Michael Kipyego won the Tokyo Marathon in 2012, and finished runner-up in 2014. He also made the podium in Eindhoven running 2:06:48 in only his second marathon. Kipyego started his career as a steeplechaser (8:08.48 personal best) and in that event was the 2001 African Junior Championships silver medalist, the 2002 World Junior Championships gold medalist, and the 2008 African Championships silver medalist. He also represented Kenya in the 2003 World Cross Country Championships (fourth, short race) and the 2007 IAAF World Cross Country Championships (sixth, senior race).

Kipyego attended school at St. Patrick’s in Iten, which is known for producing world-class runners. He now trains in Chirchir-centre with Bernard Kipyego (no relation), Emmanuel Mutai, Eliud Kipchoge, and other top athletes. He has two children, a son named Roy and a daughter named Jasmine. He is the brother of World Championships and Olympic silver medalist Sally Kipyego and elite runner Ernest Kipyego. He likes to wear fancy shirts and watch soccer.

“Running the Boston Marathon is like a dream to me; I’ll run like I have to save my life with this race.”