Eliud Kipchoge is not just a name in the world of athletics; he is a phenomenon that has redefined the limits of human endurance.
As the reigning marathon world record holder and the first person to complete a marathon in under two hours, Kipchoge’s achievements have captivated sports enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
But beyond his extraordinary records and accolades lies a story rich with inspiration, determination, and a profound love for running.
In this article, we delve into some of the most fascinating facts about Kipchoge, exploring the man behind the legend, his training philosophies, and the remarkable journey that has made him a global icon in the world of sports.
Is Eliud Kipchoge retired?
Kipchoge has not retired from competitive running but announced he will not compete in any future Olympic Games following his disappointing performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he failed to finish the marathon for the first time in his career.
He intends to continue running marathons, albeit with no specific goals currently in mind, and prefers to focus on inspiring others rather than coaching after retirement.
What is Eliud Kipchoge famous for?
Kipchoge is renowned as one of the greatest marathoners in history, celebrated for several key achievements.
In 2019, he made headlines by becoming the first person to run a marathon in under two hours, completing the distance in an astonishing 1:59:40 during the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna.
It’s important to note that this achievement was not recognized as an official record due to the specific conditions under which it was run.
Kipchoge is also a two-time Olympic champion, having won gold medals in the marathon at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
In addition to his Olympic success, he set the official marathon world record of 2:01:09 at the 2022 Berlin Marathon, a record that stood until it was broken in 2023.
What is the speed of Eliud Kipchoge?
Kipchoge is known for his remarkable speed in marathon running.
During the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in 2019, he completed a marathon in 1:59:40, maintaining an average pace of approximately 4:34 per mile (2:50 per kilometer) throughout the race.
In the 2022 Berlin Marathon, he set a world record of 2:01:09, running at an average speed of 21.02 km/h (2 minutes and 52 seconds per kilometer).
With that said let’s have a look at some fascinating facts about Eliud Kipchoge;
1. Kipchoge was born on November 5, 1984, in Kapsisiywa, Kenya.
2. He is married to his school sweetheart Grace Suggut, whom he met in 2003. They have three children together.
3. Kipchoge’s nickname is “The Philosopher” due to his thoughtful approach to running and life.
4. He began running long distances as a child, often jogging to and from school.
5. At age 16, Kipchoge met Patrick Sang, a Kenyan runner who became his longtime coach.
6. In 2003, Kipchoge won gold in the 5,000 meters at the World Championships, defeating Hicham El Guerrouj.
7. He won bronze in the 5,000 meters at the 2004 Olympics in Athens and silver in 2008 in Beijing.
8. Kipchoge turned his focus to marathons in 2013 after failing to make the Kenyan team for the 2012 Olympics.
9. He won his first marathon in Hamburg in 2013 with a time of 2:05:30.
10. Kipchoge began an unprecedented winning streak in marathons starting in 2014, winning 10 consecutive races between 2014 and 2019.
11. His marathon wins include Chicago (2014), Berlin (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023), London (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019), and Rotterdam (2014).
12. Kipchoge set the world record in the marathon at the 2018 Berlin Marathon with a time of 2:01:39.
13. He broke his own record at the 2022 Berlin Marathon, clocking 2:01:09.
14. Kipchoge won gold in the marathon at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
15. In 2020, he had his first loss in over six years at the London Marathon, finishing 8th due to an ear problem.
16. Kipchoge rebounded to win gold in the marathon at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021).
17. In 2023, he became the first runner to win five Berlin Marathons and recorded his 15th career marathon win.
18. Kipchoge trains at a high-altitude camp in Eldoret, Kenya, living like an “ascetic monk” and training with a group of elite runners.
19. He attributes his success to discipline, motivation, and his mantra “no human is limited”.
20. Kipchoge’s 2019 sub-two-hour marathon in Vienna was the subject of a documentary.
21. The film reveals Kipchoge’s father died when he was young, which he believes strengthened his resolve to work hard.
22. Kipchoge has a special relationship with his coach Patrick Sang, who has been a great advisor in his life.
23. His sub-two-hour marathon attempt in Vienna involved an army of training partners, pacemakers, coaches, and experts.
24. Kipchoge’s achievement inspired 80% of Kenya’s population to watch the event.
25. He hopes the documentary will inspire people to make running a family lifestyle.
26. Kipchoge has studied famous philosophers like Aristotle and Plato.
27. He keeps his audience gripped for over two hours when speaking, the same amount of time he has dominated marathons.
28. Kipchoge is hailed as the best male marathoner on the planet and probably the greatest distance runner of all time.
29. He continues to defy the conventional makeup of a Kenyan runner with his post-career plans.
30. Kipchoge spoke at a business forum in Nairobi, looking dapper in a dark blue suit, white shirt, and matching tie.
31. The three-time London and Berlin Marathon winner shared lessons he learned during his career and details of his post-career plans.
Conclusion
Kipchoge’s journey from a young boy running to school in rural Kenya to becoming an iconic figure in the world of athletics is nothing short of extraordinary.
His remarkable achievements in marathon running, including breaking the two-hour barrier and setting multiple world records, have inspired countless individuals around the globe.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Kipchoge embodies the values of discipline, perseverance, and humility, making him a role model not just for aspiring athletes but for anyone striving to overcome challenges in life.
As we reflect on the fascinating facts about Kipchoge, it becomes clear that his impact extends far beyond the finish line.
He has sparked a global conversation about the limits of human potential and the importance of community, hard work, and a positive mindset.
