Joshua Cheptegei Shifts Focus from Track to Marathon in Career Transition
Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda, the world record holder at 10,000m, announces his retirement from track events to pursue marathon racing. He reflects on his illustrious career that includes three Olympic medals and four world championship medals, stating, “I’ll miss the track, but I have to leave.” Cheptegei aims to improve upon his marathon debut performance in Tokyo, competing against top athletes in the field.
Joshua Cheptegei from Uganda has announced his retirement from track events to concentrate on marathon running. Speaking at the Tokyo Marathon press conference, the 10,000m world record holder, aged 28, expressed his gratitude for his track accomplishments but indicated it was time to move on. He stated, “I’ll miss the track, but I have to leave.”
During his remarkable track career, Cheptegei secured three Olympic medals, including two golds and a silver, alongside four world championship medals in the men’s 10,000m. His record-setting time of 26 minutes and 11 seconds was achieved at the Monaco Diamond League in 2020. Now, he looks forward to his debut marathon, having previously finished 37th with a time of 2:08:59 in Valencia two years ago.
Cheptegei aims to challenge elite competitors such as defending champion Benson Kipruto of Kenya and Deresa Geleta of Ethiopia in the upcoming marathon. Kipruto holds the current course record of 2:02:16, while Geleta recently set a personal best of 2:02:38. Cheptegei expressed his intention to keep pace with these formidable runners while striving for a personal best.
In addition to Cheptegei’s transition, the women’s marathon will see returning champion Sutume Kebede of Ethiopia, who set a Japanese record of 2:15:55 last year, alongside notable competitors including Rosemary Wanjiru and others under the 2:20 mark. Although Brigid Kosgei, the 2022 winner, was initially set to compete, she has since withdrawn.
Fans can watch the live coverage of the Tokyo Marathon on FloTrack beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET, with the race starting shortly thereafter. Interested viewers are encouraged to sign up for a FloTrack account to access the event.
In conclusion, Joshua Cheptegei’s transition from track to marathon marks a significant shift in his athletic career, emphasizing his desire for new challenges. With an impressive track record, including multiple Olympic and world championship medals, he is setting his sights on a successful marathon debut as he faces formidable competitors. The marathon event promises to showcase a competitive field, particularly among female runners, underlining the excitement surrounding this prestigious race.
Original Source: runningmagazine.ca
