Running News Daily

The stage is set for an unforgettable day of road racing as the Rimi Riga Marathon prepares to host one of the strongest elite half marathon fields in its history on May 17, 2026. With international stars from Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, Germany, and Japan confirmed for the 21km showdown, the streets of Riga are expected to witness a breathtaking display of endurance, tactical brilliance, and raw speed.

The men’s field is packed with proven sub-one-hour performers capable of producing a blistering pace from the opening kilometers. Kenya’s Robert Kiprop Koech and James Kipkogei headline a powerful Kenyan challenge after recording personal bests of 59:51 and 59:31 respectively. Both athletes arrive in Riga carrying the reputation of fearless racers with the ability to dominate fast-paced road contests.

Tanzania’s Gabriel Gerald Geay adds even greater depth to the lineup. With a personal best of 59:18 and years of experience competing against the world’s best, Geay remains one of the strongest contenders for victory. Kenya's Alfred Kipchirchir Mukche and Charles Mbatha Matata are also expected to play major roles, while Japan’s Tomoya Ogikubo brings international flair and tactical discipline to the elite contest.

Equally captivating will be the women’s race, where some of the world’s finest distance runners are preparing for a fierce battle over 21 kilometers. Leading the field is Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, the two-time Boston Marathon champion whose rise among the sport’s elite has been extraordinary. Renowned for her calm racing style and devastating finishing kick, Lokedi enters Riga as one of the headline attractions of the entire event.

Ethiopia’s challenge will be spearheaded by Ejgayehu Taye, the World Road Running Championships bronze medallist who previously impressed in Riga during the 2023 championships. Her ability to sustain relentless pace deep into races makes her a major threat for the title. Ethiopia will also rely on rising stars Diniya Abaraya and Bertukan Welde, two athletes widely regarded as future stars of global road running.

Uganda’s Stella Chesang further strengthens the women’s lineup with her championship pedigree and proven consistency on both the track and roads. Meanwhile, Germany’s Domenika Mayer will carry European hopes as the defending Riga Marathon champion and national record holder. Her experience on the Riga course could provide a crucial advantage against such a deep international field.

With elite champions, global medallists, and emerging talents all converging in Latvia, anticipation for the 2026 Rimi Riga Half Marathon continues to soar. Both the men’s and women’s races promise uncompromising competition where every second will matter, and where victory may only be decided in the dramatic closing stages.

As race day approaches, Riga is preparing not just for another marathon weekend, but for a landmark celebration of world-class road running that could deliver some of the fastest and most memorable performances of the season.