Reigning world half marathon record holder, Joyciline Jepkosgei hopes to make her debut in the full marathon in Honolulu in United States next month.
Jepkosgei, who is also the 2016 Africa 10,000m bronze medallist, shattered the world half marathon record of 65:06 previously held by Peris Jepchirchir to set a time of to 64:51 in Valencia, Spain.
“For now, my focus is to run marathon better. I know the transition might be challenging but I will do my best. My mission in Honolulu will be to get good time just like what I did with half marathon,” said Jepkosgei.
The 24-year-old runner will be competing with other elite runners at the 46th edition of the race and reckons that her preparations have been superb.
“I think I am in good shape and I hope to launch my marathon bid in style,” said the Iten-based runner. Jepkosgei will be hoping to follow in the foot steps of the other Kenyans who have left a mark in Honolulu. Former world half marathon champion Brigid Kosgei won the title in 2016 and defended her title last year.
Coached by her husband Nicholas Koech, Jepkosgei was a late entrant and noted that she was under no pressure to deliver the title. “My preparations are in top gear and I am not under pressure to win the race. Coming from half marathon to marathon, finishing the race will be top of my priority,” added Jepkosgei.
The former Cheptil Secondary School student, however, warned her rivals that it will not be a walk in the park for them. “I know the competition will be stiff but I won’t be left out. I am up to the challenge and prepared for whichever pace,” added Jepkosgei.