Kelvin Kiptum, the reigning world marathon record holder, has set his sights on claiming the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics later this year.
Following his extraordinary performance at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, where he shattered the world record with a remarkable time of 2:00.35, the 24-year-old Kenyan sensation is eager to replicate his success on the Olympic stage.
Kiptum, the youngest marathoner to run under 2:02:00, dominated a star-studded field in Chicago, building on his previous triumph at the 2023 London Marathon, where he finished in 2:01:25, just 16 seconds behind Eliud Kipchoge’s world record. With three of the seven fastest marathons in history under his belt, Kiptum expressed his determination to create more memorable moments in his already illustrious career.
In an exclusive interview, Kiptum stated, “I’ve experienced some great memories after winning in the past, and I’ll continue to train and work hard to make some more.” He revealed his plans for the upcoming season, emphasizing his participation in multiple races, including the highly anticipated Paris 2024 Games.
Acknowledging the formidable challenge posed by Eliud Kipchoge, a five-time Berlin Marathon champion, Kiptum remains undaunted. “I’m aware it won’t be easy winning gold in Paris given the country boasts great marathoners such as Kipchoge. However, I’m ready to work extremely hard in a frantic bid to write another new chapter in history like I did in Chicago last year,” he declared.
The Kenyan running prodigy also revealed his intentions to compete in the Rotterdam Marathon on April 14, where he aims to break the elusive sub-two-hour barrier. Kiptum’s training routine, overseen by coach Gervais Hakizimana, involves a rigorous schedule of 250 to 280km per week, including daily morning runs, track sessions, and intense long runs.
While Kiptum sets his sights on further glory, he recognizes the competition’s intensity, particularly from Somali-based Belgian marathoner Bashir Abdi, who clinched the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
As Kiptum prepares for these upcoming challenges, the running world eagerly anticipates witnessing more remarkable feats from this exceptional athlete.
