Kelvin Kiptum breaks marathon world record at Chicago Marathon, nears 2-hour barrier
NBCOct 01, 2023
Kelvin Kiptum, Marathon World-Record Holder, Dies Aged 24
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The Facts
Kelvin Kiptum, the marathon world record-holder from Kenya, died in a car crash aged 24 on Sunday.
Set to be a top contender for the gold medal at the Paris Olympics this summer, the up-and-coming star died alongside his Rwandan coach, Gervais Hakizimana.
The Spin
Narrative A
This is a shocking tragedy. Not only was Kiptum a once-in-a-generation athlete, but he was also a magnificent friend, family member, and human being. He will be sorely missed by all those who knew him.
Narrative B
While this is no doubt a tragedy of a soon-to-be superstar, Kenya has unfortunately grown accustomed to these types of horrific incidents. A number of its top athletes have died in similar circumstances in recent years.