HAPPENING RIGHT NOW: Somber Mood Engulfs Chepkorio As Kiptum’s Body Arrives for Burial

The boy of the late Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum has arrived at Chepkorio ASK showground for the final ceremony. The body, onboard a classic hearse, made its way into the grounds some minutes past 9:00 am on Friday.

It was accompanied by close family members and athletes. The hearse moved in a slow pace as Kenyans who had trooped the place stood up as a sign of final respect to the fallen hero.

His wife and the children were seated on the front seat of the hearse as it made its way into the stadium.

His casket was immediately opened and those who had arrived were allowed to view the body before the program began. Already, various dignitaries including leaders of  international athletics bodies have arrived in Chepkorio for the burial.

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President William Ruto is expected to land in the region any time now and the program will officially kick off.

Today marks the somber occasion of the burial of Kelvin Kiptum who tragically passed away on February 11th at the youthful age of 24. He will be remembered for his exceptional talent and promising future in the world of athletics.

The devastating news of Kiptum’s untimely demise was further compounded by the loss of his Rwandese coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 21st. Both Kiptum and Hakizimana were victims of a fatal road accident, sending shockwaves across the globe and leaving the sports community mourning their loss.

Kiptum’s promising career was abruptly halted amidst preparations for the Rotterdam marathon and the forthcoming Olympics. Hailed as the potential successor to the legendary Eliud Kipchoge, often regarded as the Greatest All Time Marathoner, Kiptum’s passing has left Kenya mourning the loss of a future marathon icon.

The city of Eldoret, known as the “city of champions,” stood still as Kiptum’s casket was transported through its streets, with fans and admirers gathering to pay their final respects to the Kenyan prodigy.

President William Ruto, leading the nation in mourning, paid tribute to Kiptum’s legacy, acknowledging his unparalleled contributions to the world of sports. “Kelvin Kiptum was undeniably one of the finest sportsmen the world has ever seen, breaking barriers and setting records that will be remembered for generations to come,” remarked President Ruto, encapsulating the sentiment shared by many across the nation and beyond.