Decorated athlete Eliud Kipchoge has sent his condolences to the family of record holder Kelvin Kiptum, who died in a grisly road accident along with his Rwandese coach, Garvis Hakizimana.
Kipchoge referred to Kiptum as a rising star who had his whole life ahead of him to achieve great things.
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of world record holder and rising star Kelvin Kiptum. 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 trying time," he posted.
Kelvin Kiptum and Eliud Kipchoge were set to come face to face during this year's Paris Olympics, and Kiptum was excited to run alongside the legendary Kipchoge.
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"I'm excited to compete with Eliud if I'm chosen to represent Kenya at the upcoming Olympics." "I'm ready to race with him," Kiptum remarked.
Several athletes and leaders joined in to send their condolences to the Kiptum family.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana. My condolences to the families, friends,athletic fraternity and Kenya at large. This is a huge loss,” world 800m record holder David Rudisha wrote on X.
“Rest in Peace Kelvin Kiptum. Gone too soon but you will never be forgotten. Legend,” world cross country champion Beatrice Chebet wrote on Facebook.
"Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, World Record holder and Kenyan athletics 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" Opposition leader Raila Tweeted.
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach. His remarkable talent and unwavering dedication to athletics inspired countless individuals.
— Musalia W Mudavadi (@MusaliaMudavadi) February 11, 2024
He made an indelible mark not only through his achievements but also through mentorship and leadership,… pic.twitter.com/DQxeAdPuXN