Normal Service Resumed - Kipchoge wins NN Mission Marathon

Today, the 2021 NN Mission Marathon at Twente Airport Enschede took place. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for athletes to chase their marathon PB and of course, the sought after Olympic qualification time. With the tag line ‘The fastest way to Tokyo’, consisting of 8 laps of the looped course, the 70 elite athletes were set up for success. 

As always nowadays, there was discussion during the race about athletes choice of ‘super shoes’. Before the race even began there was discussion around what Kipchoge’s choice of footwear would be. Alphafly or Vaporfly?  Due to the nature of the course, Kipchoge opted for the Vaporfly Next%%, in a new colour that gives a nod to his first breaking 2 attempt. After suffering a rare defeat in last years London Marathon, Kipchoge gave the impression he waned to send out a message during this race.

Early on, Kipchoge and Korir broke away from the mens pack, with the almost perfect conditions. The gloves came off (literally) at the halfway mark at 1.01.43, Kipchoge and Korir keeping a strong pace while the heels of the pace maker - eventually overtaking the pacemaker at 1.22.02 setting their own speed. Often the the true ‘race’ begins at the 30K mark and the different pace groups start to stretch out. Kipchoge and Korir hit 30K at 1.28.10, with Korir dropping off the pace at 1:35:00 as Kipchoge surged forward.

Runners and spectators have become accustomed to Kipchoge winning marathons, with the expectation that he’ll win NN Mission Marathon. He did not disappoint - normal service resumed. Kipchoge glided through to victory in the usual inspiring style we’re all used too, in an incredible 2.04.30. Keeping Kipchoge company for a lot of the race, Jonathan Korir came second in 2.06.04 with Goitom Kifle in 2.08.00.

Kipchoge - “The race was perfect”. This was the real test towards Tokyo Olympics, to test your fitness”. BBC sport.

Katharina Steinruckwas was in total control throughout, despite wearing numerous layers for the crisp weather conditions, winning the women’s group in 2.25.59. Sara Moreira cruised to the finish in second place in 2.26.42. Rabea Schöneborn finishing third in 2.27.03. 

To turn this race around in the short time needed, changing location from Hamburg. Mission has been truly accomplished by Kipchoge and all the race organisers.