Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge yet again raised the bar for marathon runners across the globe on Sunday, setting an extraordinary time of 2:01:09 and beating a 2018 world record which he also set in Germany’s capital.
The 37-year-old, Kipchoge, regarded as one of the greatest long-distance runners of his generation, won in Berlin in 2018 posting time of 2:01:39.
Kipchoge’s Sunday record put him well ahead runner-up countryman Mark Korir, who finished second in 2:05:58, and third place Tadu Abake from Ethiopia with 2:06:28.
All the top six runners are from East Africa.
Famous for his understated manner on the road and in person, Kipchoge revealed a rare jubilation after he crossed the line.
It wasn’t so much the win he celebrated, but more his final victory over the distance.
“I’m so happy to break the world record in Berlin. I planned to go out fast in the first half,” said Kipchoge after posting his fourth win in Berlin after 2015 (2:04:00), 2017 (2:03:32) and 2018 (2:01:39).
“I still feel young, thinking wise and body still absorbing training.”
Before the race, Kipchoge refused to be drawn on exactly what he would class as a very good race but hinted the Berlin course is perfect for a World Record.
“Berlin is a very good place where a human being can actually push limits. I still have to come back to Berlin to try and push limits,” he said.
“I can’t say it will be a world record but I want to run a good race – be it a world record, be it a personal best, be it a good race. If all goes well and it is a personal best, a world record, then I will celebrate.”
1. Eliud Kipchoge (Ken) 2:01:09
2. Mark Korir (Ken) 2:05:58
3. Tadu Abate (Eth) 2:06:28
4. Andamlak Belihu (Eth) 2:06:40
5. Abel Kipchumba (Ken) 2:06:49
6. Limenih Getachew (Eth) 2:07:07
