Champion Marathon Runner Eliud Kipchoge - his faith and values

Champion Marathon Runner Eliud Kipchoge - his faith and values

Eliud Kipchoge grew up in a village called Kapsisisywa in the region of Eldoret, as the youngest of five children. His father died early. His mother, a teacher, showed her children the right path to a good life.

His calm and serene nature proves to be ideal in extremely emotional high-performance sports. Those who remain calm can think more clearly, concentrate better and prepare for the challenges of a race.

Despite his success, Eliud Kipchoge has remained very modest. When preparing for the next marathon in the training camp, he participates like everyone else in the cleaning work and chores. He is inquisitive by nature and reads many motivational and business books. “If you want to actualize your dreams, just be with the right people and read good books. For me, books are like loyal friends and guides. He is never satisfied with what he has achieved. He keeps trying to learn new things, striving to grow better, and preparing for the long-term future like the long-distance race.

There are many things that people say can’t be done. Until someone does them. Kipchoge broke the mythical barrier in 2019 by finishing a marathon in under two hours. He completed the marathon in Vienna in 1:59:40, with an average pace of 4:34 per mile.

Married with children, he lives in a simple single-family house. His children should not grow up differently to others. “I try to raise them just like other simple parents do, even though their father may be a little more famous. I think that my wife and I have succeeded quite well so far. Our children don’t get every single thing they want. They must know that nothing should be taken for granted. They must also try out different kinds of sports – not just running.”

Eliud’s first name has several meanings. “God is my praise” is one of them. “As a Christian, I believe that whatever I manage to accomplish, needs to pass on to my grandchildren”, he says. And he adds: “Religion plays a very important role in my life. It keeps me from doing things that could keep me from my goals. On Sundays I go to mass with my family. I pray regularly, even in the mornings before a race.”

Kipchoge places much value in his Catholic faith and prayer. His faith is expressed through his humility and the glory he gives to God, even during the most glorious moments of his own life. And before important races, the prayers of the Catholic community in his hometown provides him with extra moral support to run the race well. His own mother too declares that she wakes up every morning at 3:00 am and prays the Rosary for him. After each race, Kipchoge gets down on his knees, puts his forehead to the ground, makes the Sign of the Cross, and gives thanks to God for his race.

There ismuch inspiration to be gained and a lesson to be learned from the faith shown by Kipchoge and his family and community. A true role model for the young people of Africa!