Eliud Kipchoge Sets Sights on Ambitious Run in Sub-Zero Antarctica Temperatures After New York Marathon

Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic marathon champion, has revealed his ambitious and "extreme" plans for the future, which include a run in Antarctica, as he prepares for what is expected to be his final World Marathon Major race in New York City on November 2.

For much of his illustrious career, the Kenyan superstar has thrived on routine. Now, however, Kipchoge is embracing the unknown as he gears up for his debut in the New York City Marathon, a race he describes as his "last big city marathon."

This race marks a significant moment for Kipchoge, who has dominated the road for 12 years. The November event is unusually late in the season for him and follows a ninth-place finish at the Sydney Marathon on August 31.

"November, and it’s New York… It’s a place that has been on my mind for a long time," Kipchoge told Olympics.com. "It’s time for me to go there and get a Seven Star [award] before embarking on my new journey of running for other things—running for a purpose."

The Seven Star Hall of Fame recognizes athletes who have completed all World Marathon Majors: Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City. Kipchoge's most dominant performances have come in Berlin, where he has won five times and set two world records.

But the legendary runner’s ambitions extend far beyond the traditional marathon circuit. He revealed his surprising plan to conquer a new, formidable continent.

"I will run in Antarctica!" he declared. "I now want to do that extreme thing that can make someone work hard."Podium Ambitions in the Big Apple

At 40 years old, Kipchoge, who famously broke the two-hour marathon barrier in Vienna six years ago, remains as competitive as ever. He is not merely showing up to participate in New York; he is aiming for a top-three finish.

"I’m really ready to run well. I will be trying to be on the podium," he stated. "It’s like any other serious, normal race. I will fight to run in a good way on the streets of New York. It's not about just participating, it's about competition."

Kipchoge has not secured a podium finish since his victory at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. He enters the New York race as the fastest man in a competitive field that includes his long-time rival Kenenisa Bekele and former champions Abdi Nageeye and Evans Chebet.

The New York City course, known for its challenging hills and turns, presents a unique test. However, Kipchoge is confident that the energy from the crowd will be a significant advantage.

"It’s up and down, but with two million people lining up the streets, they should somehow help you push. I think it will be a beautiful course," he said.

This race will also be the first time Kipchoge has competed in three marathons in a single season. "I didn’t have to change my training for this, as I still believe I have the mileage in my muscles after the Sydney marathon," he explained. "It was mainly just changing my mind to accept that I can run three marathons in a year... and then I decided to go for it."

He added, "What I am also aiming for is to show the young people that you can still push limits and do more marathons."

Crossing the finish line in Central Park will be a poignant moment for the man often called "The King of the Road." When asked if this would truly be his last elite marathon major, his response was unequivocal.

"Absolutely yes!" he confirmed, emphasizing his decision to step back from the major racing circuit after November. "A lot is in store which I will roll out after New York… it will be an interesting journey... to do other things."

While his time in the elite marathon spotlight may be ending, running will remain central to his life, albeit in new and challenging environments. Kipchoge plans to use his platform to inspire others, taking on extreme challenges to rally support for various causes.

"I will run even 50 kilometres in Saudi Arabia," he shared. "I want to do that extreme thing that can make somebody work hard and also get partners (sponsors) to rally for a cause."

Double Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge reflects on his storied career, the lessons from his setbacks, and his mission to inspire future athletes. Despite a challenging race at Paris 2024 where he did not finish, Kipchoge remains focused on his belief in limitless human potential.

While many elite marathoners are in their 20s, Kipchoge continues to defy expectations and command respect in the Marathon Majors, a testament to his enduring brilliance. He sees his longevity as a powerful message.

"To still push at my age is really good; I am showing people that age is just a number," he said. "I am happy because my age still handles the training well. I am still training with the younger ones. That’s my happiness."

With 11 Marathon Major titles and 25 marathon victories to his name, Kipchoge finds deep fulfillment in the mental fortitude required by the sport.

"Anybody who starts a marathon and finishes will not be the same, mentally," he explained. "Pushing through that pain, the experience of running over a long time…it’s different."

While Kipchoge is content with his marathon achievements, he revealed that his biggest career regrets lie outside the 26.2-mile distance.

"I always feel I missed the world record for 5000 metres," the four-time Olympic medallist stated. "I wish I could have done that and maybe run a 10-kilometre world record on the road. In the marathon, I did not miss anything."

Away from the track, the Kenyan legend leads a multifaceted life. A farmer, Kipchoge's interests extend far beyond running, offering a glimpse into the man behind the marathon greatness.