This story is from November 23, 2014

2014 Delhi Half Marathon: Kipsang looking to conquer Delhi

Kenya's Geoffrey Kipsang has an enviable record. Not only is he ranked No.1 in the world in half marathon, but is also the 2014 World Half Marathon champion.
2014 Delhi Half Marathon: Kipsang looking to conquer Delhi
Kenya's Geoffrey Kipsang has an enviable record. Not only is he ranked No.1 in the world in half marathon, but is also the 2014 World Half Marathon champion.
NEW DELHI: Kenya's Geoffrey Kipsang has an enviable record. Not only is he ranked No.1 in the world in half marathon, but is also the 2014 World Half Marathon champion.
And winning the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon (ADHM), something he has failed to do so in the past, is definitely high on his agenda. "This is the third time I am participating in the Delhi Half Marathon. Last year, I finished second but this year I aim to be number one.
I have been training well for this event," said Kispang, who, coincidentally, celebrated his 22nd birthday on Saturday.
With top stars like Abraham Cheroben, who has recorded the year's fastest time in the world, Stephen Kibet and Stanley Biwott all participating in Sunday's marathon, Kipsang knows his dream won't come true without a fight.
"There are top-class athletes present in the event. I enjoy running along with them but I am running my own race," Kipsang said about his competitors.
Asked if setting a new world or course record is part of his plans, he said, "It depends on the weather on Sunday. My aim is to better my record of 58:54." Giving him tough competition will be his Kenyan mate Biwott who, after injuring his left hamstring in London, will be returning to action after a gap of six months.
"You have to accept injuries. It is a part of our profession. I went for treatment on my left hamstring and rest also helped me so I am in good shape now," said Biwott who has a best of 58:56.

Talking about his preparation for Sunday, he said, "For marathon, you have to work on your speed and endurance but for half marathon, I do a lot of speed walking. The weather will surely play an important part on Sunday." And it's not only the men who have been plagued by injuries. Florence Kiplagat, who set the women's half marathon world record of 65:12 earlier this year in March, said she hasn't fully recovered from a leg injury. "Currently my body and fitness levels are not where I want them to be. However, I will try to give my best and repeat last year's performance. My legs have recovered well since October's Chicago Marathon," she said.
The winner of the 2013 ADHM is confident about her chances. "The weather did not make things easy last year so I can't say anything about Sunday. I think if I manage to post around 69 minutes, then I can win this year as well." Competing alongside her for the grand prize of $27000, will be the reigning world half marathon champion and the runner-up of ADHM 2013, Gladys Cherono.
End of Article
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA