Kenya's marathon hero Kelvin Kiptum takes a breather, sets sights on 2024

After shattering the world record at the Chicago Marathon, Kelvin Kiptum returned to Kenya on Tuesday afternoon, with his eyes firmly set on the horizon of 2024.

He revealed his plans for the future, emphasizing the importance of rest and hinting at a potential appearance in the Paris Olympics.

Kelvin Kiptum, who recently made headlines by becoming the new world record holder in the marathon, has decided to take a well-deserved break from racing for the remainder of this year. Following his triumphant return to Kenya, Kiptum expressed his immediate priorities, stating, "I will rest for now and talk to my management team about what to do from 2024."

When asked about the possibility of representing Kenya at the Paris Olympics in 2024, Kiptum responded with unwavering enthusiasm, saying, "Of course, if I get the chance, I will definitely love to represent my country."

In recognition of his remarkable achievement in breaking the marathon world record, Kelvin Kiptum received a prestigious reward of Ksh 5 Million from the Ministry of Youth Affairs, The Arts, and Sports. CS Ababu Nambwamba, representing the government and the ministry, congratulated Kiptum and expressed the nation's collective pride, stating, "We are very happy as he has made the entire country proud."

CS Ababu Nambwamba also took the opportunity to address the critical issue of doping in athletics. He commended Kiptum for maintaining a clean record and running free from any doping controversies, emphasizing the government's commitment to eradicating doping from sports. "To have such an elite athlete without any doping issues is really encouraging. We have declared total war on doping, and to have someone like Kiptum breaking world records without any doping issues is an example that our upcoming athletes need to follow," he declared.

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Kiptum himself echoed these sentiments, offering advice to young, aspiring athletes: "My advice for upcoming athletes is to be patient and avoid taking shortcuts. Just work hard, and you will achieve whatever you set your mind to."