Bengaluru: With the weekend, and with it the TCS World 10K fast approaching, the elite athletes are fully geared up for a good show.
Leading the men’s pack is world record holder Leonard Komon, set to make his debut in Bengaluru. The injury-ravaged Kenyan is keen to get back to the heights of yesteryear.
“It’s my first time in India. My training has been going well now that my injuries are gone. I admit I am a little worried about the weather and the humidity on Sunday, it can make your body weak. It’s a challenge, but I am ready to do my best,” remarked Komon during a media conference on Thursday.
Double defending champion Mosinet Geremew of Ethiopia and Zane Robertson are also expected to make their presence felt in the race.
Meanwhile, in the elite women’s category, all eyes will be on Irene Cheptai, fresh from her success in the World Cross country event.
“That win has been a big morale booster. There was big celebrations back home and people recognise me now,” said the diminutive Kenyan who will be all business, come Sunday.
While she will be the one to beat, event veteran Helah Kiprop and Gladys Chesir will be no pushovers. While the former refused to come out and state her intentions to win, there is no doubt she will be among the ones fighting it out for the medals.
”Every runner wants to win. But that doesn’t mean everyone will. It depends on a lot of factors and I prefer to commit to something I’m sure about,” she said philosophically. “Whenever I have raced here I have had a really good season. I hope that’s the case this time too,” she added.
