Paris 2024: Marathon maverick Benson Kipruto sets sights on Olympic stardom

Paris 2024: Marathon maverick Benson Kipruto sets sights on Olympic stardom

Festus Chuma 14:07 - 13.04.2024

Kenyan marathoner Benson Kipruto has shared insights into his training, inspirations, and the community that fuels his quest for more glory.

Tokyo Marathon champion Benson Kipruto has conquered the roads of Boston, Chicago, and Tokyo, but now he has his eyes set on a bigger prize: the Olympic Games. 

The 33-year-old athlete, who has emerged as one of the nation's most accomplished marathoners, is now part of Kenya’s marathon squad for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. 

After a series of major wins, including a record-breaking victory in Tokyo earlier this year, Kipruto is eager to represent his country on the world's largest athletic stage.

In an intimate reveal with World Athletics Inside Track, Kipruto shared insights into his lifestyle, ambitions, and the sense of community that fuels his success. 

 "We feel at home here," Kipruto said. "Here, we are equal because we stay humble. Everyone stays humble here. We all train together, we all eat together, so we are like a family."

The camaraderie and mutual support among the athletes in Nandi County serve as a major source of motivation for Kipruto, who finds inspiration even in the youngest runners.

 "Whenever I am in a race or whenever I am training, I get motivated by other athletes, even the young ones. We train together and we encourage each other," he noted.

One of his major inspirations is marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, whom Kipruto aspires to emulate.

 "I’m inspired by the likes of Eliud Kipchoge. When he might retire – I hope not soon – I would like to follow his footsteps," Kipruto revealed.

The prospect of competing in the Olympics carries a profound significance for Kipruto, who views it as a privilege and a dream.

 "Competing in the Olympics means a lot. I will do my best to represent my country. It is a privilege to represent my country for the first time. I love my country," he concluded.

Kipruto's journey to Paris 2024 comes after a series of impressive performances, including his stunning 2:02:16 finish in Tokyo that shattered the course record.

 This victory marked his fourth win in his last seven marathons, showcasing a remarkable consistency at the highest levels of competition.

 Despite the occasional setback, such as Eliud Kipchoge's unexpected 10th place finish in Tokyo, Kipruto remains undeterred and focused on his Olympic aspirations.

With a team that includes fellow top performers Munyao Alexander, Timothy Kiplagat, and Vincent Ngetich, Kenya's marathon squad looks formidable to retain the tile.

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