Uncertain to run for Kenya at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, reigning world marathon bronze medalist Amos Kipruto has shifted his focus to win Tokyo marathon set for March 1st 2020.
The runner, who won Rome marathon in 2:08.12 in his debut finished third in 2018 at Tokyo marathon timing 2:06.33 has taken training seriously, supping about 35km a day just for a one day run to claim his first world marathon majors title.
“As I prepare for Tokyo marathon, am sure to claim top position due to my training where I run about 35km a day, 20km in my morning run before tackling 10km to 15km in the evening. Marathon is not a one-day affair and you win. It needs endurance, speed among other things,” said Kipruto.
Kipruto rose into fame in 2018 when he finished second behind Eliud Kipchoge when he broke the world marathon record during the Berlin marathon setting his personal best.
“Covering 200km is not easy and I have to take it day by day. To achieve this, I have to work well with my coach Claudio Barradelli who has given a good programme that I have to follow to the latter,” added Kipruto who trains at 2 Running Club.
With top runners chasing Olympic slots, Kipruto said that he is uncertain whether he will run for team Kenya or not since team naming is done by Athletics Kenya.
“For now, my focus is the Tokyo marathon because am not sure of the Olympics. I have no clue over Olympics but if I will be named in the team I will be ready to represent my country for the second time. It is in the pride for each runner to compete for his or her nation at such global showpiece,” added Kipruto.
He first wore the national colours when he competed at the 2019 world athletics winning bronze medal in a marathon held in Doha, Qatar and he says if he is given a second chance, he is ready.
“In Doha, the weather was unfriendly and as team Kenya, we did our best, with each athlete getting his or her position according to his ability. I have to avoid discussing much about the uncertainty of Olympics but am ready for any chance that will be presented to me,” he added.
He also finished 5th at the 2017 Amsterdam marathon in 2:05.43 and 12th at the 2016 race.
Source: The Stars newspaper