The University of Alabama and the global track and field community are mourning the loss of Eliud Kipsang, a record-setting middle-distance runner and beloved former Crimson Tide athlete, who died Tuesday at age 28 after suffering cardiac arrest.
Despite the efforts of medical staff, he passed away on June 10, leaving his family, friends, and former teammates devastated.
The donation page, titled “Donation to Support Eliud Kipsang’s Repatriation & Send off,” has raised $17,000 of a $30,000 goal.
Kipsang’s impact on the Crimson Tide extended well beyond his medal haul. In 2022, he shattered the collegiate record in the men’s 1,500 meters, clocking a time of 3:33.74—a mark that remains among the top five in NCAA history and stands as the Alabama school record. He also set program records in the indoor mile (3:54.36) and the indoor distance medley relay (9:22.43), and earned six additional top-10 all-time placements in events ranging from the indoor 3,000 meters to the outdoor 5,000 meters.
“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,” head coach Dan Waters said in a statement.
Kipsang’s journey began in Kenya, where he was born on Sept. 9, 1996, and competed in the Africa Championship trials in 2019.
He joined Alabama for the 2020 to 21 season, quickly making his mark by winning the SEC outdoor 1,500-meter title and finishing as the runner-up in the 800 meters. He was named First Team All-America in the 1,500 meters and later earned the SEC Runner of the Year honor after capturing the individual cross country title.
His achievements continued into the 2022 indoor season, where he earned First Team All-America recognition in the mile and led Alabama’s distance medley relay to a bronze medal at the conference meet.
That spring, his record-breaking 1,500-meter run solidified his place among the NCAA’s all-time greats. He also helped guide the Crimson Tide men to their fourth SEC cross country title in 2022, earning First Team All-SEC honors.
After his collegiate career, Kipsang signed with Adidas Pro to pursue his professional running dreams, according to the GoFundMe page.
In the wake of his passing, supporters have launched a fundraising campaign to assist with the costs of repatriating Kipsang’s remains to Kenya for burial. “The costs of transportation, funeral arrangements, and legal procedures are overwhelming, and we need your help,” the GoFundMe page states.
Organizers are seeking both financial and emotional support, encouraging the public to donate, share messages of encouragement, and help honor Kipsang’s legacy.
“Let’s come together to honor Eliud’s incredible journey and legacy,” the donation page reads.