Kenyan long-distance runner Eliud Kipchoge will be taking part in the Tokyo Marathon set to be held in March, 2024.
The race will set the pace for Kipchoge ahead of the Paris Olympics, slated for August. If he wins the gold medal, he will become the first man to win three consecutive gold medals in a marathon at the Olympics after his previous victories in Rio in 2016 and Tokyo and 2021.
Choosing Tokyo in March over the other major spring marathons, Boston and London in April, gives Kipchoge more time to prepare for his bid to become the oldest person to win any Olympic running event.
“I have good memories of Japan. I won my Olympic gold medal there and ran the course record in the Tokyo marathon. Last time, I was grateful for the organization’s ability to organize the event during such a difficult time during the COVID-19 pandemic.
My aim was to set the course record, and it was great to achieve that. I feel good working towards my next race in Tokyo. For me, it is the perfect preparation towards my aim to win my third consecutive Olympic title next summer in Paris,” said Kipchoge as his NN’s team made the announcement on Tuesday.
Kipchoge has so far run 21 marathons over his career, and he will be seeking to add another victory when he heads to the Tokyo Marathon.