Catching up with Kipchoge

Tracking Success delivers the inside story for global sports fans, exploring what makes elite performers tick, and providing insight into their biggest and most intriguing moments on and off the field of play.

After celebrating his 40th birthday, legendary Kenyan marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge recently embarked on his fifth visit to China, where he embraced local culture, indulged in eating dim sum, and experienced Chinese kung fu.

His journey also took him to major cities such as Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, where he connected with local runners, shared his experiences, and offered insights into his training philosophy. "The plan is to meet as many Chinese as possible before I conclude my tour," Kipchoge explained.

Wherever Kipchoge goes, runners naturally flock to join him. This trip was no exception, as fans gathered to train alongside him, eager to glean wisdom from one of the greatest athletes of all time.

During his time in China, Kipchoge explained the driving forces behind his training regime, and spoke about the discipline that has powered his marathon success. His goal is clear: to inspire a new generation of runners in China. With his remarkable journey as a backdrop, Kipchoge hopes to encourage more people to take up running, and believes China is poised to become a powerhouse in the marathon world.

"I trust that, if I don't get to meet the Chinese runners, then they will follow me on social media to know that we have been in China, to know what I've been doing here and my philosophies. And I trust what I'm doing will actually help them," he said.

During this visit, Kipchoge also sat down for a conversation with Zhang Chaoyang, founder and CEO of Chinese internet company Sohu. Zhang observed that Kipchoge's extraordinary achievements are a reflection of his serious, disciplined approach to life.

"Enduring high-intensity training every day for months — not just physically, but mentally — presents a unique challenge," Zhang remarked. "It's a matter of strength and belief; no amount of talent alone could achieve this."

Kipchoge shared that his ambition extends beyond simply winning races. His true goal, he explained, is to push the limits of human endurance and inspire others in the process.

Zhang noted that Kipchoge's pursuit has transcended mere passion or interest, becoming a fundamental part of his values and beliefs. It is this profound inner conviction, Zhang suggested, that propels Kipchoge to run faster and continually break his own boundaries.