As the world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, all eyes are on Eliud Kipchoge, the legendary Kenyan marathoner, as he aims for an unprecedented third gold medal.
Kipchoge, who has become synonymous with marathon success, is not just running for victory but also to inspire a generation and showcase Kenyan pride on the global stage.
"My goal is to win for the third time," Kipchoge stated with determination.
In what might be his last professional marathon, the long-distance races maestro told CNN’s Inside Africa that he would like to be remembered for inspiring the next generation to run more.
"I'm really proud to represent Kenya; that's the only way to show my patriotism to my country. I want to be remembered for making this world a running world. I stay motivated because I love the sport. I want to use the sport to inspire the next generation. It will be great, actually. I know it'll take a lot, both mentally and physically, in training. But all in all, that’s life. Somebody should have a purpose, and our purpose is to make history and move beyond history."
Kipchoge’s journey to Paris 2024 is marked by unwavering discipline and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
"I've learned that being disciplined actually can propel you to success in sport. Being disciplined can hold you well in life. I always wake up at 5:45 in the morning, for the last 22 years, and that’s what discipline has meant to my mind," he shared.
For Kipchoge, teamwork is an integral part of his success in the rewarding track event.
"Teamwork is the real key in sport. I think the marathon or running in general should not actually be treated as an individual sport," he emphasized.
The Olympics, Kipchoge believes, is more than just a sporting event but an event to meet other industry leaders and interact to expand networks.
"The Olympics is the soft spot to meet world leaders in sport and politics and to sell our country. This is the soft power, for us to tell people what’s inside Kenya," he said.
"After huge success in the Olympics, I think it’s high time for politicians to use the platform for development, to sell the country."
Kipchoge's fiercest competitor in Paris will be Ethiopia's Kenenisa Bekele.
Having been snubbed for the Olympic Games Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, Bekele is set to make his return at Paris 2024, aiming to challenge Kipchoge's dominance.
Other formidable contenders include Benson Kipruto, the newly crowned London Marathon champion Alexander Munyao, and Timothy Kiplagat, who has been listed as a reserve.
Despite the stiff competition, Kipchoge remains focused on his mission.
"I want to be remembered actually by making this world a running world. I stay motivated actually because I love the sport. I want to use the sport to inspire the next generation," he reiterated.
As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, Eliud Kipchoge's unwavering spirit and dedication to his sport and country inspire millions around the globe.
