Running News Daily

The streets of Barcelona witnessed an extraordinary moment in distance running as Ethiopia’s rising star Fotyen Tesfay delivered a marathon debut for the ages. Competing at the renowned Zurich Marató Barcelona, Tesfay stormed to victory in a stunning 2:10:53, recording the second-fastest women’s marathon time ever run and announcing herself as a formidable new force over the classic 42.195-kilometre distance.

From the moment the race settled into rhythm, Tesfay ran with remarkable composure and quiet authority. The Ethiopian appeared unfazed by the magnitude of the occasion—her first attempt at the marathon distance—gliding through the early kilometres with a smooth, economical stride that hinted at something extraordinary unfolding.

As the race progressed along Barcelona’s scenic coastal avenues and historic boulevards, the pace remained relentlessly quick. Yet Tesfay looked increasingly comfortable while others struggled to maintain contact. By the latter stages, she had seized clear command of the race, transforming what began as a tactical contest into a commanding solo performance.

Crossing the finish line in 2:10:53, Tesfay not only secured victory but also etched her name into the sport’s record books. Her performance stands as the second-fastest women’s marathon ever recorded, while also delivering a national record for Ethiopia and a course record in Barcelona—an astonishing achievement for a marathon debut.

Behind her, Kenya’s Joan Jepkosgei Kiplimo produced a strong run to claim second place in 2:18:42, recording a new personal best. Ethiopia’s Zeineba Yimer Worku followed closely in third place in 2:18:49, also setting a personal best as the podium showcased the continued dominance of East African athletes on the global marathon stage.

The women’s race unfolded as a thrilling celebration of speed, courage, and global talent, leaving the Catalan capital glowing with admiration for one of the most extraordinary marathon debuts the sport has ever seen.

Top 10 – Women’s Results

1. Foyten Tesfay Hailu (Ethiopia) — 2:10:53

2. Joan Jepkosgei Kiplimo (Kenya) — 2:18:42

3. Zeineba Yimer Worku (Ethiopia) — 2:18:49

4. Chaltu Chimdesa Kumsa (Ethiopia) — 2:23:32

5. Yalganesh Eskamech Gedefa (Ethiopia) — 2:24:05

6. Carolina Robles Campos (Spain) — 2:24:58

7. Lucy Nthenya Ndambuki (Kenya) — 2:28:02

8. Gladys Tejeda (Peru) — 2:29:51

9. Sofia Assefa Abebe (Ethiopia) — 2:31:29

10. Loréna Meningand (France) — 2:31:52

For the fans lining the vibrant streets of Barcelona, the race delivered a moment they will long remember. They came expecting a competitive marathon; instead, they witnessed the breathtaking arrival of a new star in the sport.

If this extraordinary debut is any indication, Fotyen Tesfay has not merely entered the marathon world—she may well be on the verge of reshaping it.