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Kelvin Kiptum's name will forever be etched in marathon history, as his impact in athletics is undeniable despite tragically passing away at a young age. The Kenyan left behind a legacy of exceptional talent, shattered records, and a story that continues to inspire. Find out more about the life and times of the marathon world record holder and his rise to prominence.
From the cattle fields to breaking world records, Kiptum’s life was a story of resilience, impact and lasting legacy. A journey that began at a young age of 13, lasted over a decade, producing achievements worth a lifetime within a relatively short period.
Kiptum’s death left a sour taste in the world of athletics, but telling his story and celebrating his achievements is one of the best ways to honour his memory.
Where is Kelvin Kiptum from?
Kelvin Kiptum was born and raised in Chepsamo village, Chepkorio, in the Keiyo District of Kenya. This region, nestled within the Rift Valley's high-altitude terrain, is a renowned breeding ground for long-distance running champions. The Keiyo District's legacy of distance running greats likely fueled Kiptum's own aspirations and provided a supportive environment for his early training. Growing up, he herded his family's cattle while still finding a way to join older athletes to run.
When did Kelvin Kiptum start running?
Kiptum started running around 2013, when he was only 13 years-old. Despite being barely a teenager, he followed elite athletes training in the high-altitude region, running barefoot along the forest trails.
Kiptum’s coach Gervais Hakizimana confirmed this while speaking with AFP. “He was small but would follow us, barefoot, after tending the goats and sheep. That was in 2013, he hadn’t really started running yet,” he said.
In the same year he started running, Kiptum entered his first half marathon in Eldoret in 2013, finishing 10th. However, he continued to participate and five years later when he was 18 years old, he won the race.
Kelvin Kiptum’s parents
Kiptum was the only child of Samson Cheruiyot and his wife, who resided in the high-altitude village of Chepsamo, Kenya, a region known for nurturing distance runners.
Kiptum's parents played a crucial role in his upbringing, as they instilled a strong work ethic and dedication in their son. However, the tragic loss of their only child left Samson and his wife deeply devastated despite getting immense pride from what he achieved during his lifetime. The Kenyan government stepped in to construct new homes for both Kiptum's widow and his parents, doing all they can to honour his legacy.
Kelvin Kiptum’s wife and children
Kiptum was a devoted husband to Asenath Cheruto Rotich, and together they had two young children, a son named Caleb and a daughter named Precious.
Kiptum’s spoke glowingly of the athlete and how dedicated he was to her and their children. In an interview after his death, she revealed how he had promised their kids a watch while also planning to take her along to his next race in Rotterdam.
However, as reported by Pulse Sports Kenya, a woman, Edna Awuor, has claimed to have a child with the late world marathon record holder, stating that his family were aware of their relationship.
Who is Kelvin Kiptum's coach?
Kiptum's coach was Gervais Hakizimana, a runner from Rwanda who specialized in the 3000-meter steeplechase and even held the Rwandan national record in that event. Hakizimana began training Kiptum in 2020, and their collaboration is credited with Kiptum's rapid rise in the marathon world. Tragically, Hakizimana died alongside Kiptum in the same car accident, leaving the athletics world mourning the loss of both this talented runner and his dedicated coach.
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What killed Kelvin Kiptum?
Kiptum died in a car accident on February 11, 2024, near his home in Kenya, when was just 24 years old. Details surrounding the crash are still under investigation, but reports indicate he was driving late at night and suffered fatal head injuries. His coach, Hakizimana also died in the same car accident, but another passenger survived and may hold crucial information.
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Kelvin Kiptum's world record
Kiptum's name is synonymous with the marathon world record. At the 2023 Chicago Marathon, the young Kenyan defied expectations, clocking a phenomenal 2:00:35. This blistering time sliced a staggering 34 seconds off the previous record held by his compatriot, Eliud Kipchoge.
Kiptum's feat not only propelled him to the top of the marathon rankings but also sparked excitement about the possibility of the coveted sub-2-hour marathon becoming a reality. A lot of fans and stakeholders were looking forward to this possibility in the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, his life tragically ended shortly after, but his world record has made it possible to imagine an historical sub-2-hour marathon time.
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Kelvin Kiptum networth
Kiptum's net worth is estimated to be $5 million before his death. The bulk of his wealth came from his phenomenal running career, specifically prize money from victories like the London and Chicago Marathons. He earned about $150,000 from the Chicago race for finishing in first place and setting a world record. The record holder also earned lucrative sponsorship deals that contributed significantly to his wealth.
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