The athletics community worldwide is grappling with the profound loss of Kelvin Kiptum, the marathon world record holder, following a tragic road accident in Kenya. The incident, which occurred on the Eldoret-Kaptagat road on February 11, also claimed the life of his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, leaving a void in the hearts of many across the globe.
At just 24 years old, Kiptum had already etched his name in the annals of marathon history by setting a staggering world record of 2 hours and 35 seconds at the Chicago Marathon in October 2023. His sudden demise, alongside his coach, has evoked an outpouring of grief and tributes from distinguished figures and organizations within the sports world, including IOC President Thomas Bach and the Kenyan President, William Ruto.
Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge provided details of the accident, stating that it was a self-involved incident. Kiptum was behind the wheel with two passengers when he lost control of the vehicle, which subsequently veered off the road. The impact was fatal for Kiptum and Hakizimana, who died on the spot, while the third passenger was urgently transported to Racecourse Hospital in Eldoret for treatment.
Joan Chelimo, Hakizimana’s wife, confirmed the devastating news of her husband’s passing to Olympics.com. The international Olympic community, along with the President of the IOC, Thomas Bach, has expressed profound sorrow over the loss, highlighting the anticipated bright future Kiptum had ahead, especially at the forthcoming Olympic Games Paris 2024.
Kiptum’s remarkable achievement in Chicago, where he broke the previous world record held by Eliud Kipchoge by 34 seconds, was recently ratified by World Athletics. His extraordinary performance had not only set a new benchmark in marathon running but also positioned him as a formidable contender for future races, including the scheduled Rotterdam Marathon on April 14.
His journey in the world of marathon running was nothing short of inspirational. Having commenced running at the tender age of 13, Kiptum quickly rose through the ranks, thanks to his dedication and innate talent. His record-breaking run in Chicago was only his third marathon, yet he demonstrated the prowess of a seasoned athlete, becoming the first man to complete three marathons under 2:02 within a span of 12 months.
The global athletics community, including former world record holder and Kenyan Olympic committee president Paul Tergat, two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge, and 2023 World Athletics Awards’ Athlete of the Year Faith Kipyegon, have all expressed their condolences and shared their memories of Kiptum. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, who had the privilege of presenting Kiptum with the 2023 World Athlete of the Year for men’s out of stadia award, remarked on the incredible legacy left by the athlete.
Kiptum’s aspirations for the Paris Olympics were a testament to his ambition and dedication to his sport. He had expressed excitement about competing against his idol, Eliud Kipchoge, and aimed for Olympic glory. His untimely death, however, has robbed the sports world of witnessing what could have been an epic showdown between the two fastest marathoners in history.
The tragic loss of Kelvin Kiptum is reminiscent of the untimely death of Samuel Wanjiru, another Kenyan marathon great, who passed away under tragic circumstances at the peak of his career. Wanjiru, the first Kenyan to win an Olympic marathon, had an illustrious career with victories in major marathons before his premature death.
As the athletics world mourns the loss of Kelvin Kiptum, his legacy as a record-breaking marathon runner and a source of inspiration for many young athletes remains indelible. His achievements on the track, marked by determination and exceptional talent, have left an indelible mark on the sport. The tributes pouring in from around the world reflect not only the impact of his accomplishments but also the potential of what could have been, had his life not been cut tragically short.