Why Kiptum’s name will appear at the Rotterdam Marathon when timer reads 1:59.59

Zepp Health, one of the leading smartwatch manufacturers, has announced that it will honor the late Kelvin Kiptum in a special way at the 2024 NN Rotterdam Marathon.

Kiptum, who died on Sunday February 11 alongside his friend and coach Gervais Hakizimana after being involved in a road accident, was an ambassador of the Amazfit Cheetah Pro watch.

The reigning world record holder was expected to use the watch during his attempt to become the first-ever human being to run a full marathon race in less than two hours in Rotterdam.

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However, as cruel as it always is, death took the life of a man who had the potential to become one of the greatest ever long-distance runners.

With less than three weeks remaining to the race which will be staged in the Netherlands, Zepp Health has come up with a special way to celebrate the remarkable career of the legendary road race athlete.

“At the Rotterdam Marathon itself, Amazfit will further celebrate Kelvin's legacy by presenting a special trophy to his family and retiring his bib number 1.

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The finish line timer will also display Kelvin's name when it reaches 1:59:59, serving as a poignant reminder of his relentless pursuit of excellence,” part of the press release from the company read.

The firm will also donate a sum of $100,000 (approximately Ksh 13, 232, 420) to the Kelvin Kiptum Foundation.

According to Zepp Health Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wayne Huang, the move is aimed at ensuring the good work that Kiptum had started does not stop.

"Kelvin Kiptum's unwavering passion for running and his commitment to community development deeply resonate with our values.

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Through our partnership with the Kelvin Kiptum Foundation and the launch of a commemorative edition watch, we honor Kelvin's enduring legacy, and continue his mission of empowering young athletes and fostering education and infrastructure in Kenya,” noted Huang.

On his part, Golazo founder Bob Verbeeck stated that the agency is honored to collaborate with Zepp Health to celebrate Kiptum’s lasting impact on the competitive athletics industry.

Golazo, which mentors numerous Kenyan runners including the 800m world champion Mary Moraa, started to work with Kiptum in 2018. 

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