President William Ruto has led Kenyans in congratulating marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge after he won the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival in Australia.
The 41-year-old Kenyan clocked 2:09:08 to claim victory, extending his remarkable career and reinforcing Kenya’s reputation as a global powerhouse in long-distance running.
In a message celebrating the achievement, Ruto described Kipchoge as one of the greatest marathon runners the world has ever seen, praising his continued competitiveness and contribution to Kenya’s sporting legacy.
“We celebrate Eliud Kipchoge as one of the greatest marathon runners the world has ever seen,” the President said.
“At 41, he continues to compete and win, flying our flag high on the global stage.”
Ruto said Kipchoge’s latest triumph was another remarkable milestone and a source of inspiration to Kenyans and athletes around the world.
“His victory at the Melbourne Marathon in Australia, where he set a new course record of 2:09:08, is another remarkable achievement and an inspiration to all,” he said.
“Hongera, Kipchoge!”
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano also congratulated the marathoner, praising his consistency and the inspiration he continues to provide to millions of people worldwide.
“Congrats to the Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge for winning the Melbourne Marathon and setting a fantastic new course record of 2:09:08!” Miano said.
“Thank you for continuing to inspire millions and flying Kenya’s flag high across the globe. This is the Home of Champions.”
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen joined the celebrations, describing Kipchoge’s victory at 41 as a demonstration of his enduring determination and ability to compete at the highest level.
“Congratulations, Eliud Kipchoge, on your stunning victory at the Melbourne Marathon!” Murkomen said.
“By setting a new course record of 2:09:08 at 41 years, you have once again demonstrated that no human is limited.”
Murkomen added that the achievement was a source of national pride, noting that Kipchoge continues to inspire athletes and sports enthusiasts across the country.
“We could not be prouder of you as a nation,” he said.
The Melbourne race was the third stop on Kipchoge’s Eliud World Tour, a five-race initiative through which the five-time Olympic medallist aims to inspire people across the globe to embrace running and promote the sport.
The tour reflects Kipchoge’s ambition to use his experience and achievements to encourage participation in running beyond elite competition, reaching communities and individuals across different parts of the world.
His latest victory adds another milestone to a career that has made him one of the most celebrated figures in marathon running.
Kipchoge, who has won two Olympic marathon gold medals and held the marathon world record from 2018 to 2022, remains an influential figure in global athletics.
