LISTEN TO THIS THE AFRICANA VOICE ARTICLE NOW
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Hundreds of mourners, including dignitaries and fellow athletes, gathered Friday, February 23 in the Kenyan town of Chepkorio in the Rift Valley to pay their respects to world marathon record-holder Kelvin Kiptum, who died tragically in a car crash on February 11th.
The 24-year-old athlete, who shattered the marathon record in Chicago last year, was hailed as a national hero and a rising star in the world of athletics. His sudden death sent shockwaves through Kenya and the wider sporting community.
Kenyan President William Ruto and World Athletics president Sebastian Coe were among the prominent figures who attended the funeral ceremony. Coe described Kiptum’s achievements as “extraordinary,” highlighting his exceptional talent and young age. “Kelvin, you achieved greatness and inspired us all. We will miss you dearly,” he said on X.
Thousands of mourners, including fellow runners like 1,500m record holder Faith Kipyegon, arrived at the venue early, many wearing shirts emblazoned with Kiptum’s image. The somber ceremony featured religious hymns, viewing of the body, and large screens streaming the event for those gathered outside.
The nation mourned Kiptum not only for his record-breaking performance but also for his dedication and potential. He was considered the favorite for the upcoming Paris Olympics marathon. Tributes poured in from across the globe, with Kenya’s leading newspaper, The Standard, declaring “Fare Thee Well” in a prominent headline.
The ceremony followed a legal dispute regarding Kiptum’s burial. A woman claiming to be the mother of his child sought to delay the proceedings for a paternity test. However, the Eldoret High Court dismissed the request, allowing the burial to go forward as planned.
Following the emotional ceremony, Kiptum was laid to rest in Naiberi, near Eldoret, where the government built a new home for his family. His coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who also died in the crash, was laid to rest in Rwanda earlier this week.
LEAVE A COMMENT
You must be logged in to post a comment.