Kenyan-based New Zealand runner Zane Robertson targeting Gold Coast Marathon victory

At the age of 17 Zane Robertson knocked back a sporting scholarship in the United States in favour of making a bold move to Kenya with his twin brother Jake.

AT the age of 17 Zane Robertson knocked back a sporting scholarship in the United States in favour of making a bold move to Kenya with his twin brother Jake.

Why? Simply to surround himself with the world’s best flock of marathon runners.

Life in the eastern African nation has put Robertson on a path to the 2019 Gold Coast Marathon to set the record straight.

The New Zealander had been targeting the Gold Coast last April for the Commonwealth Games before having to withdraw due to a groin injury.

“Missing out last year when I was in crazy shape was devastating,” he said.

“I watched the race from Kenya and couldn’t stop thinking about how I could have won.

“By coming to the Gold Coast Marathon, I feel I can replace that loss of mine.”

Robertson had previously suffered the disappointment of not being able to finish his 42.195km debut in Amsterdam two years ago but is confident it can be third time lucky.

Zane Robertson. Picture: Supplied

“First and foremost, I always target the win,” Robertson said.

“I want to run as fast as the pacemakers allow and once they step off the road anything can be possible. Perhaps a new Oceania record?”

As for life in Kenya and Ethiopia, the 29-year-old believes it has produced some priceless lessons.

“I’ve learnt to live a runner’s life, which means to have discipline when you’re training and to relax and recover when you’re not,” he said.

Robertson holds a half-marathon personal best of 59:47, while Jake ran a 2:08:26 time in his marathon debut last year in Japan.

The field for July 7 is headlined by 2018 Boston Marathon winner Yuki Kawauchi of Japan and Kenyan three-time Gold Coast Marathon champion Kenneth Mungara.