Ruth Chepngetich broke the world marathon record with her amazing 2:09:56 time at the Chicago Marathon. She became the first woman ever to run under 2:10. She pulled out of next Sunday's London Marathon because she isn't ready mentally or physically. She hopes to return next year when she feels better prepared.
Peres Jepchirchir also withdrew from the race due to an ankle injury. She won last year's London Marathon with a record time of 2:16:16. Her absence means she cannot defend her women-only world record title. The race loses two major stars who would have headlined the event. Ethiopian Tigst Assefa remains in the competition.
Kenyan fans received good news as 2018 champion Vivian Cheruiyot joined the elite field. She returns to London for the first time in five years. She won in 2018 with a time of 2:18:31 and placed second in 2019 behind Brigid Kosgei. Event Director Hugh Brasher expressed disappointment about the withdrawals but welcomed Cheruiyot back.
Peres Jepchirchir also withdrew from the race due to an ankle injury. She won last year's London Marathon with a record time of 2:16:16. Her absence means she cannot defend her women-only world record title. The race loses two major stars who would have headlined the event. Ethiopian Tigst Assefa remains in the competition.
Kenyan fans received good news as 2018 champion Vivian Cheruiyot joined the elite field. She returns to London for the first time in five years. She won in 2018 with a time of 2:18:31 and placed second in 2019 behind Brigid Kosgei. Event Director Hugh Brasher expressed disappointment about the withdrawals but welcomed Cheruiyot back.
