Marathon running is certainly going through a purple patch, with more and more attention being put on it. Whether it be Nike’s attempt at the sub two, in which they looked to see whether it was possible. The star there was Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, who has now gone on to break the world record in clocking a jaw dropping 2 hours, 1 minute and 20 seconds. This all sets up for a fascinating London Marathon this year with all the world’s best taking part, in what is possible the greatest marathon ever ran. Punters have already been looking for offers on Betstars online, in which Kipchoge is a strong favourite to defend his title. Here we cover the two leading contenders.
Eliud Kipchoge
The 34 year old Kenyan turned to Marathon running following a very successful career on the track, that included reaching five 5000 metre World Championship finals. However he has been almost unbeatable over the Marathon distance in winning 10 of his 11 starts, with his only defeat coming back at the 2013 Berlin Marathon. As mentioned previously he now holds the record following his stunning victory in the 2018 Berlin Marathon, and if any man is to surpass the two hour mark at present, then it is likely to be him. Kipchoge will start as the strong favourite in Londonas he looks to again defend his title following victories in 2015, 2016 and 2018.
A new year brings new goals.
— Eliud Kipchoge (@EliudKipchoge) January 14, 2019
Excited to announce my return to @LondonMarathon on April 28.
Looking forward to be back!@NNRunningTeam@NikeRunning#LondonMarathon pic.twitter.com/MLRP3Dwb4l
Mo Farah
The most celebrated distance runner in history who has now turned his attentions to marathon running. The 35 year old won two Gold’s for the second time at the 2016 Olympic games in Rio following on from the 2012 games in London. This meant he became just the second person to do so, showing the incredible achievement. Mo ran third behind the previously mentioned Kipchoge at the 2018 London Marathon clocking an impressive time of 2 hours, 6 minutes and 22 seconds. This meant be broke the British record in the process.
Following a fifth consecutive Great North run victory he contested the Chicago marathon and in the process won his first race over the distance. He put in a very eye catching performance, in which he looked very comfortable for the entire race. Mo broke the European record with a time of 2 hours, 5 minutes and 11 seconds, as he lowered the record by 37 seconds. If Mo can improve further they he could be a big challenge to Kipchoge in what sets up to be a fascinating contest.
