T. NashipaeCheptai shifts focus to marathon, hopes to register impressive record
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 28.02.24. | 08:55
Cheptai cited age as a determining factor in her decision,
2017 World Cross Country Champion Irene Cheptai has now transitioned from track and cross-country races to marathons.
Her decision follows an emotional journey representing her country in track, cross country, and road running events, establishing herself as an all-surface athlete.
Cheptai cited age as a determining factor in her decision, expressing disinterest in track running despite it being an Olympic year. Her last track event was during the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where she secured a silver medal in the 10,000m.
Prior to this, she claimed a junior silver medal at the 2008 World Cross Country Championships and represented Kenya in the senior race in 2013 and 2015, earning team medals both times.
“I have competed in various races spanning track, cross country, and other road races, and I believe I am ready to take on the marathon. Track running no longer appeals to me, even in an Olympic year. I am shifting my focus to road races as my age isn't conducive for track and cross country competitions,” Cheptai explained.
"It's time to embrace new challenges. While I've had success on the track, I feel compelled to explore road running. The Commonwealth Games marked the end of my track career, and I'm content to conclude it on a high note,” she added.
With her new direction, Cheptai, a National Police Service runner, will make her marathon debut at the Hamburg Marathon on April 28, aiming to set an impressive record.
In preparation, Cheptai has adjusted her training regimen, now covering 30km daily—20 km in the morning and 10km in the evening to enhance endurance.
“I've been following this training program for the past five weeks, and it's been quite challenging. It demands significant time, dedication, and self-discipline. It's anything but easy; it's sheer hard work.
"In addition to the 30km daily runs, I incorporate track workouts, covering a minimum of 12km depending on the day’s schedule. This demands swift adaptation from my body,” she explained.
At the 2017 World Cross Country Championships in Kampala, Uganda, Cheptai led Kenyans to a top-six finish, clocking 31:57 ahead of Alice Aprot (32:01) and Lilian Kasait (32:11).
Cheptai secured second place behind Eilish McColgan at the Commonwealth Games, recording a time of 30:49.52, trailing McColgan's championship record of 30:48.60. Sheila Chepkirui claimed bronze in 31:09.58.
During the 2008 Tokyo Olympic Games, the 2008 world cross-country junior silver medalist finished seventh in the 10,000m event.
