Asenath Kiptum, the wife of late world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum, has shared a heartfelt tribute to her late husband as she marks the first anniversary of his tragic passing.
Kiptum, who was regarded as one of the most promising long-distance runners of his generation, died in a tragic road accident on February 11, 2024, alongside his coach, Gervais Hakizimana. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the global athletics community, as he was poised to dominate marathon running for years to come.
One year after the tragic incident, Asenath took to social media to express her deep sorrow and enduring love for her late husband. In a moving message, she wrote:
"My late husband in heaven, it marks exactly a year since you grew wings. My heart is full of memories, and you are with me every day. You lived your life with meaning and with a smile upon your face. A world that was full of happiness is now an empty place. People say that only time will heal a broken heart, but just like me and you, it has been torn apart. I know you are at peace now and in a place where you are free. Meet me at the pearly gates when heaven calls for me. No one knows how much I miss you. Love, Asenath."
A Legacy That Lives On
Kelvin Kiptum, who was only 24 years old at the time of his passing, had etched his name in history by setting the men’s marathon world record of 2:00:35 at the Chicago Marathon in October 2023. His breathtaking performance made him the first man to run a marathon in under 2 hours and 1 minute in a record-eligible race.
Just before his tragic accident, Kiptum had been preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he was expected to go head-to-head with legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge in what would have been a historic race for Kenya. His death left a void in Kenyan athletics and robbed the world of a once-in-a-generation talent.
A Love Story Cut Short
During Kiptum’s funeral in February 2024, Asenath revealed that the couple had been planning their wedding, which was scheduled for April 2024. In her emotional eulogy, she shared how their dreams had been shattered overnight.
"We had been planning for our big day to tie the knot in a colorful wedding ceremony in April 2024, but God's plans are greater," she said at the time.
Now, a year later, Asenath’s emotional tribute serves as a reminder of the love and bond they shared, and the pain of losing a life partner so unexpectedly.
The Athletics World Remembers Kiptum
As Kenya and the global athletics fraternity mark the first anniversary of Kiptum’s passing, tributes have continued to pour in from fans, fellow athletes, and sports officials. Athletics Kenya, the country’s governing body for track and field, posted a message in remembrance of Kiptum, acknowledging his incredible achievements and the legacy he left behind.
"Kelvin Kiptum was a champion, a history-maker, and a true son of Kenya. One year on, we still mourn his loss but celebrate the incredible impact he had on athletics. His legacy lives on," the statement read.
Kiptum’s hometown of Chepkorio in Elgeyo Marakwet County is also holding a special remembrance ceremony, where his family, friends, and community members are gathering to honor his memory.
Gone But Never Forgotten
While the pain of his loss remains fresh, Kelvin Kiptum’s name is forever etched in the annals of athletics history. His wife’s tribute is a poignant reminder that behind every great athlete is a personal story of love, dreams, and resilience.
As Asenath continues to mourn, she holds onto the hope of being reunited with her beloved husband one day. In her own words: “Meet me at the pearly gates when heaven calls for me.”
Kelvin Kiptum may be gone, but his legacy will forever inspire future generations of athletes and fans across the world.
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