Vivian Cheruiyot made an impressive return to competitive running with a third-place finish at the 2024 New York City Marathon, showcasing her resilience and determination. Her podium finish, especially given her time away from the sport, was a powerful reminder that athletes can reclaim their place at the top, no matter the length of their hiatus. As a four-time world champion, Cheruiyot has always been a force to be reckoned with in long-distance running, and her performance in New York City proved that she is gradually regaining her dominant form.
Cheruiyot’s third-place finish, at a time of 2:25:21, was part of a remarkable race that saw Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui claim victory in 2:24:35, with defending champion Hellen Obiri finishing second in 2:24:49. Despite the stiff competition, Cheruiyot demonstrated remarkable consistency and speed, making it clear that she is back in the game and ready to challenge for more victories in the future. Her performance is especially significant for women in sports, as it sends a powerful message that it is always possible to return to the top, regardless of the number of setbacks or breaks an athlete may have experienced.
While her performance was undoubtedly impressive, many were curious about the type of footwear Cheruiyot was wearing during the marathon. Unlike many of the top athletes who wear shoes from the more well-known brands like Adidas or Nike, Cheruiyot ran in the Puma Deviate Elite 3. This might come as a surprise to some, but the shoe’s performance qualities helped propel her to a podium finish.
The Puma Deviate Elite 3 is part of Puma’s growing range of high-performance marathon shoes. One of its standout features is the Nitro Elite foam, which offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making it ideal for long-distance races. The shoe is also designed with a lightweight upper, ensuring a comfortable and breathable fit throughout the race. These features contribute to the shoe’s ability to deliver excellent performance, providing runners with both speed and comfort.
Another key benefit of the Puma Deviate Elite 3 is its grip. The shoe is designed to offer outstanding traction, ensuring stability and confidence even on challenging surfaces. The shoe’s responsiveness allows runners to maintain a high pace and quickly transition between strides, which is crucial in a marathon where every second counts. Additionally, the shoe’s affordability compared to other high-end “super shoes” makes it an attractive option for runners who want to experience the performance benefits without breaking the bank. Priced at £195 (around 32,549 Kenyan Shillings), the Puma Deviate Elite 3 is considered more budget-friendly than other leading marathon shoes on the market.
However, like any product, the Puma Deviate Elite 3 is not without its downsides. Some runners have found that the shoe is not ideal for heel strikers, as it doesn’t provide the level of cushioning or stability that some other shoes might offer. Additionally, while it offers excellent speed and comfort, it may not be as durable as some other high-performance shoes, meaning it might wear down more quickly after repeated use. Furthermore, the shoe lacks the stability that some runners might need, which could make it less suitable for those who prioritize balance and control over speed.
Despite these potential drawbacks, Cheruiyot’s performance in the New York City Marathon suggests that the Puma Deviate Elite 3 is more than capable of helping athletes achieve impressive results. If the Kenyan long-distance sensation could tackle the challenging course in New York with these shoes, it is likely that she would be able to perform even better on a faster course. Her potential for future success seems limitless if she continues to push her limits with the right tools, such as the Puma Deviate Elite 3.
Cheruiyot’s remarkable season began with a 16th-place finish at the Kenyan Cross-Country Championships, but she quickly bounced back with a strong showing at the Paris Marathon, where she rounded out the podium. She also finished sixth at the Great North Run before capping off her season with her impressive third-place finish at the New York City Marathon. This progression highlights her steady improvement and her growing confidence in her return to competitive running.
Looking ahead, Cheruiyot’s potential remains vast. With a performance as strong as her third-place finish in New York, she is poised for even greater achievements. Her ability to adapt and push through challenges, combined with her use of the Puma Deviate Elite 3, could position her as a formidable contender in future marathons and other major races around the world. As she continues to refine her skills and fitness, Cheruiyot is showing the world that it is never too late to reclaim your place at the top of your sport.
