Inspired Kipchoge eager to wear another crown at Olympic Games

Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge celebrates on the podium after winning the men's race of the Berlin Marathon.[AFP]

Legendary athlete Eliud Kipchoge is thirsting for more. Cruising to two back-to-back Olympic marathon victories isn’t enough.

The former marathon world record holder and the first man to run under two hours in a sensational 42km challenge will be heading to the 2024 Paris in August for a historic straight third win.

But there are two things he says remain his source of motivation; reading books and his No Human is Limited mantra.

On Monday, Kipchoge, who is turning 40 in November, said he was drawing inspiration from reading Choosing Me by Toby Wise – a book he says is packed with insights, relatable examples and practical exercises that help individuals to understand themselves better.

The Choosing Me author also wrote Chasing Magic and Watching Me among other books.

“I am reading a book, ‘Choosing Me’ trying to understand who am I and trying to understand who a human being is,” Kipchoge said during a meeting with Athletics Kenya (AK) and National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) officials charged with managing team Kenya to the 2024 Olympic Games.

He described his preparations as smooth and added his No Human is Limited slogan would be a motivating factor as he eyes a historic third Olympic title in August.

“On our side, we are pushing ourselves not to be limited,” said Kipchoge.

During the Monday meeting, the marathon team which was unveiled on May 1, 2024 welcomed proposed joint training sessions.

When the final selection was announced last month, the marathoners retreated to their respective camps where they train with their coaches, in readiness for the Olympics.

Kipchoge said the proposed joint sessions would cement the team.

“Doing some sessions together will enhance cohesiveness. It will cement the team and that is the idea,” Kipchoge said.

He said he was happy because the No Human is Limited mojo continues to inspire the world whether he wins or not.

The Kenyan legend described his preparation as smooth and added his No Human Limited slogan would be a motivating factor as he eyes a historic third Olympic title in August.

Kipchoge who is heading to Paris to defend his 2020 Tokyo title went on to say: “I can’t equate the past with the present. It is new training and new everything.”

Peres Jepchirchir who has set sights on defending her 2020 Tokyo crown said the team bonding should start at home (Kenya).

“It is good to train together because we are going to Paris as a team.

“We have to start being together at home,” Jepchirchir said.

She added: “We are thankful that we have had no challenges. The preparations have been going on well and we can only hope for the best.”

Tokyo Marathon champion Benson Kipruto, London winner Alexander Mutiso and reserve Timothy Kiplagat attended the joint meeting. Former world record holder Brigid Kosgei was also present.

AK and NOC-K officials said the marathon team was well prepared for the 2024 Paris Olympics assignment.

Deputy Chef de Mission Barnaba Korir said the joint team training will boost team spirit ahead of the Olympic Marathon showdown.

Korir said team coaches have organised a number of long runs before departure.

“It is important that marathoners work as a team. They are the best athletes and coaches,” the AK youth committee chairman said.

He continued: “Peres gave water to compatriots at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and that is the spirit we are taking to Paris.”

John Ogola is in charge of the team’s performance.