Samson Cheruiyot, the father of the late world marathon record-holder Kelvin Kiptum, has shed light on mysterious events surrounding his son’s tragic death on Sunday night.
In an interview with the media on Monday, February 12, Cheruiyot shared startling details, expressing grief over the sudden loss of his beloved son.
Cheruiyot recounted a chilling encounter just four days before Kiptum’s untimely demise, when four unidentified individuals made an unexpected visit to his home.
Despite their presence, they remained tight-lipped about their intentions, leaving Cheruiyot unsettled and puzzled.
“Strange people came to my house and told me that they were visitors,” he said.
“My only child, Kiptum, has left us, leaving a void that cannot be filled. We are in desperate need of assistance from the government or anyone who can support us during this trying time,” said Cheruiyot, struggling to comprehend the devastating turn of events.
The grieving father recounted the harrowing moment he received news of the accident involving his son’s car.
He rushed to the scene, only to find that Kiptum, his Rwandese coach Gervais Hakizimana, and a female companion had already been transported to the hospital.
Recalling his last conversation with Kiptum on Saturday, February 10, Cheruiyot recounted plans discussed about constructing a new home.
Kiptum had expressed confidence in his physical condition, anticipating a remarkable performance in an upcoming race, aiming to complete the marathon in an impressive time of 1 hour and 58 minutes.
“I talked to him and he told me that he would go to Fluospar and come home. When he returned, he told me that a white man would come to build us a house. He also told me that he would run for 1 hour 58 minutes in the upcoming race because he felt his body was fit.”
Cheruiyot also reflected on Kiptum’s commitment to pursuing a career in marathon running, a decision that led him to forgo studies in Electronic Wiring at Eldoret Polytechnic, opting instead to follow his passion for athletics.
