Barack Obama hails Kosgei, Kipchoge for creating world record

Former US President Barack Obama hailed long-distance runners Eliud Kipchoge and Brigid Kosgei for their records at Vienna and Chicago marathon respectively. Obama took to Twitter to applaud the athletes for their achievements, calling them examples of humanity’s ability to endure.

INEOS 1:59 Challenge

Eliud Kipchoge, on October 12, completed the four laps around the Prater, a park in the centre of Vienna, becoming the first athlete ever to complete a marathon under two hours. Born on November 5, 1984, in Nandi district of Kenya, Kipchoge broke his own record of 2 hours 25 seconds to achieve the historic feat. In 2017, Kipchoge participated in a private marathon event organised by Nike, aimed at breaking the two-hour barrier of the marathon, but missed the mark by 25 seconds. Finally, he succeeded in the 2019 INEOS 1:59 Challenge, breaking his own marathon record.

Read: Eliud Kipchoge: Five Things To Know About Legendary Marathon Runner

“Future generations to dream big and to aspire for greatness”

Kipchoge’s world record was praised across the world and his home country, Kenya, burst into a massive celebration. Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta also congratulated the 34-year-old athlete. "Hearty congratulations, Eliud Kipchoge. You've done it, you've made history and made Kenya proud while at it. Your win today, will inspire tens of future generations to dream big and to aspire for greatness. We celebrate you and wish you God's blessings," said Kenyatta in a statement.

Read: Kenya Celebrates As Eliud Kipchoge Completes Marathon In Under 2 Hours

Kosgei breaks a 16-year old record

Meanwhile, Brigid Kosgei, another marathon runner from Kenya, won the Chicago marathon in 2 hours, 14 minutes, 4 seconds beaking the world record. She bested the mark of 2:15:25, set by Paula Radcliffe in London in 2003. “Hongera Brigid Kosgei for smashing the 16-year old women's marathon record in Chicago. Yet again, a determined young athlete lifts the ever-rising profile of our nation's sporting potential. Congratulations Lawrence Cherono for making it a double success for Kenya,” said the Kenyan President.

Read: Kipchoge Creates History But Marathon Feat Won't Be An Official Record

Read: Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei Sets World Marathon Record In Chicago