Barack Obama sends message to Kenya’s Kipchoge, Kosgei after breaking world records

Former United States President Barack Obama on Sunday 13 October congratulated Kenya’s Eluid Kipchoge after he became the first man to run a marathon under two hours.

In his tweet, Barack described Eluid as a ‘remarkable example of humanity’s ability to endure’ after the historic run.

Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei also broke the Women’s World Record at the Chicago Marathon on Sunday 13 October.

Kosgei earned the world record in a blistering time of 2:14: 04 smashing Great Britain’s Paula Radcliff record set in 2003.

“Yesterday, marathoner Eliud Kipchoge became the first ever to break two hours. Today in Chicago, Brigid Kosgei set a new women’s world record. Staggering achievements on their own, they’re also remarkable examples of humanity’s ability to endure—and keep raising the bar,” said Barack Obama.

Eluid entered the Guinness book of records on Saturday October 12 after he completed the Ineos 1:59 Challenge in 1:59.40.2, in Vienna, Austria.

Kipchoge attempted to break the two-hour barrier in May 2017 but failed, completing the marathon in 2hr 00min 25 secs.

The marathon champion says by completing the challenge, he wanted to show other people that nothing is impossible.

“I’m showing the world that no human is limited and they can go beat two hours in a marathon,” said Kipchoge.

“I’m expecting we’ll see athletes train well and focus and try to beat two hours like I did,” he added.