Eliud Kipchoge met with former U.S. President Barack Obama in Washington D.C. on Thursday where they discussed youth programs and Kipchoge’s career in a meeting he said he that will “treasure.”
In a social media post on Friday, Kipchoge was shown gifting a pair of his racing shoes to Obama, who he said “has inspired me the most.”
“I believe that we all need to be inspired by the people around us,” Kipchoge said in the post. “To learn from each other so we can come together as humans for a better world. For me the person who has inspired me the most is Mr. President Barack Obama. An advocate for a united world, no matter what your background is in the world. But also a person who has remained humble and disciplined throughout a successful life.”
Kipchoge ran the New York City Marathon last Sunday in what is likely his final major as a takes a step back from competitive racing. He finish in 14th place in 2:14:36.
He also said he hoped their respective foundations could work on youth leadership initiatives, education and sports.
“Our conversation was one of reflection and shared purpose about leadership, legacy, and how the next generation can rise through sport, education, and service” the post read. “We also explored ways the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation and the Obama Foundation can work together on causes close to our hearts: youth leadership, education, and the power of sport to transform lives. Together, we hope to help young people believe that no dream is too distant and no beginning too small.”
Immediately after last Sunday’s race, Kipchoge has now run 18 majors and was presented with a custom Abbott World Marathon Majors six star finisher medal. He later announced his intention to run seven marathons in seven continents in two years as part of a new venture, Eliud’s Running World, where some of his die hard fans can join him on the journey.
