Kenya’s marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum has died alongside his coach in a car crash in Kaptagat, Kenya. The 24-year-old became the first man to run the marathon in under 2 hours and one minute, clocking in at 2:00.35.
His record was ratified by the international track federation World Athletics only weeks ago. And now, the unfortunate incident rules out the careers of one of the most promising careers in the country’s future. Kiptum was expected to be one of the top track contenders at the Paris Olympics in 2024, and his death has sent shockwaves throughout the athletics community.
Kelvin Kiptum dies in car crash along with coach
The pair’s car was the only one involved as it ran off the track and fell into a ditch before hitting a tree. Pictures shown of the car revealed that it was badly damaged and Kiptum was declared dead on spot. A third person, an unnamed woman was also found and has been rushed to the hospital having sustained serious injuries.
Kiptum beat the world record set by Eliud Kipchoge, who is the reigning two-time Olympic champion, and is also from Kenya. The two were also set to compete at the Olympics together, but people will now be left wondering what if.
The crash occurred at 11pm in the night near Kaptagat, a town located at a high elevation and known as one of the best places for training for runners.
