Tola was Kipchoge-esque today

In the main race thread, it was said that Tola covered a 5k in sub 14. I'm not aware of that EVER having happened in a marathon before?

2018 London the field opened the race in a 13:48. Kipchoge won in 2:04:17

Yes, he ran 13:55 from 33K to 38K. Incredible!

We know he raced tactically. He was very fit and smart. He studied? Sure, he knew what worked for others (including EK), but if he was really racing tactically, that would’ve been predicated VERY strongly on what he might assume about the others in the race. Once the first 30k unfolded, he knew what he was capable of and, based on that, figured how unlikely it was that anyone could hang with him once he made a move, … and every single km that followed was been fuel, confirming his plan and making him feel like the champ he became.

*was (not “was been” or the alternative “would’ve been”)

That was a pretty solid ass whooping

Evans Chebet split a 13:55 near the end of Boston this year.

Interresting, but only in the way of a one-variable-analysis. Now if we had their heart rate stats click for click too - THAT would be breaking new ground.

From the top of my head I'd say the biggest difference is/was that Kipchoge in Tokyo ran as someone knowing that even if someone came from behind he'd easily leave the behind again - whereas Tola went all-out until maybe the last mile and if someone had caught him he'd been toast.

Yes, heart rate data would definitely add to the analysis. Interesting observation re: Tola running all-out. It looked to me like he had more left in the tank.

My question now is: Will Tola be the top challenger to Kipchoge for the gold in Paris? Tola had the third best time in the world last year, he’s in his prime and seemingly getting better, and he’s just proven that he can dominate a championship-style race. We still have two years to go, and a lot can happen between now and 2024, but if Tola can keep going like he is now, I like his chances.

El Keniano?

Exactly my thoughts! Tola's strategy has always been the same. Yesterday's race was the exact replay of 2017 except that in 2017. Geoffrey Kirui tracked him down, caught him and flew by him at around 38Km. Yesterday nobody followed and that gave him the extra boost to run faster. That said, in my opinion he is the favorite in Paris 2024. Eliud Kipchoge has been on top for 8 years now. In 2024, that will be 10 years. EK may not start that race at all. We will know for sure what to expect from him after his fall race of 2023. EK has done what no human has done before and even if he were to retire today, he will keep his GOAT title🙏🏻! Kenya just hopes to get another consistent athlete like him!