Legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge has mourned the death of World Marathon Record holder Kelvin Kiptum, who died in a road accident on Sunday, February 11 night.
Kipchoge describes Kiptum as a “rising star” and “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 time,” Kipchoge said.
Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakjizimana died on the spot in a grisly accident at Kaptagat Forest are along the Eldoret-Ravine Road.
According to a report filed at Kaptagat Police Station, Kiptum was driving his Toyota Premio vehicle from Eldoret towards Ravine, carrying his coach and another female passenger identified as Sharon Chepkurui Kosgei when the accident occured at around 11 pm.
“Upon reaching the location of the accident, he lost control and veered off-road entering into a ditch on his left side. He drove in the ditch for about 60metres before hitting a big tree,” the report reads in part.
As a result, Kiptum and Hakizimana died on the spot whereas Sharon escaped with serious injuries and was rushed to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for treatment.
The two bodies were moved to Racecourse Hospital Mortuary in Eldoret awaiting autopsy.
The extensively damaged vehicle was towed to Kaptagat Police Station awaiting inspection and further police action.
