Olympic Champion Eliud Kipchoge on Thursday, October 26, welcomed Nike’s efforts to honor his legacy as marathon great.
Kipchoge in a statement thanked the US-based apparel company for being his partners throughout his illustrious athletics career.
He recounted the journey since signing a deal with Nike back in 2003.
According to him, Nike has played a crucial role in his success both in terms of motivation and innovations to facilitate his success.
He went on to thank Nike for dedicating to him a statue at its headquarters in Oregon and naming a track after him in Europe.
“Twenty years ago, Nike and I became partners in running,” he said.
“Since 2003, Nike has played a crucial role in my career, providing inspiration and innovation.”
According to Kipchoge, Nike’s partnership helped to drive innovations that not only benefited him but also helped to impact the larger athletics discipline.
“Thank you, Nike, for the great partnership, together we run as one.”
In early October, Kipchoge embarked on a busy tour where he was scheduled to have several high-level engagements.
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Among the countries he toured include the Netherlands at Nike’s European Headquarters where he launched a track named the Eliud Kipchoge Track.
In addition, Kipchoge also visited China where he held several meetings with the running community in the area which Nike notes has been improving.
Nike honors Eliud Kipchoge with a permanent statue
In an earlier statement Nike too expressed its appreciation of being part of Kipchoge’s impeccable run in the world of athletics. As such, the Oregon-based company undertook the projects aimed at honoring Kipchoge and inspiring generations in the running world.
As per the company, the bronze statue erected at its headquarters in Oregon would be placed on a popular running track that is revered by athletes in the area.
Also Read: Details of Eliud Kipchoge Statue Unveiled in U.S
The statue and the newly renamed facility in Netherlands would to other honors accorded to Kipchoge including an apparel and shoe collection named EK Umoja.
Nike is one of the companies that have partnered with the Kenyan marathon great, with other notable companies including NN Running Team which focuses on athletes’ wellness and fitness.
In addition, Kipchoge is currently the grand ambassador of Isuzu D Max in Kenya which also honored Kipchoge with a special edition of the truck.
So far in his career, Kipchoge has won a record number of prizes including two Olympics marathons, 11 World Marathon Majors cementing his name in the athletics hall of fame.
