On Monday, February 12, 2024, the world of athletics woke up to news of the untimely death of men's marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum, and his Rwandan coach Gervais Hakizimana. The news has cast a somber shadow over the World Athletics community. The tragic road accident in western Kenya claimed the lives of both Hakizimana and the young marathon sensation Kiptum, on the spot, on Sunday, February 11, at 11p.m, at Kaptagat area heading to Eldoret. ALSO READ: Kenya's World Marathon record holder, Rwandan coach die in road accident In-fact, when you see the pictures of the remains of their Toyota Premio that are making rounds on social media, it's hard to believe that anyone in that car survived; but reports say that a third occupant, a female, sustained injuries and is currently recovering in hospital. Thanks to Kiptum and his exploits at a young of age 24 years, under the guidance of Hakizimana, World Athletics has lost two big names. In Kiptum, Kenyan Athletics has lost a top star and, in Hakizimana, Rwanda has lost an international name who, unfortunately, until his death, was not known beyond local athletics circles. I happen to be among those who crossed paths with him during his time. I knew Hakizimana during his formative years at APR Athletics Club around 2007/8 when I was still an active field journalist. Not had chance to meet him again since probably 2009, but one thing I recall is that he is a humble and focused individual, dedicated to honing his skills on the track. By that time, he had turned professional and was competing in different events locally, for the national team, and internationally in France and Italy among other places around the world. Little did I know that this young athlete would later evolve into a distinguished coach, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Reading some of the messages from people who knew Hakizimana at personal and professional level, eulogizing him, you get a picture of an individual, who was more than a coach; he was a beacon of inspiration and a symbol of humility within the athletics community. ALSO READ: Rwandan athletes eulogise deceased coach Hakizimana The news of their (Hakizimana and Kiptum) passing not only shocked those closely connected to the sport but reverberated across the globe, with tributes pouring in from athletes, coaches, and fans alike. Hakizimana, born in Nyaruguru District, Southern Province, transitioned from an average long-distance athletic career to coaching and talent scouting. During his formative years as an aspiring long-distance athlete, he showcased not only physical prowess but also an unassuming humility that set him apart. Those that knew him including another Rwandan legend Dieudonne Disi, coach Eric Karasira, and people like Adolphe Rukenkanya (former technical director), can testify. No wonder, I now realize, in his death, why Hakizimana's transition from athlete to coach was seamless, for, he managed to bring the same dedication and work ethic to his coaching role. As a coach, he nurtured talent and guided athletes towards their full potential. The partnership with Kiptum, a rising star in the marathon world, showcased Hakizimana's coaching prowess on the international stage. Kiptum's breakthrough in 2023, where he surpassed the legendary Eliud Kipchoge's marathon world record, was a testament to the collaborative effort between athlete and coach. It's not unusual for the athlete(s) to enjoy all the limelight and stardom, while the coach(es) gets little to minimun mention. That's why Hakizimana, despite his world record-breaking achievement with Kiptum, was never a household name in Rwanda. ALSO READ: Gervais Hakizimana: Short-lived dream of a top Rwandan athletics coach Hakizimana's strategic guidance and mentorship played a pivotal role in elevating Kiptum from an unknown barefooted herd-boy to the highest of heights, hence marking a promising future for both coach and athlete. The grisly accident that claimed their lives has not only robbed Rwanda of an internationally-recognized sporting gem but has left a void in local, regional and international athletics. Hakizimana's influence extended beyond the track; he was a mentor, a role model, and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in Rwanda and beyond. As tributes pour in, the athletics community reflects on the loss of a humble and dedicated figure whose impact transcended borders. At the age of 36, Hakizimana had so much more to offer to the world of coaching and athletics. His legacy lives on through the athletes he coached, the lives he touched, and the winning spirit he brought to the sport. Available information indicates that, working with UniRun 59, a French-based organisation dedicated to talent development, Hakizimana started scouting athletes from Kenya, training them and connecting them with managers in Europe. One of the products of Hakizimana's seed to World Athletics is Kiptum. It is believed that by the time of his death, Hakizimana had several personal and collective projects, including the ‘UniRun Rwanda’, a joint athletics talent development initiative that he was about to set up in his native country, Rwanda. I also remember he used to wear a good smile, always, and now he's no more. In the midst of this tragedy, the athletics world mourns the loss of a coach whose potential was limitless and whose journey was cut too short. To the Rwandan athletics community and beyond, Hakizimana's memory will live on as a symbol of dedication, passion, and enduring spirit for athletics.
