Bekele About to Embark on Tough 2017 Marathon Campaign

By Adam Kopet, DyeStat Editor

Kenenisa Bekele has already accomplished much in his athletic career, including three Olympic gold medals, two world records at 5,000 and 10,000 meters and the second-fastest marathon ever at 2:03:03. That marathon time came in his win at the 2016 BMW Berlin Marathon in September.

Two separate announcements were made Monday regarding to Bekele's 2017 season. First is the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon on Jan. 20. Three months later, on April 23, is the Virgin Money London Marathon.

Dubai Press Release | London Press Release

Berlin was a turning point for Bekele as he finished six seconds back of Dennis Kimetto's world record (2:02:57) after suffering through injuries in recent years that have hampered his training and racing. In the race, Bekele fell back 25 meters to eventual runner-up and former world record holder Wilson Kipsang, before pulling away in the final stages of the race in classic Bekele fashion.

With only 93 days separating Dubai and London, recovery will be paramount for the 16-time world champion. The relative close proximity of the two races will make it hard for Bekele to perform at a top level in both, namely making another attempt at the world record.

One reason for adding Dubai to Bekele's racing schedule could be a desire to compete at the World Championships in London later this year. In recent years, the Ethiopian Federation has used the results from the Dubai Marathon to select its World and Olympic Marathon teams. Should Bekele be selected, that will make for three marathons in seven months, an even tougher proposition.