Record-holding marathon runner Kelvin Kiptum died on Sunday, 11 February 2024. He was 24.
Kelvin Kiptum dies: What’s the cause of death?
The world of athletics is in mourning after the sudden and tragic loss of Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana in a road accident.
The incident occurred near Eldoret, Kenya, when Kiptum lost control of his vehicle, resulting in fatal consequences for both him and his coach.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakiziman. An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly,” World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said in a statement.
Kelvin Kiptum biography
Born on 2 December 1999, in the high-altitude region of Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya, Kiptum was a prodigy in long-distance running from a young age.
His career took off at the tender age of 13, with notable performances that quickly put him on the map.
By 2023, he shattered the marathon world record at the Chicago Marathon with a jaw-dropping time of 2:00:35, becoming the first person in history to run a marathon in under two hours and one minute in a record-eligible race.
Kiptum’s relentless pursuit of excellence saw him setting three of the seven fastest marathons ever recorded, earning him a revered spot in the annals of marathon running.
Reactions to Kiptum’s death
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The news of Kiptum’s death sent shockwaves through the athletic community and beyond. Here are some of the social media reactions we picked:
