World record holder Eliud Kipchoge expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of fellow athlete Kelvin Kiptum.
In a heartfelt message posted on his X account, formerly known as Twitter, Kipchoge described Kiptum as a young athlete with a promising future ahead of him.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of the Marathon World Record Holder and rising star Kelvin Kiptum,” Kipchoge wrote.
“An athlete who had a whole life ahead of him to achieve incredible greatness,” he added.
The unfortunate incident occurred on Sunday night when Kiptum lost his life in a devastating road accident on the Elgeyo Marakwet – Ravine road in Kaptagat.
The Rwandese coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who was accompanying Kiptum, also lost his life in the same accident.
Kiptum’s death happened 6 days later after the IAAF ratified his record of 2:00:35.
He was set to face Kipchoge in the upcoming Paris Olympics in August.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba joined in mourning the loss, acknowledging Kelvin’s remarkable achievements that had significantly contributed to elevating the nation to the pinnacle of long-distance marathon excellence.
As the nation reflects on Kiptum’s legacy, the Sports Cabinet Secretary urged people to cherish the memories he left behind and draw inspiration from his extraordinary journey.
Kiptum’s achievements were a source of pride for the country in the field of long-distance running.
A survivor from the same accident, Sharon Kosgei, has been discharged from the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.
The hospital’s CEO, Phillip Kirwa, reported that Kosgei is in stable condition.