London Marathon champion Brigid Kosgei longs to break her world record mark

After producing an impressive run to break Paula Radcliffe’s world marathon record by 81 seconds in Chicago in 2019, Brigid Kosgei is plotting to improve on the 2:14.04 world record and also win an Olympic gold this year.

Brigid, a mother of one set of twins, believes she is capable of breaking her own record saying World Half Marathon record holder Peres Jepchirchir and world marathon champion Ruth Chepng’etich can also lower the current world record mark.

Born in Sinon village in Kapsowar, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Brigid ran her first international race in 2015. She raced at the Porto Marathon in Portugal, which she won in 2:47:59.

This year she will lead the women’s Olympic marathon squad that comprises Chepng’etich and 2018 London Marathon champion Vivian Cheruiyot.

“I know with hardwork, running sub two hours 14 minutes is possible. I believe with good preparation, I can do it. Even other marathoners like Ruth and Peres are also good and they can break the current record,” said Brigid, who is coached by Erick Kimaiyo, a 2:07:43 performer and runner-up at the 1997 Berlin Marathon.

She added: “My immediate plan is to win an Olympic medal. That’s my main target this season now that RAK half marathon has been cancelled despite having prepared well for it. I will just keep fit for any race before the Olympic Games.”

Yesterday, Brigid signed a two-year partnership deal with Stanbic Bank Kenya in a move aimed at inspiring and encouraging young women to achieve their goals. It is a campaign dubbed ‘It Can Be’.

As the brand ambassador, Brigid will be involved in a number of activities lined up to help women as the bank positions to proactively invest in women and their business for a more equitable progressive society.

Brigid said: “Sometimes all we need is a partner who believes in us. We all face challenges in our lives, but these should not deter us from going forth and achieving our goals. Stanbic Bank has been there to support me.”

Speaking during the event, Stanbic Chief Executive Officer, Charles Mudiwa said: “It Can Be’ speaks to the philosophy of who we are and where we are going as a Kenyan Bank. We recognise that we would not be where we are today without the support and trust from our clients and employees.”