World record holder in the 5000m and 10000m events, Joshua Cheptegei, has confirmed that he will be making his marathon debut at the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso, a prestigious World Athletics Platinum Label road race, scheduled for December 3, 2023.
The 26-year-old Olympic champion announced his decision on Sunday, expressing his eagerness to expand his athletic endeavours beyond the track.
“While I have always maintained my focus on the track distances, I knew that the marathon was waiting for me. It’s an ambition that I am truly excited to pursue,” Cheptegei shared.
He further stated, “It will be a new and challenging experience. My primary focus next year will be on the track events at the Paris Olympic Games. However, I hope that my marathon debut will be a positive experience, and I can then decide on my future steps after the Olympics.”
It is worth mentioning that Cheptegei has a special connection with Valencia, having set two of his world records in the Spanish city. He established the 10km world record of 26:38 in 2019 and the current world record for the 10000m with a time of 26:11:00 in 2020, both achieved in Valencia.
Cheptegei remains confident that his familiarity with the Valencia track will contribute to a successful marathon debut.
“Valencia holds a special place in my heart. I have set two world records there, and they organized the NN Valencia World Record Day for me during the COVID times. Now, I have the opportunity to run my first marathon there. I am well acquainted with the course in Valencia, and I am thrilled to explore the roads during this new chapter of my career,” Cheptegei expressed his excitement.