Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum to Be Laid to Rest on February 24
Kelvin Kiptum, the world record holder in marathon running, will be buried on February 24 in Chepkorio, Kenya, following his tragic death in a road accident alongside his coach. The Ministry of Sports in Kenya is coordinating the burial arrangements, with tributes pouring in for the young athlete hailed as a national hero.
The burial committee informed the BBC that Kelvin Kiptum, the holder of the marathon world record, will be laid to rest on February 24 in his hometown of Chepkorio, located in northwest Kenya.
Kiptum, aged 24, tragically lost his life in a road accident on Sunday night alongside his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
The Ministry of Sports in Kenya is set to oversee the burial proceedings in collaboration with the family. Ababu Namwamba, the Sports Cabinet Secretary, described Kiptum as a national hero, affirming that he would be accorded the same respect in death as he was during his lifetime.
Kenya's parliament observed a minute of silence to honor Kiptum on Tuesday.
The police confirmed to the BBC that investigations into the accident are ongoing.
Kiptum gained worldwide recognition after setting the marathon world record in Chicago last year. He is remembered as an athlete of extraordinary talent destined for greatness.
During his brief but illustrious career spanning 10 months, Kiptum also claimed victories in elite races in Valencia and London.
As for his coach, a burial date has yet to be determined for the Rwandan national.
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