Published12. February 2024, 6:03 p.m.
Running: The world mourns the death of Kelvin Kiptum
The death of the tragic Kenyan champion has sparked many reactions, in the sporting world and in his country. Anthology.
Kelvin Kiptum died in a car accident in Kenya on Sunday.
Imago
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of marathon world record holder and rising star Kelvin Kiptum. An athlete who had his whole life ahead of him to achieve excellence.”
“We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana. […] It was only at the beginning of the week in Chicago, where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon world record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time. An incredible athlete who leaves an incredible legacy, he will be greatly missed.”
“Kelvin Kiptum was a star. Arguably one of the best athletes in the world who broke barriers to set a marathon record. […] His mental strength and discipline were unmatched. Kiptum was our future. An extraordinary sportsman has left an extraordinary mark on the world.”
“It is with extreme sadness that I learned of the tragic death of Kenyan Kelvin Kiptum, marathon world record holder, in a car accident. We couldn’t wait to welcome him to the Olympic community at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and see what the world‘s fastest marathoner could achieve. Our thoughts are with his family and friends as well as those of his coach, Gervais Hazimana, who also died in the accident.
“Kenya National Olympic Committee President Paul Tergat and the entire NOC-K family extend their deepest condolences to the sports community on the tragic loss of marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and coach Gervais Hakizimana. A few days before the Olympic Games, we mourn the premature departure of a promising talent. Kelvin’s recent record ratified in Chicago demonstrated his potential for a bright future, representing the next generation of Olympic greatness. Historic, what the duo was able to accomplish.”
“Condolences to the family and friends of Kelvin Kiptum. You will be missed by everyone in the sports community. Rest in peace”.
On X, she posted a wordless tribute, with three crying emojis and one depicting the Kenyan flag.
“I am heartbroken and shocked to learn the sad news of the death of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana. My condolences to families, friends and all athletics fans around the world.”
“I am deeply saddened and heartbroken by the news that Kelvin Kiptum and his coach passed away yesterday (editor’s note: Sunday). My condolences go out to his family, friends and fans.”
“I am so sad to learn of the passing of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana. Kelvin was an incredibly talented athlete and had already accomplished a lot. He had a truly special talent and I am convinced that he would have had an incredible career.”
“I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the death of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana. […] It’s a huge loss.”
“Devastating news, […] We mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, world record holder and icon of Kenyan athletics. Along with his trainer, they died tragically in an accident. […] Our nation mourns the profound loss of a true hero.”
(AFP)