Kenya's Dennis Kimetto, Wilson Kipsang battle for marathon jackpot

Wilson Kipsang

Nairobi, Oct 30 (IANS) Wilson Kipsang and Dennis Kimetto will battle for the $500,000 World Marathon Majors (WMM) jackpot in Sunday's New York Marathon.

The two boarded the same flight from here, heading for New York. But Kimetto will not be running but watching from the hotel room as Kipsang makes an attempt to win the New York Marathon, reports Xinhua.

"I am relaxed. I did my part in Berlin now it is up to Kipsang to try and take the challenge to my side and win in New York," said Kimetto.

Kipsang said: "Nobody enters an event without his mind and focus set on winning the ultimate prize. That is the spirit I carry on to New York and hopefully I will be best prepared. But whatever the outcome of the race, the WMM jackpot is wrapped up for Kenya to win."

Kimetto leads the series leaderboard with 75 points and Kipsang trails in second spot with 51 points. If Kipsang wins in New York, then he will be the winner but any other podium finish will see Kimetto take the jackpot.

"Many a time, I do not reflect on the prize money to inspire me to win. But the stakes in New York are high and to miss the jackpot will be bad for me. I want to win it. But Kimetto is also a friend and if he excels and takes the jackpot, well and good. I will be content with whatever I get," said Kipsang.

The women's prize has already been wrapped up and Rita Jeptoo of Kenya is the winner after she conquered the Chicago course Oct 12.