Remembering Kelvin Kiptum: marathon king who left too soon
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 11.02.25. | 14:40
In October 2023, he became the first man to officially run a marathon in under 2 hours and 1 minute, clocking 2:00:35 at the Chicago Marathon
On the night of Sunday, February 11, 2024 the world was brought into mourning following the loss of a running sensation Kelvin Kiptum.
The 24-year-old marathoner died in a tragic car accident along the Eldoret-Ravine highway.
Today, we remember Kelvin Kiptum. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/Gzae2DP3xP
— Abbott WMMajors (@WMMajors) February 11, 2025
Reports indicate that Kiptum lost control of his vehicle, veered off the road into a ditch for about 60 meters, and collided with a tree. The crash also claimed the life of his Rwandan coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
At just 23, Kiptum rewrote marathon history.
In October 2023, he became the first man to officially run a marathon in under 2 hours and 1 minute, clocking 2:00:35 at the Chicago Marathon.
His time shattered Eliud Kipchoge’s previous world record of 2:01:09 by 34 seconds. Kiptum's dominance in the sport was undeniable.
Earlier in 2023, he had also set a course record of 2:01:25 at the London Marathon, proving he was a once-in-a-generation talent.
The athletics world was still celebrating his achievements when tragedy struck. Just six days before his death, on February 6, 2024 his record was officially ratified by World Athletics.
The promise of seeing him battle Kipchoge at the Paris 2024 Olympic Marathon was a dream that many fans had eagerly anticipated.
Kiptum’s impact on the sport has not gone unnoticed.
The Chicago Marathon, where he made history, has lined up several tributes in his honor. Last year, the event began with a moment of silence, allowing participants and spectators to reflect on Kiptum’s remarkable journey. A special exhibit at the pre-race expo also showcased his achievements.
In London, where Kiptum also left his mark, the 2024 edition of the marathon honored him with a video tribute before the start of the men’s race, followed by a round of applause from both runners and spectators.
Beyond the records and accolades, Kiptum was a son, a husband, and a father. His father, Mzee Samson Cheruiyot, has spoken about the struggles the family now faces.
“I talk to my son in the grave every morning. When he was alive, we never lacked anything. He provided for all our needs. But now, we are struggling. We haven't been recognized as Kiptum’s parents, and many promises made to us have not been fulfilled," he told Tuko News.
Among the unresolved issues is a house that remains unfinished and financial support that was pledged but has yet to materialize.
Kiptum left behind his widow, Asenette Kiptum, and their two young children Kigen, four, and Cherop, seven.
