Kenyans and sports enthusiasts around the world woke up to the sad news of Kelvin Kiptum’s death that occurred on Sunday, February 11, following a road accident, which also killed his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
Messages of condolences continue to pour in from Kenyans, politicians, and members of the athletics community, mourning the untimely demise of the rising star.
Who is Kelvin Kiptum?
Kelvin Kiptum was born and raised in Chepsamo Village in Elgeyo Marakwet County. He started running at the age of 13 competing in different races locally before heading to the world stage.
Kelvin Kiptum rose to fame after clocking 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, shattering a previous record of 2:01:09 set by the legendary Eliud Kipchoge.
Kiptum has won three major marathons: the Vienna City Marathon in 2022 clocking 2:01:53, the London Marathon in 2023 finishing with 2:01:25, and the Chicago Marathon in 2023.
He was also named the 2023 World Athlete of the Year for men’s out-of-stadia events alongside other athletes, including Faith Kipyegon.
Kiptum surpassed Kipchoge at the 2023 World Athletics rankings, taking position seven with a score of 1504.
Kenya’s reign in athletics
Apart from wildlife, Kenya is known around the world for athletics, specifically running. Eliud Kipchoge is a global name with him working with the renowned brand Nike for the shoes he wears.
Kipchoge and Kiptum are not the only talented runners Kenya has had. People like Catherine Ndereba, Brigid Kosgey, Pamela Jelimo, Vivian Cheruiyot, Hellen Obiri, Paul Tergat, David Rudisha, Kipchoge Keino, and Ezekiel Kemboi, among others, have all contributed to the impressive reputation Kenya has in the world of athletics.
Kenya’s success in marathons has seen international runners visit the country to train.
In recent times, there have been efforts in the short races segment with Ferdinand Omanyala and Emmanuel Wanyonyi raising the Kenyan flag high.
Omanyala has eulogized Kiptum saying,
“Waking to the shocking news of the untimely demise of my teammate in athletics, a hero who proudly represented Kenya, was difficult. Your life embodied the resilient spirit of our nation and in our hearts, you will never be gone…We mourn your loss deeply; the nation grieves, and I personally feel the pain. Rest in Peace Kelvin. My heartfelt condolences to your family.”
Kiptum’s death was a blow to the Kenyan athletics fraternity, considering he was the one man who finally gave Kipchoge the much competition he needed as he has been dominating the marathon category.
It remains to be seen who will match up to Kiptum’s talent and compete with the legendary Kipchoge.
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