Tragically, Kevin Kiptum, the reigning world record holder in the marathon event, has lost his life in a devastating road accident. He was 24. The accident also claimed the life of his Rwandan coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who was traveling with him at the time.
KIPTUM WAS DRIVING THE CAR WHEN THE TRAGIC ACCIDENT TOOK PLACE
The crash happened in the western regions of Kiptum’s native Kenya, specifically on the road between Eldoret and Kaptagat. According to Denis Muga, the local police chief, Kiptum was driving the car when the accident took place. His car was the only one involved in the crash. The car had swerved off the road at high velocity and struck a tree before rolling over. While he and his coach died as a result of injuries suffered in the crush, a third person traveling with them, identified as a woman, has been taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
The news was brought to public attention by fellow Kenyan runner Milcah Chemos, who clearly struggled to speak while confirming the deaths to the Associated Press. Chemos stated she accompanied other athletes and members of Kiptum’s family to the hospital upon learning the news. The family members, including his father, were present to confirm his identity.
Kevin Kiptum had shattered the world record of Eliud Kipchoge, 2.01.09, he finished the full marathon in 2.01.01.
He and his coach died in a road accident in Kenya. He was just 24.
RIP #kevinkiptum pic.twitter.com/sMPHMFM3AU— Shajan Samuel (@IamShajanSamuel) February 12, 2024
KIPTUM IS CONSIDERED A SUPERSTAR OF LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING
Born in Chepkorio, a high altitude village in Kenya’s Rift Valley, Kiptum is the only runner in history to have completed the Marathon under the time of two hours and one minutes. Amongst the seven fastest marathon runs in recorded history, three have been his achievements.
He set the World Record in October 2023, when he completed the Chicago Marathon in just two hours and 35 seconds.
