World record marathon holder Kelvin Kiptum dies in a tragic road accident. The current world record marathon holder, and his coach Gervais Hakizimana, tragically lost their lives in a road accident. The accident happened on Sunday night near Eldoret in the Rift Valley, as confirmed by Kenyan authorities.
The 24-year-old Kenyan athlete, driving a Toyota Premio, and his coach both perished at the crash site. This was reported by the Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Peter Mulinge. A third occupant survived but sustained serious injuries, Mulinge added.
The incident occurred at approximately 11 p.m. local time. Kiptum lost control of the vehicle, veering off the road, 60 meters into a ditch, and hitting a large tree.
Notably, Kiptum had recently set a world record marathon time of 2:00:35 during the Chicago Marathon in October of the previous year. World Athletics had just recently ratified this record. He transitioned to marathon running from shorter distances only a year before achieving the record. Since then Kiptum has demonstrated remarkable progress, surpassing Eliud Kipchoge’s 2:01:09 record by 50 seconds. He was widely regarded as a potential successor to Kipchoge and a contender capable of breaking the 2-hour marathon barrier.
Gervais Hakizimana, 36, the coach accompanying Kiptum, was a former professional athlete from Rwanda. He competed in various races ranging from the 5,000 meters to the half marathon.
World record marathon holder Kelvin Kiptum dies: The Marathon World Mourns Kelvin Kiptum
‘The world of marathon running mourns a heartbreaking loss’ Athletes and long-distance running enthusiasts worldwide expressed their condolences and sorrow over the passing of an athlete in the prime of his career.
Sebastian Coe, the President of World Athletics, remarked, “Kiptum was an extraordinary athlete, leaving behind an incredible legacy. We will miss him deeply.” Coe conveyed shock and deep sadness over the tragic demise of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, stating, “On behalf of all of World Athletics, we extend our sincerest condolences to their families, friends, teammates, and the entire Kenyan nation.”
Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics
Coe also noted, “It was just earlier this week in Chicago, the very place where Kelvin set his remarkable marathon world record, that I had the honor of officially ratifying his historic time.”
Bob Verbeeck, Kiptum’s manager, described the late athlete as a “cherished friend.”
“On behalf of all our colleagues and his friends at Golazo (Management Group), we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends and all in the athletics family” Verbeeck stated in an official statement.
Verbeek, Kiptum’s Manager
Condolences flooded Kiptum’s official Instagram account as the news of his passing spread.
The organizers of the London Marathon shared a poignant message, expressing, “We are shocked and deeply saddened. The thoughts of everyone at the TCS London Marathon are with Kelvin’s and Gervais’ family and friends.”
London Marathon Organisers
Kiptum’s impact would be deeply felt in Chicago, remarked Carey Pinkowski, Executive Race Director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, where Kiptum made history in 2023.
“Kelvin was a once in a generation athlete at the front of his career,” “While he will be celebrated for his record-breaking performances, I will remember him as an incredible talent and as an even more magnificent person.”
Carey Pinkowski, Executive Race Director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon
“We were fortunate to witness his greatness on the streets of Chicago,” Pinkowski added. “The world of marathon running mourns a tragic loss.”
Other Olympians and Leaders Mourn Kelvin Kiptum
Kenyan Olympians have shared their sorrow over the tragic incident. David Rudisha, a two-time Olympic gold medalist who himself survived a plane crash in 2022, described Kiptum’s passing as “a monumental loss.” On X, Rudisha conveyed his condolences, saying, “My thoughts are with the families, friends, the athletic community, and Kenya as a whole.”
David Rudisha, Kenyan Olympian
Bernard Lagat, a five-time Olympian and middle-distance runner expressed his shock at the tragic accident that claimed the lives of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach. Lagat paid tribute, saying, “Gone too soon. RIP Champion.”
Robert de Castella, the former world champion marathon runner from Australia, also mourned Kiptum. He expressed how fragile life is. He remarked, “Just like that, a rising superstar is gone. Highlights how precious life is, and how vulnerable we all are.”
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former prime minister, joined in expressing his condolences on X. He described the deaths as “devastating news” and praising Kiptum as an icon in Kenyan athletics. Odinga wrote, “Our nation mourns the profound loss of a true hero.”
Kenyan Sports Minister Ababu Namwamba also shared his condolences on X, expressing deep sorrow: “Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words.”