London Marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir believes that breaking the world marathon record at the Paris Olympics will be a daunting task due to the punishing nature of the Paris course.
Jepchirchir broke the women's-only marathon record last month in London after clocking 2:16:16, shattering four-time New York marathon champion Mary Keitany’s previous mark of 2:17:01.
However, the 30-year-old still hopes to clock fantastic times as she defends the Olympic title she won in 2020.
“Considering the course’s difficulty, breaking the record won’t be easy. But I’m ready for the challenge. Having tackled tough courses like New York and Boston, I am still hopeful,” she said.
Jepchirchir was speaking after picking up the LG/SJAK (Sports Journalists Association of Kenya) Personality of the Month award for April following her triumph in the English capital.
“I am grateful and honoured to receive this award. It’s such a vital recognition for us to know that someone somewhere is watching us and appreciating our efforts,” she stated.
Reflecting on her London triumph, Jepchirchir stated: “I wasn’t expecting to clinch the title in London, let alone setting a world record. But my training was good and I was also in good shape.”
She views her recent success as a catalyst for even greater achievements.
“I am feeling motivated after my triumph in London. To win the Olympics is no easy feat, it needs extra work. To win a second title will be a dream come true,” she stated.
She won the 2020 Tokyo Olympics marathon crown after clocking 2:27:20. Brigid Kosgei placed second in 2:27:36 with USA’s Molly Seidel sealing the podium in 2:27:46.
Confident in the Kenyan team’s ability, Jepchirchir believes they can dominate the competition in Paris, despite challenges from the likes of perennial rivals Ethiopia.
“The Kenyan team is strong. Our competitors Ethiopia also have a strong team but not as we are. I believe in Brigid and (Hellen) Obiri’s work rate, we have the potential to pull off a podium sweep,” Jepchirchir stated.
She has already resumed training, covering 20km daily.
“I resumed training on Monday last week since we have limited time to prepare for the Olympics. Since I just came from a competition, I can’t step into tough training,” she said.
“I started with light training — 20km a day. I will resume my usual training next week or by the end of the month,” she added.
