Kelvin Kiptum’s Family was on Sunday, April 14 feted on the sidelines of the Rotterdam Marathon as the athletics community observed a minute of silence in honour of the legendary Kenyan athlete.
The late Kiptum had initially committed to running in the marathon which called for the lap of respect.
His family was feted with a trophy from a company named Zepp Health, which Kiptum represented as a brand ambassador. The late athlete's family was also showered with gifts.
Further, the company which manufactures the AmazFit Cheetah Pro watch also offered a free limited edition watch specifically created in memory of Kiptum.
According to the company, only 235 models have been created in honour of Kiptum's world record marathon time of 2:00:35, achieved at the 2023 Chicago Marathon.
Each watch has been laser engraved with its unique number, from 1 to 235, to push for the exclusivity of the watch series.
The watch’s face is also expected to don the Kenyan flag's colours as a tribute to the Republic of Kenya.
Additionally among the watch's main features is Kiptum’s signature and World Record time, engraved on the watch’s straps.
According to ZeppHealth, the creation of the watch was inspired by the late Marathoner’s request when he got into partnership with the brand.
“We're honoured to fulfil this request - made personally by the man himself - in tribute to both Kelvin's memory, and to a new generation of runners inspired by his story,” stated Amazfit Watches.
Proceeds from the sales of the 235 watches are expected to go into the Kelvin Kiptum foundation which was set up by the Rotterdam Marathon in February 2024.
On Sunday, before the Marathon, athletes and attendees were required to observe a minute of silence in honour of the fallen hero.
Further, the marathon organisers retired the bib, numbered 1, which the late athlete was intended to don during the race.
As an initial seed donation, the marathon's organisers donated Ksh6.8 Million based on the current exchange rate (50,000 Euros) to the foundation on February 24.
