Expectations high as Jepkosgei makes her debut at New York course
Joycline Jepkosgei says she is not under any pressure ahead of her full marathon debut in Sunday’s New York City Marathon.
The world half-marathon record holder is unfazed by the presence of Mary Keitany, seeking a fifth title in the course and has already taken all the attention and pressure from her.
Jepkosgei is expecting a good race that will mark her maiden appearance in the marathon.
“New York is one of the biggest races in the world. One of those races that being there alone is a big thing,” said Jepkosgei.
“I want to have basis for a good person best in the marathon. One I will want to work hard to break. I am excited to be running on Sunday,” said Jepkosgei who in 2017 clocked the fastest time in a half marathon (1:04.51) at the Valencia Half Marathon.
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) athlete who has been training at Ngong’ Hills says the course has given her good preparations for the big race.
“Once you have trained well, you have nothing to worry about during race days. Besides competing, it will be good running knowing there is no much pressure on yourself,” she added.
Keitany has owned the TCS New York City Marathon in recent years. She’s claimed the title at four of the last five editions, in the process delivering some of the most impressive performances in NYC history. In 2016, she won her third title by a ridiculous margin of 3:35. Last year was even more impressive as she obliterated the field with a 66:58 second half — at the time, the fastest ever in a marathon — to win by 3:14.
Keitany may never eclipse Grete Waitz‘s record of nine NYC victories, but in the 21st century, she has been the unquestioned queen of New York. Yet for all of Keitany’s dominance, the course record has eluded her. - Amos Abuga
