Kenyan World Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum Dies in Tragic Accident

Kenyan world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum has died in a road accident near Eldoret town in western Kenya. Kiptum was with his Rwandan coach Garbes Hakizimana and a third occupant in critical condition.

President William Ruto has offered condolences to the athlete’s family and described him as a star and a fine sportsman. Kiptum was only 24 at the time of his death and his world marathon record was ratified by World Athletics just last week.

He was set to be a superstar of long-distance running and a top contender for gold at the Olympics in Paris this year. The crash involved Kiptum’s vehicle, which veered off a road and into a ditch before hitting a tree. His death has reverberated through Kenya, where runners are the biggest sports stars.