On Saturday, October 12, 2019, Eliud Kipchoge shattered the INEOS 15:9 challenge and Kenyans from all walks of life united in joy.
They celebrated the amazing feat, congratulating the athlete for his achievement.
Led by President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy Wiliam Ruto they took to social media to share the win with the elite runner.
"Hearty congratulations Eliud. You've done it, my brother, you've made history and made Kenya super proud while at it. Your win today, against all odds, will inspire tens of future generations to dream big and to aspire for greatness. We celebrate you and wish you God's blessings," President Uhuru Kenyatta stated.
"Your supreme tempo, fatigue-resistance, endurance, compulsion, mental strength, resolve, and tenacity are a manifestation there are no limits when you believe in yourself; undoubtedly the landmark triumph cements Kenya’s position in the globe as an athletics powerhouse," DP Ruto tweeted.
"Congratulations Eliud Kipchoge. You have confirmed to the whole world that no human is limited by being the first man ever to run a 42km marathon race in under two hours. Surely, when a man is down to earth, God is up to something bigger and better," Siaya senator James Orengo wrote on Facebook.
Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi was not left behind, claiming that indeed Kipchoge had proven beyond doubt that humans could achieve anything if they put in the work to accomplish it.
He further stated that Eluid would remain a true inspiration to many by the way he proved that with hard work and determination, everything was possible.
"Congratulations Eliud Kipchoge and thank you for the inspiration INEOS 1:59 Challenge!" Elegyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen posted.
Odinga described Kipchoge's win as historic. He added that the athlete captured the imagination of the whole world before the great feat and it would continue for a long time.
"Congratulations on becoming the first human to run a sub two-hour marathon. Kenya is greater because of you!" he concluded.
Other institutions and individuals from around the globe joined Kenyans in celebrating the victory while showering the athlete with praise.
Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand was among the first to register his shock after Kipchoge shattered the challenge.
"Unreal scenes, History... legend," Rio tweeted.
Others were Manchester City Football Club, AS Roma Football Club, former Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure, English media personality Piers Morgan and Kenyan born English cyclist Chris Froome.
