Eluid Kipchoge: “There are things you can’t prevent.”

Former world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge has once again shared details about his setback at the Paris Olympics, explaining why he is not ready to quit running just yet.

In several interviews, he described the Olympic marathon as his worst experience, as it marked the first time he failed to finish a race in many years.

The five-time Berlin Marathon champion explained that he was unable to prevent this unfortunate outcome, but he has learned to live with it and eventually overcome the struggle. 

In an interview with China Daily, Kipchoge mentioned that he took a short break following his setback but has since resumed training for his next major assignment, which may take place next year. 

However, he did not disclose where his next race would be.

Kipchoge expressed his goal to inspire runners worldwide, which motivates him to keep training and working hard despite his recent challenges. 

Since 2023, he has struggled to secure victories, finishing sixth at the Boston Marathon and tenth in Tokyo in 2024 before pulling out of the Paris Olympic Marathon around the 30-kilometre mark.

“There are things you can’t prevent; what has happened has happened. One way to deal with this is to convince my mind to move on and try to fulfil what’s on my bucket list,” Kipchoge said. 

“The inspiration I derive from the general humanity in this world motivates me to wake up early every morning and go for a run. I aim to shift the mindset of the running community, showing that we are not limited in our minds, our pain, or physically.”

During his recent visit to China, the four-time London Marathon champion emphasised that his main goal is to support both recreational and professional runners in pursuing their dreams without giving up. 

“I trust that if I don’t meet the Chinese runners in person, they will follow me on social media to see what I’ve been doing here and learn about my philosophies. I believe that my efforts will genuinely help them,” he stated.

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