Eliud Kipchoge returns home days after disappointing London Marathon

Eliud Kipchoge returns home days after disappointing London Marathon

Babajide Orevba
updated at April 12, 2023 at 7:42 PM

- Eliud Kipchoge arrived in the country on Sunday morning aboard a Kenya Airways (KQ) flight

- Kipchoge flew in a week after the October 4 London Marathon that was won by Ethiopian Shura Kitata who was followed by Kenyan Vincent Kipchumba

- Despite Kipchoge's unexpected performance, Kenyans have maintained that he is still the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T)

PAY ATTENTION: Help us change more lives, join TUKO.co.ke’s Patreon programme

Marathoner Eliud Kipchoge has finally returned in the country from Europe where he raced in the London Marathon.

London Marathon: Eliud Kipchoge returns home after underwhelming performance
Eliud Kipchoge flew in aboard a Kenya Airways plane. Photo: Kenya Airways.
Source: Facebook

TUKO.co.ke has learnt that Kipchoge arrived at Nairobi based Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) early on Sunday, October 11, aboard a Kenya Airways (KQ) flight.

Kipchoge's return came a week after the Sunday, October 4, race where he finished in the eighth place. His performance shattered the expectations of his fans who expected him to emerge winner in the race.

After the race that was won by Ethiopian Shura Kitata, Kipchoge attributed his unexpected performance to a blocked ear and pain in his leg; factors that he said dealt a blow to his pace.

"After 25 kilometres my ear blocked and it couldn't open anymore. But this is how the sport is, we should accept defeat and focus for the winning next time.
Thanks for the support," said Kipchoge adding that he was still determined to run many more races which he expected to trounce.
London Marathon: Eliud Kipchoge returns home after underwhelming performance
Athlete Eliud Kipchoge during the London Marathon on October 4. Photo: Eliud Kipchoge.
Source: Facebook

PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB Feed

Many who hoped Kipchoge will bag another Londo Marathon title, cited his stellar performance during the unofficial Ineos Challenge in Viena on October 12, 2019, when he became the first man to run a marathon in under two hours (1.59.40).

The athlete, in a statement, said that for one to enjoy sport, then it was required of them to accept defeat and plan to perform better in subsequent races.

"Marathon is life, and life is full of challenges. I want to thank everybody for the many well wishes, it is a great support to me. We look ahead and together we build towards an even greater future, in which we hope to inspire as many human beings as possible.
Last, I do want to thank the organisation of the London Marathon for going the extra mile to make the event possible. It shows what's possible and gives hope other organisations can incorporate their plans to make sports possible in current times," said Kipchoge.

Despite the unexpected run, Kenyans, including Kenya Airways (KQ) that flew the athlete back home, have maintained that Kipchoge is still the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T).

"A warm welcome back to the G.O.A.T. himself Eliud Kipchoge! Thank you for reminding us that No Human is Limited. Keep inspiring the world," KQ tweeted.

Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly.

My father-in-law won't let me bury my wife of 16 years or see my two children- Victor Odonda Tuko TV.

Authors
Babajide Orevba photo
Babajide Orevba
Babajide Orevba is a CAF accredited Nigerian journalist and HOD of the Local Desk with over 10 years of experience in media landscape.He studied NCE Political Science/Social Studies, AOCOED.
Tags
Eliud KipchogeWorld