Kipchoge to receive honorary degree from Laikipa University

Eliud Kipchoge after being named athlete of the year during the 2016 Athletics Kenya award gala in Nairobi on Dec 7, 2016.[PHOTO:DENNIS OKEYO/STANDARD]

World Male Athlete of the Year Eliud Kipchoge, who is also the marathon record holder and the first human to run 42km under two hours is set to receive an honorary doctorate degree from Laikipia University for his contribution to sports.

Kipchoge, who stunned the world by running the marathon in 1:59.40 in Vienna, Austria, will be conferred the degree during Laikipia University’s 7th graduation ceremony on December 6.

In an advert in the Standard Newspaper yesterday, the University stated: “Pursuant to Laikipia University Charter, 2013 Section II (21), (4) (k) on the conferment of Honorary Degrees and upon recommendation of the University Senate and approval thereof by the Laikipia University Council, the University has the pleasure to present Mr. Eliud Kipchoge to Kenyans and International community for the award of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) during the 7th Graduation Ceremony to be held on Friday, 6th December 2019 at the Graduation Square, Main Campus.”

The University noted: “Kipchoge has made a tremendous contribution to realm of sports. The Senate specifically recognises his most recent achievement of becoming the first human to run a sub-two marathon.”

Kipchoge, himself an avid reader, captured the imagination of the world with his now-famous mantra ‘No human is limited’ by running the punishing road race in under two hours to prove human beings have unlimited potential.

The marathon Olympic champion recently told Standard Sports: “I read at least two books a month. If you want to actualise your dreams, just be with the right people and read good books. For me, books are very loyal friends.”