Tergat urges marathoners to stay focused ahead of Olympics

The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) President Paul Tergat has challenged the marathon team to remain steadfast as the clock ticks down towards the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

The former world marathon record holder was speaking on Friday when he handed over a cheque worth Ksh1 million to the marathon team to boost their preparations ahead of the Summer Games.

Tergat promised more support for the team that consists of eight athletes, four each in the men’s and women’s category.

“The work is now in your hands now, we all know that the Olympics are held every four years. I have been there before and I know that to represent your country in the Olympics is an exciting moment and as NOC-K we will spare nothing to see that you get adequate support,” said Tergat.

World marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge will be leading the men’s team as he seeks to defend his title at the global event. He will be joined by world marathon bronze medalist Amos Kipruto, Boston and Chicago marathon champion Lawrence Cherono and London marathon runners up Vincent Kipchumba who was recently included in the team.

In the women’s team; world marathon record holder Brigid Kosgei will team up with world marathon champion Ruth Chepngetich, Olympic 5000m champion Vivian Cheruiyot and half marathon world record holder Peres Jepchirchir.

Chepngetich who received the cheque on behalf of her compatriots said the kitty is a massive boost as they step up their training for the global extravaganza.”

“Preparations are going on well, I want to make sure that I bring gold for Kenya. As part of my preparations, I am planning to attend one international race in April. We will work as a team, and I am urging the rest of my teammates to work hard, to make sure we bring the medals to Kenya,” said Chepngetich.

The delayed Games will kick off on July 23 in the Japanese capital, Tokyo. However, the marathon and race walking events will be held in Sapporo due to heat concerns.

Also present at the event were the team Kenya’s Chef de Mission Waithaka Kioni and General Team Manager Barnaba Korir. Korir lauded NOC-K for the support towards the marathoners.

“We are really grateful to NOC-K for considering these athletes. The amount will support the eight athletes who are currently training in Nairobi, Iten and Kapsabet. We urge them to continue with their training. Marathon is a very important event for Kenya at the Olympics,” said Korir.

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olympics Tokyo 2020 Paul Tergat

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