The University of Alabama track and field program is grieving the sudden death of Eliud Kipsang, a former standout athlete who passed away Tuesday night at just 28 years old.
Kipsang made his mark in crimson and white from 2020 to 2022, becoming one of the most successful middle-distance runners in program history. His breakthrough came during his first outdoor season when he captured the SEC championship in the 1,500 meters.
The Kenyan-born athlete continued his dominance into cross country, earning SEC Runner of the Year honors in 2021 after winning the individual conference title. His success on the trails helped establish him as one of the premier distance runners in college athletics.
During the 2022 indoor season, Kipsang reached new heights by setting a collegiate record in the men’s 1,500 meters with a time of 3:33.74. That performance still ranks among the top five times in college history and remains Alabama’s school record.
Head Coach Dan Waters expressed the program’s profound loss in a statement released Wednesday.
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Eliud Kipsang, one of the most gifted athletes ever to wear crimson and white,” Waters said. “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.”
Born in Eldoret, Kenya, on September 9, 1996, Kipsang competed in Africa Championship trials before joining Alabama. He quickly established himself as a force in multiple events, earning All-America honors in both the 1,500 meters and mile run.
Kipsang’s record-breaking performances weren’t limited to individual events. He anchored Alabama’s distance medley relay team to a bronze medal at the 2022 SEC Indoor Championships, helping set a school record of 9:22.43.
The versatile runner also contributed to Alabama’s cross country success, leading the men’s team to the program’s fourth SEC title in 2022. His leadership and talent earned him First Team All-SEC recognition that season.
Beyond his championship titles, Kipsang holds three Alabama school records and six additional top-10 all-time marks in program history. His indoor mile record of 3:54.36 and outdoor 1,500-meter mark of 3:33.75 showcase his range across different distances and surfaces.
His other notable performances include an eighth-place all-time ranking in the outdoor 800 meters (1:46.99) and 5,000 meters (13:39.67), demonstrating his ability to excel from middle distance to longer events.
The track and field community has lost a remarkable talent whose achievements continue to inspire current and future Alabama athletes. Kipsang’s legacy as both a champion and teammate will be remembered throughout the program’s history.
Waters concluded his statement by extending condolences to Kipsang’s family and friends during this difficult time, noting that the entire Alabama athletics family shares in their grief.
The circumstances surrounding Kipsang’s death have not been disclosed. The university plans to honor his memory and contributions to the program in the coming weeks.
