MARATHON world record holder Kelvin Kiptum has died aged 24.
Here we take a look into , his career highlights and achievements, and the tributes shared.
What was Kelvin Kiptum's cause of death?
On February 11, 2024, it was reported that winner Kelvin Kiptum had died aged just 24.
The long distance runner tragically passed away after being involved in a car crash on a road in Western .
Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero
Raila Odinga
The athlete was killed alongside his coach Garvais Hakizimana.
Elgeyo Marakwet Commander Petr Mulinge confirmed the accident took place at approximately 11pm (8pm GMT) on Sunday, February 11, 2024.
According to Police Commander Petr Mulinge, Kelvin had lost control of the vehicle, veering off the road and landing in a ditch about 60 metres away, before colliding with a tree.
He added that both Kelvin and Garvais Hakizimana “died on the spot”.
Local reports also stated that a second passenger – a lady identified as Sharon Kosgey – was in the car at the time of the crash.
She survived the impact but suffered serious injuries, and was transported to Racecourse Hospital to recieve medical attention.
The bodies of Kelvin and his coach Garvais Hakizimana were taken to the hospital's mortuary.
When did Kelvin Kiptum set the marathon world record?
In 2023, the late athlete celebrated his finest career victory after he smashed the world marathon record in .
Kelvin completed the 26 mile race in just two hours and 35 seconds – beating the mark of fellow Kenyan .
The star had made the switch to running the marathon from shorter distance races a year prior to setting the record pace.
The International track federation only ratified his records in February 2024.
What other marathon's did Kelvin Kiptum win?
In addition to achieving world-record breaking success, Kelvin had also won the London Marathon in April 2023.
During the famous race, Kelvin broke the course record – crossing the finish line in two hours one minute and 25 seconds.
In an interview with the BBC in 2023, Kelvin had opened up on his rise to success.
He said: ”It has been a long journey for me through my career. I have been trying so hard to pursue this dream to run a world record.
“It has come true and I am really happy. My life has now changed.”
His coach Garvais Hakizimana – who also died in the crash – participated in the same interview and spoke of Kelvin.
He said: “I knew him when he was a little boy, herding livestock barefooted.
“It was in 2009, I was training near his father's farm, he'd come kicking at my heels and I would chase him away.
“Now, I am grateful to him for his achievement.”
What has been said about Kelvin Kiptum's death?
Following the news of Kelvin Kiptum's death, a number of tributes have poured in, with Kenya's former prime minister confirming the ”the profound loss of a true hero”.
Raila Odinga took to the site X and wrote: “Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, World Record holder and Kenyan icon.
“Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight.”
“My deepest condolences to his loved ones, friends, and the entire athletics fraternity.
“Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero.”
Also paying tribute, World Athletics president Seb Coe said: “On behalf of all World Athletics we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates and the Kenyan nation.
“It was only earlier this week in Chicago, the place where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon World Record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time.
“An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly.”
London Marathon organisers wrote: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
“The thoughts of everyone at the TCS London Marathon are with Kelvin’s and Gervais’ family and friends.”
Kenyan Sports Minister Ababu Namwamba also took to X and said: “Devastatingly sickening!! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words.”
What was Kelvin Kiptum's net worth?
Prior to his passing, the exact figure of Kelvin Kiptum's was not publicly shared.
However, he was thought to have amassed an estimated net worth of $500,000 (approximately £396,000), according to various reports.
Kelvin's primary source of income had stemmed from his illustrious career in athletics.
