Vol. 28 No. 307 (2023)
African runners: beyond the limits
One of the most impressive sports performances carried out this season was that of Kelvin Kiptun, a runner born in Kenya, who was less than 1 minute away from reaching a time of less than two hours to complete the 42.195 km of the marathon. In this way he surpassed the previous record of his compatriot Eliud Kipchoge, who, among other awards, won the last two editions of the Olympic Games in the event in 2016 and 2020.
Both are part of the elite of athletes from African countries, the majority Kenyans, Tanzanians and Ethiopians who carry out these feats, using various technological resources, training in high-performance groups, application of advances in applied sciences, added to the increase in monetary rewards. (although still meager compared to other sports). This mark that until a few years ago seemed impossible will surely be surpassed. We imagine that this feat becomes a reality in some of the World Marathon Major venues: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, or perhaps in August during the Paris Olympic Games.
An achievement of this magnitude reflects the dedication, talent, determination and excellence of these runners, most of whom come from rural agricultural communities, who stand out for their humility and their ability to overcome adversity, thus inspiring many people to fulfill their dreams. dreams, both in the field of sports and outside of it.
Tulio Guterman, Director - December 2024
Published:
2023-12-04
