EuroSports
The world of athletics was shaken to its core with the tragic news of the untimely demise of Kelvin Kiptum, Kenya's marathon world record holder, and his coach Gervais Hakizimana.
Kelvin made history at the Chicago Marathon in October 2023, shattering the world record with a phenomenal time of two hours and 35 seconds. Surpassing his compatriot Eliud Kipchoge's mark set in Berlin 2022, Kelvin's feat captivated the world and solidified his place among Kenya's elite distance runners.
Remembering the life of Kelvin Kiptum and the impact he made on the sport 🕊️
— AW (@AthleticsWeekly) February 12, 2024
🇪🇸 Fastest marathon debut in history, in Valencia (2:01:53 – December 2022)
🇬🇧 Ran what was then the second ever quickest marathon, in London (2:01:25 – April 2023)
🇺🇸 Set the world marathon record,… pic.twitter.com/CCod1zkLF9
Kiptum's journey to greatness began with his dominance in the half-marathon circuit in 2019. Hailing from the high altitude region of Kenya, known for producing world-class distance runners, Kiptum displayed extraordinary talent from the outset. His transition to full marathons was marked by exceptional achievements, including a remarkable debut at the Valencia Marathon.
Kelvin's racing strategy was characterized by patience and tactical brilliance. Often running with the pack for the initial stages of the race, he would then unleash his full potential in the latter stages, leaving his competitors trailing behind.
In memory of Kelvin Kiptum, relive the moment he broke Eliud Kipchoge's marathon world record. 🏃♂️💨
— Eurosport (@eurosport) February 12, 2024
In October last year, the Kenyan finished the Chicago marathon in 2:00:35, shaving over 30 seconds off Kipchoge's best effort. ⏱️ pic.twitter.com/mrsLOw6IwG
The promising career of Kelvin Kiptum was cut short by a tragic road accident in the Rift Valley town of Eldoret, Kenya. The incident, which claimed the lives of both Kiptum and his coach, sent shockwaves throughout the athletics community.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe led the tributes, highlighting Kiptum's remarkable achievements and the impact of his loss on the athletics world. Statements from Kiptum's manager, Bob Verbeeck, and Kenya's sports minister, Ababu Namwamba, reflected the profound grief felt by all those who knew him.
Incredibly shocking & saddening news that superstar Kenyan runner Kelvin Kiptum, who recently smashed the world marathon record, was tipped to break 2hr barrier, & due for epic Paris Olympics showdown with Eliud Kipchoge, has been killed in a car crash aged just 24. RIP. pic.twitter.com/VxZRhKwVLX
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) February 12, 2024
The loss of Kelvin Kiptum reverberated far beyond the confines of the track. Fellow athletes, including Olympic champion David Rudisha, expressed their shock and sadness at the tragic turn of events.
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