Kenyan distance runner Eliud Kipchoge recently underscored a simple truth: physical exercise and running have the power to bring people together. He stated that a world that runs together is a world that is happier, and a happy world tends to be peaceful. These sentiments were shared during his remarks at the 2023 Princess of Asturias Awards, delivered at the Campoamor Theatre in Oviedo, where he accepted the sports category prize.
There is a clear parallel between running and daily life, he explained. Happiness is found in the journey as much as at the finish line. Mental health matters, and perseverance in the face of challenges leads to a sense of achievement. Kipchoge added that finishing a marathon demonstrates that people can accomplish great things beyond sport, a message aimed at inspiring resilience in everyday endeavors.
He emphasized that the act of running can transcend differences in origin or skin color, acting as a bridge between cultures and experiences. Running, he argued, serves as a tool that unites diverse communities by highlighting shared goals and mutual respect.
On the topic of victory, Kipchoge noted that the celebration is not the end goal. Instead, the lasting joy comes from returning to training camps, planting trees, and nurturing growth. He suggested that the happiness generated by planting a tree endures across generations—a powerful reminder of sustainable acts with long-term impact.
Beyond athletics, Kipchoge advocates for environmental stewardship and education. His foundation focuses on sustainable practices for the planet and on expanding educational opportunities for youth in Kenya and beyond. The aim is to empower young people through access to quality education and meaningful environmental programs.
Kipchoge was born in Nandi County, Kenya, on November 5, 1984. He is widely regarded as a dominant force in marathon running and is celebrated as a living legend in world athletics, often cited as one of the greatest marathon runners of all time.
In recent years, the Kenyan athlete has secured numerous victories across major marathons, including podium finishes at several of the sport’s premier events. His strategic skill and mental focus have earned him a reputation as a formidable competitor and a thoughtful voice in athletics. He is the Olympic marathon champion and holds the world record in the discipline.
His career began with success in long-distance events, including a world championship in 5000 meters in 2003. He earned Olympic bronze in Athens 2004 and silver in Beijing 2008. After an injury sidelined him from London 2012, he shifted his focus from track to road racing, where he would redefine the sport.
In 2016, he won the London Marathon and returned to the Olympic stage at Rio de Janeiro as a dominant force. He later added Olympic gold at Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021 due to the global pandemic) to a growing list of achievements. Kipchoge has been recognized as Athlete of the Year by the Laureus World Sports Foundation in 2018 and 2019 and was a finalist in 2021. He also established the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation in 2021 to promote educational access and environmental protection for children.
Felipe VI praised his monumental effort
During the ceremony, King Felipe VI highlighted Kipchoge’s resilience and consistency, noting that his achievements have elevated him to global stardom. The monarch described the athlete as an example of focus, discipline, and a relentless will to improve, qualities he associates with the best athletes in Olympic competition—characterized by clean, competitive sports and healthy ambition.
The king also spoke about Kipchoge’s generosity. He credited the foundation with turning personal success into broader social impact, ensuring that the benefits of athletic greatness extend to the most disadvantaged. The king concluded by recognizing Kipchoge’s commitment to solidarity and education, presenting him as much an exemplar of character as of athletic prowess. (Citation: Royal Archive)