Renowned Kenyan marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge was bestowed with an Honorary Degree of Humane Letters by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) during the university’s 41st graduation ceremony on Friday, December 1.
Kipchoge, a global icon for his athletic achievements and humanitarian contributions, received the honor in recognition of his exceptional service to society and his unparalleled accomplishments in the world of athletics.
In 2019, Kipchoge captivated the world by breaking the two-hour marathon barrier, running a remarkable 1:59:50 in Vienna, Austria. This groundbreaking feat cemented his legacy as the first human to achieve such a remarkable milestone, embodying the mantra “No human is limited.”
Kipchoge’s athletic prowess extends far beyond this single achievement. In 2003, he emerged as world champion in the 5000 meters race, securing a bronze medal in the same event at the 2004 Athens Olympics and a silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
His dominance continued in the marathon arena, setting a new record in 2016 by winning the London Marathon. That same year, he claimed gold at the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games, further solidifying his position as a marathon legend.
Undeterred by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Kipchoge continued to excel, securing victory at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, held in 2021.
Kipchoge’s impressive list of accolades extends beyond Olympic glory. He holds the title of U20 Cross Country World Champion (Lausanne, Switzerland 2003), earned a gold medal in the 5000-meter event of the 2010 Diamond League, and claimed four first-place finishes in the Golden League, three in 5000 meters and one in 3000 meters.
In recognition of his unwavering dedication to excellence, Kipchoge was named Athlete of the Year by World Athletics in 2018 and 2019.
