Award-winning Kenyan Marathoner Kelvin Kiptum and his coach have sadly passed away following a grisly road accident along Eldoret-Kaptagat road.
According to traffic base commandant Dennis Muga the bodies of the deceased have been moved to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) morgue.
Kiptum reportedly lost control of the car they were driving before hitting a tree and landing in a ditch.
“This was a self-involved accident where one Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, was driving his vehicle with two passengers. Kiptum and Hakizimana died on the spot and the third person was rushed to Racecourse Hospital Eldoret,” the County Commander said.
Kiptum whose marathon record of two hours and 35 seconds was ratified just last week by the World Athletics, was positioning himself to run under two hours at the Rotterdam Marathon on April 14 this year.
He was also expected to represent Kenya in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Following the untimely demise of the World marathon record holder Kenyans from all walks of life have taken to social media to mourn the athlete.
Raila Odinga
Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, World Record holder and Kenyan athletics icon. Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight.
My deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity. Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero.
Senator Methu Muhia
It's sad that you have left us following a tragic accident just days after your World Marathon record was ratified. May you RIP Kelvin Kiptum.
Mike Sonko
World marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach died in a fatal road accident along Eldoret-Kaptagat road.
Dennis Itumbi
Sad. World Record Marathon Holder KIPTUM was a great guy. He was headed to super greatness. This hurts. God grants his family peace and comfort. To his Coach and family too - our collective prayers.
CS Ababu Namwamba
Devastatingly sickening!! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words.
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