Kelvin Kiptum Biography
Born on December 2, 1999 – February 11, 2024, a long-distance runner Kelvin Kiptum represents Kenya and has established himself in the marathon.
At the Valencia Marathon in 2022, where he made his marathon debut, he ran the fourth-fastest time in history, becoming just the third person to do so.
As of 2024, he held three of the seven fastest marathon times in history and was ranked as the world’s top male marathon runner at the time of his passing.
Kiptum made history by winning all three marathons he competed in, including two prestigious World Marathon Majors (WMM) between December 2022 and October 2023.
In each race, he set a course record, finishing in under 2 hours and 2 minutes.
His remarkable marathon career began with the fastest-ever debut at the 2022 Valencia Marathon, where he became only the third man in history to break the 2:02 barrier, recording the fourth-fastest marathon time ever.
Just four months later, he ran the second-fastest marathon in history at the 2023 London Marathon (WMM), finishing in 2:01:25—only 16 seconds shy of the world record.
Kiptum cemented his legacy at the 2023 Chicago Marathon in October, where he shattered the marathon world record by 34 seconds, finishing in 2:00:35.
This record was officially ratified by World Athletics on February 6, 2024 just five days before his tragic passing.
On February 11, 2024, Kiptum and his coach lost their lives in a car accident in Kaptagat, Kenya, a renowned training hub for elite long-distance runners.
According to local authorities, Kiptum lost control of his vehicle, veered off the road, and crashed into a tree.
His untimely death was a devastating loss to the world of athletics, but his legacy as one of the greatest marathon runners of all time will never be forgotten.
Kelvin Kiptum Wikipedia
Full Name: Kelvin Kiptum Cheruiyot
Date of Birth: December 2, 1999
Place of Birth: Chepsamo village, Marakwet District, Kenya
Ethnicity: Kalenjin
Nationality: Kenyan
Height: Approx. 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 m)
Weight: Around 65 kg (143 lbs)
Specialty: Long-distance running (Marathon)
Marathon Debut: 2022 Valencia Marathon (2:01:53 – fastest debut marathon in history)
World Record: 2023 Chicago Marathon (2:00:35 – ratified as the official marathon world record)
Other Major Wins: 2023 London Marathon (2:01:25 – course record)
Training Coach: Gervais Hakizimana
Training Location: Chepkorio, Kenya
Marital Status: Married
Wife: Asenath Cheruto Rotich
Children: Two
Date of Death: February 11, 2024
Cause of Death: Car accident near Kaptagat, Kenya
Coach’s Death: Gervais Hakizimana also died in the crash
Burial Site: His farm in Naiberi, Kenya
Early Life of Kelvin Kiptum
Kelvin Kiptum was born on December 2, 1999, in Chepsamo village, Marakwet District, located in Chepkorio, a high-altitude region (approximately 2,600 meters) in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya’s Rift Valley.
He was the only child of Samson Cheruiyot and his wife. Growing up, Kiptum spent much of his childhood herding his family’s cattle.
Inspired by local runners, he began running barefoot along forest trails.
His passion for athletics grew, and by 2013, at the age of 13, he started formal training, marking the beginning of his journey to becoming one of the greatest marathon runners in history.
Kelvin Kiptum’s Career: From Rising Star to Marathon World Record Holder
Kelvin Kiptum began his competitive running journey in 2013 at just 13 years old, finishing 10th in the Family Bank Eldoret Half Marathon in Kenya.
He placed 12th the following year and, by 2018, had won the race despite being self-coached at the time.
In March 2019, Kiptum made his international debut at the Lisbon Half Marathon, finishing fifth with a personal best of 59:54.
That year, he competed in six other races across Europe and won the prestigious Kass Half Marathon in Kenya in November.
In 2020, he began training under Rwandan 3000m steeplechase record holder Gervais Hakizimana, although reports suggest he had occasionally trained with him since 2013.
By this time, Kiptum had already started preparing for marathon racing.
In December 2020, he achieved a breakthrough at the Valencia Half Marathon, running 58:42 and placing sixth.
The following year, he secured victories in the Lens Half Marathon (59:35) and ran 59:02 at the Valencia Half Marathon, finishing eighth.
Historic Marathon Debut at the 2022 Valencia Marathon:
In December 2022, at the age of 23, Kiptum made a stunning debut in the marathon, winning the Valencia Marathon with a time of 2:01:53, the fastest marathon debut in history.
His performance was the fourth-fastest marathon ever recorded, making him only the third man in history to break the 2:02 barrier.
Kiptum ran a negative split, completing the second half of the race in a record 60:15, with an astonishing 14:00 split from 30–35 km and 28:05 from 30–40 km—the fastest closing splits ever seen in marathon racing.
He shattered the course record by over a minute and defeated top competitors, including 2022 world marathon champion Tamirat Tola.
Dominating the 2023 London Marathon:
In April 2023, Kiptum delivered another record-breaking performance at the London Marathon, winning in 2:01:25.
His time was just 16 seconds shy of the world record at the time and significantly faster than Eliud Kipchoge’s previous course record (2:02:37).
Setting the Marathon World Record at the 2023 Chicago Marathon:
On October 8, 2023, Kiptum ran his third marathon at the Chicago Marathon and made history by setting a new world record of 2:00:35, breaking Kipchoge’s previous record by 34 seconds.
He also crushed the course record by over three minutes.
Kiptum once again used a negative split strategy, running the first half in 60:48 nearly a minute faster than his London performance.
He maintained an extraordinary pace, covering the second half in 59:47.
Around the 30K mark, he made his signature move, running an incredible 13:35 split from 32–37 km at a pace of 2:43 min/km (22.09 km/h).
His overall marathon pace averaged 2:51 min/km (20.99 km/h).
He took the lead after the 15K mark, ran without a pacemaker after halfway, and dominated the race alone from the 30K mark onward, finishing nearly three and a half minutes ahead of his compatriot Benson Kipruto.
Kelvin Kiptum’s Training Regimen and Legacy
After Kelvin Kiptum’s record-breaking performance at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, shared insights into the athlete’s intense training routine.
Kiptum ran 250 to 280 km (155–173 miles) per week in preparation for the 2023 London Marathon.
His training schedule includes Daily morning runs covering 25–28 km, Track or fartlek sessions on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and Long-distance runs of 30–40 km at marathon pace on Thursdays and Sundays
Tragic Death and Global Reactions
On February 11, 2024, Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, tragically lost their lives in a road accident near Kaptagat, Kenya.
According to local police, Kiptum lost control of his vehicle, veered off the road, and crashed into a tree.
Four men who had visited him earlier that day regarding a running shoe contract were detained for questioning.
The news of Kiptum’s passing sent shockwaves through the global athletics community:
1. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe stated: “On behalf of all World Athletics, we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates, and the Kenyan nation.
It was only earlier this week in Chicago, where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon world record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time. An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy—we will miss him dearly.”
2. Former marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge expressed his sorrow, saying: “I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of the marathon world record holder and rising star Kelvin Kiptum.
He had a whole life ahead of him to achieve incredible greatness. My deepest condolences to his young family. May God comfort them during this trying time.”
3. Kenyan President William Ruto honored Kiptum’s legacy, calling him: “A star. One of the world’s finest sportsmen who broke barriers to set a marathon record.”
He later ordered a house to be built for Kiptum’s family, to be completed within the 40-day mourning period.
Things to Know About Late Marathon Star Kelvin Kiptum
1. A Record-Breaking Marathon Champion: Kenyan marathon sensation Kelvin Kiptum, who tragically passed away in a car accident on February 11, 2024, at the age of 24, rose to global prominence after shattering the marathon world record in Chicago in October 2023.
Born in Kenya’s Rift Valley, the heartland of elite long-distance running, Kiptum began running at a young age, inspired by professional athletes training in the region’s high altitudes.
2. A Historic Debut and World Record Feat: Kelvin Kiptum made an unforgettable entrance into the marathon world in 2022, delivering a stunning debut in Valencia, where he clocked 2:01:53, the fastest debut marathon in history.
Less than a year later, in just his third career marathon, Kiptum shattered the world record at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, becoming the first man to run a record-eligible race in under two hours and one minute.
Crossing the finish line in 2:00:35, he broke Eliud Kipchoge’s record by 34 seconds, cementing his status as a marathon legend.
After the race, Kiptum humbly stated:
“A world record was not in my mind today. I knew that one day, I would be a world-record holder.”
He was set to make his Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where fans eagerly anticipated a showdown between Kiptum and fellow Kenyan legend Eliud Kipchoge.
3. A Grueling Training Regimen: Kiptum was known for his intense training schedule, often running more than 300 kilometers (190 miles) per week.
He frequently trained in the high-altitude areas of Chepkorio and Kerio Valley, dedicating his life to pushing the limits of marathon performance.
His coach, Gervais Hakizimana, who also died in the crash, described Kiptum’s rigorous routine 25–28 km daily runs, Track and fartlek workouts on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and 30–40 km long runs at marathon pace on Thursdays and Sundays
4. A Journey from Humble Beginnings: Kelvin Kiptum grew up in Chepkorio, Kenya, where he herded cattle as a young boy.
At 13 years old, he competed in his first half marathon in Eldoret, finishing 10th. By 18, he won the race.
Despite his success, Kiptum remained humble and deeply committed to his craft, often training barefoot as a child before eventually joining Hakizimana’s coaching program in 2021.
5. Tragic Death and Global Reactions: On February 11, 2024, Kiptum was driving from Kaptagat to Eldoret when he lost control of his car, veering off the road and crashing into a tree.
He and his coach died on the spot, while a female passenger sustained serious injuries.
His untimely passing sent shockwaves through the global sports community.
Tributes from Around the World
Kenyan President William Ruto:
“Kelvin Kiptum was an extraordinary sportsman who broke barriers to secure a marathon record. He was our future.”
Eliud Kipchoge (Former Marathon World Record Holder):
“An athlete who had a whole life ahead of him to achieve incredible greatness.”
Faith Kipyegon (World Athlete of the Year):
Reacted with three crying emojis on social media, mourning Kiptum’s loss.
Kelvin Kiptum’s Legacy
At the 2024 Chicago Marathon, Kenyan runner Ruth Chepng’etich dedicated her world record-breaking performance to Kelvin Kiptum, paying tribute to his remarkable impact on marathon running.
Kelvin Kiptum’s Achievements
Based on data from World Athletics rankings.
Personal Bests:
| Event | Time | Location | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10,000 meters (Track) | 28:27.87 | Stockholm, Sweden | May 4, 2021 | – |
| 10 km (Road) | 28:17 | Utrecht, Netherlands | October 6, 2019 | – |
| Half Marathon | 58:42 | Valencia, Spain | December 6, 2020 | – |
| Marathon | 2:00:35 | Chicago, USA | October 8, 2023 | World Record |
Marathon Performances:
| Year | Competition | Venue | Position | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Valencia Marathon | Valencia, Spain | 1st | 2:01:53 | Course Record, 4th fastest all-time |
| 2023 | London Marathon | London, UK | 1st | 2:01:25 | Course Record, 2nd fastest all-time |
| 2023 | Chicago Marathon | Chicago, USA | 1st | 2:00:35 | World Record (Previous WR -34s) |
World Marathon Majors Performance (2023 Season – Series XV):
| Race | Position | Time |
|---|---|---|
| London Marathon | 1st | 2:01:25 |
| Chicago Marathon | 1st | 2:00:35 |
| Overall Standings | Winner | 50 Points |
Kiptum’s Lasting Impact
Kelvin Kiptum’s incredible marathon performances redefined the sport, setting new standards for endurance running.
His world record of 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon remains a testament to his talent, discipline, and determination.
He will forever be remembered as one of the greatest marathoners in history, inspiring future generations of runners.
Kelvin Kiptum Promising Future
As he continues to set records and establish himself as a world-class runner, Kiptum’s success in the marathon has made him someone to watch in the future.
He stands out from other runners thanks to his outstanding marathon debut, and his ability to continuously run fast times is evidence of both his talent and commitment to the sport.
Fans of long-distance running will be keenly looking to see what Kiptum may accomplish next since additional races are on the horizon.
Kelvin Kiptum Height and Weight
Kelvin Kiptum, the renowned Kenyan marathoner, stood approximately 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters) tall and weighed around 143 pounds (65 kilograms).
Kelvin Kiptum Age and Ethnicity
Kelvin Kiptum was 24 years old at the time of his passing. He was born on December 2, 1999, and tragically died in a car accident on February 11, 2024.
As for his ethnicity, Kiptum belonged to the Kalenjin ethnic group, a community in Kenya known for producing world-class long-distance runners.
Kelvin Kiptum Personal Details
Kelvin Kiptum was married to Asenath Cheruto Rotich, and together they had two children.
His parents were Samson Cheruiyot and his wife (mother’s name is not widely documented). Kiptum grew up in Chepsamo village, Marakwet District, Kenya, where he started running at a young age.
Sadly, both Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, lost their lives in a car accident on February 11, 2024.
After his passing, Kenyan President William Ruto ordered a house to be built for Kiptum’s family in honor of his contributions to the sport.
FAQs
1. Who was Kelvin Kiptum?
Kelvin Kiptum (1999–2024) was a Kenyan marathon world record-holder, known for his historic 2:00:35 run at the 2023 Chicago Marathon.
He made the fastest-ever marathon debut in 2022 and won major races in London and Chicago.
A dedicated athlete with a rigorous training routine, Kiptum was expected to shine at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Tragically, he passed away in a car accident in February 2024, leaving behind an unmatched legacy in distance running.
2. When and where was Kelvin Kiptum born?
He was born on December 2, 1999, in Chepsamo village, Marakwet District, Kenya.
3. What made Kelvin Kiptum famous?
Kiptum became famous for his marathon world record of 2:00:35, set at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. He was also the fastest marathon debutant in history, clocking 2:01:53 at the 2022 Valencia Marathon.
4. What was Kelvin Kiptum’s world record?
On October 8, 2023, he ran 2:00:35 at the Chicago Marathon, breaking the previous record by 34 seconds.
5. How many marathons did Kelvin Kiptum win?
2022 Valencia Marathon (2:01:53)
2023 London Marathon (2:01:25)
2023 Chicago Marathon (2:00:35 – world record)
6. What was Kelvin Kiptum’s training routine?
He trained at high altitudes in Chepkorio and Kerio Valley, running 250–300 km per week. His routine included long runs, speed work, and hill training.
7. Who was Kelvin Kiptum’s coach?
His coach was Gervais Hakizimana, a former Rwandan steeplechase runner. Tragically, Hakizimana died alongside Kiptum in the car accident.
8. What was Kelvin Kiptum’s ethnicity?
He belonged to the Kalenjin ethnic group, known for producing elite long-distance runners.
9. Was Kelvin Kiptum married?
Yes, he was married to Asenath Cheruto Rotich, and they had two children.
10. How did Kelvin Kiptum die?
He died in a car accident on February 11, 2024, near Kaptagat, Kenya. His car veered off the road and crashed into a tree.
11. Where was Kelvin Kiptum buried?
He was buried on February 23, 2024, at his farm in Naiberi, Kenya.
12. What was Kelvin Kiptum’s dream for the future?
Before his death, he had announced plans to break the sub-2-hour marathon barrier at the 2024 Rotterdam Marathon in April.
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Conclusion
Kelvin Kiptum was a phenomenal marathoner who redefined the limits of long-distance running.
His record-breaking performances, including the fastest marathon time in history (2:00:35), established him as one of the greatest athletes of his generation.
From humble beginnings in Kenya’s Rift Valley to dominating the world’s biggest marathons, Kiptum’s journey was marked by hard work, resilience, and extraordinary talent.
His relentless dedication and grueling training regimen showcased his commitment to achieving greatness.
Tragically, his life was cut short at just 24 years old in a car accident on February 11, 2024.
Despite his untimely passing, his impact on the sport will live on.
Kiptum’s legacy as a world record-holder, champion, and inspiration to future runners will remain a defining chapter in marathon history.
