Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo will make his marathon debut, as he lines up for the Chicago Marathon this weekend.
The 29-year old Kenyan will compete in not only the major but the full 42km distance for the first time in his career after months of intense preparation, and though he admits it will be a tough task, he says he is ready for the challenge.
Ebenyo has primarily competed on track, winning silver at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham as well as the African Championships.
I am really excited for this race. I know it will be difficult, I know the challenge is high, but that is why we compete in sports. I needed to give myself this challenge and I feel strong, I feel ready. I have prepared very well but I don’t want to put pressure on myself. I just want to go in there and enjoy myself.
Daniel Simiu Ebenyo exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
The Kenyan has had quite some success on the roads since he started venturing into longer distances and won a silver medal at the 2023 World Road Running Championship, and in April this year won the Berlin Half Marathon.
I have done quite a number of half marathons and therefore, my confidence has been raised a bit. This is tougher, but I am ready. The course in Chicago is quite tricky, but I know my abilities and I know I can maneuver through.
Daniel Simiu Ebenyo exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
He says he has picked quite some amazing advice from seasoned marathoners and he hopes it can come in handy when he lines up in a tough field.