Wilson Kipsang Looking to Regain Marathon World Record in Tokyo

By Adam Kopet

Wilson Kipsang has already found success in Tokyo. The former world record holder, from Kenya, won the 2017 Tokyo Marathon in a course record 2:03:58. Now he has eyes on running more than a minute faster to break the world record in this weekend's race, according to an IAAF preview by Ken Nakamura.

Kipsang broke the marathon world record at the 2013 Berlin Marathon, running 2:03:23. However, the record did not last. It now stands at 2:02:57. Kipsang's stated goal ahead of the race is to run 2:02:50.

Kipsang is not the only athlete with lofty goals running the Tokyo Marathon. Amy Cragg, after her bronze medal in the marathon at the 2017 IAAF World Outdoor Championships, is looking for a big personal best. Her goal is to run under 2:23:00. Her personal best of 2:27:03 dates back to the 2011 Los Angeles Marathon.

The Tokyo Marathon had been the planned marathon debut for Meseret Defar, however, she has withdrawn from the race since her participation was announced last month.