Former Paralympic champion, Henry Wanyoike, is hoping to defend his 10km title at the Berlin Marathon for the visually impaired set for September.
Speaking after crossing the finish line in the unofficial Standard Chartered Marathon launch, Wanyoike said, "This was a preparation for the coming Berlin Marathon, where I want to defend my title."
"I have been participating in many events in the country, including the Lewa Marathon," Wanyoike added. "The record at the moment is at 2.31 and I'm targeting 2.28 in Berlin," he said.
Wanyoike won two gold medals in 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres in the Athens Paralympic Games in 2004, breaking the records in both events.
Apart from Berlin, Wanyoike is also targeting to win the 10km race during the 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon on October 26.
" I will grace the occasion, competitively for the 10km, and after that I will join the family run," he added.
He also called on Kenyans to join the race at Uhuru Gardens, saying the event would be all-inclusive while targeting all Kenyans. "I encourage everybody to be active in exercises because of the lifestyle we are living," he urged.
The event will include 42km, 21km, 10km, 5km fun run, half marathon for wheelchair races, CEO Challenge and Corporate Challenge..
"Winning in Kenya means you can also win abroad. This event allows us to be competitive on the world stage," he added.
"I am working on speed work because I know I have the endurance. I'm also working on mileage coverage," Wanyoike revealed. " I have the vision. I just have to execute well despite my age," he said.
Wanyoike also disclosed that he will continue hitting the road as long as he's in good shape. "Retirement is not yet in my plans. I'm still in good shape," he emphasised.
Chartered Marathon Local Organising Committee chairman David Mwindi said they are targeting 30,000 people to feature in the Stanchart race." We want to raise funds for the Future Makers charity. With our partners, we are aiming for a participation of 30,000 people," said Mwindi.
Last year's edition of the Marathon drew over 25,000 participants from more than 90 nationalities. It also raised Sh171m. This year the amount targeted has been capped at Sh175 million.
The Marathon is expected to feature over 250 elite athletes, with last year's edition having attracted 206. Kurgat Kimeli and Gladys Chemutai emerged victorious in the 42km race, clocking 2:13:05 and 2:31:52, respectively.
