Athletics

World marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum dies in crash in Kenya

Kiptum won the London marathon last year and set a new world record at the Chicago Marathon in October

Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya celebrates winning the 2023 Chicago Marathon professional men's division and setting a world record marathon time of 2:00.35 on October 8th, 2023. Photograph: Michael Reaves/Getty

Mon Feb 12 2024 - 08:58

Marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach have died in a crash in Kenya, it has been announced.

Kenyan member of parliament Gideon Kimaiyo confirmed the pair’s death in a statement on X.

Mr Kimaiyo said: “It is with heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, and his coach in a tragic accident along the Eldoret-Kaptagat road.

“Kelvin Kiptum was at the prime of his career, a legend in his own right. It’s a tough one to take.

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“Our thoughts are with their families during this incredibly difficult time. The people of Keiyo South are saddened by this loss. May their souls rest in eternal peace.”

According to the police report, Kiptum was driving his Rwandan coach and a woman in a car near the Rift Valley village where he was born when the crash occurred.

The athlete lost control of the vehicle and veered off the road into a ditch, travelling for about 60m (196ft) along it before crashing into a large tree.

Kiptum and Gervais Hakizimana died at the scene but the woman, Sharon Chepkurui Kosgei Keiyo (24), survived with serious injuries and was treated at a local hospital.

Kiptum (24) set a new world record of two hours and 35 seconds at the Chicago Marathon in October last year. He also won the London Marathon in 2023 with a record time of two hours, one minute and 25 seconds.

The organisers of the London Marathon said on X: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana. The thoughts of everyone at the TCS London Marathon are with Kelvin’s and Gervais’ family and friends.”

World Athletics president Seb Coe said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana. On behalf of all at World Athletics we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, team-mates and the Kenyan nation.

“It was only earlier this week in Chicago, the place where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon World Record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time.

“An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly.” – Agencies

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