The world’s greatest marathoner, Eliud Kipchoge, was unlucky in the United Kingdom after fluffing his lines at Sunday’s London Marathon that was won by Ethiopian Shura Kitata.
In the marathon limited to elite runners and had no crowds in strict regulations imposed to avoid spreading coronavirus, Kipchoge finished a distant eighth.
He dropped at the 38km mark of the 42.2 km race and only watched from afar as Kitata outpaced Kenyan compatriot Vincent Kipchumba in the home straight to win in 2:05:41.
But Kipchoge was quick to explain why he lost the race, revealing that an ear and hip problem caused him much trouble during the long run.
“After 25 kilometers my ear blocked and it couldn’t open anymore. But this is how the sport is, we should accept defeat and focus on the winning next time. Thanks for the support,” Kipchoge said in his Twitter account.
Several key leaders in Kenya took to Twitter to congratulate Kipchoge for putting a spirited effort to win the race.
“We must always encourage our youth to know that to try, fail, and try again is not a weakness but an essential life skill. I commend Eliud Kipchoge for the effort. Congratulations Vincent Kipchumba for coming 2nd and Shura Kitata of Ethiopia for the deserved victory,” ODM party leader Raila Odinga said.
“We are proud of you, Vincent Kipchumba, for your thrilling performance in the highly competitive London Marathon. We celebrate your merited showing, & associate with your phenomenal enthusiasm, drive & strength of will to come second. Hongera @EliudKipchoge for the titanic finish.” Deputy President William Ruto also added.
