The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has announced a rewarding treat for Eliud Kipchoge and other top performers of the recently concluded 2023 Berlin Marathon. The winners of the marathon will receive a three-day holiday in the Kenyan coastal tourism circuit as recognition of their outstanding performance.
Expressing congratulations to the three Kenyan marathoners who achieved podium positions at the Berlin Marathon in Germany, the Kenya Tourism Board’s Ag. Chief Executive Officer, John Chirchir, highlighted that this holiday treat not only serves as a recovery period for the marathoners but also acknowledges their role in putting Kenya on the global map.
Kenya’s Performance in the 2023 Berlin Marathon
Eliud Kipchoge secured his fifth victory at the Berlin Marathon in Germany on September 24, 2023, with an impressive finish time of 2:02:42. Vincent Kipkemoi secured the second position with a time of 2:03:24. In the women’s race, Sheila Chepkirui attained second place with a timing of 2:17:49.
Eliud Kipchoge has now become the first runner to clinch the Berlin Marathon title five times. He currently holds the marathon world record, which he set with a remarkable time of 2:01:09.
Prior to the race, Kipchoge emphasized that his primary goal is to achieve three consecutive Olympic gold medals and views participating in the Berlin Marathon as an ideal preparation for this.
More Rewards in the Future for Eliud Kipchoge
John highlighted that marathons and athletics have significantly enhanced Kenya’s global profile, attracting international visitors to the country. He underlined that sports, including marathons, are vital platforms to showcase Kenya’s tourism offerings to a global audience.
The Kenya Tourism Board continues to leverage sports to create awareness about the country’s tourism destinations, beyond the success of its esteemed sportsmen and sportswomen. Fully paid holiday packages will also be extended to other podium finishers in both men and women categories at the upcoming Chicago and New York Marathons.
According to Chirchir, sports are increasingly emerging as key platforms to promote the country’s offerings. The upcoming Marathon Majors provide an excellent opportunity for Kenya to showcase its destination brand to millions of sports fans worldwide. The Abbott Marathon Majors consist of six marathons held in key cities globally, including Chicago, Berlin, New York, London, Tokyo, and Boston, and have played a significant role in profiling Kenya as the home of champions, given the numerous medals won by Kenyan athletes.
Written By Stephen Kamau
