Eliud Kipchoge reacts ahead of short-distance test at Thailand Marathon

Eliud Kipchoge shares a moment with fans, signing autographs ahead of the Amazing Thailand Marathon in Bangkok.IMAGE/ Pool

Eliud Kipchoge reacts ahead of short-distance test at Thailand Marathon

Festus Chuma 21:00 - 30.11.2024

Eliud Kipchoge will be part of an inspiring marathon event in Bangkok, blending sports, culture and global excitement.

Two-time Olympics marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge has expressed his excitement and gratitude for the warm reception in Bangkok as he gears up to participate in the Amazing Thailand Marathon.

The event, set for Sunday, will see the legendary Kenyan runner compete in the 10km mass run alongside 33,000 participants from 77 countries.

Kipchoge, who is in Bangkok as part of his ambassadorial role promoting Thailand’s sports, tourism and cultural offerings, attended ONE Friday Fights 89 at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium on Friday night.

The packed event featured thrilling Muay Thai bouts with four knockouts and a total of nine fight finishes, making it a spectacular showcase for Thailand’s national sport.

In a post on his Instagram, Kipchoge shared his joy at being in the “Land of Smiles.”.

"Now I truly understand why Thailand is called the Land of Smiles! This week has been an incredible celebration of running here in Bangkok. I can’t wait to run alongside all of you in the 10km tomorrow," he wrote.

ONE Championship Thailand managing director Prem Busarabavonwongs praised the Olympian’s presence at the martial arts event.

“Legendary marathoner and multi-time Olympian Eliud Kipchoge honoured us with his presence at ONE Friday Fights, at the legendary Lumpinee Stadium,” he said in a statement to the Bangkok Post.

“It was a true privilege to share the excitement of Muay Thai, Thailand’s national sport and cultural heritage, with such an iconic figure.”

Kipchoge arrived in Thailand on Wednesday with his entourage to take part in the seventh edition of the Amazing Thailand Marathon.

The event features a total prize fund of 2,440,500 baht and is expected to attract massive crowds, celebrating not only athletic prowess but also Thailand's rich cultural heritage.

The marathon comes at a time when Kipchoge is looking to rebound from a challenging year. Earlier in 2024, he placed seventh in the Tokyo Marathon, marking a rare setback in his illustrious career.

Additionally, he participated in the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he aimed to secure an unprecedented third consecutive Olympic gold medal in the marathon but fell short of expectations.

Despite these recent challenges, Kipchoge remains optimistic and energized by his time in Thailand.

His ambassadorial role emphasizes promoting the nation as a global hub for sporting excellence and tourism. The runner has expressed admiration for Thailand’s vibrant culture, hospitality, and passion for sports.

Friday night’s martial arts spectacle added to the festive atmosphere of Kipchoge’s visit.

ONE chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong made the event even more memorable by awarding seven performance bonuses worth 350,000 baht (Ksh 1.3million) each, celebrating the fighters’ exceptional performances in the ring.