World Half Marathon record holder Jacob Kiplimo has pulled out of the upcoming 2022 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon scheduled for October 16 in India.
Although the 21-year-old did not disclose the reason for making the decision, he wished the participants all the best ahead of Sunday’s showdown.
“Friends of New Delhi and India, I’m sorry I will not be in your country for the Vedanta Delhi half marathon.
“I wish all the runners the best of luck and encourage the race organizers and sponsors to keep the race one of the best in the world. I hope that one day I will run there! Cheers from Jacob Kiplimo,” he stated.
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The Ugandan runner was the favourite going into the race, considering the fine form he has enjoyed this year.
At the 2022 Commonwealth Games held in August, Kiplimo clocked 13:8.08 to clinch the 10,000m title ahead of Daniel Simiu and Kibiwott Kandie of Kenya.
Kiplimo, who was born in Bukwo, Uganda, was victorious at the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon staged on February 19 in the United Arab Emirates.
Kiplimo broke the half marathon world record at the 2021 edition of the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon when he produced a striking performance to cross the finishing line in 57.31.
His record was 1 second faster than the previous world record set by Kibiwott at Valencia Half Marathon on December 6, 2020.
With Kiplimo's withdrawal, Kenya's Felix Kipkoech and the Ethiopian duo of Chala Regasa and Muktar Edris are among the favourites to win the race.
In the women's category, 2018 Commonwealth champion Stella Chesang and Irene Cheptai will battle it out for the title.
Ethiopia's Lemlem Hailu, who is the reigning 3,000m world indoor champion, will also be in contention.
Although the total prize money for the event is USD 268,000 (approximately Ksh 32,000,000) the winners in both the women’s and men’s half marathons will each receive USD 27,000 (approximately Ksh 3.3 million).
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