This archive report was first published on 11 October 2019.
On October 12, 2019, Kenyan greats rallied behind their country's most celebrated marathoner, Eliud Kipchoge, as he prepared to take on the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna, Austria.
Considered one of the most successful long-distance athletes of all time, Kipchoge aimed to break his own record and become the first man in history to complete a 42km marathon in under two hours.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Deputy President William Ruto, Sports CS Amina Mohammed, and Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama were among those who took to social media to wish Kipchoge well.
"I fully embrace the #INEOS159 motto that no human is limited or should be. Eluid Kipchoge has never been limited," Odinga tweeted.
"In a few days, the world's greatest marathoner will once again be embarking on an unchartered journey to smash the limits of human athleticism and define a new level of distinction. I have absolutely no doubt he will achieve it," Ruto added.
"We should celebrate Kipchoge as the greatest athlete that ever lived. He is telling us that we should rise from where we are and break new barriers," Mohammed wrote.
"Let me take this opportunity to wish my friend and countryman Eluid Kipchoge all the best," Wanyama said.
