President William Ruto has on Monday mourned the death of marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum through a heartfelt message on his social media.
Ruto praised Kiptum, terming him the world’s finest sportsman who broke barriers to secure a marathon record.
“He was only 24 yet, as a hero, triumphed in Valencia, Chicago, London, and other top competitions. His mental strength and discipline were unmatched. Kiptum was our future. An extraordinary sportsman has left an extraordinary mark on the globe. Our thoughts are with the family and the sporting fraternity. Rest in peace,” Ruto said.
Kiptum, the 24-year-old world record holder in the men’s marathon, tragically passed away in a road accident at Kaptagat, Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine Road. Alongside him, his coach, Gervais Hakizimana of Rwanda, also lost his life in the same incident, as did a lady identified as Sharon Kosgey, who sustained serious injuries. Kiptum and Gervais bodies were moved to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) morgue.
Kiptum’s emergence as a formidable competitor to his compatriot, Eliud Kipchoge, one of the marathon’s most renowned athletes, came to light in 2023. Notably, Kiptum surpassed Kipchoge’s achievement in Chicago last October by completing the 26.1 miles (42km) in an impressive two hours and 35 seconds.
Paying tribute to Kiptum, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba wrote on X, “Devastatingly sickening!! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words.”
Sebastian Coe, the president of World Athletics, said Kiptum was “an incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy; we will miss him dearly.”.
Kiptum’s death happened six days later, after the IAAF ratified his record of 2:00:35.
