Kipchoge is coming to Cape Town

Eliud Kipchoge has announced that he will be on the start line at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on May 24.

The 11-time Abbott World Marathon Major winner is planning to run seven marathons in seven continents over the next two years and Cape Town will be the first part of ‘Eliud’s Running World’.

“Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted,” said Kipchoge.

“To start this World Tour in Cape Town is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation. To race my first ever marathon on the African continent holds deep meaning for me. I cannot wait!”

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is currently a candidate for Abbott World Marathon Majors status and a second successful pass will see the African race officially join the global running series.

Kipchoge and the other 27,000 runners will be granted a provisional star which will be upgraded should Cape Town become a full Major.

For Kipchoge, who received his Six Star Medal in New York in November, Cape Town will be his eighth star, having also run the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS last summer.

“Eliud represents the very best of what running can inspire,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

“To see him race our streets, meet our communities and engage with young runners across the city will be incredibly powerful. Moments like this remind us what is possible when the world’s greatest athletes connect with the places and people that shaped the sport.”