sebastian Coe, the president of World Athletics, described Kiptum as "an incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy" and expressed deep sorrow at his passing.
"We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana," Coe wrote. "On behalf of all World Athletics we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates and the Kenyan nation."
"[Kelvin Kiptum was] an incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy," he added. "We will miss him dearly."
Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya and leader of the opposition, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Kiptum, referring to him as "a true hero" and highlighting his stature as "a remarkable individual" and an icon in Kenyan athletics.
Just days before the tragic accident, Kiptum's team had announced his intention to attempt a marathon in under two hours at the upcoming Rotterdam marathon, an unprecedented feat in open competition.
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Kelvin Kiptum's Inspirational Journey
Kiptum's journey to sporting stardom was marked by perseverance and determination. Hailing from humble beginnings, he embarked on his athletic pursuits with limited resources, running his first full marathon in 2022 and gradually ascending the ranks through sheer grit and talent.
His partnership with coach Hakizimana, a retired Rwandan runner, played a pivotal role in his success, with Hakizimana dedicating months to helping Kiptum chase his record-breaking ambitions.
Reflecting on their journey together, Hakizimana fondly recalled last year their initial encounter years ago and expressed gratitude for Kiptum's remarkable achievements.
"I knew him when he was a little boy, herding livestock barefooted," Hakizimana reminisced. "Now, I am grateful to him for his achievement."
Kiptum's rise to prominence in the world of marathon running began in 2023 when he emerged as a formidable competitor. In October of that year, Kiptum achieved a significant milestone by winning the Chicago Marathon in an astonishing time of two hours and 35 seconds, thereby shattering Eliud Kipchoge's previous world record.
This historic achievement marked a pivotal moment in Kiptum's career, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the world of marathon running.
Just days before the tragic accident, Kiptum's team had announced his ambitious goal of attempting to complete a marathon in under two hours at the upcoming Rotterdam marathon, a challenge that had never been conquered in open competition.
As investigations into the cause of the accident continue, the world mourns the loss of Kelvin Kiptum, whose legacy as a trailblazing athlete and inspirational figure will endure.
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