Kenya is in mourning after the untimely demise of 24-year-old marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum in a tragic road accident.
Kiptum, along with his coach Gervais Hakizimana, lost their lives in a car crash in western Kenya. The accident occurred around 23:00 local time, with Kiptum behind the wheel.
Kiptum’s remarkable achievements, including setting a new world record in the Chicago marathon last October, had earned him widespread recognition in the athletics community. Both he and fellow athlete Eliud Kipchoge were part of Kenya’s provisional marathon team for the Paris Olympics.
Tributes poured in for Kiptum, with Kenyan Sports Minister Ababu Namwamba and opposition leader Raila Odinga expressing deep sorrow over his passing.
His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a world-class athlete, along with the guidance of his coach Hakizimana, had inspired many.
Kiptum’s tragic death leaves a void in the world of marathon running, with Kenya mourning the loss of a sporting hero whose legacy will be remembered for years to come.
