Athletics Kenya is gearing up to unveil the provisional marathon team for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, marking the initiation of preparations for the global event.
Barnabar Korir, the Chairman of Nairobi Region Athletics Kenya said that the eagerly awaited list would be disclosed in the coming fortnight.
Korir stated, “Within this week or the next, Athletics Kenya will announce the team for the Paris Olympics. The release will encompass the names of both competitors and substitutes to address any potential issues. We aim to have everything finalized before the middle of December.”
He expressed confidence in the participation of double Olympic Champion Eliud Kipchoge and Marathon World Record holder Kelvin Kiptum, anticipating their inclusion in the formidable men’s team. Korir mentioned discussions with these top athletes, emphasizing their keen interest in competing.
Anticipating a captivating showdown, Korir highlighted the potential clash between Kipchoge and Kiptum, the latter having recently shattered Kipchoge’s former world record with an outstanding time of 2:00:35 in Chicago.
On the women’s front, Olympic Champion and double World Half Marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir is poised to be part of the Olympic contingent heading to Paris.
She has expressed her interest and is actively preparing for selection, including participation in the inaugural Chepsaita Cross-Country run.
In addition to track and field athletes, Kenya’s representation in Paris will extend to the Rugby Sevens men’s side, Kenya Shujaa, and the women’s volleyball side, Malkia Strikers, both securing direct qualification to the upcoming Olympics.
