Who was Eliud Kipsang? Details explored as record-setting runner dies at 28

Eliud Kipsang was a Kenyan middle-distance runner who formerly attended the University of Alabama. He was born on September 9, 1996, and was only 28 years old when he passed away on June 10, 2025. Eliud was given the title of SEC runner of the year in 2021 and broke the NCAA collegiate record for the men’s 1,500-meter race in Alabama in the following year. Kipsang set the record in Alabama, which remains unbroken till today.

Eliud Kipsang had more wins and titles on his belt. He held three Crimson Tide running records, which include the indoor distance medley relay, the indoor mile, and the outdoor 1,500 meters. He also won a gold medal in the 1,500-meter race at the 2021 SEC Outdoor Championships. He ran the SEC Cross Country Championships in the same year and came first.

Kipsang's passing was sudden. According to a GoFundMe that was set up for the runner, he suffered a cardiac arrest on June 6 and was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup, Washington. He remained at the hospital for four days and passed away on June 10, 2025.

Condolence messages for Eliud Kipsang

The loss of track star Eliud Kipsang deeply impacted the whole Alabama family. Coach Dan Waters said in a statement:

"We are heartbroken by the passing of Eliud Kipsang, one of the most gifted athletes ever to wear crimson and white... His impact on our program extended far beyond records and championships; he was a beloved teammate, a brother to so many and a dear friend to me, personally. On behalf of the entire Alabama family, we extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. The running community has lost a remarkable soul."

Kipsang's death was also mourned by his fans and followers online. On one of his pinned posts, his followers flooded the comment section with condolence messages.

Here are a few words they have said:

"damn 💔 if you saw eluid at track meets you know how good of a person and a kind soul he was. This one hurts" - @thebherbo wrote.

"Rest easy King 💔 " - @henryschmidt7 added.

Another user who could not believe the sad news commented:

"Tell me its fake🥺🙏🏾" - @iamw1ll said.

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Eliud Kipsang's legacy in the track field will forever be remembered by his team, as well as his opponents. Though his life was tragically cut short, his impact and records will never be forgotten.

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