By: Nana Kwame Bediako
24-year-old World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum has died in a car accident in Kenya along with his coach, Gervais Hakizimana. Kiptum reportedly lost control of his vehicle while driving in Kaptagat, south-west Kenya.
Kelvin Kiptum won the London Marathon in April 2023 before achieving a new milestone by setting a World Marathon record in Chicago in October 2023. The young guy has been putting up good work on his charge to become one of the greatest athletes in history.
Following this disheartening incident, the World Athletics President shared his condolences and wishes with the family and loved ones of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
On behalf of all at World Athletics, we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates and the Kenyan nation.
It was only earlier this week in Chicago, the place where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon World Record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time.
An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly,” President of the World Athletics Association, Seb Coe said.
Kelvin Kiptum Leaving a wonderful legacy in the World Marathon and winning the London Marathon with a record time of two hours, one minute, and 25 seconds caught the attention of many sports fans.
After hearing the incident, the London Marathon organisers took to X to share their condolences with the families of the victims.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of Marathon World record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.”
We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
— TCS London Marathon (@LondonMarathon) February 11, 2024
The thoughts of everyone at the TCS London Marathon are with Kelvin’s and Gervais’ family and friends. pic.twitter.com/HO8ONdYsJf
The Rotterdam Marathon in April would have been another significant step in the journey of Kelvin Kiptum after gradually climbing to the top as a World Record holder.
