Asenath Cheruto, widow of the late Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum, was overcome with emotion at the starting line of the Rotterdam Marathon in Netherlands on Sunday, April 14. Kiptum’s widow could not hold back tears as the marathon organizers paid a touching tribute to her husband.
Asenath, who stood at the start line as a special guest of the race, was accompanied by Kenya’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Margaret Shava.
Before the race began, The master of ceremonies called for a minute of silence in honor of Kelvin Kiptum. The organizers honored Kiptum’s remarkable contributions to the sport by retiring his iconic race bib.
The Rotterdam Marathon saw an impressive turnout of 50,000 participants, partly due to Kiptum’s planned participation before his unfortunate passing.
Despite his death alongside his coach Gervais Hakizimana, Kiptum’s ambition to break the two-hour barrier continued to motivate runners, reflected in the race’s motto, “Be Part of History.”
Abdi Nageeye, winner of the men’s race, dedicated his victory to Kiptum and their training partners from Kaptagat.
Dr. Chris Kiptoo, Kenya’s National Treasury Principal Secretary, reflected on Kiptum’s lasting impact, noting the significance of dedicating the Rotterdam Marathon to his memory.
Dr. Kiptoo, along with notable guests like Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei and Golazo Founder and CEO Bob Verbeeck, discussed the forthcoming launch of the Kelvin Kiptum Foundation. This initiative aims to honor Kiptum’s legacy and assist those he championed.
“I am very happy that this race has been dedicated to Kelvin Kiptum,” Dr. Kiptoo expressed.
“The world remembers him, and we will soon be launching the Kelvin Kiptum Foundation in Kenya to keep his memory alive.”
By Vivian K.