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Tergat Withdraws From Fukuoka Due to `Special Military Training` Requirement

http://www.asahi.com/sports/update/1127/SEB200711270019.html?ref=rss

translated by Mika Tokairin and Brett Larner

The Fukuoka International Marathon announced today that former world record holder Paul Tergat (Kenya) has withdrawn from this Sunday`s race. His agent told race organizers that the Kenyan Army, of which Tergat is a member, called him up unexpectedly for special training and that he will not be able to come to Japan.

Tergat set the world record of 2:04:55 in Berlin `03. In September this year at Berlin, Haile Gebrselassie (Ethiopia) broke the 4-year old record. Japanese fans were eagerly anticipating Tergat`s appearance in Fukuoka which was to be his first marathon in Japan.

Tergat said, "Unfortunately I cannot make it due to the Army`s program. I hope I will be invited again next year and I intend to win then."

Translator`s note: The Japanese source article specifies `rikugun` which translates as `ground forces` or `army` rather than `air force.`
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Brett Larner said…
Translation note: The Japanese article uses the term `rikugun,` literally `ground forces,` i.e. `Army.`
November 28, 2007 at 9:35 AM
Anonymous said…
Terget will be back when Sammy isn't racing, he is clearly ducking the competition after Sammy had that great prep race last year.
November 28, 2007 at 10:40 AM
Bob said…
Uh...Tergat is a member of the Kenyan AIR FORCE.

http://www.mod.go.ke/Kafsite/athletics.htm
November 29, 2007 at 4:47 AM
Anonymous said…
Brett, thank you for your site, I love it! My wish list includes information on training practices of Japanese runners, particulary marathoners. (Is there much differentiation between teams?) Also, I would love some comments on the Japanese culture of training in racing flats, and their thoughts on running shoes in general. - Eugene, OR
November 29, 2007 at 8:42 AM
Brett Larner said…
> Bob said...
> Uh...Tergat is a member of the > Kenyan AIR FORCE.

See above translation note.
November 29, 2007 at 11:52 PM
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