Eliud Kipchoge, the renowned Kenyan marathoner, is set to run in the Sydney Marathon this August, coinciding with the race’s first designation as a World Marathon Major. He expressed excitement about competing in Oceania and aims to regain his top form after recent challenges. Kipchoge’s presence is anticipated to elevate the event’s global profile significantly.
Eliud Kipchoge, the legendary Kenyan marathon runner, has announced his participation in the Sydney Marathon this August, marking a significant milestone for the event. This year, the Sydney Marathon receives its designation as a World Marathon Major, highlighting its global importance. Kipchoge, a back-to-back Olympic champion and the only individual to record an unofficial marathon time under two hours, expressed his excitement about competing in Oceania for the first time.
The race organizers have hailed Kipchoge’s entry as a “dream come true,” especially following his previous placements in international marathons. Kipchoge aims to re-establish his dominance in the sport after finishing 10th at the Tokyo Marathon and dropping out in Paris while pursuing his third Olympic title. In a statement, he conveyed, “I’m so excited… Running in Australia is a great opportunity for me.”
With a remarkable record of 16 wins in 21 official marathons, including a notable streak of 10 consecutive victories from 2014 to 2019, Kipchoge plans to regain his winning form at the London Marathon on April 27 before heading to Sydney. He holds the second-fastest marathon time of 2:01:09, achieved in 2022 in Berlin. His participation is anticipated to elevate the event’s status, as race director Wayne Larden stated, “His presence will elevate the event to new heights, bringing an unprecedented level of excitement, prestige and global attention.”
In addition to his competitive agenda, Kipchoge aims to expand the global appeal of marathon running. He expressed his commitment to promoting running culture, stating, “I’m excited to sell the idea of making the world a running world, to sell the idea of marathoning to Australia as a running nation.” Kipchoge also humorously mentioned his desire to experience local wildlife, saying, “I especially want to see kangaroos.”
In conclusion, Eliud Kipchoge’s participation in the Sydney Marathon marks a pivotal moment for both the runner and the event. As he aims to reclaim his status as the world’s foremost marathoner, his presence is expected to significantly enhance the marathon’s prestige. Kipchoge’s commitment to spreading the joy of running on a global scale, coupled with his personal ambitions during this visit, highlights the intersection of athleticism and cultural exchange.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
