Patrick Kiprop, a Kenyan runner and a two-time SEC outdoor 5,000 meters champion for the Arkansas Razorbacks, was the winner of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution men’s elite division on Friday, with a time of 27 minutes, 35 seconds.
This year was the 56th running of the Peachtree Road Race.
The win actually was a bit of a surprise, as there were three expected Kenyan winners to choose from: Isaia Lasoi was ranked as the No. 3 road racer in the world, Alex Matata was ranked fifth and Vincent Langat was the fastest in the field, with a personal best of 26:55.
Making his debut in the Peachtree, Kiprop expressed that it meant a lot to take this win as a newcomer and that he pushed hard toward the end as he saw the finish line within reach.
“I didn’t know what to expect,” Kiprop said. “Coming down that finish line, I was so happy to be the winner today.”
There were some challenges Kiprop pointed out that made his path to finish a little more difficult than expected.
“It was so hot today,” Kiprop said. “I’m used to humidity, but it was a little more than usual. Also the hills were a little more tough.”
Making this his third race postcollege, Kiprop said there were more races in store for him and that he enjoyed running through the city of Atlanta, now that he can check that first experience off his list.
“I think it’s a good race, well organized, Kiprop said. “I’m expecting to come here next year, too, and defend my title.”
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