Eliud Kipchoge: 7 Random Facts About Marathon Goat as He Turns 37

There are many adjectives that have been used to epitomize the achievements of Kenyan marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge.

Unbelievable, brilliant, superb and a true great are just but a few of the words that come to the minds of those who are ardent followers of Kipchoge, who turned 37 years on Friday, October 5.

As Kenyans and the world came together to celebrate the birthday of a person considered the greatest marathoner of all time, TUKO.co.ke takes a look at some random and little-known facts about the marathoner on his special day.

1. Father of three

Not many know this, but Kipchoge is actually a family man and a father of three beautiful children. He is married to Grace Suggut, a sweetheart he met in his high school days and they have been together more than 18 years.

2. He is a huge fan of Ugali

Chelsea Legend Names 2 Players Who Should Become the Club’s Captain if Cesar Azpilicueta Leaves

Football

While many would expect a man of Kipchoge’s caliber to rely on exotic foods to keep his athleticism, Kipchoge loves to keep it simple and healthy in his diet.

As it turns out, one of his favourite meals is Kenya’s most common staple - Ugali. He also enjoys rice and porridge.

3. Estimated net worth

As of 2020, Kipchoge was estimated to have a net worth of around 3 million dollars (KSh 310 million). This is thanks to his achievements on the tracks as well as sponsorships and partnerships from brands such as Nike, Ineos, Maurten IsuzuNN Group and COROS Wearables (official GPS watch partner)

4. He is extremely disciplined

For those who might think Kipchoge’s success has to do with luck, the chap is anything but fortunate to be where he is today.

He has perfected his craft through a combination of discipline and humility, and it has worked wonders for him over the years.

“Most Valuable”: Mamelodi Sundowns' Rhoda Mulaudzi Reflects on Treble Exploits

Football

As a matter of fact, Kipchoge’s mantra is "Motivation + Discipline = Consistency".

On a typical week, the athlete can train upto six days of the week.

5. A humble man

It does not take too much to realise that despite all he has achieved, Kipchoge is actually quite down to earth.

Not only does he interact freely with upcoming athletes in his native Nandi county, he also has set up a foundation that would focus on education and the environment.

He can also make himself chapatis, as TUKO.co.ke reported last month

6. Started his career running 5000 metres

While Kipchoge today is synonymous with marathons, he began his career racing much shorter distances.

At the beginning of his career, the 5000 metres was his speciality, and in that field, he won bronze at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. He also won silver at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

Premier Soccer League Explains why TS Galaxy Chairman Tim Sukazi was Denied Orlando Stadium Entry

Football

It was not until 2013 that he made his marathon debut.

7. He loves reading

Like any other successful person, Kipchoge has an eye for good books, mainly along the self-help line.

Turns out “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” by Stephen R. Covey is among his favourite reads and it is safe to say he is certainly reaping from what he learnt in the book.