All-conquering Kipchoge a class apart

Kenya's distance-running stars proved indomitable this year, with Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge their leading light.

The 34-year-old was earlier this month named IAAF Athlete of the Year for his stunning performance in breaking the world marathon record in Berlin in September, clocking 2:01:39 to shave 78 seconds off compatriot Dennis Kimetto's previous mark. It was the single biggest improvement in the men's mark since 1967.

He also won the London Marathon in April in 2:04:17 to finish comfortably ahead of one of the strongest 42-km fields in history.