Renowned marathoner Eliud Kipchoge has been honored with the 2023 Princess of Asturias Award in the sports category.
The panel of 15 judges from the foundation praised Kipchoge as a true legend in the world of athletics, highlighting his unmatched records and remarkable achievements.
The judges specifically lauded Kipchoge's historic feat in 2019 when he ran a marathon in under 2 hours, even though the accomplishment was not officially recognized.
With an impressive track record of 16 victories out of 18 marathons, Kipchoge has consistently triumphed in prestigious events like the London and Berlin marathons, each of which he has won four times.
In a statement from the judges, they expressed their admiration for Kipchoge as a role model in world athletics and acknowledged him as the greatest marathon runner of all time. They noted his status as a two-time Olympic champion and holder of the world record for the marathon. They also highlighted his unique achievement of completing a marathon in 42.195 kilometers in under two hours, even though it was not officially recognized.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Kipchoge was commended for his substantial social contributions through the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation. The foundation is dedicated to promoting early childhood education and environmental protection.
Kipchoge, who is currently in Spain to accept the award, expressed his excitement to be recognized alongside exceptional individuals from various fields.
"It is an absolute honor to receive the Princess of Asturias Award. To be among a list of extraordinary laureates, all hailing from different walks of life. This recognition motivates me in my mission to leave a lasting legacy in this world through running, as a world of running is a more peaceful, happier, and healthier world," he stated.
He also extended his gratitude to Her Royal Highness the Princess of Asturias and her parents, Their Majesties the King and Queen of Spain, for bestowing this prestigious honor upon him.
The Princess of Asturias Awards is a ceremony that celebrates outstanding individuals in various fields, including science, technology, culture, social causes, sports, and humanitarian efforts.
The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Oviedo, Spain, on Friday, October 20.
Eliud Kipchoge, a decorated athlete with Olympic victories and more than 10 major titles to his name, held the World Marathon record until it was recently broken by Kenyan athlete Kelvin Kiptum during the Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2023.
