World record holder Kelvin Kiptum will be accorded a heroic sendoff by the Government.
The cabinet on Wednesday resolved to support Kiptum’s family in giving him a befitting heroic burial. Ensuring that Kiptum will have a dignified and heroic farewell as a national hero.
“In honour of Kenya’s departed world marathon record holder, a true national hero, the Government will support Kiptum’s family in according him a befitting heroic farewell. Cabinet also noted the ongoing interventions by the Ministry of Sports to better protect the country’s sporting icons, and urged all road users to uphold traffic laws and practice safe road use; two of the most important tools for preventing road accident tragedies such as the one that robbed Kenya and the world of Kelvin Kiptum.” Read the despatch from the cabinet.
Meanwhile, the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (Nock) executive members, led by President Dr. Paul Tergat, arrived at Kiptum’s family home to extend their heartfelt condolences and share in the mourning with the bereaved family.
Tergat, also a former marathon world record holder was accompanied by Secretary General Francis Mutuku and Treasurer Eliud Kariuki.
Dr. Tergat, expressed empathy, assured the grieving family and the athletics community of unwavering support during this challenging time.
“We’re still grappling with the emotions of losing an athlete. It will never be easy, but we have to summon strength within ourselves. As we run in Paris, it will be a run in unity, dedicated to Kelvin’s memory and the resilience of our athletic community.” Said Tergat.
Also in honor of the departed Chicago Marathon champion, Athletics Kenya cancelled trials for African Games which were scheduled to take place on 16th and 17th February, 2024 at the Nyayo National Stadium.
The Trials for African Games which were scheduled for 16th and 17th
Feb, 2024 at Nyayo Stadium is cancelled in honor of the
late Kelvin Kiptum. The selection criteria will be announced later. #AthleticsKenya #KelvinKiptum pic.twitter.com/nJT6FbfFoR— Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) February 14, 2024
The federation noted that the selection process for the team that represent the country at the African Games which will be held on 18th to 22nd March 2024 in Accra, Ghana, will be announced later.
The 24 year old marathoner and his Rwandese coach, Gervais Hakizimana died on the spot in a grisly road accident at Kaptagat area along the Elgeyo-Marakwet –Ravine Road late Sunday night at 2300hrs.
A lady identified as Sharon Kosgey who was driving with them was rushed at Racecourse Hospital but was later referred to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, Usain Gishu County.
His death was confirmed by Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commandant Peter Mulinge who said Kiptum lost control of his car a Toyota Premio, and veered off the road and drove in the ditch for about 60metres before hitting a big tree.
