Teamwork, support brought down marathon mark

Worlds Marathon Record holder Dennis Kimetto (center) with his son Alphas Kipruto arrives at Athletics Kenya Offices on October 1, 2014 flanked by his wife Caroline Kimetto. World marathon record holder Dennis Kimetto has attributed his success in November 28, 2014 Berlin Marathon to team work. FILE PHOTO | CHRIS OMOLLO | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Kimetto won the race in a world record time of 2hr,02min, 57sec, followed by compatriot Emmanuel Mutai in 2:03:13
  • Mutai won the 2011 Boston Marathon in a time of 2:03:02 but his time is not official recognised by the IAAF as world record owing to the sloppy course at the finishing area

World marathon record holder Dennis Kimetto has attributed his success in Sunday’s Berlin Marathon to team work and support from his training partners.

Kimetto won the race in a world record time of 2hr,02min, 57sec, followed by compatriot Emmanuel Mutai in 2:03:13.

Speaking upon arrival from Germany on Wednesday, Kimetto attributed his victory to support from his training partners, former world record holder Wilson Kipsang, Geoffrey Mutai, Franklin Chepkirui and Wilfred Kirwa.

“They encouraged and gave me tips and pieces of advice, especially Kipsang,” said Kimetto. “I am so happy that Kipsang was among the first people to congratulate me.”

“I started to push alongside Mutai (on Sunday) and we were almost 45 seconds inside the world record at the 35km mark,” Kimetto explained with a grin. “I couldn’t believe it when I crossed the finish line.”

TAKING A BREAK
Before Kipsang’s world record set on the same course last year, Geoffrey Mutai was the fastest man in marathon before Kimetto’s exploits on Sunday.

Mutai won the 2011 Boston Marathon in a time of 2:03:02 but his time is not official recognised by the IAAF as world record owing to the sloppy course at the finishing area.

Kimetto said he will take a break to recover well before hitting the road again in readiness for next year’s London Marathon.

He hopes to help Kenya reclaim the World Championship marathon title in China next year and the Olympic title in 2016 in Brazil.

“I am ready for the two championships races but it will depend on Athletics Kenya and good health from God,” said Kimetto.

Kimetto also said a Kenyan will run two hours or below but said it will require hard work and focus. “Other factors like the weather, course and field will determine too,” explained Kimetto.