Running News Daily

The Burj 2 Burj Half Marathon returns Sunday (Feb 8 in Dubai UAE, bringing a focused but highly competitive international field to one of the fastest and most visually striking courses in the Middle East. Framed by Dubai’s modern skyline and anchored by two of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the race has steadily grown into an important early-season test for elite road specialists and track stars transitioning to longer distances.

With flat terrain, predictable weather, and a reputation for honest pacing, the event offers athletes a valuable opportunity to establish form and confidence as the global road racing calendar begins to take shape.

Men’s Race: Kipkorir Leads, Cheptegei Adds Star Power

Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir enters as the clear favorite, carrying the fastest personal best in the field at 58:23. A proven road performer, Kipkorir has built his success on rhythm, efficiency, and the willingness to commit early. The Burj 2 Burj course traditionally rewards athletes who are prepared to take initiative, and his aggressive racing style makes him the man to watch from the gun.

Providing the strongest challenge is Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei, whose 59:21 personal best tells only part of his story. One of the most decorated distance runners of his generation, Cheptegei brings unmatched championship experience, including multiple world titles on the track. His continued transition to road racing has been closely followed, and Dubai presents another key opportunity to test himself against seasoned half marathon specialists. If the race becomes tactical, his finishing speed and composure could prove decisive.

Tanzania’s Alphonce Simbu, owner of a 60:03 best, adds depth and resilience to the field. Known for his strength in demanding competitions, Simbu excels in races where patience and mental toughness become critical. Kenya’s Enock Kipruto and Germany’s European marathon champion Richard Ringer, both with personal bests of 60:51, round out a men’s lineup where discipline and timing may ultimately determine the outcome.

Women’s Race: Cheptai Brings Momentum and Confidence

In the women’s race, Kenya’s Irine Cheptai stands out as the athlete to beat. Her impressive personal best of 64:53 places her at the front of the field, and she arrives with the experience and tactical awareness needed to control the race. Cheptai has demonstrated consistency across distances, and her ability to manage pace and respond under pressure makes her a formidable favorite.

Romania’s Joan Melly, with a 65:04 personal best, represents the closest challenger on paper. Melly’s strength lies in efficiency and measured racing, qualities that could allow her to remain within striking distance deep into the final kilometers.

Ethiopia’s Ftaw Zeray (66:04) brings the tradition of Ethiopian endurance excellence, while Kenya’s Jackline Cherono (67:16) adds further depth. In a field where the margins are slim, positioning and timing will likely prove decisive.

Dubai Provides the Perfect Early-Season Stage

The Burj 2 Burj Half Marathon continues to establish itself as more than just a fast race. It has become a strategic checkpoint for athletes aiming to build momentum, test fitness, and position themselves for major races later in the year.

With Nicholas Kipkorir and Irine Cheptai leading their respective fields, expectations are high. But with championship-tested competitors like Joshua Cheptegei and emerging challengers ready to seize opportunity, the outcome remains far from certain.

As the 2026 road racing season gains momentum, Dubai once again offers a stage where preparation meets opportunity—and where the next chapter of the season begins to unfold.