Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has revealed why the London Marathon is so dear to her as she eyes Ruth Chepngetich’s world record.
Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has revealed her emotional connection to the London Marathon as she prepares to challenge Ruth Chepngetich’s marathon world record.
The Dutch star is set to headline the prestigious event on April 27, alongside an elite field that includes world record-holder Chepngetich and two-time Berlin Marathon champion Tigist Assefa.
Hassan, reflecting on her journey, shared why the London Marathon holds a unique place in her life.
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Dutch woman Sifan Hassan has disclosed the Kenyan marathoner she fears the most as she disclosed that Faith Kipyegon is destined for more success if she moves to the marathon.
“London is where I grew up as an athlete and as a human being, as a person,” she said in an interview with Citius Mag.
“London is when I was like, ‘I have never raced the marathon, I’m just somebody who thinks this is possible to do.’ So I decided to do it. I was scared, but it was a challenge. You don’t know how it’s going to go, but you’re just curious about it,” she revealed.
“In the middle of the race, I was in some pain and didn’t know how far I could go… It was crazy, but I kept going and won the race. It just taught me as a human being. You only know what’s possible when you try. When you keep going and try. That’s the time I dream about.”
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Ruth Chepng’etich has her sights set on breaking records at the London Marathon against elite rivals Hassan and Jepchirchir.
Hassan’s triumphant debut at the 2023 London Marathon showcased her resilience. Despite falling behind the leaders and appearing out of contention, she delivered a stunning comeback to sprint to victory.
As she prepares for the 2024 edition, Hassan has her sights set on Ruth Chepngetich’s remarkable record of 2:09:56, achieved at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. Chepngetich’s performance made her the first woman to break the 2:10 barrier in the marathon.
Hassan admitted the enormity of Chepngetich’s accomplishment but remains optimistic about her own potential.
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Ruth Chepng’etich will look to redeem herself in the London Marathon after finishing ninth last year but faces competition from Peres Jepchirchir and Olympic champion Sifan Hassan.
“When she (Chepngetich) ran 2:09, I felt like I was just watching a number. My brain couldn’t even process it. It’s just very hard… As long as the female heart is strong, it just gives me confidence that maybe it’ll take a long time and I’ll have to train harder and longer, but it’s possible (to break Chepngetich’s world record),” Hassan said.
The London Marathon promises an unforgettable showcase of talent. Chepngetich’s return to the event adds an extra layer of excitement, while Tigist Assefa’s consistent excellence ensures fierce competition.
In the men’s elite field, four-time London Marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge will face formidable opponents, including two-time world cross-country champion Jacob Kiplimo, who is set to make his marathon debut, and Olympic champion Tamirat Tola.
