Bangkok: Eliud Kipchoge has left his footprints in Bangkok, serving as a symbol of discipline and inspiration from the world-renowned Kenyan marathon runner. The “Kipchoge Footprint Ceremony” was held at Benjakitti Park in Khlong Toei District, with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt participating to promote Kipchoge as a tourism, sports, and cultural ambassador for Thailand. Kipchoge, a legendary marathoner, and two-time Olympic gold medalist, will compete in the “AMAZING THAILAND MARATHON BANGKOK 2025.”
According to Thai News Agency, Kipchoge had previously left a handprint last year, which the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has used as a symbol at the Benjakitti Park stretching area. The presence of Kipchoge has served as an inspiration for the people of Bangkok, notably boosting the city’s running community. This growth is evident at Benjakitti Park, where up to 10,000 runners gather every weekend.
During the ceremony, Bangkok Governor expressed gratitude, quoting Kipchoge’s words on the significance of discipline in achieving freedom in life. He emphasized the powerful symbolism of Kipchoge’s footprints, encouraging the community to follow his example.
Kipchoge shared his vision for leaving his footprint in Bangkok, emphasizing unity, peace, self-cultivation, and the inspiration it can provide to others.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aims to elevate the “Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok” to rank among the top 10 marathons globally. They intend to meet World Athletics standards and showcase Bangkok as a “capital of sports tourism,” with the event expected to stimulate the economy and provide a world-class experience for all participants.