Eliud Kipchoge's Quest for Gold in Paris 2024
Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge is set to compete in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, aiming for his third consecutive gold medal in the marathon event. Kipchoge, who previously triumphed in the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics, faces a challenging path after a disappointing tenth-place finish in the recent Tokyo marathon. Despite this setback, he remains a formidable competitor, holding the second-fastest marathon record of 2h01m09 achieved in Berlin 2022, just behind the world record of 2h00m35 set by Kelvin Kiptum in Chicago last year. At the age of 39, Kipchoge has the chance to become the oldest marathon champion in Olympic history.
The Rivals: Kipchoge vs. Bekele
The Paris 2024 marathon will also reignite the historic rivalry between Kipchoge and Ethiopian legend Kenenisa Bekele, who has three Olympic and five world gold medals in long-distance running. Bekele, now 41, qualified for the Olympics with a remarkable time of 2h04m15, marking the best performance for a masters athlete. Their storied competition began in 2003 at the World Championships in Paris, and this Olympic marathon could be a defining moment in their careers.
A Diverse Field of Contenders
The marathon will feature a strong lineup of athletes from various countries, including other Ethiopian contenders like Deresa Geleta and Tamirat Tola, both of whom have impressive marathon records. Additionally, South American athletes, including Chilean Carlos Martín Díaz and Peruvian Cristhian Pacheco, will represent their nations, showcasing the global nature of this prestigious event. The challenging route in Paris, with significant elevation changes, will test all participants, potentially leading to slower times than usual. As the marathon approaches, Kipchoge's performance and the emergence of new rivals will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
- The marathon has a rich history, with its origins dating back to the ancient Greek soldier Pheidippides. Since its inclusion in the modern Olympic Games in 1896, it has become one of the most celebrated events. Kipchoge's achievements have elevated the profile of marathon running, inspiring a new generation of athletes. As the competition in Paris draws near, the excitement surrounding the event continues to build, with fans eagerly anticipating what could be a historic race.
