This archive report was first published on 12 October 2019.
Eliud Kipchoge Breaks 2-Hour Marathon Barrier in Historic INEOS 1:59 Challenge ¶
On October 12, 2019, Kenyan marathoner Eliud Kipchoge made history by becoming the first person to complete a 42km marathon in under 2 hours, achieving a record time of 1:59:40 in the INEOS 1:59 challenge.
Organized by British billionaire James Ratcliffe, the INEOS 1:59 challenge aimed to inspire the world to believe in possibilities, with the slogan 'no human is limited.'
Kipchoge, who had previously attempted to break the record in 2017, completed the first 10km in 28 minutes and 20 seconds, a second quicker than his previous record set in Monza, Italy.
He maintained a strong pace throughout the race, with his pacemakers providing an incredible level of support and organization.
As Kipchoge approached the final stretch, the tension and anxiety among fans grew, but he remained focused and composed, crossing the finishing line at 1:59:40 to the jubilation of the crowd.
President Uhuru Kenyatta and other Kenyan leaders congratulated Kipchoge on his historic achievement, which sent shockwaves of excitement around the world.
