Legendary marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge has mourned the untimely demise of Kelvin Kiptum who was involved in a car accident that also killed his coach and injured a third passenger in the vehicle they were in.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kipchoge said,
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of the marathon world record holder and rising star Kelvin Kiptum. An athlete who had a whole life ahead of him to achieve incredible greatness. I offer my deepest condolences to his young family. May God comfort you during this trying time.”
According to the police, Kiptum was driving the car before he lost control causing it to veer off the road and hit a tree. Kiptum died on the spot with his Rwandan coach Gervais Hazimana along Elgeyo Marakwet road.
However, a section of Kenyans on X is not having it with Kipchoge’s condolences arguing that he did not congratulate Kiptum when he broke his world record.
Kipchoge actually congratulated Kiptum but it was delayed, two weeks later, causing speculations among Kenyans.
“I was not surprised about Kiptum breaking the world record. I look forward to seeing records being broken because I have shown them the way,” Kipchoge said during a press conference at the 2023 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in Oviedo, Spain.
Kiptum broke Kipchoge’s record at the Chicago marathon in October 2023 completing the race in 2.00.35. Kipchoge had clocked 2:01:09 at the 2022 Berlin Marathon.
President William Ruto led the country in mourning the death of Kiptum which has shocked many.
“Kelvin Kiptum was a star. Arguably one of the world’s finest sportsmen who broke barriers to secure a marathon record… Kiptum was our future. An extraordinary sportsman has left an extraordinary mark on the globe. Our thoughts are with the family and the sporting fraternity. Rest In Peace,” said Ruto.
Politicians, leaders in government, and Kenyans from various walks of life have mourned the death of the young athlete who had a promising future.
Reacting to Kiptum’s death, Cabinet Secretary for Sports and Youth Affairs Ababu Namwamba said,
“Devastatingly sickening!! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words..”
Discussion about this post