This archive report was first published on 26 September 2019.
On September 25, a group of Spanish tourists, including Paula Cobo, flew into Kenya to show their support for Eliud Kipchoge, the World marathon record holder, ahead of his record attempt in Vienna, Austria on October 12.
Ms Cobo, who was part of the group, declared her love for Kipchoge, saying, 'I'm in love with him. I wish him all the luck in the world. I would love him to beat the record.'
The group, drawn from a running club in Spain, believes Kipchoge is well poised to break the 2-hour barrier in two weeks, citing his focus and energy as key factors.
"You can feel the energy. For example, Kipchoge's eyes are different. He's very focussed and he gives you energy. He is very special," stated Nuria Martinez.
"Maybe in two weeks he's going to be the first man in history to beat the 2-hour record. It's like a crazy dream and he will live it," added Augistion Rubio, the Team coach.
Eliud Kipchoge will be taking a second shot at the 42-kilometer marathon challenge, where he seeks to break the 2-hour record time. He missed it by 26 seconds two years ago in Monza, Italy, but is optimistic he will get it this time around.
"I've never changed anything at all in my training, the only thing is the mental change, to accept that I'm actually going to make it on October 12. I'm pushing my mind through a barrier," said Kipchoge.
"There's a saying in my tribe that a rabbit cannot escape for two seasons. It escaped in one season in Monza, and this season, it will not escape in Vienna," he added.
