Sifan Hassan Praises ‘Beast’ Hellen Obiri, Shares Admiration for Friendly Kenyans
Sifan Hassan, a renowned distance runner, recently shared her thoughts on the upcoming New York City Marathon. She expressed profound respect for her competitor Hellen Obiri, highlighting both her strength and fear of competing against her. This marathon marks a significant meeting, with both athletes having previously faced off at the Paris Olympic Games.
Sifan Hassan’s Admiration for Hellen Obiri
Hassan, a two-time world champion, has only competed against Obiri in marathon events once before. At the Paris Olympic Games, Hassan secured the gold medal, while Obiri claimed bronze. As they prepare to compete again in New York, Hassan has described Obiri as the athlete she most fears.
Respect and Rivalry
In her remarks, Hassan acknowledged the impressive skills of not just Obiri, but also Sharon Lokedi, the reigning Boston Marathon champion. She stated, “Ladies, I’m scared of you. They are very strong women, especially Obiri, who has showcased her power both on the track and in her marathon performances.”
- Event: New York City Marathon
- Previous Encounter: Paris Olympic Games
- Medals: Gold for Hassan, Bronze for Obiri
- Competitors: Hellen Obiri, Sharon Lokedi
Friendship and Camaraderie Among Competitors
Despite the competitive nature of the marathon scene, Hassan emphasized the friendly atmosphere among Kenyan athletes. She expressed her enjoyment in their company, saying, “I like Kenyans. They are very friendly and easy to talk to.” This camaraderie adds a unique dimension to the competition.
As she gears up for her third marathon of the year, Hassan is both humbled and motivated. She embraces the challenge of facing Obiri and Lokedi while cherishing the mutual respect that characterizes their rivalry.
Key Statistics
| Event | Location | Previous Performance |
|---|---|---|
| New York City Marathon | New York | Gold Medal – Paris Olympics |
As the marathon approaches, the spotlight is on Hassan, Obiri, and Lokedi. Fans eagerly anticipate a thrilling contest that celebrates both their athletic prowess and the bonds they share as competitors.
