From Vienna to Nairobi, world applauds Eliud Kipchoge as celebrations mark feat
Isaac Swila in Nairobi & Gilbert Kiprotich in Eldoret
Huge celebrations broke out across world capitals on Saturday as the greatest marathoner of all time Eliud Kipchoge broke the sub-two hour barrier in spectacular fashion running the INEOS Challenge Marathon in 1:59:40 to go down in the annals of history.
His conquest of the Vienna course safeguarded him a place in the World Guinness Records, becoming the first human being to attain such a feat.
In Vienna, the venue of the race, Kenyans led by Deputy President William Ruto were joined by souls of all races to celebrate the achievement as history unfolded before their unbelieving eyes.
Miles away in Nairobi and Eldoret, the spiritual home of athletics, the celebrations were spontaneous and wild.
In Eldoret where thousands had gathered up, it was song, dance and merrymaking as they watched their son prove to the world that no human being is limited.
Led by Uasin Gishu County Deputy Governor Daniel Chemno, residents burst into dance with five kilometres to go with all pointers showing that Kipchoge was going to complete the race in less than two hours.
“We want to congratulate Eliud Kipchoge for his heroics; he has brought a lot of happiness to our county. I want to urge young people to focus on what they want and they will achieve like Kipchoge,” said Chemno.
With thousands of people turning up in large numbers, it is not only the residents of Uain Gishu who were present as others came from neighbouring counties such as Nandi, Elgeyo Marakwet and even Trans Nzoia.
Other leaders present at the Viewerthorn were Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi, Swarup Mishra (Kesses), Daniel Rono (Keiyo South) and Didmus Barasa (Kimilili).
A heroic welcome awaits Kipchoge when he returns.
The celebrations extended to social media where President Uhuru Kenyatta led Kenyans in congratulating the 34-year-old for his achievement.
"Hearty congratulations @EliudKipchoge. You've done it, you've made history and made Kenya proud while at it. Your win today, will inspire tens of future generations to dream big and to aspire for greatness. We celebrate you and wish you God's blessings." – President Kenyatta
— State House Kenya (@StateHouseKenya) October 12, 2019
On his part, ODM party leader Raila Odinga said Kipchoge’s ‘moon-landing’ moment is a historical achievement which will longer for many years.
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