Double Africa Paralympic champion Rodgers Kiprop has set his focus to break the world record in this year’s Frankfurt Marathon.
The Mount Elgon Running club blind runner scooped double gold at the Marrakech Graprix in Morocco, winning gold in 1,500m and 5,000m as he prepares of world championships in Dubai in September.
Speaking over the weekend during North Rift Athletics Championships in Kitale, Kiprop under the guidance of Alfa Kaling’a Kisa and Coach Edwin Kibet said the races ahead of him are many but hopes to register good results.
“I want to first break the world record in Frankfurt on my way to the 2020 Paralympic Games. I have had good training with my able coach and I hope to enjoy the good run this season,” said Kiprop.
“My the best time in the marathon is 2:38.00 but I want to bring it down with a world record, which has always been my dream all through my career,” said Kiprop.
The all-round runner promised good results in world championships, Paralympic Games and the Frankfurt marathon.
“Kenyans should brace for good results in every race I will be competing. I have what it takes to win gold in my specialities,” added Kiprop who enjoys a 15:35 best time in 5,000m and 4:13 in 1,500m race.
His guider Kisa said he has to train more than Kiprop to ensure that they win in each race they compete.
“As a guide, I have to work extra hard compared to him because he is too strong and guiding him I have to be on the best side than him,” said Kisa.
“The guide is the face of the runner and I have to do my best to enable him to win. As the guide we have to partner well to achieve the best results,” added Kisa.
Their coach Kibet, the winner of 2011 Belgrade marathon exhibited confidence in his athletes saying they have partnered well for better results.
After picking up a long-time injury, Kibet landed in coaching to ensure that he remains in the sport that he loves.
“The injury could not allow me to run again hence choosing to train these people to achieve their goals. Coaching is not easy but a calling especially with the Paralympians,” said Kibet.
Source: The Stars Newspaper