Running News Daily

The stunning Causeway Coast is set for another afternoon of world-class road racing as the 2026 edition of the Antrim Coast Half Marathon unveils a powerful elite field packed with proven speed, championship pedigree and rising stars hungry for a breakthrough performance.

Scheduled for 23 August, the race continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the fastest and most competitive half marathons on the international calendar, attracting some of the finest distance runners from Kenya, Ethiopia and Great Britain.

Leading the men’s field is Kenya’s Isaia Lasoi, who arrives with a blistering personal best of 58:10 — a mark that instantly places him among the favourites for victory. Lasoi’s fearless front-running style and impressive consistency over the distance make him a serious contender on the fast coastal course.

He will face strong opposition from compatriot Daniel Mateiko, the 58:17 performer whose reputation continues to rise on the global road racing scene. Mateiko possesses devastating finishing speed and tactical intelligence, qualities that could prove decisive if the contest develops into a late-race battle.

Another major name confirmed is Edward Cheserek, one of the most decorated collegiate athletes in history. Cheserek owns a personal best of 59:11 and remains a dangerous competitor whenever he steps onto the roads. His experience at the highest level adds further depth to an already loaded men’s lineup.

Also entered is Kenya’s promising Little Nick Kitundu, who continues to build momentum in his professional career and will be aiming to produce a career-defining performance against such elite opposition.

The women’s race is equally compelling and could deliver one of the standout performances of the meeting.

Ethiopia’s Degitu Azimeraw headlines the field with a superb personal best of 1:06:07. Known globally for her strength in the marathon, Azimeraw brings enormous experience and proven championship composure to the Antrim Coast roads. Her transition back to the half marathon distance will be one of the most anticipated storylines of the event.

Kenya’s Mercy Chepwogen is expected to provide a fierce challenge after clocking 1:06:32, establishing herself among the strongest road racers in the region. With both women possessing comparable credentials, the battle for victory could develop into a thrilling head-to-head contest.

Home hopes will rest on Britain’s Lily Partridge, whose experience and resilience make her a dangerous competitor on familiar roads. The British athlete will undoubtedly enjoy passionate local support as she lines up against the East African stars.

Over recent years, the Antrim Coast Half Marathon has rapidly evolved into one of Europe’s premier road races, combining breathtaking scenery with exceptionally fast racing conditions. The event’s growing international reputation continues to attract elite athletes chasing personal bests, records and major victories.

With multiple sub-59-minute men, proven global contenders and an elite women’s field capable of producing world-class times, this year’s edition promises another unforgettable showcase of distance running excellence along Northern Ireland’s spectacular coastline.