Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge showcased his enduring prowess at the age of 41 by claiming victory at the Melbourne Marathon and setting a new course record. The two-time Olympic champion crossed the finish line in two hours, nine minutes, and 10 seconds, marking his 17th career marathon win and his first since triumphing at the Berlin Marathon in 2023.
Post-race, Kipchoge expressed satisfaction with his performance and his physical condition. “I believe that my body is still peaking – still able to compete with the next generation,” he said. “The oldest athlete is still competing but I am happy to run with the Gen Zs.”
The race course offered a unique experience, partly utilizing the Albert Park Formula One circuit before concluding inside the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Kipchoge noted the distinct challenge and joy of running on such varied terrain, adding that he enjoyed waving to the cheering crowds as he slowed down for the final stretch.
Australian runner Thomas do Canto secured second place with a time of 2:10:35, while his compatriot Reece Edwards finished third. In the women’s division, New Zealand’s Camille French took the top spot in 2:28:25, followed by Australia’s Sinead Diver and Ireland’s Nichola Sheridan.
This event served as the third leg of Kipchoge’s ambitious global marathon tour, which aims to see him complete a marathon on every continent, including Antarctica, within two years. Proceeds from each race support the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, an organization dedicated to education, environmental sustainability, and health initiatives.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest long-distance runners in history, Kipchoge’s accolades include two Olympic marathon gold medals, a World Championship title, 12 World Marathon Major victories, and two official world records. He also made headlines in 2019 as the first person to break the two-hour marathon barrier under controlled conditions in Vienna.
The charity aspect is what really matters here. Love that he’s using his platform for education and sustainability.
Another win, but isn’t 2:09:10 slower than his prime times? Shows how tough the competition gets as you age.
I’m just waiting to see if he actually runs Antarctica next. The man has no limits whatsoever!
Does anyone else think the F1 circuit part of the course gave him an unfair advantage? That turns seem designed for speed.
41 and still breaking records? Kipchoge is an absolute machine. Truly inspiring to see him competing with Gen Z runners.