Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic marathon champion, has expressed both excitement and gratitude as he prepares to compete in the Amazing Thailand Marathon in Bangkok. This event, scheduled for Sunday, will feature Kipchoge participating in a 10km mass run alongside 33,000 runners from 77 countries. It marks a unique occasion for the legendary Kenyan athlete, who has also taken on an ambassadorial role to promote Thailand’s sports, tourism, and cultural offerings.
Kipchoge’s arrival in Bangkok has been met with a warm reception, and he has been quick to share his joy with his fans. On his Instagram, he remarked that he now fully understands why Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles.” He described his time in the country as an “incredible celebration of running” and expressed his eagerness to join thousands of participants in the 10km run. His positive sentiments also extend beyond athletics, as he has been soaking in the country’s rich culture and hospitality.
As part of his visit, Kipchoge attended ONE Friday Fights 89 at the Lumpinee Stadium, an iconic venue in Bangkok. The event, a thrilling showcase of Muay Thai martial arts, featured impressive bouts, including four knockouts and nine fight finishes, highlighting Thailand’s deep connection to the sport. Kipchoge’s presence at the event was seen as a special moment, with many recognizing the symbolic connection between sports figures like him and Thailand’s vibrant martial arts heritage. ONE Championship Thailand’s managing director praised Kipchoge for adding prestige to the event and for honoring Thailand’s national sport with his participation.
Kipchoge arrived in Thailand on Wednesday with his entourage, preparing for the marathon’s seventh edition, which is expected to attract large crowds. The event not only celebrates athletic achievement but also showcases Thailand’s rich cultural traditions. The total prize fund for the race is 2,440,500 baht, further elevating the importance of the marathon as a major global event.
Despite a challenging year in 2024, Kipchoge remains optimistic. His performance at the Tokyo Marathon in 2024, where he finished seventh, marked a rare setback in his otherwise illustrious career. Additionally, Kipchoge’s attempt at securing a third consecutive Olympic gold medal in the Paris 2024 Olympics did not go as planned, as he fell short of expectations. These results, though difficult for a runner of his caliber, have not dampened Kipchoge’s spirits. Instead, they seem to have fueled his determination to continue pushing boundaries and inspiring others.
During his time in Thailand, Kipchoge’s ambassadorial role has been a significant part of his visit. He has used his platform to promote the country not only as a destination for sports but also as a vibrant hub for tourism. His admiration for Thailand’s culture and the passion for sports that thrives here has been evident throughout his stay. Kipchoge’s visit comes at a time when Thailand is looking to strengthen its position as a global center for sporting events, and his involvement provides a powerful endorsement of the country’s sporting infrastructure and hospitality.
Friday night’s martial arts spectacle at Lumpinee Stadium added to the celebratory atmosphere surrounding Kipchoge’s visit. In a remarkable gesture, ONE Championship’s chairman and CEO, Chatri Sityodtong, awarded seven performance bonuses of 350,000 baht (approximately Ksh 1.3 million) each to fighters who delivered exceptional performances. This gesture highlighted the dynamic energy of the event, further linking Kipchoge’s visit to the broader theme of excellence in sports.
Looking ahead, Kipchoge’s participation in the Amazing Thailand Marathon holds significant meaning. While the marathon may not be as grueling as his typical long-distance events, it offers him the chance to engage with the global running community in a new way, all while showcasing Thailand’s commitment to hosting world-class sporting events. This event will be a celebration not just of Kipchoge’s remarkable career but also of Thailand’s ability to bring together people from across the world through the universal language of sport.
Despite facing challenges earlier in the year, Kipchoge’s resilience and passion for running remain unshaken. His time in Thailand has not only allowed him to share his love for running with others but has also reinforced his position as a global ambassador for sport and culture. As he lines up for the 10km race, Kipchoge’s participation will no doubt inspire thousands of participants and fans alike, reminding everyone of the power of perseverance and the joy of running.
