Kelvin Kiptum, a Kenyan marathon sensation, has made a significant mark in 2023 by setting a new men’s marathon world record. His next ambitious goal is to complete a sub-two-hour marathon in Rotterdam in April of the following year.
Kiptum’s astounding performance was showcased in October when, in only his third marathon event, he shattered the previous world record by 34 seconds at the Chicago Marathon, clocking in at 2 hours and 35 seconds. Earlier in April, he triumphed at the London Marathon with a time of 2:01:25, which was then the second-fastest marathon time ever recorded.
In a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Kiptum revealed his next target: the Rotterdam Marathon scheduled for April 14.
“I aim to elevate my performance and, in doing so, break the barrier,” Kiptum expressed.
Kiptum has a special reason for selecting Rotterdam for his next marathon challenge.
“The marathon’s organization has ties to my management,” he explained. “I was initially set to debut there in 2022, but a minor injury held me back. Now is the perfect timing.”
Pursuing these record-breaking goals means that Kiptum can only see his family once a week during training periods.
“This decision was made consciously, in agreement with my wife, to fully concentrate on my objectives,” said the 24-year-old athlete.
Kiptum also has his eyes set on the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, being one of the ten athletes pre-selected for the Kenyan team.
“There are only three spots, and I’m determined to secure one,” he stated. “While we work as a team, ultimately, each of us has personal ambitions. I’m also considering the 2025 Tokyo World Championships, inspired by the Budapest race.”
For now, Kiptum is fully focused on Rotterdam, with aspirations to be the first runner to complete a marathon in less than two hours.
“I’m heading there to run swiftly. The course is perfect, and the enthusiastic crowds really motivate you to excel. I’m eager to contribute to the distinguished history of this marathon,” he said.
“If my training, which can reach up to 270 kilometers per week, goes as planned, and the weather conditions are favorable, I’ll definitely attempt it.”
