Two-time world champion Edna Kiplagat and Olympic bronze medallist Wilson Kipsang have been included in Kenya’s provisional 11-strong marathon squad for the August world championships in Beijing.
Kiplagat, 35, became the first woman to win two back-to-back world titles in Deagu, South Korea in 2011 and Moscow in 2013.
Kipsang, the former world marathon record holder, made his intentions known that he would seek a place in the team after finishing second at the London marathon in April.
“After running six times under 2:05, it is time to focus on the world championship title,” said Kipsang.
“I want to go to Beijing since I have never represented my country in a world championship.”
Kipsang’s part-time training companion and current world record holder, Dennis Kimetto, is also named in the squad along with Mark Korir, who scored his biggest win in the Paris marathon in April.
Kenya will be seeking to reclaim the men’s world marathon title in Beijing, last won by Abel Kirui in Daegu four years ago.
Uganda’s Stephen Kiprotich is the current world marathon champion.
The Kenyan provisional marathon team for the Beijing world championship:
Men
Wilson Kipsang, Dennis Kimetto, Mark Korir, Felix Kipchichir Kiprotich, Lucas Kimeli Rotich, Luka Lokobe Kanda
Women
Edna Kiplagat, Jemimah Jelagat Sumgong, Helah Kiprop, Visiline Jepkesho, Janet Jelagat Rono