Alexander Mutiso and Dolphine Omare Shine at the 77th Kagawa Marugame International Half Marathon

Marugame, Japan – February 2, 2025 – The 77th Kagawa Marugame International Half Marathon witnessed an electrifying display of endurance and speed as top athletes from around the world delivered record-breaking performances on the fast and flat course in Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture.

Mutiso Claims Men’s Title with a Course Record

In the men’s race, Kenya’s Alexander Mutiso produced a dominant performance, crossing the finish line in 59 minutes and 16 seconds, setting a new course record. Mutiso, known for his blistering pace and strong finishing kick, edged out fellow Kenyan Maru Emmanuel, who secured second place with an impressive time of 59:19.

Japan’s Ota Tomoki followed closely, clocking 59:27 to claim third place, while his compatriot Shinohara Kotaro finished just three seconds later in 59:30, rounding out the top four. The strong performances by the Japanese duo demonstrated the rising competitiveness of homegrown talent on the international stage.

Men’s Top 4 Results:

1. Alexander Mutiso(Kenya) – 59:16

2. Maru Emmanuel(Kenya) – 59:19

3. Ota Tomoki(Japan) – 59:27

4. Shinohara Kotaro(Japan) – 59:30

Dolphine Omare Dominates Women’s Race

The women’s race was equally thrilling, with Kenya’s Dolphine Nyaboke Omare storming to victory in 1 hour, 6 minutes, and 5 seconds. Her powerful run shattered the previous course record, firmly establishing her as one of the rising stars in women’s long-distance running.

Great Britain’s Calli Hauger Thacker delivered a strong performance, finishing second in 1:06:58, while Australia’s Isobel Batt-Doyle claimed third place in 1:07:17, setting a new Australian national record. Pauline Kaveke Kamulu of Kenya secured fourth place with a time of 1:07:33, further showcasing the strength of Kenyan athletes on the international stage.

Women’s Top 4 Results:

1. Dolphine Nyaboke Omare(Kenya) – 1:06:05 (Course Record)

2. Calli Hauger Thacker(Great Britain) – 1:06:58

3. Isobel Batt-Doyle(Australia) – 1:07:17 (Australian National Record)

4. Pauline Kaveke Kamulu(Kenya) – 1:07:33

A Historic Event with World-Class Performances

The Kagawa Marugame International Half Marathon, a World Athletics Elite Label race, has long been known for producing fast times and competitive fields. This year was no exception, with multiple athletes breaking records and setting personal bests. The event, which began and ended at Pikara Stadium, featured a flat and scenic course, allowing for optimal conditions for record-breaking performances.

posted Sunday February 2nd