"I don't think marathon runners get the utmost respect that they deserve," said world's youngest 100m world champion Yohan Blake, here on Thursday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking to mediapersons, the Jamaican ace, who is the International Event Ambassador for the 2023 Tata Mumbai Marathon to be held on Sunday, added that, "Yes, I know speed kills, but the marathon is run at a certain pace. It's not easy."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Over 55,000 participants have registered across six categories for the 18th edition of event.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Long-distance great Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya smashed his world marathon record by 30 seconds, clocking 2:01:09 at the Berlin Marathon last year, and Blake thinks the time will be bettered.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I think it's possible, it can go lower by far. Give it time. Anything is possible," added 33-year-old Blake, who is the second fastest man of all time.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Blake, the current 100m Jamaican champion, has clocked under 10 seconds in the 100m 48 times in his career and said he's eyeing the World Championships in August.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"Yeah. I'm focusing on Budapest. I didn't do what I wanted in the World Championships (Eugene, 2022). I'm very focused on Budapest."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He feels a close affinity towards India because of his love for cricket and said unearthing athletics talent in this country is part of his plans.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I intend to come to India and find the best runners. Use my team to train them. If it wasn't for covid it would be in action already," he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He feels a close affinity towards India because of his love for cricket and said unearthing athletics talent in this country is part of his plans.<\/p>\r\n\r\n