Joshua Cheptegei eager to make history on African soil

The world 10,000m and 5,000m champion is in Durban for Sunday's Absa Run Your City Durban 10km, where one of the strongest fields ever assembled is expected to challenge the sub-27-minute barrier. 

With the race starting an hour earlier at 7am, conditions are expected to favour fast times. Cheptegei, who accepted an invitation from Stillwater Sports, says it does not matter who crosses the finish line first as long as history is made.

"For me, I would be very, very grateful to be part of history, whether it's somebody making it or not making it, it would be really for me a huge, you know, a huge honour for me. To have South Africa's, you know, fastest time in Africa," said Cheptegei

READ: Stephen Mokoka excited for Cheptegei reunion at Durban 10km

"It would be really something good for the sport, and it would tell a very positive story. You know, like Stephen said that we've been able to come from 27, 28, and now 27, so for me, I think it's, the event is being spiced up towards reaching that goal, and I thank the organisers for, of course, bringing in different kind of athletes, and believing in different athletes to come and, you know, show their potential and give it their best."

The three-time world 10,000m champion also had a message for young athletes, encouraging them to believe in themselves, set clear goals, remain patient, and stay consistent in their pursuit of success.

Cheptegei, who boasts a personal best of 26:11, says it was an easy decision to return to South Africa after making his race debut in Durban in 2018. He won that race in 27:16 and believes it played a major role in his career, opening the door to many opportunities on the international stage.

The reigning Olympic 10,000m champion from Paris remained tight-lipped about his target time for Sunday's race. Instead, Cheptegei says his main focus is to enjoy competing in Africa while being part of what could be a historic day for road running in Durban.