Kenya Marathon Star Kiptum’s Burial Scheduled For February 24

Kenya Marathon Star Kiptum’s Burial Scheduled For February 24....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Kenya’s renowned marathon record-breaker Kelvin Kiptum, who tragically lost his life in a car accident over the weekend, will be laid to rest on February 24, as confirmed by an official from the athletics federation in a statement to AFP on Wednesday….READ ALSO

After consultations with the family and government officials, the funeral arrangements and protocol have been finalized, setting the date for February 24,” stated Barnabas Korir, an executive committee member of Athletics Kenya, following a visit to the grieving family.

Kiptum, a 24-year-old father of two, and his coach Gervais Hakizimana from Rwanda, met their untimely demise in a car crash on Sunday night in the Eldoret region, renowned as the hub of Kenyan distance running.

“In recognition of Kenya’s esteemed world marathon record holder, a true national icon, the government will extend support to Kiptum’s family to ensure a dignified and heroic farewell,” affirmed Kenya’s cabinet in a statement released on Wednesday.

“Kiptum was a titan in the world of sports whose groundbreaking accomplishments inspired millions globally. He holds the distinction of being the sole individual to complete a marathon in under two hours and one minute.”

Kiptum set a new world marathon record in Chicago last October, surpassing the previous fastest time by his Kenyan compatriot, Eliud Kipchoge, by a remarkable 34 seconds.

He was anticipated to compete as the favorite in the marathon event at the upcoming Paris Olympics, where a highly anticipated showdown with Kipchoge was eagerly awaited.

In a gesture of respect and tribute, Athletics Kenya also announced the cancellation of trials for the African Games scheduled for this Friday and Saturday, “in memory of the late Kelvin Kiptum.”

The selection process for the Kenyan team set to participate in the Games, slated to be held in Accra, Ghana next month, will be postponed to a later date, yet to be determined.