Kenyans have been left in disbelief after the death of World Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum, which happened a few hours ago. Kelvin Kiptum’s death comes days after his record was ratified. Even more saddening, the champion passed away just five days after his world record was ratified by the international governing body World Athletics. In a statement on February 6, 2024, the World Athletics left the 24-year-old marathoner in joy after ratifying, his world marathon record of 2:00:35 set in Chicago last year. “Continuing to run with urgency, Kiptum passed 40km in 1:54:23 – after a 27:52 10km split. He went on to win the race by almost three and a half minutes, crossing the finish line at 2:00:35,” a statement from the World Athletics. Kiptum shattered the world record of 2:01:09 set by Eliud Kipchoge in Berlin in September 2022. The ratification ignited joy and celebration from Kiptum, Kenyans and other athletics lovers as many congratulated him on the milestone. Kenyans heartbroken by Kelvin Kiptum’s death Sadly, five days since his world record was validated, the young marathoner is no more, much to the disbelief and pain of many Kenyans. Many left heartbreaking comments under the post. Bramwel “And now he is no more. Rest in peace, champion.” Imbwaga Isaac said: “He just lost his life in a road accident. What a sad day.” Abel Kipz “Our roads just killed Kiptum; unbelievable! Sharon Kongin said: “So sad he didn’t even get to celebrate this. Rest well, champ.” Kelvin Kiptum’s death: What you need to know The World Record Holder died on the night of Sunday, February 11, after a grisly road accident in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu His Rwandan coach, Gervais Hakizimana, also died in the tragic road accident on Sunday, February 11 Kenyan leaders led by ODM leader Raila Odinga have mourned the champion whose death has thrown many into mourning The wreckage of the Toyota Premio he was in at the time of the accident has caused disbelief among many Kenyans
by Racheal Nyaguthie