Kelvin Kiptum’s Final Journey

*A picture of Kenyan marathon runner Kelvin Kiptum is seen next to a book of condoleance during his funeral proceedings in Iten, on February 22, 2024. (Photo by LUIS TATO / AFP)*

By Cynthia Lodite

Kenya’s world marathon record-holder Kelvin Kiptum will be laid to rest today at his hometown, the nation’s athletics heartland in Iten.

Among the significant guests attending the send off ceremony is President William Ruto and World Athletics head Sebastian Coe.

Coe, who arrived in Eldoret on Thursday, said he was mourning “an extraordinary young life” stopped in his prime.

“Kelvin’s achievements were extraordinary. That he should have scaled such heights at such a young age in itself is almost unique,” said Coe.

However Kiptum’s burial ceremony will not be held at the Chepsamo grounds as planned innitially.

Meanwhile following a last minute decision, the venue for World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum funeral service was moved to the Chepkorio show grounds in Keiyo South just a day to the burial.

According to the organizers the decision was concluded after strong winds buffeted the Chepsamo venue, occasioning damage to property on Thursday.

At the time the organisers told the media that the venue had been changed due to strong winds.

The father of two was involved in a grisily road accident alongside his coach in February 11, just months after shattering the marathon record in Chicago in October, stunning the world of athletic.

At the time , while Kiptum only competed in three marathons, he won all of the races, posting three of the seven fastest times for the event.