Birir lists dangers of running marathons while young
Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 16.11.24. | 09:05
During the Mozzart Bet Chemususu Dam Half Marathon in Baringo, Eldama Ravine, he plans to establish a forum to counsel athletes on sustainable career management, financial planning, and discipline
1992 Olympics steeplechase champion Matthew Birir has a word of caution for Kenya’s young athletes; hold off on road racing until later in your career.
According to Birir, a shift towards marathon running at an early age could be hurting the long-term success and well-being of Kenya’s rising talents.
Birir, who claimed gold in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at the Barcelona Olympics, believes the early rush to the road is impacting both athletic development and Kenya’s competitive edge.
Reflecting on Kenya’s recent struggles in certain track events, Birir pointed to a trend he finds troubling: the premature transition of young athletes to marathon and road racing.
“When you see us losing in some events, it is because people are crossing over to road racing while they are young. Back then, the marathon was only for mature athletes, but today, people under 25 years are crossing to marathons,” he explained.
Birir went on to explain the toll that marathon running can take on a developing body. He noted that pounding 42 kilometers on unforgiving asphalt can have adverse effects on young athletes who have not yet reached physical maturity.
“There is the issue of body development. Running 42 kilometers on a harder surface over a long time is torturing your body. If you torture your body when you are young, it will hinder your development,” he advised.
To illustrate, Birir offered the example of marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge, who spent years competing on the track before making his celebrated transition to the marathon. Kipchoge’s gradual path from junior to senior track competitions allowed him to build a strong foundation and transition at a natural pace.
“Young athletes should follow the example of Kipchoge. He ran track as a junior, and then senior for many years before graduating to the marathon, and that is why he has lasted for over 25 years. If you are young, do it gradually, and then as you grow, you exit to the marathon,” he said.
Birir was also worried that the growing focus on money in athletics has shifted athletes’ priorities, pushing many towards road races due to the higher financial rewards.
“Nowadays, athletes run for money. They are only interested in places where there is money. It is no longer an issue of guiding the athletes to go through the process. They want the quick money,” he offered.
The former athlete is, however, taking steps to reverse this trend.
On Saturday 16 November, during the Mozzart Bet Chemususu Dam Half Marathon in Baringo, Eldama Ravine, he plans to establish a forum to counsel athletes on sustainable career management, financial planning, and discipline.
“There should be a guide to help athletes last longer,” he concluded.
