Lonyangata seeks to retain Paris Marathon title
Kenya's Paul Lonyangata (left) and his wife Purity Rionoripo, winners of the 41st Paris marathon, talk to the press upon their arrival in Nairobi on April 10, 2017. PHOTO | SIMON MAINA |
What you need to know:
- The athlete, who has been training in Kaptagat, Elgeyo Marakwet County, says that he has done enough training and he will be focusing on a good race.
Paris Marathon champion Paul Lonyangata is optimistic that he will retain his title when he competes today in the world renowned race-Paris Marathon.
The athlete, who has been training in Kaptagat, Elgeyo Marakwet County, says that he has done enough training and he will be focusing on a good race.
“My training back at home went on well and I’m looking forward to a good run. I want to be on the podium by retaining my title. My prayer is to repeat what I did last year,” he said.
Lonyangata, who hails from West Pokot County, also said that this year’s race looks competitive with many Kenyan athletes participating.
“I’m in good form but the field this year has many Kenyan athletes who will be participating. They are also good and I will do my best to retain my title,” said Lonyangata.
The athlete boasts of good environment in Kaptagat where he would interact with the likes of Olympics marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge, former two time world champion in marathon Abel Kirui among others.
Last year, Lonyangata ran his personal best of 2:06:10 ahead of Stephen Chebogut (2:06:56) while Solomon Yego (2:07:13) was third to complete a Kenyan sweep.
Lonyangata’s debut on the road was in Berlin Half Marathon where he finished third before doubling up the distance at the Xiamen Marathon in China where he came in second.
