From the sleepy village of Chepsamo to breaking the World Marathon record: The Inspiring Journey of Kelvin Kiptum

In the secluded village of Chepsamo, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Keiyo South in Elgeyo Marakwet, a story of indomitable spirit, familial support, and extraordinary perseverance unfolds. Kelvin Kiptum, now celebrated as the World Marathon champion, rose from the shadows of obscurity, etching his name in the annals of athletic history.

A Father's Guidance and Unyielding Principles

At the core of Kiptum's journey stands his father, Samson Cheruyoit, a man of unwavering principles. "Kiptum is very obedient. I have never tasted alcohol, and it is the same ideals that I have instilled in him," says Cheruyoit, his eyes reflecting a mix of pride and contentment. Cheruyoit applauds Kiptum for maintaining loyalty to his management team, Golazo, even as success beckoned. "I am also very happy that Kiptum never changed his management team even when the stars started aligning for him."

Cheruyoit, harboring a dream of a presidential greeting, expresses profound gratitude for the divine intervention that recently made Kiptum a world-beater. "I prayed for this over seven years ago, and He answered. My only remaining wish is to greet the president, Mr. William Ruto, and I know this will be made possible by my son, Kiptum."

He reminisces about driving young Kelvin to training in the first car he ever bought, highlighting the absence of specialized trainers and the sacrifices made for vocational training when Kiptum chose to pursue an electronics course over formal education.

A Tale of Grit

Kelvin's uncle, Kiplagat Wilson, adds a layer of depth to the narrative, unveiling the early struggles that shaped Kiptum's path. Wilson reveals that Kiptum once borrowed sports shoes from celebrated marathoner Geoffrey Kamworor, which he never got, and faced initial setbacks in joining the Global Sports Communication, Eliud Kipchoge's training camp. "Kiptum never gave up. He tried joining the Global Sports Communication camp where Eliud Kipchoge trains, but that too never materialized."

Returning to Chepkorio, Kiptum rented a dilapidated house and began training fervently. Wilson proudly recalls Kiptum's ascent, winning the Family Bank Half Marathon in 2018 and triumphing over an elite field in the Kass Marathon in 2019. The village of Chepkorio erupted in joy when Kiptum broke the Marathon record, a testament to his journey from grassroots to greatness.

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The Coach's Vision

Gervais Hakizimana, Kiptum's coach, reveals the story of their partnership, illustrating the moniker he affectionately uses for Kiptum, his "killing machine." Hakizimana met Kelvin in 2015 while training on his father's land and, despite a brief stint in France, always returned to nurture Kiptum's potential. "In 2015, Kiptum asked me to help him in training, and we started that. In 2018, he won half a marathon in Eldoret, and that’s when I realized his true potential."

Locked in Kenya due to the pandemic in 2019, Hakizimana and Kiptum found the perfect opportunity to intensify their training in Kapatagat. Despite initial hesitations about full marathons, Kiptum embraced the challenge, leading to the groundbreaking world record. Hakizimana reflects, "It is a dream come true for us and the entire family."

Golazo's vison

Bob Verbeeck, Golazo Sports CEO, Kiptum’s management team, reflects on his longstanding relationship with Kenya and expresses joy in contributing to breaking a marathon world record. "1985 is the first time I came to Kenya, and I was welcomed really well, and it gives me pleasure that finally I have played a part in breaking a marathon world record."

Verbeeck acknowledges Kiptum's incredible performance in the last 12 kilometers of the marathon that led to his outstanding record and outlines Golazo's commitment to supporting him. "Golazo will support Kelvin as much as we can. Since the day I was welcomed to Kelvin’s home, I knew it is a fertile ground for a good athlete."

With the record-breaking achievement, expectations soar high, prompting Golazo to focus on providing Kiptum with strong training partners. "With the record, expectations are now high, and he needs strong athletes to train with. We are working on that," affirms Verbeeck.

Kenya's marathon hero Kelvin Kiptum takes a breather, sets sights on 2024

Kelvin Kiptum's Future Aspirations

In his own words, Kiptum reflects on his historic achievement, emphasizing that breaking the world record is just the beginning. "I am happy to have broken the world record in the marathon, but it is just the beginning. My target is to run faster, but the focus now is on the Paris 2024 Olympics. I will represent my country proudly." Kiptum, a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes, advises patience and hard work, cautioning against shortcuts.

As the cheers echo through the village, promises by the County Government of Uasin Gishu to install electric streetlights to illuminate the path to Kiptum's family homestead, the story of Kelvin Kiptum serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

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From the tranquil village paths of Chepsamo to the grandeur of marathon royalty, Kiptum's journey is a celebration of the extraordinary emerging from the ordinary. The marathon world has found a new champion, and his name, Kelvin Kiptum, will forever shine bright.