In the world of athletics, where milliseconds and split-second decisions make the difference between victory and defeat, the role of coaches is often overshadowed by the awe-inspiring performances of elite athletes.
However, behind every gold medal, record-breaking run, or marathon triumph, there exists a dedicated coach, the silent architect of success.
This article reveals the lives and training philosophies of the remarkable coaches who have molded the extraordinary talents of Faith Kipyegon, Eliud Kipchoge, and Kelvin Kiptum.
These coaches, often working behind the scenes, are the unsung heroes contributing to the legacy of some of the world’s most exceptional athletes.
Join us on a journey to discover the insights, methods, and personal connections that have propelled these athletes to the pinnacle of their respective sports.
Meet Coach Patrick Sang
Ever wondered what it takes to be as great as Faith Kipyegon or Eliud Kipchonge? There are a few experts who work tirelessly to get their body and mind in top shape.
The two legendary athletes rely on the expertise and guidance of their coach Patrick Sang in training, during races and even during recovery.
Sang on Coaching Kipchoge
Kipchonge, who is the most decorated marathoner on the planet, has known Sang throughout his professional career as an athlete.
According to reports, Kipchonge first met Sang at the age of 16 and over the years the two have built a personal relationship.
Also Read: Kiptum – I am Ready to Face off Eliud Kipchoge
Sang was a 3000m steeplechase Olympic silver medalist in 1992 and consequently the runner who Kipchonge grew up idolizing.
Moreover, Sang has been training athletes in Kenya since 1997 and is considered one of the most knowledgeable men in the sport.
In an interview with Olympic Channel, Sang revealed that Kipchoge is focused on his career making his training sessions easier.
“He has given me that trust and it is a big role and a challenge because you have to reason and go an extra mile to avoid disappointments,” said Sang.
Also, he said they review the athlete’s performance at the end of the year to identify the strengths and weaknesses.
Alongside Sang, there are other important people behind Kipchonge’s talent, self-discipline, and record marathon.
This includes his physiotherapist Peter Nduhiu, his nutritionist Armand Bettonviel and his Global Sports Communication management led by Valentijn Trouw.
Sang and Kipyegon
Similarly, Sang has been coaching Faith Kipyegon with his assistants from Global Sports Camp in Rift Valley.
One of his most recent success stories has been Kipyegon cementing herself as the greatest 1500m and 5000m runner by breaking the world records in June 2023.
Speaking after breaking the 5000m women’s world record at the Diamond League in Paris, Kipyegon attributed her success to coach Sang.
Kipyegon appreciated Sang for pushing her to such great heights, adding that they have a long history together.
“We have come along way together and I must applaud him for believing in me, I owe my success to him,” she said.
Sang incorporates some of the traditional approaches in his tactics including three workouts weekly for his trainees including Kipchonge and Kipyegon.
In a past interview, Sang revealed that he is focused on the progress of his athletes despite the challenges encountered in training.
“When I see an athlete move from point A to point B and then C in a positive direction, it gives me a lot of joy,” said Sang.
Further, Sang said training is more important than the final performance at the world stage.
“Many people focus on the world records and the medals, but I look more at the progress towards those achievements,” he added.
Moreover, the coach explained that he studies the athlete’s potential and uses his findings to ensure their progress.
According to Sang, Kipyegon has the capacity for serious endurance and capacity for pure speed.
Coach Sang’s Achievements and Titles
To begin with Sang won gold medal at the 1987 All-Africa Games held in Kenya.
Likewise, he won three silver medals in major 3000m steeplechase competitions:1991 and 1993 World Championships in Athletics and the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics.
Sang also competed in the Marathon and half marathon during his career.
Nonetheless, he began coaching in 1995, which was three years before he retired from competing .
He has coached a host of Olympic and World Champions including Bernard Barmasai, Richard Limo, Ruben Kosgei, Brimin Kipruto, Hyvin Kiyeng and Geoffrey Kamworor.
Also Read: High Schools Faith Kipyegon, Kiptum & Eliud Kipchoge Attended
Rwandese Coaching Kelvin Kiptum
Kelvin Kiptum shattered Kipchonge’s world record by 34 seconds at the recent 2023 Chicago Marathon.
The world record holder has been under the guidance of a Rwandese coach Gervais Hakizimana.
Reports indicate that Hakizimana has been training Kiptum via WhatsApp where he sends him training programs while away in Rwanda or France.
Moreover, the coach successfully guided Kiptum to win gold at the Valencia, London and in Chicago marathons.
In a past media interview, Hakizimana said he used to train in Chepsamo, Rift Valley, in 2006 where he could share his training programs with Kiptum.
Further, he stated that he sent Kiptum training programs on phone before the Valencia marathon where he won gold.
However, Hakizimana noted that he did not expect Kiptum to clock 2:01:59 adding that he was expecting him to run at least 2:05 hours.
Nonetheless, Coach Hakizamana holds the national record in Rwanda for men’s 3000m steeplechase with a time of 8:39:05.
He also took part in the 36th edition of the London Marathon in 2016.
