The favourite for the 2025 Generali Prague Half Marathon is Kenyan Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi. The 25-year-old made headlines last September in Copenhagen, when he crossed the finish line in 58:10. He secured 11th place in the all-time world rankings. Currently ranked fourth in the World Athletics road racing standings, Lasoi will be taking on the Prague course this Saturday, aiming to break the course record of 58:24, set by his compatriot Sabastian Sawe. Ahead of his much-anticipated debut in the Czech capital, Lasoi shared some insights into his personal life.
“I grew up in the Narok region, Transmara District, in a small village called Chepngaina,” Isaia revealed. His journey in athletics began during elementary school, and as his talent flourished, he moved to western Kenya, a region renowned for its long-distance running heritage. “I lived in Chepkoas, Trans-Zoia District, with Peter Kirui, the winner of the 2014 Prague Half Marathon,” Lasoi noted, highlighting his connection to the RunCzech series.
Away from the track, Isaia is a proud father to a son named Mark Knighton Kipruto. He finds relaxation in listening to music, spending time with friends, and swimming, which he considers both a leisure activity and a complementary training discipline. Lasoi also enjoys watching movies in his free time. “And my favourite food? It’s stewed meat, vegetables, and ugali,” he shared. Ugali, a staple dish made from maize flour, water, and salt, is a regional favourite that Isaia often enjoys with tea or mursik, a traditional Kenyan fermented milk.
As he prepares to take on the Prague Half Marathon, Lasoi carries his personal motto: “Always forward.” What kind of performance will this mindset bring him? The answer will come on Saturday morning, with the half marathon kicking off at 10:00 AM. “I’ve never been to the Czech Republic, but I’ve heard it’s a very peaceful country. I’ve also been told that Prague is a beautiful city, and I can’t wait to be there and give my best performance.”
Lasoi ran the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in February this year clocking 59:26. He seems to specialize in the half marathon distance having run just 28:46 in the 10km and 28:33.70 in the 10,000 metre event both in 2023.
