Former world marathon champion Abel Kirui has lauded Eliud Kipchoge as he will be attempting to break the INEOS 1:59 Challenge this weekend in Vienna, Austria.
Kirui, the 2017 Chicago marathon champion said Kipchoge is capable of breaking the barrier with his slogan of No Human is Limited after he arrived in Vienne on Tuesday morning after boarding a private jet in Eldoret.
“He has the power and zeal to conquer the world, his training has been immense and I hope as a person who has competed in a marathon for many years that he will conquer the Challenge,” said Kirui.
The world marathon record holder Kipchoge, who enjoys a 2:01.39 as a world record set at the 2018 Berlin marathon will be attempting to run the slowest time in the history of the 42km distance.
“I don’t have any doubts that he (Kipchoge) will overcome the challenge. I knew him years back and through his resilience, he will deliver,” added the 2012 Olympic Games marathon silver medalist.
The two trains together at Global Sports Communication in Kaptagat area of Uasin Gishu county and Kirui, the third man to win back to back world marathon titles in 2009 and 2011 said if the weather will favour him, he may run a lower time.
“As a marathoner and training mate, I wish him the best of luck as he tries his best in one of the most challenging race in the world. Running is not easy but his dedication will offer good results,” added the 2008 Vienna marathon champion.
The runner who started his running career at Samitui primary the school will also be competing at the Singapore marathon in December.
He said Kipchoge’s challenge will inspire him to run well in Singapore, hoping to set his personal best.
“I am preparing well for the race and I want to run a better time. My training has been going on well and I want to leave a mark there,” added the 2007 Berlin marathon, silver medalist.