Kenya mourns as marathon world record-holder Kelvin Kiptum is given a state funeral

Published February 23, 2024 7:09 AM

By TOM ODULA
Associated Press

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Kenya’s world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum has been given a state funeral as many urged the government to do more to protect the country’s famous athletes. Hundreds of dignitaries — from Kenyan President William Ruto to Sebastian Coe, head of World Athletics — joined family, friends and fans of Kiptum in paying last respects as he was interred in Naiberi, near his hometown of Chepkorio in western Kenya. The 24-year-old was set to be a superstar of long-distance running, having broken the world record in what was only his third appearance in an elite marathon. He was killed along with his coach in a car crash in Kenya earlier this month.

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