Tamirat Tola Aims to Defend NYC Marathon Title After Olympic Gold

Ethiopian runner Tamirat Tola is set to defend his New York City Marathon title weeks after winning Olympic gold in Paris. He seeks to be the second athlete to win both titles in the same year. Training well, Tola draws inspiration from past winners and faces stiff competition in the men's race.

Ethiopian runner Tamirat Tola is poised to defend his title at the New York City Marathon, just weeks after clinching gold in Paris. He aims to become the second athlete ever to win both titles in the same year, following in the footsteps of Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir.

Tola set the course record in New York last year. Drawing inspiration from Jepchirchir, who has achieved a similar feat, Tola expressed confidence in his ability to replicate the success. 'I spoke with Peres, and she said that I can do the same as she did,' Tola shared via an interpreter.

Tola's astounding performance in Paris, where he broke the Olympic record, sets high expectations for New York. The hilly terrain suits his strengths, and he has already begun training under his coach's guidance. Despite the close timing of the races, Tola remains optimistic about his recovery and preparation.

The women's race will also feature fierce competitors, including Kenyan bronze medalist Hellen Obiri and 2022 winner Sharon Lokedi. Among American runners, Dakotah Lindwurm and Clayton Young stand out as top contenders.

(With inputs from agencies.)