Words of wisdom by Eliud Kipchoge: The marathoner who speaks like a life coach

Record busting marathoner Eliud Kipchoge speaks like a life coach. The 33-year-old Kenyan often comes up with philosophical statements that become articles of faith for his numerous followers.

“Only the disciplined ones in life are free. If you are undisciplined, you are a slave to your moods and your passions,” Kipchoge said in an interview days before he bettered the marathon record by a staggering one minute and 18 seconds in Berlin. Another gem was, “The best time to plant a tree was 25 years ago. The second-best time to plant a tree is today.”

The first name of the Aristotle-reading athlete has different meanings. ‘God is my praise’ is one of them. Running, though, is his religion.