Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum tragically dies in road accident

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ATHLETICS Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum tragically dies in road accident

Mark Kinyanjui 05:00 - 12.02.2024

The Police have reported that Kiptum and his Rwandese coach Garvais Hakizimana passed away on the spot Sunday night in an accident along the Eldoret-Kaptagat Road.

Tragedy has struck the running community as Kelvin Kiptum, the marathon world record holder, lost his life in a fatal accident on Sunday night. 

The incident occurred on the Eldoret-Kaptagat Road, claiming not only Kiptum's life but also that of his Rwandese coach, Garvais Hakiziman.

The untimely demise happened just days after Kiptum's remarkable achievement was officially recognized by World Athletics, solidifying his status as the first man to complete a marathon in under 2:01. 

In a stellar performance, he clocked an impressive time of 2:00:35 to secure victory at the Chicago Marathon in October.

The tragic accident occurred around 11 pm, with the vehicle carrying three occupants. 

Unfortunately, both Kiptum and Hakizimana succumbed to their injuries at the scene, while the third occupant was rushed to the hospital for medical attention, according to Elgeyo Marakwet County Commander Peter Mulinge as per Capital Sports.

Kiptum's promising career, which had just begun to unfold, was abruptly cut short. He was a vital member of Kenya's Olympic Games team slated for Paris the following year and was expected to team up with Eliud Kipchoge, the previous marathon world record holder.

This heartbreaking incident draws parallels with the loss of former 400m Hurdles World Champion Nicholas Bett, who also met a tragic end in a road accident in 2018, shortly after returning from the African Championships in Asaba, Nigeria. 

The running community mourns the loss of yet another talented athlete, leaving behind a void that will be deeply felt.

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