Kenya Announces Marathon Squad for Paris 2024 Olympics Featuring Kipchoge and Jepchirchir
Athletics Kenya, in conjunction with the National Olympics Committee of Kenya, has officially announced the six athletes selected for the marathon event at the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Leading the squad are Olympic champions Eliud Kipchoge and Peres Jepchirchir, aiming to defend their titles and capture gold once more.
Eliud Kipchoge, the marathon world’s reigning star and two-time Olympic champion, is set to make his fifth Olympic appearance. Kipchoge is renowned for his extraordinary track record, including his recent triumphs in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo. Following the tragic loss of world record holder Kelvin Kiptum in a road accident this February, Kipchoge's role as a leader is more significant than ever. He expressed his ongoing passion for the Olympics, stating, "The Olympic Games is what we all dream of as little kids starting out with our sport and is what motivates us the most today. I am beyond proud to be selected for the Kenyan team for the 5th time in my life."
Joining Kipchoge in the men’s team are Benson Kipruto, the fifth fastest marathoner of all time, and Alexander Munyao, who recently clinched the London Marathon title and defeated Olympic champion Kenenisa Bekele. Munyao’s inclusion comes after a spectacular season last year, highlighted by victories in Prague and a strong second-place finish in Valencia.
On the women’s side, Peres Jepchirchir is joined by two formidable marathoners, Hellen Obiri and Brigid Kosgei. Obiri, a two-time Boston Marathon champion, and Kosgei, a former world record holder, will be key contenders in Paris. Notably absent from the team selection are Sharon Lokedi, a standout performer in recent marathons, and Evans Chebet, who has been sidelined due to an Achilles injury.
The selections reflect Kenya's strong tradition in marathon running, highlighted by the inclusion of seasoned athletes and rising stars. With the Olympic marathon scheduled for August 10, the Kenyan team is poised to continue its legacy of dominance in one of the most challenging athletic disciplines.
