This archive report was first published on 12 October 2019.
On October 12, 2019, Kenyans woke up early to show their support for world record-holder Eliud Kipchoge, who was set to attempt an 'impossible' marathon run under two hours in Vienna, Austria.
The challenge, dubbed the 'INEOS 1:59 Challenge,' was being staged in Vienna and would begin at exactly 9:15 local time. Kenyans from all over the country had gathered, waiting to witness Kenya's most-daring son try to prove to the world that the human body has no limits.
As Kipchoge prepared for the challenge, he expressed his excitement and pride in accepting the challenge presented by INEOS. He stated, 'I am very excited about the months of good preparation to come and to show the world that when you focus on your goal, when you work hard and when you believe in yourself, anything is possible.'
Patrick Sang, Kipchoge's long-term coach, also expressed his confidence in Kipchoge's abilities, saying, 'As Eliud showed in Monza, when he came within touching distance of achieving what many had previously thought impossible, he is a truly special athlete with incredible levels of mental resolve.'
As the world watched, Kenyans took to social media to show their support for Kipchoge, using hashtags such as #Eliud159 and #NoHumanIsLimited. Many expressed their confidence in Kipchoge's abilities, with one user stating, 'Eliud kipchoge will win the race.'
With live coverage broadcast across the world, tens of thousands of spectators were expected to attend the event. The INEOS 1:59 Challenge was being supported by INEOS, one of the world's largest manufacturing companies, which also sponsors the children's running charities, GO Run For Fun and The Daily Mile.
