Ruto leads country in mourning Kiptum as marathoner buried

"Sports CS Ababu Namwamba broke the news of Kiptum's demise moments after the accident and it was a really heavy moment for us because in Kiptum, we saw the future of athletics in Kenya.

"Kiptum had stood out not only as a great athlete but more importantly as a good person with a good heart. We are here to mourn and celebrate him," Ruto said.

The president noted that despite their humble background and little-known parents, Kiptum who at one time competed barefoot, never made the impediments to block his way to success. He defied all odds through hard work and discipline to become a hero at the international levels.

President William Ruto arrives for the late Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum's burial service. [PCS]

Initially, the ceremony was to be held at Chepsamo Primary, Kiptum's school, but was relocated due to strong winds.

There were queues as security personnel made checks on those attending the ceremony where Nandi Anglican Church (ACK) diocese Bishop Paul Korir presided over the service.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries Ababu Namwamba (Sports), Kipchumba Murkomen (Roads) and Florence Bore (Labour), governors Wesley Rotich (host), Jonathan Bii (Uasin Gishu), Stephen Sang (Nandi) and Simon Kachapin (West Pokot), and 13 MPs were among those in attendance.

Kenya's world record beaters, both retired and active, turned up in large numbers in honour of their colleague. Experienced athletes were joined by budding counterparts.

Former Olympic champion Kipchoge Keino led a number of veteran athletes in Kiptum's final rites. Daniel Komen, a 3,000m legend was among those who featured prominently in the interment ceremony.

The 1,500m world record holder, Faith Kipyegon, was among hundreds of Olympic and World Championship medalists who were also present. Also in the company was Tanzanian athlete Gabriel Geay who finished second behind Kiptum in Valencia Marathon.

Golazo Sports management which represented Kiptum since 2017 was also represented.

CEO Bob Verbeeck said Kiptum was humble and charismatic. "The world record in Chicago was just the beginning and the running under two hours would be intermediate in greater things in his mind," Verbeeck said.