A former University of Alabama track star and collegiate record holder has died after suffering from cardiac arrest.
Eliud Kipsang, a native of Kenya, had the cardiac episode on June 6 and was rushed to a hospital in Washington state.
He passed away on June 10 at the age of 28 after spending multiple days in the ICU.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Kipsang to be repatriated to his home country. At the time of publishing, $8,000 of the $30,000 goal has been raised.
‘We are heartbroken by the passing of Eliud Kipsang, one of the most gifted athletes ever to wear crimson and white,’ Alabama coach Dan Waters said in a statement.
‘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.
Former University of Alabama track star Eliud Kipsang passed away after cardiac arrest
Kipsang set a then-NCAA record in the 1500m with a time which still stands top-5 to this day
After graduating from the school, Kipsang pursued professional running and signed to Adidas
‘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 was the former collegiate record holder in the 1500m – completing the race in 3:33.74, which is currently one of the five fastest in NCAA history.
To this day, Kipsang still holds three school records for the fastest indoor mile, outdoor 1500m, and indoor distance medley relay. He’s also top-five for the indoor 3000m and top-10 for the outdoor 800m and 5000m.
In 2021, Kipsang was named SEC Runner of the Year in his sophomore season. His freshman year, he won the conference 1500m title and came runner-up in the 800m.
A two-time All-American, Kipsang also led the Crimson Tide to a fourth SEC cross-country title in 2022.
After graduating, Kipsang signed a professional running contract with Adidas Pro.
