This archive report was first published on 12 October 2019.
On October 12, 2019, Vienna was abuzz with excitement as Kenyans from all walks of life flocked to the city to cheer on their beloved Eliud Kipchoge as he prepared to take on the challenge of a lifetime – breaking the two-hour marathon barrier.
The Marriott Courtyard Hotel, where Kipchoge and his team were staying, was a hub of activity, with fans and VIPs converging to share in the build-up to the big race. Fans clad in Kenyan caps and carrying flags stayed late into the night discussing where they would watch the historic event, which was free to the public.
With the start time set for 8:15 am Austrian time, fan parks had been set aside for spectators to watch Kipchoge and his team of pacemakers complete the 4.4 laps around the iconic Prater Park. The weather conditions were perfect, with not a cloud in the sky as predicted.
Next to the course was the Prater athletics track, the venue for the famous 10,000 meters world record set by Kenyan legend Henry Rono in 1978. Rono's record-breaking run, paced by Jos Hermens who is now Kipchoge's manager, was a testament to the rich athletic heritage of Kenya.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Governors Jackson Mandago (Uasin Gishu) and Stephen Sang (Nandi), who expressed their support for Kipchoge's record-breaking attempt. Sports Principal Secretary Kirimi Kaberia was equally upbeat, describing the event as a display of discipline, hard work, and focus that could inspire a new generation of athletes.
Isuzu East Africa, Kipchoge's brand ambassador, had offered a single-cabin D-Max pick-up to the athlete if he succeeded in breaking the two-hour barrier. Duncan Muhindi, the company's communication manager, was in Vienna to cheer on Kipchoge and witness the historic event.
