24 year Old Kenyan world record marathon runner Kelvin Kiptum dies in a car crash.

The world continues to pay tribute to the 24-year-old Kenyan world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum, after his death through a grisly road accident with his 34-year-old coach Gervais Hakizimana on Sunday 11pm local time as reported by the Police. The third passenger, Sharon Kosgey survived and has so far been discharged from MTRH, Eldoret.

According to the county police commander Mr. Peter Mulinge, Kiptum was driving with two other passengers when he lost control of his vehicle, veered off the road and hit a tree before landing in a ditch.

Kiptum won the London marathon in April 2023 and went ahead to break Kipchoge’s world record in October the same year in Chicago. Among those who have paid tribute includes His excellency the President William Ruto, former prime minister Raila Odinga, Cabinet Secretary for sports Ababu Namwamba, the president of World athletics Sebastian Coe and the former world marathon record holder Mr. Eliud Kipchoge.

In a tragic pattern, Kiptum joins the list of esteemed Kenyan athletes lost to fatal road accidents. In 2018, Nicholas Bett, the world 400m hurdles champion, and gold medalist succumbed to a road accident while returning from Nairobi. The same year saw the demise of Francis Kiplagat, a marathon athlete, in a car crash. David Lelei, the 800M & 1,500 African champion, fell victim to a car crash in 2010.

Notable figures surviving serious road accidents include David Rudisha, the 800m world record holder, Moses Tanui, the former world champion in 10,000m, Julius Yego and Paul Tergat, the former world marathon champion, and current President of the National Olympics Committee of Kenya.

These incidents are not isolated occurrences. They reflect the broader issue of unsafe roads. Unmarked bumps, speeding, and inadequate infrastructure contributing to a dangerous environment for all drivers, including athletes who travel frequently for training and competitions.

The impact extends beyond individual tragedies. It deprives Kenya of its sporting talents, dampens national pride, and sends a chilling message about the risks associated with travel.
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Improved infrastructure: Investing in better roads, clear signage, and proper speed bumps is crucial.
• Stricter enforcement: Traffic laws need to be rigorously enforced to deter speeding and reckless driving.
• Driver education: Raising awareness about road safety practices and responsible driving habits is essential.
• Support for athletes: Providing safe transportation options and promoting responsible driving among athletes can mitigate risks.

The loss of even one champion is a significant blow. By prioritizing road safety, Kenya can protect its athletes, ensure their well-being, and prevent further tragedies. This is not just about protecting national pride; it’s about safeguarding lives and creating a safer environment for everyone on the road.

Let’s remember the champions impacted by road accidents and work together to create a Kenya where their journeys are safe, and their talents can continue to inspire. Our upcoming article will delve into these safety risks and measures, ensuring our athletes remain secure and at the peak of their performance for the upcoming Paris Olympics.