Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei announces his retirement from track events to focus on marathon running, emphasizing his career transition at the Tokyo Marathon press conference. The 10,000m world record holder intends to improve upon his previous marathon performance. Defending champions in both fields promise a highly competitive race, which will be broadcast live.
Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda is set to retire from track events to concentrate on marathons, as announced at the press conference for the upcoming Tokyo Marathon. The 28-year-old, who holds the world record in the 10,000 meters, expressed his readiness to transition from track racing, stating, “I have really had incredible moments on the track… but now it’s the right time for me to transition and see the other part of life.”
Cheptegei’s illustrious track career includes two Olympic gold medals and a silver, alongside four world championship medals in the 10,000 meters, where he achieved a world record of 26 minutes and 11 seconds in Monaco in 2020. His departure from track racing comes after a challenging marathon debut two years ago, where he finished 37th in Valencia.
Looking ahead to the 2025 Tokyo Marathon, Cheptegei aims to improve upon his debut performance and keep pace with fellow elite runners such as defending champion Benson Kipruto and Deresa Geleta. Kipruto set a course record of 2:02:16 last year, while Geleta recorded a personal best of 2:02:38 in the last marathon.
In the women’s division, Ethiopian Sutume Kebede is poised to defend her title after setting a Japanese all-comers’ record of 2:15:55 at last year’s Tokyo Marathon. She is joined by other strong competitors, including former winners and sub-2:20 runners, bolstering an already elite field.
The Tokyo Marathon can be watched live on FloTrack at 7:00 p.m. ET, with the race beginning shortly thereafter. Viewers can register for a FloTrack account to access the live stream of this prestigious marathon event.
In summary, Joshua Cheptegei is transitioning from his successful track career to focus on marathon running, announcing his retirement from track events during the Tokyo Marathon press conference. Cheptegei aims to bounce back from his previous marathon performance, while top competitors, including defending champions in both men’s and women’s races, showcase a strong field at the upcoming marathon. The event will be broadcast live, inviting global viewers to witness this new chapter in Cheptegei’s athletic journey.
Original Source: runningmagazine.ca
