Tough battle expected in Rotterdam

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Paul Kipsiele Koech, the third fastest steeplechaser in history with 7:54.31, makes his maiden appearance in marathon at the Rotterdam marathon tomorrow.

The 35-year-old Koech retired from the track last September after the final leg of the IAAF Diamond League meeting in Brussels, having competed in 67 international races.

Although he hasn’t competed in 5,000m, except for 2012 where he posted 13:02.69, Kipsiele will battle it out with 12 men who have run under 2:10 and four sub 2:06 in the line up.

Marius Kimutai (2:05:47), Laban Korir, (2:05:54 ), and Festus Talam (2:06:26) and Lucas Rotich (2:07.17), the New York City Marathon runner-up are in the line up.

Ethiopia’s Abera Kuma (2:05:56) also returns to Rotterdam Marathon after his victory in 2015.

There is also Toronto Marathon winner Philemon Rono, and Nicholas Rotich, who will do the pace setting.

Laban Korir, who was fourth in 2:05:54 in Amsterdam Marathon last October, said team work will help them improve on their performances.

“We as a whole team profit from training with reputed marathoners like Eliud Kipchoge and the launch of NN Group and Global Sports Communications partnership here is good.”