Veteran Kiptoo headlines Frankfurt Marathon tomorrow

Mark Kiptoo [Courtesy]

Veteran runner Mark Kiptoo will lead a host of Kenyans in the hunt for glory at the Frankfurt Marathon tomorrow.

Kiptoo, Kenyan Masters world record holder will be out to exploit the Frankfurt course, renowned for its fast times.

Last year, Kiptoo, now 43, ran 2:07:50 for a M40 world record. He exuded confidence of improving on that time, attributing his longevity in the long distance race to disciplined attitude towards training and life in general.

“What we put into our body is what will come out. Because I have been training hard, I am confident that my body is capable of covering half the marathon in 62:30,” Kiptoo said.

That level of performance would put him on course for a major improvement on his age group world best.

“I am sure that the reason why I can run so fast these days is because I began late as a runner. It wasn’t until I was 28 that I realised I had the talent.

“I don’t have any physical problems and I have also been able to do good speed work sessions, these are key to good performance. Age is only a number,” he added.

He made his marathon debut Frankfurt in 2013 with second place 2:06:16 finish, just one second behind the winner. A year later, he won the race aged 38 in 2:06:49.  

Kiptoo will be in the company of compatriots Bernard Kipyego, a 2:06:19 performer; Martin Kosgey, Kenneth Keter and Nicodemus Kimutai.

Valary Aiyabei who won the last two editions Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon 21km race will spearhead the Kenyan women attack.

Aiyebei, 29, with a best of 2:20:53, will be looking forward to lower her personal best time. Aiyebei will be accompanied by Caroline Rotich (2:23:22), Sylvia Kibet (2:25:52) and Antonia Kwambai (2:27:43).

The Kenyan elite field will be rivalled by the event’s course record holder and last year’s women’s winner, Meskerem Assefa of Ethiopia, who ran 2:20:36.

The other Ethiopians are Bedatu Hirpa and Megertu Kebede.

Kenya-born Lonah Salpeter, a late-entry in the race who competes for Israel, has a personal best of 2:19:46, which makes her the fastest woman ever to be on the start list of the Frankfurt Marathon. 

The Israeli who failed to finish her race at World Championships in Qatar will be looking forward to redeeming herself in the German city.