Edwin Kiptoo, a Kenyan runner, has a special love for Vietnam.

Although Edwin Kiptoo hasn't been participating in races in Vietnam for long, he has quickly been captivated by the country and its people.

Edwin Kiptoo has become a familiar name in the running community in Vietnam - Photo: FBNV

"I love Vietnam very much, the people here are wonderful," Kiptoo shared in a recent interview.

Coming to Vietnam to… make money.

Kiptoo's first visit to Vietnam was around the end of 2023, to participate in a major running event in Ho Chi Minh City. At that time, he simply wanted to win a high ranking to receive prize money to bring back to his family in Kenya.

Things weren't easy for Kiptoo, as he struggled to find accommodation and navigate unfamiliar roads. Fortunately, he received help from a Vietnamese runner who provided him with a place to stay. Thanks to adequate rest, the Kenyan runner performed excellently, finishing first in the marathon and receiving a prize of 70 million VND.

From that first encounter, Kiptoo gradually became a familiar name in the Vietnamese running community.

He consistently appears in major tournaments and wins frequently. He is expected to win at least seven major tournaments in 2024.

This year, Kiptoo's form has somewhat declined due to injury. However, his image continues to spread within the running community, making him a familiar face at major races.

Towards a special love

Edwin Kiptoo (second from the right) with the impressive lineup of runners from the Zocker Running Team - Photo: D.B.

After his somewhat fortunate first experience, Kiptoo realized he wanted to be more connected to Vietnam. That's why he frequently returns here. On his personal page, Kiptoo almost exclusively posts photos of himself participating in running races in Vietnam, and nowhere else.

"I've run in many places around the world , in Asia. But truly, the scenery in Vietnam is beautiful and picturesque. I always remember the impressive routes in Hue, in Tay Ninh, or even in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City."

"The people here are also wonderful. They are friendly, hospitable, and always willing to help others. That's why I love Vietnam so much," Kiptoo shared.

Not only has he developed a fondness for his new country, but he also has his own plans to develop running in Vietnam. On his personal page, Kiptoo often encourages people to join a private group he manages to make friends, share experiences, and arrange to participate in running races throughout Vietnam.

Most recently, he further affirmed his long-term commitment to Vietnam by joining the Zocker Running Team – a newly formed running group that has already attracted many runners such as Le Van Tuan, Mao Quoc Toi, Truong Tri Tam, Sung Pao, Vong Vanh Long, and Le Huu Loc.

They are all prominent figures, highly experienced, and possess outstanding track records in the Vietnamese running community.

"The running movement in Vietnam is developing very strongly. Therefore, I want to contribute to raising the level and improving the quality of athletes and races, so that the world knows more about Vietnam. In the future, I will be in Vietnam regularly to participate in running events and start working on my projects," Kiptoo shared.

DUC KHUE

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/edwin-kiptoo-runner-kenya-co-tinh-yeu-dac-biet-voi-viet-nam-20250819233850995.htm