Ruth Chepng’etich has emphasized meticulous preparation over pressure ahead of the London Marathon, hinting at surprises in a star-studded race.
World marathon record holder Ruth Chepng’etich is taking a measured approach to the highly anticipated London Marathon on April 27 despite the formidable field and whispers of another potential record-breaking run.
The Kenyan star, who set the current women’s marathon world record of 2:09:56 at the Chicago Marathon last October, has stressed the importance of careful preparation and avoiding unnecessary pressure.
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Chepng’etich, who also clinched gold at the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha, says that while the elite field for the London Marathon is one of the finest ever assembled, a world record can only be achieved with meticulous planning and the right conditions on race day.
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“The field is sizzling, strong, and promises a mouth-watering contest, just like what we witnessed last year in Chicago Marathon,” Chepng’etich remarked as per Nation.
“But breaking the world record will depend on who wants it more, and is better prepared. I will not say whether or not I will attempt to break the world record because I have just started my preparations for the season. I don’t want to put myself under pressure.”
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Clarke, himself a former athlete who represented Jamaica, has explained how his company Auctus Global Sports managed Kenny Bednarek into overcoming persistent injury issues to enjoy a good 2024.
The 30-year-old athlete highlighted that surprises are a hallmark of major marathon events.
With a lineup that features two world record holders, two Olympic champions, and six sub-2:17 marathon runners, Chepng’etich believes anything could happen in London.
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Among her main rivals are defending champion Peres Jepchirchir, who holds the women-only marathon world record, and 2024 Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands.
“We have two world record holders in the race, two Olympic Games marathon champions, and six athletes who have run sub-2:17 marathon races,” Chepng’etich explained.
“This is a fine field, and anything can happen. But it will all depend on preparations.”
Chepng’etich is aiming for her first victory in London after a third-place finish in 2020 and a ninth-place finish last year.
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Since moving to Arkansas, Jamaican sprinter Alana Reid feels comfortable, motivated, and ready to improve performances, aiming for the 2025 World Championships.
She remains focused on her training, which includes competing in Kenya’s National Cross Country Championships on February 8 in Eldoret and possibly a half marathon before heading to London.
“I’m praying for a good race, and that victory comes my way,” she said. “This is my first race of the season, and I want to continue preparing.”
Chepng’etich’s reluctance to commit to a world record attempt does not mean she is ruling out the possibility entirely.
“Many athletes have set world records without planning to do so, but a good race provides a platform for a world record,” Chepng’etich observed.
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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.
The London Marathon’s elite women’s race format which keeps the competition separate from male athletes, adds another layer of complexity. Chepng’etich has thrived in mixed-gender races, such as in Chicago, where she made history with her sub-2:10 marathon.
However, she acknowledges that each race is unique and comes with its own challenges..
“The London Marathon promises an electrifying contest,” she said.
“But for me, the focus is on being ready and giving my best performance.”
