Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-12 07:31:33
Kelvin Kiptum’s Tragic Demise: A Loss for Kenyan Athletics
The world of athletics was shocked by the tragic news of Kelvin Kiptum’s untimely demise in a car crash along the Eldoret-Ravine road in Kaptagat. Kiptum, known as the world marathon record holder, was driving with his coach from Rwanda, Gervais Hakizimana, when the accident occurred at approximately 11pm on Sunday. Both Kiptum and Hakizimana died on the spot, while a third passenger, identified as 24-year-old Sharon Chepkurui Kosgei, was rushed to the hospital for treatment.
Just a day before the accident, Kiptum had exhibited a high level of energy and focus during his training session in Kaptagat. He was joined by Timothy Kiplagat, a close friend and training partner, who had been selected as part of Kenya’s team for the Paris Olympic Games. Kiplagat was scheduled to compete alongside Eliud Kipchoge at the Tokyo Marathon as a final build-up to the Olympics. The two runners were known for pushing each other during their training sessions, with Nahashon Kibon, their coach, describing their relationship as that of brothers.
Kibon, who has coached many talented athletes, emphasized the bond between Kiptum and Kiplagat and their dedication to training. On Saturday, the group had completed an 18.2-kilometer “fartlek” session, a training method involving random variations of speed and bursts of intensity, moderated by slower recovery spells of jogging.
Additionally, Kiptum had recently completed a 35-kilometer long run session on Thursday, which would turn out to be his final long run before the tragic accident. Despite the intensity of the training, Kiptum and his group were full of energy, with plans to reconvene for another group session on the following Tuesday.
Kiptum’s positive outlook was evident in his desire to take photographs after the long run session on Thursday. He emphasized the importance of cherishing memories and expressed gratitude to his coaches for their support. Kibon recounted the moments leading up to the accident, expressing disbelief at the sudden turn of events. He reflected on Kiptum’s upbeat mood after the session and the plans for future training sessions, emphasizing the impact of Kiptum’s loss on the entire training group.
Kibon also highlighted the presence of other seasoned athletes in Kiptum’s training group, including Edward Cheserek, Caroline Chepkwony, and Eunice Chebichii. The group had been preparing for various upcoming races and had established a strong bond during their training sessions.
As Kibon prepared to assemble the training group to travel to Eldoret and view Kiptum’s body at the hospital, the entire athletics community mourned the loss of a talented athlete and dedicated teammate. Kiptum’s memory will live on as a reminder of the impact he had on those around him and the optimism with which he approached his athletic career. Despite the tragedy, the spirit of the training group remained strong, reflecting Kiptum’s belief in the support and preparation provided by their coaches as they continued to pursue their athletic aspirations.
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