World marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum has been awarded Ksh5 million by the government after his heroic performance in the Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 9, 2023.

The 23-year-old ran in 2:00:35 and emerged the winner and in the process broke Eliud Kipchoge’s record. Kipchoge had set the record in the Berlin Marathon in 2022 when he clocked 2:01:09, but Kiptum managed to take some seconds off the record.

Kiptum’s achievement came even though the Chepkorio-born star was only competing in his third marathon.

Kiptum’s reward

With that, the government awarded Kiptum the cash reward in line with the recent policies the state has adopted for recognising excellent athletes.

“Kelvin Kiptum is the newest millionaire in town. This follows the government’s move to award him Ksh5 million for breaking the men’s marathon world record in Chicago,” the Ministry of Sports said.

On his part, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba relayed President William Ruto’s regards to the new world record holder.

“The cabinet acknowledged you [Kiptum] for your great performance. We announced a new reward scheme for the various categories of competitions.

“When Faith Kipyegon broke the world record, she was the first athlete to benefit from our new scheme, and you, Kelvin, became the second athlete to benefit from it,” Namwamba said.

Namwamba also assured of the government’s support for talent development and building sustainable careers.

2024 Olympics

Meanwhile, after his performance in Chicago, Kiptum has shifted his focus to the Paris Olympic Games next year.

“Yes, the Olympic Games are on my mind. I think this win has placed me in a better position ahead of the global showpiece,” he said.

On the global stage, Kiptum, the reigning London Marathon champion, is likely to battle with Kipchoge.