Kenya's Elisha Rotich eyes record breaking time at Frankfurt Marathon

Rotich who stands out in the men’s lineup with his exceptional personal best of 2:04:21 is eying a record time finish on the course.

Kenya’s elite marathoners are set for a fierce showdown at the Frankfurt Marathon this Sunday, with seasoned runner Elisha Rotich leading the charge.

Rotich, renowned for his prowess on the marathon circuit, stands out in the men’s lineup with his exceptional personal best of 2:04:21, achieved during his record-breaking win at the 2021 Paris Marathon.

This feat notably saw him surpass the esteemed Kenenisa Bekele’s best time, firmly establishing Rotich as a formidable presence in international marathon running.

Rotich has expressed confidence in his preparations, noting he has spent five intensive months training specifically for the Frankfurt Marathon.

“I’ve rigorously trained for five months targeting the Frankfurt Marathon. Favorable weather, cooler temperatures, and cooperative pacing within the lead group could facilitate sub-2:05 performances,” he shared via Watch Athletics.

Optimistic about favorable weather conditions and strong pacing, Rotich hopes these factors will help him achieve another remarkable sub-2:05 finish.

However, Rotich’s path to the top won’t be without challenge.

He faces tough competition from a talented Ethiopian quartet, including Lencho Tesfaye, who has a personal best of 2:06:18, Aychew Banti (2:06:23), Abay Alemu (2:06:50), and Birhan Nebebew (2:06:52).

Each of these runners has consistently delivered strong performances, underscoring the intense competition that awaits on Sunday.

In addition to Rotich, Kenya is represented by Reuben Kiprop (2:09:06), Bernard Muia (2:09:17), and Vincent Ronoh (2:09:21). T

his group, while less heralded, brings both depth and resilience to Kenya's bid for top honors in Frankfurt.

The women’s field also promises excitement, with Kenya’s Magdalyne Masai leading her country’s contingent with a commendable personal best of 2:22:16.

Masai will face tough competition from Ethiopia’s Shuko Genemo, who has clocked 2:21:35, and Meseret Dinke (2:22:35).

All eyes, however, remain on the 2019 Frankfurt course record of 2:19:10 set by Kenya’s Valary Aiyabei.

With such a strong lineup, the possibility of breaking Aiyabei’s record appears within reach.

posted Saturday October 26th
by Stephen Awino