Eliud Kipchoge accepted the tribute with grace as the Sports Award crowned him with the title Princess, a nod he received with a smile and a sense of shared achievement. He spoke about a future where many disciplines can come together to push limits, highlighting the value of cross‑sport inspiration. He noted the excitement around Kelvin Kiptum’s latest breakthrough, a performance that touched the edge of history this morning, and he looked ahead to the challenges that lie on the path to Paris. The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris loomed large in his thoughts, a stage where he hoped to add another gold to his storied career. He stressed that gold would be more than a personal milestone; it would be a moment of history that could serve as motivation for athletes everywhere. Sports, in his view, remains a wellspring of inspiration that can lift communities and spark new ambitions.
Regarding Kiptum’s recent achievement of 2.00:35, a time that surpassed Kipchoge’s own best, the veteran runner remained balanced and generous about the record. He conveyed that breakthroughs in sport rarely come as a surprise because competition is the engine of progress. Hard work, perseverance, and the drive to surpass yesterday’s limits create those moments when records tip over. Kipchoge asserted that he sees himself as a model for the next generation, a living example that dedication translates into measurable progress and enduring motivation for young athletes.
On the broader question of sub‑two‑hour dreams in official marathons, Kipchoge reiterated a personal philosophy: competing against one’s own best is the most meaningful challenge. He described his approach as a continuous cycle of goal setting, rigorous training, and careful execution. The aim is not merely to chase time, but to enjoy the process of testing boundaries and refining technique. His ongoing mission is to break personal barriers while offering a blueprint for consistent improvement, a testament to the beauty of disciplined preparation and the relentless pursuit of excellence.