Edwin Kiptoo - Kenyan runner has a special love for Vietnam

Although he started participating in running races in Vietnam not long ago, Edwin Kiptoo was quickly conquered 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 press interview.

Come to Vietnam to… make money

The first time Kiptoo came to Vietnam was around the end of 2023, to participate in a large-scale race in Ho Chi Minh City. At that time, he simply wanted to win a high ranking to receive the prize money, and bring it back to his family in his home country of Kenya.

Things were not easy for Kiptoo as he had difficulty finding accommodation and unfamiliar roads. Luckily, he received help from a Vietnamese runner and had a place to stay. Thanks to being well-rested, the Kenyan runner performed excellently, finishing first in the marathon and receiving a prize of 70 million VND.

From that first chance, Kiptoo has gradually become a familiar name in the running community of Vietnam.

He has been consistently appearing in major tournaments and winning regularly, including at least seven majors by 2024.

Kiptoo’s form has been somewhat down this year due to injury. But his image has continued to spread throughout the running community, making him a familiar face at major races.

To special love

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

After his first lucky run, Kiptoo seemed to realize that he wanted to be more attached to Vietnam. That is the reason why he often returns here. On his personal page, Kiptoo almost only posts photos of himself participating in races in Vietnam and nowhere else.

"I have run in many places in the world , in Asia. But in Vietnam, the scenery is really beautiful and charming. I always remember the impressive routes in Hue, in Tay Ninh or in big cities like Hanoi, 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 did he develop feelings for his new country, he also had his own plans to develop running in Vietnam. On his personal page, Kiptoo often called on people to join a private group managed by him to make friends, share experiences and make appointments to participate in running races across Vietnam.

Most recently, he also affirmed his long-term commitment to the S-shaped country by joining the Zocker Running Team - a newly established running group that has gathered 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 typical faces, rich in experience and possess outstanding achievements in the Vietnamese running community.

"The running movement in Vietnam has developed strongly. Therefore, I want to contribute to raising the level and improving the quality of athletes and tournaments, so that the world can know more about Vietnam. In the future, I will regularly be present in Vietnam to participate in races as well as start my own projects," Kiptoo shared.

DUC KHUE

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