Kenyan marathon queens ready to set Doha alight

Phillip Muchiri in Doha, Qatar

It’s all systems go at the 2019 World Athletics Championship in Doha, Qatar as Kenya’s trio of Ruth Chengetich, Visiline Jepkesho and two-time champion Edna Kiplagat begin the country’s chase for glory.

The three are optimistic of a 1-2-3 finish despite the punishing weather conditions in Doha which are expected to in highs of 33 degrees.

Kiplagat one of the favourites in the marathon, is aiming to do one better than in London 2017.

“We have high morale, no injuries or anything bad yes the temperatures are too high than we had back at home but since we came here we have adapted well and we have been working on team work,” she told citizen digital after today’s early morning training.

Her team mates Chepngetich, 25, and Jepkesho, 30, are also aiming for a podium finish.

“We are ready and we are going to do our best for team Kenya, and i am sure the returns will be well after all that we have been doing in readiness for this day,” Jepkesho told citizen Digital.

“I want Kenyan’s to pray for us, you know it’s not easy here, plus the heat,” Chepng’etich told citizen digital.

Marathon team coach Richard Metto is betting on the three Kenyans to deliver our first medal tonight.

“Let no body fear this heat they are very few athletes who stay here so we are all new to this conditions,” Metto Said.

On today’s 800m women’s race Kenya’s only runner Eunice Sum made tomorrow’s semi finals by a whisker after finishing fourth in the heat two of six only to qualify as the second fastest loser.

“It was not a good start I started in the wrong lane despite being in the leading park I found myself trapped in the Middle,” Sum Said.

Being the first Kenyan on the track she has however assured other athletes no to fear the humid temperatures.

“It’s a little tough in warm up area but in the field everything is alright,” She added.

Tags:

Ruth Chepngetich Edna Kiplagat IAAF World Championships Visiline Jepkesho

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