Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-11 23:04:56
World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his Rwandese coach Garvais Hakizimana tragically died in a road accident on the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine road at the Kaptagat area. The accident occurred at around 11pm on Sunday, according to Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Peter Mulinge.
Kiptum was driving a Toyota Premio with two passengers on board, his coach Garvais and a lady identified as Sharon Kosgey. They were headed to Eldoret when the accident happened. Sharon sustained serious injuries and was rushed to the Racecourse Hospital for medical attention, while Kiptum and Garvais lost their lives on the spot. The bodies of the athlete and his coach were taken to the Racecourse Hospital mortuary.
The vehicle was severely damaged and had to be towed to Kaptagat Police Station. According to County Commander Peter Mulinge, the accident was a result of Kiptum losing control of the vehicle, veering off the road, hitting a big tree, and landing in a ditch about 60 meters away.
Kiptum, who held the world marathon record, was also part of the Kenyan team selected for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. His coach, Garvais, tragically lost his life in the accident as well. This was a devastating loss for both the Kenyan and Rwandese athletic communities.
It is a heartbreaking tragedy to lose such talented individuals whose lives were cut short in a tragic accident. Kiptum’s achievements in the marathon had brought glory to Kenya, and his untimely death was a huge loss for the country’s sports fraternity. Additionally, his coach, Garvais, had played an instrumental role in Kiptum’s career, and his passing was deeply mourned by the athletic community.
The accident left the sporting world in shock and mourning. As news of the tragedy spread, tributes and condolences poured in from fellow athletes, sports officials, and fans. Kiptum’s legacy as a world marathon record holder, and the promise he showed as a young athlete, were remembered as the world mourned his passing.
The memories of Kiptum’s achievements on the track, including his participation in the London Marathon and his selection for the Olympic Games, served as a reminder of the promising talent that was lost. His victories and successes reminded us of the bright future that was awaiting him on the international stage.
The loss of Kiptum and his coach was a reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of accidents. Even the most talented and successful individuals are not immune to such tragedies. Their untimely deaths were a stark reminder to cherish every moment and to appreciate the gift of life.
As the sports world mourned the passing of Kelvin Kiptum and Garvais Hakizimana, their memories lived on through the indelible mark they had left on the athletic world. Their achievements, dedication, and passion for their sport would not be forgotten, and their legacy would continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
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