Kipchoge, Hassan Gear Up for Tokyo Marathon as Stepping Stone to Historic Olympic Feats

Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic marathon champion, is set to participate in the Tokyo Marathon on March 3, 2024, as part of his preparation for the upcoming Paris Olympics in August.

Kipchoge aims to make history by securing a third consecutive gold medal in the marathon at the Olympics, following his triumphs in Rio in 2016 and Tokyo in 2021.

The 39-year-old, who already holds the Tokyo Marathon course record with an impressive time of two hours, two minutes, and 40 seconds set in the 2021 race held in 2022, expressed his positive sentiments about returning to Japan. “I have good memories in Japan,” Kipchoge stated. “I won my Olympic gold medal there and ran the course record in the Tokyo marathon. I feel good working towards my next race in Tokyo. For me, it is the perfect preparation towards my aim to win my third consecutive Olympic title next summer in Paris.”

In addition to Kipchoge, Dutch runner Sifan Hassan, the Olympic 5000m and 10,000m champion, will make her debut at the Tokyo Marathon.

Hassan made a remarkable entrance into the marathon world this year, winning in London in April on her debut and claiming the Chicago title in October.

“In the streets of Tokyo, I will be looking to continue my marathon journey,” said the 30-year-old Hassan. “I want to learn from every marathon, since every marathon is different and I can’t wait to come to Tokyo.”

Both Kipchoge and Hassan’s participation adds excitement to the Tokyo Marathon, promising a competitive and thrilling event in March 2024.