Eliud Kipchoge among the 5 athletes preselected to compete in the marathon at the Olympics by Kenya

Two-time Olympic gold medallist Eliud Kipchoge and defending champion Peres Jepchirchir were included on Thursday April 4 in Kenya's shortlisted marathon team for the Paris Olympics. The original 20-strong team has now been halved.

Only 6 of the 10 long-distance runners will appear on the final lists of the men's and women's teams. Kipchoge, 39, has been named alongside Benson Kipruto, Timothy Kiplagat, Vincent Kipkemboi Ngetich and Alexander Munyao. In addition to Jepchirchir, the women's team includes Ruth Chepngetich, Brigid Kosgei, Sharon Lokedi and Rosemary Wanjiru.

Team Kenya is expected to announce later in April the three male and female athletes selected to start the Olympic races, as well as the runners who will be reserves.

THE MEN’S MARATHON TEAM.👑

The journey begins as we defend our crown.🇰🇪

5️⃣ Men will battle to be the final 3️⃣ to become Marathon Masters in Paris!😎

Let the Games BEGIN.#TeamKenya pic.twitter.com/Bg4XpJwAUL

— TeamKenya (@OlympicsKe) April 4, 2024