The sporting world is in mourning following the tragic passing of world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum, who died in a road accident on February 11th.
We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
On behalf of all World Athletics we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates and the Kenyan nation.
It was only earlier this week in… pic.twitter.com/dDBKgjXNKL
— Seb Coe (@sebcoe) February 11, 2024
Kiptum, only 24 years old, was a rising star in the distance running scene, having shattered the marathon world record in October 2023 in Chicago with a blistering time of 2:00:35.
The accident occurred along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine Road near Kaptagat, Kenya.
“The accident happened around 11 p.m. The car had three occupants; two died on the spot while one was taken to the hospital,” Elgeyo Marakwet County Commandant Peter Mulinge said.
Kelvin Kiptum was driving a Toyota Premio with his Rwandan coach, Gervais Hakizimana, and another passenger, Sharon Kosgey.
Sadly, both Kiptum and Hakizimana succumbed to their injuries at the scene, while Kosgey sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
World Athletics is deeply saddened to hear that marathon world record-holder Kelvin Kiptum died in a road traffic accident on Sunday at the age of 24.
Obit: 🔗 https://t.co/0CF1NbAzgw pic.twitter.com/TgWepi0cok
— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) February 11, 2024