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Kemboi is adamant Kipchoge still has everything it takes to compete at a high level despite his disapointment in Tokyo, which has prompted him into making a glaringly stark prediction about Kenya's chances at the Olympic games.
Two-time 3000m steeplechase Olympic champion Ezekiel Kemboi is unfazed by Eliud Kipchoge’s Tokyo Marathon disappointment, saying that he still has what it takes to clinch victory for the third Olympic marathon in a row this August.
Kipchoge finished a disappointing 10th nearly a fortnight ago, making it the second time in Tokyo that he had produced a dismal result.
There have been calls for Kipchoge to be even dropped entirely from the team despite his reputation, Tokyo winner Benson Kipruto tipped to be on the team, as well as Alexander Mutiso and Benson Kipruto.
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06:00 - 11.03.2024
ATHLETICS Why Benson Kipruto is Kenya’s best bet for marathon gold at Paris 2024 Olympics
Pulse Sports details the reasons that make 2024 Tokyo Marathon champion Benson Kiptruto Kenya’s best bet for marathon gold at the Paris Olympics.
However, Kemboi is adamant that the 39-year old marathoner can still dominate despite being on the wrong end of age for an athlete.
“Every monkey has its own day,” Kemboi said in a recent interview with Radio 47.
“It was not Eliud Kipchoge’s day but he is good. He may be aging but I still believe he has everything it takes.”
Kipchoge is part of the provisional team that will be representing Kenya at the Paris Olympic games, alongside Amos Kipruto, Timothy Kiplagat and Vincent Kemboi.
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06:32 - 05.03.2024
ATHLETICS Janeth Jepkosgei & Abel Kirui jump to the defence of Eliud Kipchoge after Tokyo Marathon mishap
Former world champions Janeth Jepkosgei and Abel Kirui have dismissed those writing off Eliud Kipchoge following his 10th place finish at the Tokyo Marathon.
Reigning world record holder Kelvin Kiptum would have been expected to be part of that team, but he will not be taking part in the event after dying tragically in a road accident back in February.
Kipchoge has a chance to complete a three-pit Olympic triumph, but is far from favorite this time round.
However, Kemboi has revealed that he genuinely sees Kenya completing a podium swoop at the Olympics.
“In my opinion, the current team set to represent the marathon in the men’s category will finish in the top four places.”
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06:33 - 04.03.2024
ATHLETICS The modest sum Eliud Kipchoge will earn after his 10th place finish at Tokyo Marathon
Eliud Kipchoge’s 10th place finish at the Tokyo Marathon also proved costly financially as he will have to contend with a rare low amount having bagged the big bucks previously.
Pressed further about who specifically will clinch the gold medal, Kemboi remained cagey, but appeared to hint that Kipchoge’s experience would count in his favor.
“I don’t know who will clinch it, but Eliud is a hero and is massively experienced and I think he will be taking a parental role in guiding his colleagues over there.”
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