Eliud Kipchoge will compete in the Sydney Marathon in August, the first year the event is recognized as a World Marathon Major. His participation marks a significant boost for the race, and he expresses excitement about experiencing Oceania. Following a challenging 2024, he aims to regain his winning streak starting with the London Marathon.
Eliud Kipchoge, a legendary Kenyan runner, has announced his participation in the upcoming Sydney Marathon scheduled for August, marking a significant elevation in the race’s profile. The marathon is in its inaugural year as a World Marathon Major, and Kipchoge expressed enthusiasm about competing in Oceania for the first time. His involvement is regarded as a monumental achievement for race organizers, labeling it a “dream come true.”
At 40 years of age, Kipchoge, who has secured Olympic marathon victories in 2016 and 2020, aims to reassert his dominance following a disappointing placement at the Tokyo Olympics where he finished 10th, and a drop-out during the Paris marathon attempt. “I’m so excited,” he stated, highlighting both the novelty of his Sydney Marathon experience and the significance of running in Australia.
Having won 16 out of 21 official marathons, including a remarkable streak of 10 consecutive victories from 2014 to 2019, Kipchoge plans to contest the London Marathon on April 27 as a precursor to the Sydney race, hoping to reclaim his winning form. Renowned for his time of 2:01:09 in the 2022 Berlin Marathon, his unofficial record of 1:59:40 in Vienna remains a landmark in marathon history.
Wayne Larden, the race director, commented on the impact of Kipchoge’s presence, noting it will significantly enhance the stature of the event. Kipchoge is dedicated to promoting marathon running across the globe and expressed his eagerness to share the marathoning experience with Australia, a nation he views as having the potential to embrace the sport fully.
In addition to his competitive ambitions, he shares a personal curiosity, saying, “I especially want to see kangaroos.” This light-hearted comment reflects Kipchoge’s desire to engage with Australia’s unique wildlife during his visit.
Eliud Kipchoge’s participation in the Sydney Marathon marks a significant milestone for both the event and the broader marathon community. As the first World Marathon Major in Sydney, his involvement promises to enhance the global visibility and prestige of the race. Kipchoge’s record achievements and his aim to popularize marathon running further exemplify his commitment to the sport.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
