Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum, the current world record holder in men’s marathon, tragically lost his life in a road accident in his home country. The 24-year-old athlete, along with his coach Gervais Hakizimana from Rwanda were killed in a car crash on a road in western Kenya.
Both Kiptum and Hakizimana had been selected for Kenya’s provisional marathon team for the upcoming Paris Olympics. Kiptum was also gearing up for the Rotterdam Marathon in April, aiming to break the two-hour barrier in an official race, following Kipchoge’s unofficial feat in Vienna in 2019.
Elgeyo Marakwet police commander Peter Mulinge confirmed the tragic news in a statement, saying, “This was a self-involved accident where one Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, was driving his vehicle with two passengers.” He added that Kiptum and Hakizimana died on the spot and the third person was rushed to Racecourse Hospital in Eldoret.
World Athletics president Seb Coe expressed profound sadness over the loss, extending condolences to their families, friends, teammates, and the Kenyan nation. He stated, “We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.” Coe continued, “On behalf of all World Athletics, we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates, and the Kenyan nation.”
Kiptum’s journey in the sport had been remarkable, making his marathon debut in 2022 after facing economic challenges early in his career. He had emerged as a formidable competitor in the marathon scene, particularly rivaling his compatriot Eliud Kipchoge, one of the country’s legends. His breakthrough came in 2023 when he surpassed Kipchoge’s achievement by clocking the 26.1 miles in just two hours and 35 seconds during the Chicago marathon last October.
