Former world half marathon record holder Peres Jepchirchir will be returning to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) half marathon, with a mission of posting good time and redeem her image on the course.
The 2016 world half marathon champion set her world record on the course that was later broken by Joyciline Jepkosgei. Jepchirchir lowered Florence Kiplagat’s world record to 65:06.
“I am preparing well for the race because it will not be a walk in the park. My main thing is to run with good time and redeem my image on the course that brought my running career into the limelight,” said Jepchirchir.
In less than a month after winning Saitama women marathon, the Lisbon Half marathon champion is optimistic that despite the classy line-up, she is not worried to take on the world-beaters in a race set for February 21st in the United Arab Emirates.
“For now, am training for the title nothing much for me. I have what it takes to win the title. Am good in the road race and nobody can stop my winning,” added Jepchirchir.
In the classy line-up, the Kapsabet based runner will be chasing the title against world marathon record holder Brigid Kosgei, who enjoys 64:28 personal bets in the 21km distance set during the Great North Run.
Also on the starting list include defending champion Fancy Chemutai, Joan Chelimo, a former world half marathon silver medalist Mary Wanjiru as well as world half marathon champion Netsanet Gudeta of Ethiopia.
“I know the race will be speedy considering that Kosgei will be chasing a world record. She has said that. Though that will not deter my efforts. She will run the fastest time where she will help me to get my personal best if she wins. But I have the confidence of winning not playing second fiddle to anyone at all,” said Jepchirchir.
After winning the 2016 world half marathon, she failed to defend her title due to maternity leave and returned with a win at Lisbon, Saitama among others.