Reigning Frankfurt marathon champion Valary Aiyabei Jemeli will be hoping to run well at her second marathon in the World Marathon Majors (WMM) when she lines up at Tokyo marathon on Sunday 1st March 2020 in Japan.
The former Barcelona marathon winner, who recovered from waist injury said her preparations are on top gear to compete with the world in Tokyo, her second race in WMM after finishing third in the 2017 Berlin marathon behind Gladys Cherono and Ethiopia’s Ruti Aga.
In October, Aiyabei made headlines when she won the Frankfurt Marathon with a course record that had lasted for a year in 2:19.10.
“Am mentally and physically fit for the title chase in Japan. I know I have recovered from waist injury that kept me off the training but I have fully recovered ready for the challenge. I want a title in majors,” said the 2019 Eldoret City marathon winner.
Apart from Tokyo marathon, the 2015 Kass marathon winner is part of Kenya marathon team for this year’s Olympic Games to be held in Tokyo, Japan.
As a reserved runner, Aiyabei is optimistic of scaling the heights in Tokyo on Sunday as part of her preparations for Olympics.
“The journey to glory is not easy and I want to try my best to feature into the marathon team and run for the nations. Every runner will want to compete for her country in all championships and this is the time,” said Aiyabei, apart from running at the internationals, she has also dominated in local races.
If she will make it to Olympics, it will be her maiden appearance in Kenyan colours ready for the challenge.
“My target is to run well in all races especially representing my nation. If I will run in Tokyo, it will be good for me for the first time wearing Kenyan colours. It is all pride,” added Aiyabei