Kenya's London marathon winners aim for Beijing conquest

Prince Harry poses with Eliud Kipchoge (C), winner of the Elite race with 2nd place Wilson Kipsang (L) and 3rd place Dennis Kimetto (R) during the London Marathon 2015, England

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Nairobi, April 29 (IANS)

The world's fastest marathon runners Wilson Kipsang and Dennis Kimetto of Kenya have confirmed they intend to compete at the Beijing World Marathon Championships in August.

However, London Marathon Champion Eliud Kipchoge, also of Kenya, said on Tuesday he will only make up his mind after discussing the issue with his management, reports Xinhua.

“I will take time off to review my performance and then discuss with my coaches about Beijing World Championships. I want to run there, but the decision does not entirely depend on me,” said Kipchoge.

However, for Kipsang, who was second in London, a chance to compete at the World Championships is too good to let pass.

“I will always answer the call to compete for my country. To run in Beijing is no question, I want to be there,” Kipsang said.

About his London marathon race, Kipsang said, “It was a good race and I am not disappointed with my silver medal.”

“I believe I am still at the top. It's very healthy for the sport to have challengers like Eliud and Kimetto (Dennis); they remind you that a small slip and it's gone. But to compete in Beijing is up to the Athletics Kenya (AK) coaches and officials. I will wait if they call me, then I will honour the summons.”

Kipchoge won the London Marathon for the first time on Sunday in 2:04:42, ahead of Kipsang and Kimetto. Kipsang still holds the course record of 2:04.29, which he set last year.

World marathon record holder Dennis Kimetto (2:02:57) admits that the weather worked against him in London, but he is ready for revenge against his colleagues should he be named in the team to the World Championships in China.

“My next move will be the World Championship. We are waiting for selection of the team by AK,” he concluded.