Worlds greatest marathoner Kipchoge set for historic INEOS 1:59 Challenge

It is not a matter of if Eliud Kipchoge – the World marathon record holder – will attempt to run the first ever sub-two-hour marathon, but when?

The widely regarded greatest marathoner of the modern era arrived in Vienna, Austria last night in a charted flight ahead of the INEOS 1:59 Challenge scheduled for October 12, although there’s a two-day window running up to October 14 in case the weather ‘refuses to behave itself’.

Before leaving for the Austrian city, Kenyans are holding their breath as the Olympic champion attempts to make history as the first human being to run a marathon in under two hours hence the INEOS 1:59 Challenge.

Prior to departure, Kipchoge said he is ready for the challenge and basing on good preparations he has had he is optimistic he will attain his feat.

“All Kenyans will be crossing fingers during the race as I try to show to the world that everything is possible with human being. I am ready for the challenge,” Kipchoge said at Eldoret Airport before leaving for Vienna.

Last month, the 34-year-old London Marathon champion said he is being driven by will to inspire in his sub-two quest viewing his attempt as akin to an inspiration to generation that no human is limited.

Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge poses for a photograph REUTERS/Andrew Boyers

 

“I’m not running for world record but I will be running to beat time. I want to inspire human being that everything is possible when it’s tried, ” he said then.

According to the organisers, Kipchoge is scheduled to jog over the 4.3km Prater Hauptallee course as part of acclimatisation after arriving in Austria.

Two years ago Kipchoge – assisted by a lead car and 30 supporting pacing runners – set the fastest ever unofficial marathon time of 2:00:25 on the Monza track in Italy.

By winning the sub-two challenge, Kipchoge will have notched up 12 wins from the 13 marathons he has raced, winning three times in Berlin and four in London, with victories in Rio for Olympic gold as well as in Hamburg, Rotterdam and Chicago.

Tags:

Eliud Kipchoge Vienna Australia INEOS 1:59 Challenge

Want to send us a story? Submit on Wananchi Reporting on the Citizen Digital App or Send an email to wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke or Send an SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp on 0743570000

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet.

latest stories