Kelvin Kiptum’s Father Shares Final Conversation Before Tragic Passing

The global community mourns the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum, the World Marathon Record holder, whose life was tragically cut short due to injuries sustained in a road accident on Sunday, February 11, 2024. A rising star, Kiptum, who made headlines by completing a marathon in 2:00:35 in October 2023, was the only child of Samson Cheruiyot.

Stricken with grief over the loss of his son, who leaves behind children of his own, Cheruiyot has appealed to the Kenyan government to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the marathoner’s death.

“I received the heartbreaking news of my son’s passing while watching the news. I rushed to the accident site, only to find that the police had already taken Kelvin’s body to Eldoret,” Cheruiyot recounted.

In an interview with the press, Kiptum’s father revealed that his last conversation with his son occurred on Saturday. During this conversation, the young marathoner had assured him of future victories and a promising career.

“He mentioned that someone would come to assist us in building a house. He expressed confidence in his physical condition, stating that he was ready to achieve a time of 1:59 in his runs,” Cheruiyot recalled of their final exchange.

“Kiptum was my sole child. His departure has left a void not only for me but also for his mother and his own children. My wife has been unwell for some time. At this moment, I am overwhelmed with sorrow.”

While urging authorities to investigate the circumstances of his son’s demise, Cheruiyot also disclosed that unidentified individuals had visited their home recently inquiring about Kiptum.

“Some time ago, a group of four individuals visited our home searching for Kiptum, but they refused to reveal their identities. When I requested identification, they chose to leave,” he explained, emphasizing the need for government intervention in supporting the education of the marathoner’s children.

Kiptum, aged 24, and his Rwandan coach, Gervais Hakizimana, tragically passed away around 11 p.m. on Sunday, along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine Road in the Kaptagat area of Elgeyo Marakwet County.