In an exceptional year that saw him shatter the men’s marathon world record, Kenyan runner Kelvin Kiptum is gearing up for an ambitious challenge in 2024 — breaking the elusive sub-two-hour barrier at the Rotterdam Marathon on April 14.

Kiptum’s remarkable 2023 included a sensational victory at the Chicago Marathon, where he trimmed 34 seconds off the previous record in only his third marathon. Earlier in April, he secured another triumph at the London Marathon with a time of 2:01:25, then the second-fastest in marathon history.

Expressing his aspirations, Kiptum revealed, “It’s already known, the Rotterdam Marathon on April 14. I would like to grow further, and so, inevitably, break the barrier.”

Choosing Rotterdam for his next challenge is a decision tied to personal connections. “The organization is linked to my management. In 2022 I was supposed to run it, to make my debut, but a slight injury stopped me. This will be the right time,” Kiptum explained.

Acknowledging the sacrifices in his intense training regimen, Kiptum shared that his choice to see his family only once a week is made consciously, in agreement with his wife, to fully focus on his goals.

Eyeing a spot at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, Kiptum is among the 10 pre-selected for the Kenyan team. “There are three places, and I want to be there,” he affirmed. While emphasizing team collaboration, Kiptum also noted individual aspirations, including a potential aim for the Tokyo 2025 World Championships after being captivated by a race in Budapest.

For now, Kiptum’s sole focus is on Rotterdam, aiming to become the first athlete ever to complete a marathon in under two hours. “I’ll go there to run fast, the course is ideal, and the crowds in the streets push you to give your best. I would love to be a part of the rich history of this marathon.