Kevin Kiptum's Village Mates Had Requested for Big Screen to Watch Him Run in Paris

 

Kelvin Kiptum, a world marathon record holder, died tragically in a road accident along the Eldoret-Kaptagat Road. Kevin Kiptum after crossing the finish line to win the 2023 Chicago Marathon professional men's division and set a world record marathon time of 2:00.35 in Chicago, Illinois.  The Kenyan community, along with the sports fraternity, expresses heartfelt condolences to the grieving family in the wake of the untimely passing of the 24-year-old rising star.  Kiptum, the only child of Samson Cheruoiyot, carried the aspirations of his village, where many looked to him with optimism as a beacon of hope capable of elevating the family from their challenging circumstances.  How Kelvin Kiptum's villagers anticipated his win According to Comrades Vibes TV, Eunice Chepkairo shares the sentiment of anticipation within the community, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to witness Kiptum shatter the world record at the Paris Olympics scheduled for July. "We requested a big screen to watch him break the world record at the next Olympics. Sasa tumepewa tuone nayo matanga take (We have been granted screen to watch his death).It is unbelievable," she lamented. She emphasised that the departed athlete was not just a source of inspiration for his family but also held the dreams of the entire village and constituency. Chepkairo expressed sympathy for the humble family, acknowledging the profound loss and the void left by the fallen hero. In light of the myriad questions surrounding the circumstances of his demise, she called for a thorough investigation into the celebrated athlete's death, aiming to bring clarity and closure to the community mourning the loss of their promising talent. "They came from a very humble background. You can see from the way they are mourning. They have no other option. This was the only hope for the family, village, and constituency. We are told he is dead, but, we are praying that it be found that it was a natural one. Kama ni mkono wa mtu, tunajua Mwenyezi Mungu atatuonyesha, na kama si hivyo, Mungu ailaze rho take pahali pema (If human powers were involved, then God will answer our prayers; if it was natural, then may his soul rest in peace)," said Chepkairu. 

by  Nancy Odindo