Running News Daily

Marathon legend Kipchoge calls for a change in sports culture

The 2024 Paris Olympics marked exactly two decades since double Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge made his Olympic debut.

The legendary marathoner first ran in the Athens Olympics in 2004, where he won the 5,000m bronze medal before upgrading to silver four years later in Beijing in the same event.

By 2008, Kipchoge was already an established name in distance running, boasting two world championship medals and two at the Olympics.

This year, the legendary marathoner led team Kenya to the Olympics together with a strong contingent that included 2024 TCS London Marathon champion Alex Mutiso and 2022 Chicago Marathon winner Benson Kipruto.

A painful exit for the marathon legend

Kipchoge, shy about his 40th birthday, was headed for another highlight in his celebrated marathon career.

He was aiming to get back to winning ways, or at least reach the Olympic podium for a fourth time in his fifth Olympic Games.

The running guru stayed at a touching distance of the leading pack up to the 15km mark. Then he began holding his waist, early worrying signs that all was not well for the defending Olympic champion.

The pain intensified, forcing him to decide to end his race about 12 km away from the finish point at Les Invalides.

That saw him record a Did Not Finish (DNF) for the first time in his illustrious career. Before the Olympics, Kipchoge’s worst marathon result was 10th place at the 2024 Tokyo Marathon.

It was a classy exit for the marathoner who set a world record in the 5,000m of the World Cross Country Championships junior race in 2003 and won gold. That would be the scene of the marathon’s great last Olympic parade.

Lessons from Paris

Reflecting on the recent Paris Olympics, Kipchoge outlined the key lessons learned, urging sports leaders in the country to take stock of past experiences and ensure they inform future strategies.

“One thing I learned and observed during the Olympics is that peace and education play a great role in our generation. The combination of the two is magical. Now we are done with Paris. Los Angeles is up next. Can we apply the lessons learned as we head to the next Olympics?” he posed to SportsBoom.com.

A call for change in sports culture

Kipchoge also expressed concern over how Kenyan athletes are often treated, drawing a parallel to weddings where people focus on celebrating the event rather than the bride and groom.

He pointed out that in sports, much like in weddings, the spotlight is frequently on the events themselves, while the athletes, who are the real protagonists, do not receive the recognition and support they deserve.

“That is how we operate. We celebrate the events and not our athletes, which should not be the case,” he offered.

The marathon star also challenged the traditional approach of simply rewarding athletes with trophies, urging for a more profound investment in their mental and emotional well-being. He added that equipping athletes with practical skills can sustain them beyond their sporting careers.

“It is the work of federations and the Ministry of Sports to make sure athletes are comfortable. Athletes should be taught literacy, and handling pressure in emotional and physical states. Do not just award them trophies. Work on their minds as well. Can we teach our athletes basic skills like using social media channels to earn money?” he posed.

A farmer’s patience: Advice to sports federations

Kipchoge also urged sports federations and the ministry to invest in athletes with the same patience and care that a farmer applies when planting a seed, waiting for it to germinate and eventually yield a good harvest.

“To our federation leaders, let us hold sports in the heart and mind. Train our athletes, invest in them and eventually wait for the results. What athletes do behind the scenes is commendable. They are the people who build the game by their hands,” he averred.

He concluded by calling on sports federations and sponsors to go beyond simply funding events and trophies, stressing the importance of investing in the well-being of athletes. “To our sponsors, I challenge you to include humanity in your budget. Finance these athletes for the good work they are doing,” he said. Despite the unexpected turn in his last Olympic hurrah, the two-time world record holder has no intentions to call time on his career, not just yet.

Seven runners under 2:07 are set for Frankfurt

Seven runners with personal bests of sub 2:07 are on the start list of the 41st edition of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon on October 27th.

It looks very likely that the eventual winner will come from one of the two great running nations, Kenya and Ethiopia. While Herpasa Negasa of Ethiopia remains the number one on the list with his world-class personal best of 2:03:40 Elisha Rotich is among the new additions. The Kenyan has a PB of 2:04:21.

Organizers expect a total of more than 25,000 athletes on the last Sunday of October. Among them will be over 14,000 marathon runners which is significantly more than in 2023. The Mainova Frankfurt Marathon is a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race. Entries are still accepted at: www.frankfurt-marathon.com

Parts of the men’s elite field were announced today. The women’s field will be released next month. For years Elisha Rotich has produced strong marathon races. His best race so far was at the 2021 Paris Marathon. The Kenyan won the race with 2:04:21 which remains his personal best and still stands as the Paris course record. On the route through the French capital, which is not considered very fast, he ran another strong race this spring. Rotich was third with 2:06:53 in April. Together with Eric Kiptanui (PB: 2:05:47), whose participation had been announced earlier, he looks to be the strongest Kenyan in the elite field of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon. However a surprise might come from Benard Biwott, a Kenyan debutant who has run a 59:47 half marathon this year.

Besides Herpasa Negasa Ethiopia will have four more runners with personal bests of sub 2:07 on the start line: Lencho Tesfaye (2:06:18), Aychew Bantie (2:06:23), Boki Asefa (2:06:46) and Birhan Nebebew (2:06:52) could attack their PBs on the fast Frankfurt course where Kenya’s Wilson Kipsang clocked the 2:03:42 course record in 2011.

“We expect a very open race since there is no major favorite. It is difficult to predict what might be possible with regard to times. But the field surely has the potential for a surprise,“ said Race Direktor Jo Schindler.

While Spain’s Abdelaziz Merzougui is the fastest European runner on the start list with a personal best of 2:08:00 there is a novelty in the history of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon: Married couple Jake Robertson and Magdalyne Masai will be among the elite runners. New Zealand’s Robertson has a personal best of 2:08:26 and could achieve a strong finishing position while his Kenyan wife has a PB of 2:22:16 and will be among the favorites in Frankfurt.

Trio looks to extend Kenya's dominance in Munich

The trio of Cosmas Birech, Dominic Nyairo and William Kibor are set to extend Kenya’s dominance at the Munich Marathon as they line up in the German city on October 13.

Kenya has ruled the men’s event for the past two years, with Philemon Kipchumba clinching victory in 2022 in 2:07:28, ahead of Ethiopia’s Mengistu Gezahagn (2:07:56) and Eritrea’s Berhane Tesfay (2:08:10).

Last year, Kenyan athletes swept the podium, led by Bernard Muia, who won in a time of  2:09:17, with Benson Nzioka (2:09:21) and Mica Cheserek (2:09:26) completing the podium.

Cosmas Kiplimo (2:10:07), Amos Birgen (2:11:15) and Luke Kibet (2:11:41) finished fourth, sixth and seventh respectively.

Race organizers expect a fast-paced event in the men’s race with a target of a 2:08 finish.

“We have produced the fastest times in the history of our event in the past two years. I hope we will once again see results in the region of 2:08 to 2:09,” said Gernot Weigl.

Birech comes with an impressive resume, boasting wins at the 2018 Roma Marathon (2:08:03) and the Lugano Half Marathon (1:01:02). 

Nyairo, on the other hand, is the 2021 Hofu Marathon champion (2:09:34) as well as the runners-up from the Aveiro Marathon (2:09:57) in April.

Kibor hold victories from the 2014 Verona Half Marathon (1:00:51) and the 2016 Las Vegas Half Marathon (1:01:21).

In the women’s race, Shamilah Kipsiror, the 2023 Ghent Half Marathon champion, will be looking to defend Kenya’s title.

In 2023, Kenyans secured the top five positions in the women’s event led by Catherine Cherotich (2:31:34). Teclah Chebet (2:32:13), Flomena Ngurasia (2:33:17), Caroline Chepkwony (2:36:32) and Beatrice Cheburet (2:46:42) followed in that order. 

During the 2022 edition, Agnes Keino cruised to victory in 2:23:26 besting Ethiopia’s Dibaba Hurssa (2:24:12) and Morocco’s Souad Kanbouchia (2:27:35).

The target for the women’s event is 2:25; “In the women’s race, times between 2:25 and 2:27 should be possible,” added Weigl.

Kipsiror’s resume includes a third-place finish at the 2023 Bucharest Half Marathon (1:19:19), a fourth-place finish at the Roma Marathon (2:27:33) in March and a fifth-place finish at the Riyadh Half Marathon (1:14:09) in February.

Beatrice Chebet: How Sifan Hassan inspired my record-breaking 2024 season

Double Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet has opened up about how Dutch woman Sifan Hassan motivated her history-making season in 2024.

Beatrice Chebet has opened up about drawing her inspiration from Sifan Hassan, a move that has enabled her to break barriers and make history this season.

The double Olympic champion pointed out that two-time Boston Marathon champion Hellen Obiri has also been a vital part of her career growth but Hassan has stood out for her this season. Chebet explained that Hassan, the reigning Olympic marathon champion, is never afraid of making bold moves and she is a source of motivation to the Kenyan distance sensation.

At the Paris Olympic Games, Hassan competed in the women’s 5000m, 10,000m and marathon and she claimed bronze medals in the 5000m and 10,000m and a gold in the marathon, a feat that has never been achieved in the history of the Olympic Games.

“Hellen Obiri has always been a role model to me but for now, I’ll talk about Sifan Hassan. She is a lady who believes in herself and when she says that she will go for something, then she will pursue it, be it the 1500m or the marathon. Sifan has always motivated me and she gives me the confidence that I can do it,” Chebet said.

At the Olympic Games, Chebet claimed the gold medal in the women’s 5000m and 10,000m. It was a historic feat as no woman has ever won double gold over the two distances on the Olympic stage and she was also the first woman to win gold over the 25-lap race.

She explained that going into the Olympics, she wanted to do something unique since she had yet to win a gold medal at the World Championships. Chebet added that after winning the 5000m, the toughest of the two races, she knew the 10,000m would not be difficult.

After the Olympics, Chebet still had it in her as she went on to win the Diamond League Meeting in Zurich before claiming the Diamond League trophy in Brussels.

“This season has been great, especially going to the Olympics as a debutant and winning two gold medals. I can say it was not easy but I had to remain focused and believe in myself. When I entered the 10,000m race, I just wanted to win a medal but making history motivated me to go for a gold medal,” Chebet said.

“I had been to the World Championships but never won a medal and I wanted to do something great in Paris. The 5000m was the hardest event and going into the 10,000m, I knew I could do it. After the Olympics, I had to believe in myself and since I was the Olympic champion, I knew I had to do it,” she added.

Kenyan’s Shadrack Kenduiywo breaks the nine year old world record for the Double 15k

The sport of Double Racing was created by Bob Anderson in October 2010. The sport, governed by the Double Road Race Federation (DRRF) is a two leg race with an established break between the legs.  

The featured event is the Double 15k.  The first leg is 10k. The second leg is 5k  The second leg starts one hour and 45 minutes after the start of first leg.  Times from the two legs are added together for scoring.  You must complete both legs to get an official time.  

Over 120 Double 15k races have been held around the world.  On May 10, 2015 Julius Koskei from Kenya broke his own world record clocking 43:11 in Pacific Grove California USA.  He clocked 29:11 for his 10k leg and 14:00 for his 5k leg.  

That record held for nine years and a few months.  On September 14, 2024 that record was not only broken but it was smashed at the fourth annual KATA (Kenyan Athletics Training Academy) Double Road Race 15k. KATA Kenya is located in Thika.  The second KATA is located in Central Portugal and is opening officially Oct 19, 2024.  "We train the Kenyan Way at both locations," says owner/director Bob Anderson.  

24-year-old Shadrack Kenduiywo clocked 42:42 taking 29 seconds off the record.  He attacked the record right from the start clocking 28:33 for the 10k leg.  

He told us after the race, "This was my first double race and I was happy.  My 10k leg was close to my best time this year so I knew the record was in sight.  I had ran 28:18 in march in kapsabet betika and I was happy for this start today."

He told us he was in top form and that he lead from the second kilometer.  His splits: 2:52, 2:50, 2:57, 2:59, 2:57, 2:47, 2:41, 2:45, 2:55 and 2:50. 

We asked him what he did during the break. "During the break," he said "i just relax, drink water ate some fruits and then did a warm up of 20 minutes before the second leg."

His splits for the second leg were 2:47, 2:48, 2:51, 2:47, and 2:44.

After clocking the best time ever he said, "Yes if the weather could have cooler, i could have ran faster."  It was about 21c (71 F) at the start.  

We wanted to know a little more about Shadrack and he wrote, "In the half marathon, I have a personal best of 61:24 this year Italy padova, 25 km Berlin 1h15, 8km    23:43 and 5km 13:55 in Udeni."

The new world record holder says, "i hope to ran faster than this next time.  I will train next time focusing for it."

Shadrack was followed by Martin mumo who clocked 43:18 which is the third best time ever.  Only Shadrack and Julius Koskei have run faster.

KATA's Zachary kirika finished in third place clocking 43:37 which is the fourth best time ever.  Very impressive considering the heat and he was unwell. 

Alice koigi took the crown in the women's race in a time of 49:30. She was followed by Monica wanjiku who posted 51:30 and Susan njuu stopped the clock at 53:07 which was good enough for third place.

In addition to the Double race, nearly 100 kids ran the Bob Anderson's Kids Mile.  12-year-old Benjamin ndaro clocked 4:54 with John Mwangi close behind clocking 4:59.  There was also a 5k for kids and 16-year-old Denis chege won in 17:48.  

Men's Double 15k Results

1. Shadrack Kenduiywo 24yrs Bib no. 250 10km 28.33mns 5km 14:01m Total time 42:42

2. Martin Mumo 26yrs Bib no. 222 10km 28:56, 5km 14:22, Total time 43:18

3. Zachariah Kereka 22yrs, Bib no. 236, 10km 29:13, 5km 14:24, Total time 43:37

4. Collins Kiplagat 18yrs, Bib no. 249, 10km 29:53, 5km 14:46, Total time 44:39

5. John Njuguna 25yrs, Bib no. 226, 10km 30:18, 5km 14:53, total time 45:11

6. Hillary Komen, 30yrs, Bib no. 242, 10km 30:19, 5km 14:57, Total time 45:16

7. Michael Chege, 18, 218, 30:37, 15:01, 45:38

8. Kenneth Gichoya, 27, 211, 30.51, 15.28, 46:19

9. Joshua Kibet, 27, 248, 30.53, 15.30, 46.23

10. Gabriel Kahura, 41, 219, 30.54, 15.34, 46.28

11. Fredrick Kiprotich, 24, 238, 30.56, 15.35, 46.31

12. Charles Mwangi, 17, 229, 31.34, 15.42, 47.16

13. Peter Wanyoike, 27, 230, 31.43, 15.45, 47.28

14. Boniface Mungai, 26, 227, 31.45, 15.48, 47.33

15. Shadrack Kiprotich, 26, 247, 31.49, 16:14 48:03

16. John Kuria 39 245 32.07 16.31 48.38

17. David Muriuki 38 209 32.42 16.36 49.18

18. Amos Chirchir 240 24 33.14 17.14 50.28

19. Alfred Kamande 24  000  33.16   17.24   50.40

20. Lewis Kamau   36   000   34.13   17.31   51.44

21. Lawrence Matheka   27   244   34.34   18.11   52.45

22. William Mbugua 21   212   34.56   18.40   53.36

23. Fredrick Mwenda   18   241   37.35   19.29   57.04

24. Jonathan Kyallo   18   481   37.36   20.46   50.22

25. Namisi Elias  17  000  39.32  21.07  60.39

26. Peter Musembi  17   467   41.14   21.53  63.07

27. Jeff Maina  15  489  43.32  23.00  66.32

28. Bernard Makuto  18  411  44.17  23.10  67.27

29. Joseph Muchai  16  358  44.18  23.11  67.29

30. Francis Muinde  17  468  45.02  23.14  68.16

31. Anthony Muthanga  17  332  45.21  23.58  69:19

32. Harrison Mwangi  20  228  45.22  24.10  69.32

33. William Joseph  18  299  45.25  26.20  71.45

34. James Garang'  17  500  45.38  28.11  73.49

35. Bruno John  17  499  46.24  28.11  74.35

36. Simon Mogere  16  497  47.08   29.00  76.17

37. Samson Mbugua  17  493  49.08  32.00   81.08

38. John Kamau  16  465  49.25  33.10  82.35

39. Gerrishon Ngugi 18  397  51.32  34.11  85.43

40. Maurice Kinyua  18  412  51.33  36.10  87.43

Men masters 

1. Charles ndirangu 64 246 37:37 18:58 56:21

2. David mwangi 70 289 42:36 22:13 64:49

3. Joseph kiraio 72 235 45:39 28:01 73:40

Women 

1 Alice koigi 33 223 33:24 16:36 49:30

2 Monica wanjiku 22 225 34:26 17:24 51:30

3 Susan njuu 36 217 35:31 17:36 53:07

4 Virginia wanjiru 22 221 36:58 17:52 54:50

5 Lois wambui 23 214 36:18 17:56 54:14

6 Cynthia chacele 24 216 36:42 17:40 54:22

7 Jacinta kamau 22 213 36:24 18:31 54:55

8 Karen chepkemoi 22 220 37:59 18:26 56:25

9 Lilian nyamai 23 215 39:54 19:47 59:41

10 Ruth maina 22 232 42:07 20:11 63:22

11 Karen kirwa 23 208 43:12 22:38 65:50

12 Lucy muritu 39 243 47:07 24:25 71:32

Women masters 

1 Julia njari 47 224 40:32 20:11 60:43

2 Sheila mbaku 54 233 41:32 20:58 62:30

3 pennina mugure 53 234 47:49 23:51 71:40

Edesa and Misoi break course records at Sydney Marathon

Ethiopia’s Workenesh Edesa and Kenya’s Brimin Misoi made significant improvements on the course records at the TCS Sydney Marathon, winning the World Athletics Platinum Label road race in 2:21:40 and 2:06:17 respectively.

Edesa took almost three minutes off the previous course record in a race where the top four women finished inside Stella Barsosio’s former mark of 2:24:33, set five years ago.

A group of seven women ran together through the first 10km in 33:44, putting them on course record pace from the outset. Just four women – Edesa, Valary Jemeli Aiyabei, Ruti Aga and 2022 world champion Gotytom Gebreslase – remained in the lead pack as the half-way point was reached in 1:11:11.

The quartet ran together for another six or seven kilometres before Edesa and Aga made a break. The Ethiopian duo reached 30km in 1:41:16 with a 16-second lead over Gebreslase. Aga was next to fade, leaving Edesa as the sole leader.

The Ethiopian had a 22-second lead at 35km and was picking up the pace as the race went on. She reached the finish line in 2:21:40, 89 seconds ahead of Aga. Gebreslase completed the Ethiopian sweep in third with 2:24:16.

The men’s race set out at a steady pace with a large lead pack going through 10km in 29:58, inside course record schedule. By the time the half-way point was reached in 1:03:13, just four men remained in the lead group – Misoi, Geoffrey Toroitich, Ezra Tanui and Chalu Deso Gelmisa – while four or five other runners were strung out behind.

By 30km, reached in 1:29:49, Leul Gebresilase had joined the leaders to form a quintent, but they only ran together for a few kilometres before Misoi forged on ahead. The Kenyan got to 35km in 1:44:41, still comfortably inside course record pace, with a 53-second lead over Kirwa. Tanui and Toroitich, meanwhile, dropped out.

He continued to extend his lead through the closing stages and reached the finish line in 2:06:17, taking 46 seconds off the course record set two years ago by compatriot Moses Kibet. Gelmisa was a distant runner-up in 2:08:01, just ahead of Kirwa (2:08:17).

Sawe and Kipkemboi claim Copenhagen Half Marathon crowns

Sabastian Sawe outkicked Jacob Kiplimo to win the men’s race in a world lead, while Margaret Kipkemboi solo ran her way to victory in the women’s race at the Copenhagen Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label road race, on Sunday (15).

Uganda’s world record-holder Kiplimo, Kenya’s world champion Sawe and his Kenyan compatriot Isaia Lasoi were all in contention in the closing stages, but Sawe had the strongest finish. He managed to get a gap on Kiplimo with the finish line in sight and won in a PB of 58:05, four seconds ahead of Kiplimo. Lasoi was one second further back in a PB of 58:10.

Kenya’s world half marathon silver medallist Kipkemboi was joined by her compatriots Judy Kemboi, Catherine Reline Amanang'ole and Sheila Chelangat plus Ethiopia’s Ftaw Zeray through 10km but she left her rivals behind during the second half of the race to win by more than half a minute in 1:05:11. Kemboi was second in a PB of 1:05:43 and Amanang'ole, the world half marathon bronze medallist behind Kipkemboi, was third in a PB of 1:06:09.The men’s race also featured Norway's Olympic and world 5000m champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen, making his half marathon debut just two days after winning the Diamond League 1500m title in Brussels.

He formed part of a large lead men’s group that passed 5km in 13:53, but that pack quickly whittled down to six – pacemaker Berihu Aregawi, the 5000m champion in Brussels two days ago, leading ahead of Kiplimo, Sawe, Lasoi, Amos Kurgat, Kennedy Kimutai and Ingebrigtsen.

But Ingebrigtsen couldn’t maintain that pace and he pulled up at 10km, reached in 27:27 – a national record for the Norwegian on the roads. His rivals strode ahead and although he stopped a couple more times, Ingebrigtsen did continue to the finish and clocked 1:03:13.

After letting Sawe take the lead for a spell, Kiplimo was back in front at 15km, passed in 41:17. From there it was a battle between the trio of Kiplimo, Sawe and Lasoi. They were together through 20km in 55:13, before Sawe took control in the closing stages and went on to win in a time that improves his own world lead and is just four seconds off the race record, which was a world record when it was set by Geoffrey Kamworor in 2019.

Having won his world half marathon title in Riga last year, Sawe will have the opportunity to return to Copenhagen in 2026, when the city hosts the World Athletics Road Running Championships.

Another athlete who could be there is his compatriot Kipkemboi, who secured silver in Riga. This time in Copenhagen she ran as part of a group that reached 5km in 15:22 and she had Kemboi, Amanang'ole, Chelangat and Zeray for company through 10km in 30:52. The race was down to Kipkemboi and Kemboi by 15km, which they reached in 46:14, 15 seconds ahead of Amanang'ole. 

Kipkemboi then made her break and ran the final section of the race alone, getting to the 20km mark in 1:01:42 and extending her advantage to win in 1:05:11.

Global medalists Gebreslase and Gebresilase head Sydney Marathon fields

Ethiopia’s 2022 world champion Gotytom Gebreslase and her compatriot Leul Gebresilase, the 2023 world bronze medalist, feature in the fields for the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, on Sunday (15).

Gebreslase is a two-time world marathon medalist, having added silver in Budapest to the gold she gained in Oregon, while she won the Berlin Marathon in 2021 and finished third in the New York and Tokyo marathons in 2022.

The 29-year-old ran her PB of 2:18:11 in Oregon and 2:18:18 in Tokyo, and earlier this year she clocked 2:21:19 to finish third in Hamburg.

But Gebreslase is set to face a strong challenge, with four other sub-2:20 runners on the entry list. Her compatriot Tadu Teshome is fastest of them all with the PB of 2:17:36 she set when finishing fourth in Valencia in 2022. In 2023 she raced three marathons, finishing fifth in Chicago, sixth in Shanghai and eighth in London. In June she set a 10km PB of 31:13 in Durban.

Joining them are Ethiopia’s Ruti Aga and Buzunesh Getachew, plus Kenya’s Judith Jeptum Korir, who secured world silver behind Gebreslase in Oregon two years ago.

Aga won the Tokyo Marathon in 2019 and more recently finished second in Dubai in January in a PB-equaling 2:18:09 and first in Daegu in 2:21:07. Getachew set her PB of 2:19:27 when winning in Frankfurt last October, while Korir’s career best is the 2:18:20 she ran in Oregon. She went on to finish fourth in the London Marathon that year in 2:18:43 but did not finish when racing the Boston Marathon earlier this year.

Also entered are Kenya’s Viola Kibiwot, Sharon Chelimo and Beatrice Cheptoo, plus Japan’s Mao Uesugi.

Gebresilase is the fastest in the men’s field, thanks to the PB of 2:04:02 he set in Dubai in 2018. Since then he has become a global medallist, getting bronze in Budapest in 2023, the same year in which he finished fourth in the London Marathon. He ran 1:01:24 for the half marathon in Ras Al Khaimah in February but did not finish on his return to London in April.

In Sydney he faces three other sub-2:05 runners and another seven who have dipped under 2:08. His compatriot Chalu Deso is a strong contender, as he ran 2:04:53 in Valencia in 2020 and more recently won the Tokyo Marathon in March last year in 2:05:22. He raced the Paris Marathon in April, clocking 2:07:39.

Ethiopia’s Haftu Teklu ran 2:04:42 when finishing fifth in Berlin last year, while Kenya’s Brimin Kipkorir Misoi won the Frankfurt Marathon last October in a PB of 2:04:53.

They will line up alongside Ethiopia’s Tafese Delelegn and Tadu Abate, who finished third in Berlin in 2022, plus Kenya’s Laban Korir, Reuben Kerio and Michael Mugo Githae, and Japan’s Hidekazu Hijikata and Tetsuya Yoroizaka.

Evans Chebet has plans to reclaim his New York City marathon

Evans Chebet has made his intentions clear ahead of his return to the Big Apple on Sunday, November 3.

Two-time Boston Marathon champion Evans Chebet has plans to reclaim his New York City marathon title as he goes up against a stacked field on Sunday, November 3.

Chebet was forced to withdraw from last year’s edition of the race due to an injury hence he could not defend his title. Reigning Olympic champion Tamirat Tola claimed the title but the Kenyan long-distance ace will return to take what rightfully belongs to him.

After missing the Paris Olympic Games, Chebet is hoping to end his season on a high, racing in the streets of New York City. He won the title at the 2022 New York City where he debuted in the streets of the Big Apple. As reported by The Star, Chebet expressed eagerness to return to one of his favourite courses with eyes on the prize.

“I was keeping my cards close so as not to reveal anything to my competitors. My resolve to reclaim the New York title is still on course and I am confident,” Chebet said.

He disclosed that he is now injury free and ready to rumble as he gears up for the gruelling task against his opponents. Tola, who is still basking in Olympic glory will be Chebet’s greatest challenger in the race.

Belgium’s Bashir Abdi has also entered the race and he will be out to end his season on a high. Abdi won a silver medal in the Paris 2024 Olympic marathon. The 2021 champion of the New York City Marathon Albert Korir will also be in the mix to reclaim his title.

The 2019 and 2017 champion Geoffrey Kamworor who has raced sparingly this season has also confirmed to be lining up for the race. The 2024 United Airlines NYC Half champion Abel Kipchumba who is fresh from winning the Great North Run will also be lining up.

“This was my first race after my injury. I have now fully recovered and my body is now up to the task,” he said.

Chebet added that after the New York City Marathon, he will not be resting for long as he will start training for the Boston Marathon with plans to win his third title. The 35-year-old expressed his desire to compete in the marathon at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.

“After New York, I will start preparing for next year’s Boston Marathon, where I am looking to win a third title. If I make the qualifying time and make Team Kenya for the World Championships, I will be happy to participate and fight for the title,” he added.

Could the women's American marathon record fall at this year's Chicago Marathon?

The 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Oct. 13 poses an exciting opportunity for elite runners to capture record-breaking times -- and this year is no different. Could a women's record fall during the race?

The lineup, which was released earlier this summer, is highlighted by two of the "10 fastest women of all time" and the the second and third fastest American women of all time.

“We are accustomed to making history at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon,” Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski said in a statement. “With some of the fastest athletes in the world joining us this fall, we are hopeful to build on the tradition of great performances this year.”

For the Americans, Keira D'Amato and Betsy Saina headline the country's best.

D'Amato, the former American marathon record holder, will return to the starting line after being part of the broadcast team for the past two years.

“I have a special history with the Chicago Marathon,” said D’Amato who finished fourth in 2021. “The past two years I’ve run my mouth in the lead vehicle for NBC. I’m excited to get back to running my legs.”

D'Amato first broke the American marathon record in 2022 in Houston, topping a time that had stood for 16 years.

Emily Sisson broke that same record shortly after during the 2022 Chicago Marathon. D'Amato was among the long line of legendary female runners celebrating Sisson at the Chicago finish line that year.

Saina, who placed fifth in this year’s Tokyo Marathon, will look to record her first Chicago finish after dropping out of the race in 2019 due to illness. She's run the third-fastest marathon time of any American woman, one spot behind D'Amato.

Sara Hall and Emma Bates are also in the field for the Americans. Hall's best time of 2:20:32 comes from Chandler in 2020. Bates ran her best time in 2022 at the Boston Marathon with a 2:22:10 finish.

Among the most notable names at the starting line will be Sutume Kebede, of Ethiopia, who holds the fastest marathon in the women's field and whose finish at the 2024 Tokyo Marathon made her the eighth fastest of all time.

“I am extremely happy to come back to Chicago and run on a course that has proven to be very fast,” Kebede, who had a disappointing finish in the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, said in a statement. “After seeing what my teammate Kelvin Kiptum did last year, I want to come to Chicago to do something great.”

Kenya's Ruth Chepngetich will also return to the start line in October. She won the race in both 2021 and 2022 while finishing runner-up during last year's 2023 race. Her 2:14:18 from the 2022 Chicago Marathon stands as the fourth-fastest time by a woman in history.

Here is the lineup for the women's elite division.

Bank of America Chicago Marathon Professional Field – Women’s Open Division

The Chicago Marathon is not immune to seeing record-breaking times.

Kenya's Kelvin Kiptum obliterated the men's marathon world record at the 2023 Chicago Marathon, running it in 2 hours and 35 seconds. He overcame Eliud Kipchoge's previous record by 30 seconds with his time. Tragically, Kiptum later died shortly after in a car accident in February. He was 24.

At the 2022 Chicago Marathon, Emily Sisson defeated the women's American marathon record in 2 hours, 18 minutes and 29 seconds. She finished second place in the race to Kenya's Ruth Chepngetich, who ran 2:14:18; the second-fastest marathon time by a woman in history.

Let's not also forget Joan Benoit Samuelson broke the women's American marathon record in 1985 with a time of 2:21:21. The time still stands as the seventh-fastest time by an American woman today.

Three of the four fastest marathon times in women's history were run at the Chicago Marathon. Will spectators see another on Oct. 13?

Hicham El Guerrouj’s 26-year reign at risk as 1500m titans eye world record in Brussels

Three top middle-distance runners are set to challenge the long-standing 1500m world record at the Brussels Diamond League.

The men's 1500m world record set back in 1998 by Morocco’s Hicham El Guerrouj will come under serious threat as three of the most promising middle-distance runners—Jakob Ingebrigtsen, Cole Hocker and Yared Nuguse—are set to clash in the Diamond League final in Brussels this Saturday.

El Guerrouj’s incredible time of 3:26.00 has stood the test of time for 26 years with no one able to break the mark that many thought would be surpassed by now.

However, the trio of Olympic and World Championship medalists are all in peak form and ready to challenge this long-standing record making this one of the most highly anticipated 1500m races in recent memory.

The Tokyo Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen, enters the race as the favorite. The Norwegian sensation boasts a personal best of 3:26.73, a mere 0.73 seconds shy of El Guerrouj’s historic mark.

Ingebrigtsen’s dominance over the distance has been unmatched this season, and he has made it clear that breaking the world record is on his radar.

“I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life.The world record is something that has always been in the back of my mind, and I believe this is the best chance I’ve had to go for it," said Ingebrigtsen.

Pushing him to the limit will be the American duo of Cole Hocker and Yared Nuguse. Hocker, fresh off an Olympic season that saw him claim a gold medal in the 1500m is ranked seventh on the all-time list with a personal best of 3:26.73 matching Ingebrigtsen’s time.

Hocker’s confidence has been building all season, and the 23-year-old has openly expressed his desire to break into history.

“I hope to take a stab at the world record, whether it’s this season or next year,” said Hocker.

“But right now, I’m focused on leaving a lasting legacy. The Olympic gold was the first goal, and now it’s time to chase something even bigger.”

Yared Nuguse, ranked ninth on the all-time list, is another strong contender. Nuguse has steadily risen through the ranks with a personal best of 3:27.80 and a season-best of 3:27.80 as well.

The 25-year-old has proven himself capable of competing against the best in the world and could be poised to surprise both Hocker and Ingebrigtsen in Brussels.

The race, however, will be missing one key figure in Josh Kerr, the British 1500m specialist who recently confessed that the mental toll of the season has led him to opt out of the final. Kerr’s absence opens the door for a fascinating showdown between Ingebrigtsen, Hocker, and Nuguse.

In addition to the leading trio, the race will feature strong competition from the likes of Kenya’s Reynold Cheruiyot, a rising star who has posted a season-best of 3:28.28, and Timothy Cheruiyot, the former World Champion.

France’s Azzedine Habz and Great Britain’s Elliot Giles will also be in the mix, having both posted times in the 3:29 range this season.

El Guerrouj’s record-breaking performance in 1998 was the first time a runner had managed to average under 55 seconds per lap for the 1500m.

With athletes now regularly running sub-3:30 times, the level of competition has never been higher. Whether it’s tactical brilliance, pure speed, or a combination of both, this race has all the ingredients to produce fireworks on the track.

Elvis Cheboi Aiming to Win TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon for Second Time

Much was expected of Kenya’s Elvis Cheboi when he arrived in Toronto last year for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. He did not disappoint.

Crossing the finish line first to claim the $20,000 winner’s prize he beat several international athletes who  have run two to three minutes faster than his winning time of 2:09:20.

By today’s standards his personal best is not a quick time. But a victory at this World Athletics Elite Label Race against a terrific field - and by over a minute - has 

increased his prowess in the sport. Now he returns to Toronto hoping for favourable conditions and a world-class field where he can also run a time more representative of his ability.

Indeed, he ran a personal best of 59:15 at the 2022 Barcelona Half Marathon indicating he might be capable of a time closer to the Toronto Waterfront course record of 2:05:00 held by his countryman, Philemon Rono (2019).

Winning Toronto was a milestone in his career nonetheless.

"That (Toronto) race made me a great memory because I had never won a marathon or any race abroad,” he says from his living room in Kenya. “So it was memorable. That was my second marathon race and I won it.”

As he speaks, his two children - daughter Shaline, 6, and son Shalom, 2 - are watching a television program and he instructs them to lower the volume. Then he smiles.

“Tomorrow the small boy is two years old,” he reveals laughing. “There is a cake here. He is still young so doesn’t know it’s a birthday but I will sing ‘Happy Birthday’to him.”

Family is of the utmost importance and running, in order to earn money is a priority. Yet, Cheboi has not raced since Toronto.

He and his management team at Demadonna Athletics Promotion had him lined up to race in the Vienna Marathon this past April.  But he had slight issues with both his hamstrings which interrupted his buildup. So the decision was made by him and his coach, Gabriele Nicola, to put all their energies into having him fully prepared for a Toronto Waterfront Marathon title defence.

For many years now Cheboi has lived in Mororia which is about three kilometres from the famed ‘running town’ of Iten. A local hotel serves as the Demadonna team camp and houses several of the twelve strong marathon training group during the week. They go home on weekends.  But, since Cheboi has a young family, it was felt

it was better for him to drive in for the training sessions and for massage therapy three times a week.

Several of his training partners have run much faster than Cheboi’s best - led by Philemon Kiplimo (2:04:56) - so he is benefiting from being in such a talented group.

Like most Kenyan runners he sees his running profession as a means for a brighter future for himself and his young family. He maintains a farm where he grows maize which is used to make the Kenyan staple, ugali. He also plants wheat and potatoes while keeping goats, sheep and cattle. It’s an exhausting lifestyle and so he has enlisted help from family members.

“Yes I have help with my farm. My relatives help; my brother and also my parents,” he reveals adding he doesn’t expect to rely on farming after he retires from competition.

"God willing, I will not depend on the farm only. I think I will also find another way. 

Somehow I will do another thing.”

Several times during the video call from Canada he thanks the caller for taking interest and expresses his gratitude for being invited back to Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

“I’m looking forward to coming back to Toronto very much. Yes,” he declares. 

“Firstly, I want to thank the organizers for inviting me back. I think I will try to win for the second time but I can’t promise.

“The good weather on the day will determine if I can run my best time.”

Shock as Ethiopia steeplechaser is denied visa for Diamond League final in Brussels

Belgian authorities have denied an Ethiopian athlete a visa for the Diamond League final leaving Ethiopia with only one competitor.

Ethiopia will have only one chance in the women’s 3000m steeplechase at the Diamond League final in Brussels on September 14 after one of its star athletes Sembo Almayew was denied a visa.

Almayew, the newly crowned 2024 U20 3000m steeplechase gold medalist had to withdraw from the competition leaving Lomi Muleta as Ethiopia's only competitor.

The 18-year-old rising star’s absence will make the competition tougher for Muleta, who will face strong competitors from global steeplechase powerhouses such as Bahrain’s Winfred Yavi and Uganda’s Peruth Chemutai.

According to Almayew’s agent, Elite Running Team, the athlete failed to secure her visa in time due to new restrictions by the European Union (EU) on Ethiopian citizens.

The visa denial has sparked outrage in Ethiopian sporting circles especially given Almayew’s stellar performance this year including a fifth-place finish at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

"We are very disappointed to announce that the newly crowned 2024 U20 3000mSC Gold Medalist, Sembo Alemayew of Ethiopia, will not be able to participate in next week's Diamond League Final at the Memorial Van Damme Meeting in Brussels due to a lack of visa," Elite Running Team said in a statement.

Almayew had been viewed as a strong contender in the 3000m steeplechase event having already established herself as a Diamond League Meet winner and a U20 national record holder for Ethiopia. However, despite her impressive accolades, she was unable to obtain the necessary visa to compete in Brussels.

"In April 2024, the European Union announced it will make it more difficult for Ethiopian citizens to receive European visas; in an attempt to leverage on the Ethiopian government, which is accused of failure to cooperate in taking back citizens found to be living illegally in the Schengen Zone," the statement added.

The agent went on to express frustration at how these visa restrictions were affecting Ethiopian athletes, particularly young talents like Almayew.

"This situation is hurting the opportunities and lives of many athletes, and we strongly hope it can be solved as quickly as possible; so that situations like this do not happen to any more athletes going forward," the statement concluded.

With Almayew unable to participate, Ethiopia's hopes now rest solely on Lomi Muleta. She will need to perform at her best to compete against the race favorite, Winfred Yavi of Bahrain.

Yavi enters the race with an impressive personal best of 8:44.39. She will be aiming to shatter her world record and cement her dominance in the steeplechase event.

Also competing is Uganda’s Peruth Chemutaic who holds a national record of 8:48.03. Chemutai has been in fine form, and many are eager to see whether she can reclaim the top spot on the podium.

Kenya’s Faith Cherotich, another promising contender with a personal best of 8:55.15, brings a youthful and strategic approach to the race, making her a potential threat to the established favorites.

From the USA, Valerie Constien is also set to compete, with her personal best of 9:03.22. While less experienced than some of her rivals, Constien has displayed incredible determination and could surprise the field.

Germany will be represented by Olivia Gürth and Gesa Felicitas Krause, the latter being a seasoned competitor with a personal best of 9:10.68.

The absence of Sembo Almayew will be felt, as her presence could have added an additional layer of excitement and competition to the Diamond League final.

However, for Ethiopia, the focus now shifts to Lomi Muleta who will aim to challenge the top contenders and prove that Ethiopia remains a force to be reckoned with in the steeplechase event.

Kenyans aim to continue Munich’s success story

With the help of a strong African elite field organisers of the GENERALI MUNICH MARATHON hope to continue their recent success story on 13th October. Three Kenyan runners with personal bests slightly over 2:08:00 will be on the start line besides the Olympic Stadium. The women’s race will feature two runners who have clocked good half marathon times and could be in for a breakthrough over the full distance in Munich. 

Including races at shorter distances a record total of over 25,000 runners is expected to compete in the 38th edition of the GENERALI MUNICH MARATHON, which is an increase of around 20 percent compared to last year. About 7,000 will run the marathon. Registration is still possible at: www.generalimuenchenmarathon.de 

“We are really happy with the strong development of our entry figures. This shows that our concept is working and bearing fruit,“ said Race Director Gernot Weigl.

Parts of the elite fields were announced today. Kenya’s Cosmas Birech is currently the fastest runner on the start list. He won the 2018 Rome Marathon in 2:08:03. In the same year he also clocked a half marathon PB of 60:06. While there were hardly any races during the pandemic Cosmas Birech was unlucky once the period of lockdowns was over. The Kenyan was injured for a longer time. At the age of 38 he now wants to give it another go and hopes to get back to his best. 

Dominic Nyairo, who has a personal best of 2:08:13, produced fine performances in his recent marathons. The 27 year-old will be one of the main favorites on 13th October. In 2021 Nyairo won his debut in Hofu, Japan, with a sprint finish in 2:09:34. In 2023 the Kenyan came back to Japan and placed 16th in the highly competitive Tokyo Marathon, improving to 2:08:13. He then ran the Berlin Marathon and finished 19th in a fine 2:08:47. In contrast William Kibor achieved his personal best quite some time ago. He clocked 2:08:32 when he was fifth in the Vienna City Marathon in 2012. After a longer break, which was partly due to the pandemic, he came back running a couple of half marathons last year. The GENERALI MUNICH MARATHON will be Kibor’s first race at the classic distance since 2019. 

“We have produced the fastest times in the history of our event in the past two years. And I hope that we will once again see results in the region of 2:08to 2:09,“ said Gernot Weigl. „In the women’s race times between 2:25 and 2:27 should be possible.“

Two women who can still be regarded as newcomers could produce a surprise at the GENERALI MUNICH MARATHON. Shamilah Kipsiror only started her career last year when she was already 36 years old. When she competed outside Kenya for the first time she had instant success, winning the Ghent Half Marathon in a fine 67:53. Kipsiror then ran a 2:28:13 marathon debut in Venice last October. She was fourth in that race and fourth again when she returned to Italy for the Rome Marathon this spring, improving to 2:27:33. 

One of Kipsiror’s strongest rivals will be Uganda’s Viola Chemos. She has only run one marathon so far, but that was in high altitude in Eldoret, Kenya. While she clocked 2:36:38 the 31 year-old followed this up with a fine race in July. Chemos took the Kaptagat Half Marathon in Kenya’s well-known high altitude training region with 69:23. Because of their strong half marathon performances Shamilah Kipsiror and Viola Chemos could improve significantly at the GENERALI MUNICH MARATHON.

Double Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet reveals when she will fully transition to road racing

Chebet, who won gold medals in both the 5000 and 10,000 meter races at te Paris Olympics, has revealed when she is going to fully transition into marathon racing.

Fresh off her dominating performance in Zurich, where she marked her return to action with a win in the 5000 meters, double Paris 2024 Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet has disclosed when she plans to fully transition into marathon running. 

Chebet, who has had a stellar year, has been eyeing the marathon as her next frontier after conquering the track.

Chebet’s 2024 season has been nothing short of extraordinary. She claimed gold in both the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters at the Paris Olympic Games, cementing her status as one of the premier long-distance runners of her generation. 

Earlier in May, Chebet also broke the world record in the 10,000 meters, clocking an impressive 28:54.14 in Eugene, Oregon. Her dominance extended to the road as well, where she set a world record in the 5-kilometer road race in Barcelona with a time of 14:13.

However, the 5000-meter world record, held by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay at 14:00.21, remains elusive for Chebet. She attempted to break the record at the Zurich Diamond League but fell nine seconds short under challenging rainy conditions. Despite the near miss, Chebet's eyes are firmly set on new goals, particularly in road racing and eventually marathon running—a natural progression for the long-distance star.

In a recent interview, Chebet revealed her long-term plans, stating that she is taking a gradual approach to marathon running, drawing inspiration from fellow Kenyan marathon legends like Hellen Obiri and Vivian Cheruiyot.

“We are going slowly. Everything now has its own time so we have to go gradually until we reach the marathon,” Chebet told Citius Mag.

Chebet, who won gold medals in both the 5000 and 10,000 meter races at te Paris Olympics, has revealed when she is going to fully transition into marathon racing.

Fresh off her dominating performance in Zurich, where she marked her return to action with a win in the 5000 meters, double Paris 2024 Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet has disclosed when she plans to fully transition into marathon running. 

Chebet, who has had a stellar year, has been eyeing the marathon as her next frontier after conquering the track.

Chebet’s 2024 season has been nothing short of extraordinary. She claimed gold in both the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters at the Paris Olympic Games, cementing her status as one of the premier long-distance runners of her generation. 

Earlier in May, Chebet also broke the world record in the 10,000 meters, clocking an impressive 28:54.14 in Eugene, Oregon. Her dominance extended to the road as well, where she set a world record in the 5-kilometer road race in Barcelona with a time of 14:13.

However, the 5000-meter world record, held by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay at 14:00.21, remains elusive for Chebet. She attempted to break the record at the Zurich Diamond League but fell nine seconds short under challenging rainy conditions. Despite the near miss, Chebet's eyes are firmly set on new goals, particularly in road racing and eventually marathon running—a natural progression for the long-distance star.

In a recent interview, Chebet revealed her long-term plans, stating that she is taking a gradual approach to marathon running, drawing inspiration from fellow Kenyan marathon legends like Hellen Obiri and Vivian Cheruiyot.

“We are going slowly. Everything now has its own time so we have to go gradually until we reach the marathon,” Chebet told Citius Mag.

Reflecting on her remarkable performances this season, Chebet expressed her satisfaction, especially with her ability to maintain her form late into the season. “It was amazing because it was the beginning of the season so you feel stronger and energetic, but in the 5000, coming here at the end of the season, I just said, ‘let me go and try’,” she explained.

Chebet’s 14:09 finish in Zurich was impressive, given that she ran 2.5 kilometers alone in the race. “I am so happy. A good performance after Paris. Running 14.09 is not easy, especially after running 2.5 kilometers alone,” she added.

As the season winds down, Chebet is looking forward to taking a well-deserved break. “Take part in the Diamond League, get back and relax, and then prepare the season again for next year,” she said.

Chebet had earlier expressed her admiration for Ethiopian-born Dutch runner Sifan Hassan, whose versatility across multiple events has inspired Chebet’s future ambitions. Hassan took bronze in both the 5000 and 10,000 meters in Paris before striking gold in the marathon, a feat that left a lasting impression on Chebet.

“She always motivates me. She has personal bests in the 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 10,000m, and even the marathon. She’s a great athlete and makes me believe that you can do anything if you believe in yourself,” Chebet said.

Looking ahead, Chebet hopes to follow in Hassan’s footsteps, testing her capabilities in the marathon. “I want to follow in her footsteps too. In some years to come, I will also try the marathon,” she hinted.

Marco Arop runs North American record over 1,000m

Arop’s time of 2:13.13 is the fifth-fastest of all time.

On Sunday evening at the Boris Hanžeković Memorial meet in Zagreb, Croatia, Canadian Olympic 800m silver medalist Marco Arop narrowly missed the world record for 1,000 metres. His winning time of 2:13.13 set a new Canadian and North American record and is the fifth-fastest time in history.

Arop was looking to break Noah Ngeny of Kenya’s world record of 2:11.92 from 1999, but he faced challenges early on. His tall frame struggled with the “waterfall” start, and he lagged behind the pace in the opening 400m, leaving him unable to fully catch up to the pace lights. However, Arop’s performance still shattered the previous North American record of 2:13.90 set by American Rick Wohlhuter 50 years ago.

The 25-year-old Edmonton native improved upon his previous personal best of 2:14.35. This was his second bid for the 1,000m world record, having fallen just short over the same distance indoors this year at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix. Arop now holds the North American (area) records in the 800m and 1,000m events.

Next up, Arop will head to the Diamond League final in Brussels on Sept. 13-14, where he plans to challenge the men’s 800m world record of 1:40.91, a goal he says has been on his mind for some time.

Arop was one of three Canadian athletes competing at the Boris Hanžeković Memorial on Sunday. Olympic hammer throw champion Ethan Katzberg suffered his first loss of the season, losing to Olympic bronze medallist Mykhaylo Kokhan, who threw a new personal best of 81.14 to take the win. Canadian 4x100m relay gold medallist Jerome Blake finished fourth in the men’s 100m in 10.15 seconds.

Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw top contender for New Women’s Course Record

All eyes will be on Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw during the TCS Amsterdam Marathon on Sunday, October 20. Her personal best of 2:17:23 is just three seconds shy of the current women’s course record (2:17:26, set by Almaz Ayana in 2022). In 2022, the former 10 km world record holder won the TCS London Marathon. Among the men, Guye Adola, Bernard Koech, Tsegaye Getachew, and Philemon Kiplimo will be battling for the top spot.

At just 25 years old, Yalemzerf Yehualaw is still at the beginning of her career. However, she has already recorded the second fastest half-marathon time ever (1:03:61, Valencia 2021) and the third fastest 10 km time ever, which was also a former world record (29:14, Castellón 2022). She won the 2022 Hamburg Marathon in one of the fastest debut times ever (2:17:23) and later that year claimed victory at the TCS London Marathon (2:17:26). Last year, the NN Running Team athlete finished fifth in London and also placed fifth at the World Championships marathon.

In Amsterdam, Yehualaw will face a strong challenge from Kenyan athlete Winfridah Moseti. Moseti has only run five marathons so far, but her progress has been remarkable. After her debut in Milan in 2021 (2:27:44), she finished fifth in Paris last year (2:23:38) and second in Frankfurt (2:20:55). This spring, she again finished second in Hamburg, setting a strong personal best of 2:18:25.

Behind these two world-class athletes, a competitive group of women will aim to break the 2:20 barrier: Selly Chepyego (PR of 2:20:03), Haven Hailu (PR of 2:20:19, set in Amsterdam), Desi Jisa (PR of 2:20:47), and Enatnesh Tirusew (PR of 2:20:48).

Tight Competition in Men’s Race

In the men’s race, the outcome is far from certain. The fastest man in the field is Ethiopian Guye Adola with a personal best of 2:03:46. However, both Koech and Getachew have previously made it to the podium in Amsterdam, and Kiplimo is also a strong contender with his impressive half-marathon personal best of 58:11, highlighting his speed.

Guye Adola’s track record is certainly impressive. He won the 2021 Berlin Marathon (2:04:45) and finished second in Berlin in 2017, where he set his personal best of 2:03:46. He has also stood on the podium in Valencia (third in 2019) and Paris (second in 2023). Adola trains in Ethiopia alongside Tamirat Tola, who holds the TCS Amsterdam Marathon course record (2:03:39, set in 2021).

Bernard Koech finished second behind Tola in that same year, with a time of 2:04:08. Koech is a two-time winner of the Hamburg Marathon, most recently this year with a time of 2:04:24, which ranks as the eighth fastest marathon time of 2024.

Tsegaye Getachew made his international breakthrough in Amsterdam, winning the race in 2022 with a time of 2:04:49. Since then, he has focused on the Abbott World Marathon Majors, with mixed success. His best results include a fifth-place finish in Tokyo in 2024 and a third-place finish in 2023. At last year’s World Championships marathon in Budapest, he finished 16th.

Philemon Kiplimo, with a half-marathon personal best of 58:11, has room for improvement over the full marathon. He set a strong personal best of 2:04:56 in Berlin last year and finished third in Hamburg this spring.

Kejelcha, Barega and Mateiko set to fly the fastest in the Valencia Half Marathon

Elite athletes hope for top performances at race famous for record times.

The Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich has confirmed the names of the international elite athletes who will fly through the streets of the “ciudad del running” on October 27.

The race, organized by SD Correcaminos and Valencia City Council, still holds the women’s world record (Gidey, 1:02:52 in 2021) and the second fastest time in the world (Kandie, 57:32 in 2020), and will be looking to continue improving on these records this year in a half marathon in which eight of the top ten fastest times over the distance have been achieved.

In the men’s category, Ethiopians Yomif Kejelcha (57:41) and Selemon Barega (57:50) will compete with Kenya’s Daniel Mateiko (58:26) to be the fastest over the distance. The level of European runners is also high, with the presence in Valencia of athletes such as Samuel Barata (Portugal), Pietro Riva (Italy), Amanal Petros (Germany) and Emile Cairess (Great Britain), who will be joined by the Spanish elite soon to be confirmed.

And in the women’s category, the Valencia Half Marathon (which has the two fastest times in history) will focus on Kenyan runner Agnes Jebet Ngetich, who will make her debut over the distance in Valencia, the city where last January she broke the world record in the 10K Valencia Ibercaja by Kiprun (28:46, also setting the world record for 5K with her 14:13). Ethiopia’s Tsigie Gebreselama and Kenya’s Lilian Kasait Rengeruk and Catherine Amanang’ole will be her main rivals vying for victory.

Marc Roig, coach of the event’s international elite athletes, assessed this list as “the best half marathon this year, with high level duels that aim, once again, to achieve 57-minute performances by several athletes. And a clear challenge to the stopwatch in the women’s race. Never before has a debutant taken to the start line who has run a 10K in under 29 minutes. We are really looking forward to seeing how fast the race will be on October 27th”.

Tallinn Marathon win goes to Kenya

The Tallinn Marathon, held on Sunday, was won by Kenyan runner Samwel Kiptoo. Tiidrek Nurme was crowned Estonian champion, finishing fourth overall.

Thirty-year-old Samwel Kiptoo finished the race with a time of 2 hours, 13 minutes and 48 seconds. The last time a Kenyan marathoner did not win in Tallinn was in 2018 when Roman Fosti claimed first place.

The second to cross the finish line was Ethiopian Geleto Barecha Tolosa, trailing the winner by 22 seconds. Kenyan Ishmael Chelanga Kalale came in third, finishing 51 seconds behind Kiptoo.

Tiidrek Nurme, running his first marathon on home soil, was the fastest Estonian, placing fourth overall with a time of 2:15:04. He missed out on third place by just 25 seconds.

Leonid Latsepov secured the silver medal in the Estonian championships, finishing fifth overall (+2:56). Bert Tippi took the bronze, placing eighth overall (+13:54).

In the women's race, Kenyan runners swept the podium. Mercy Kwambai claimed victory with a course record of 2:31:09, breaking the previous mark set two years ago by fellow Kenyan Pauline Thitu by 20 seconds. Kwambai also finished 10th overall.

Hildah Jepkogei Cheboi took second place with a time of 2:31:29, while Euliter Jepchirchir Tanui secured third with a time of 2:31:48.

Kerr smashes 43-year record in winning 5th Avenue Mile

Josh Kerr won the 5th Avenue Mile race in New York for the second straight year and smashed the 43-year-old course record.

The Scot came home in three minutes 44.3 seconds, more than three seconds faster than the previous best set by Sydney Maree in 1981.

Just three days after finishing fifth in the Zurich Diamond League meeting, the world 1500m champion and Olympic silver medallist finished ahead of American Josh Hoey and Kenyan Amon Kemboi.

Kerr, 26, now holds two of the three fastest times in the race's history.

Tola and Obiri lead elite fields for New York City Marathon

Organisers of the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon have revealed a world-class line up for this year’s World Athletics Platinum Label road race on 3 November, led by defending champions Tamirat Tola and Hellen Obiri.

Since winning last year in a course record of 2:04:58, Tola won the Olympic title in Paris in a Games record of 2:06:26. What made his feat all the more impressive is that he was only drafted into the Ethiopian team two weeks before the Games, having initially been named as a reserve.

“I’m excited to defend my title in New York, especially coming off an Olympic-record marathon performance,” said Tola. “The hilly course and crowds in Paris definitely prepared me well for the bridges and spectators in New York, where maybe I can go even faster this year.”

Two-time Olympic medallist Bashir Abdi will also be one to watch; the Belgian earned silver at the recent Olympics, having taken bronze at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and at the 2022 World Championships.

Three past winners – all from Kenya – are also in the field: 2022 champion Evans Chebet, 2021 winner Albert Korir, and 2019 and 2017 victor Geoffrey Kamworor. Chebet has twice won the Boston Marathon, and has finished first or second in 13 marathons. Kamworor has made it on to the podium in all four of his New York Marathon appearances.

Fellow Kenyan Abel Kipchumba, who won this year’s NYC Half Marathon, will be making his New York City Marathon debut.

The US charge is led by Conner Mantz and Clayton Young, who finished eighth and ninth respectively in the Paris Olympic marathon.

Women’s Open Division

Obiri is a three-time Olympic medallist and seven-time world medallist. Last year the Kenyan became the first woman in 34 years to win both Boston and New York in the same calendar year. So far this year, she retained her Boston Marathon title and went on to earn bronze in the Olympic marathon.

“There’s no place like New York, and I am so ready to defend my title,” said Obiri. “I have been racing very well on the roads in the US, and I hope I can have another good day that sees me in contention once we enter the final stages in Central Park.”

Fellow Kenyan Sharon Lokedi, the 2022 NYC Marathon winner, will return after finishing third last year and fourth in the Olympic marathon in Paris. The Kenyan delegation will also include 2010 champion Edna Kiplagat, four-time Olympic medallist Vivian Cheruiyot, and Sheila Chepkirui, who owns the fastest personal best in the field.

Ethiopia’s Tirunesh Dibaba will make her New York City Marathon debut and is one of the world’s most accomplished long-distance runners as a three-time Olympic and 16-time world champion. She will be joined by compatriot Senbere Teferi.

Dakotah Lindwurm, the top US finisher in the marathon at the Paris Olympics, will lead the US contingent.

Elite field

WomenSheila Chepkirui (KEN) 2:17:29Tirunesh Dibaba (ETH) 2:17:56Vivian Cheruiyot (KEN) 2:18:31Senbere Teferi (ETH) 2:19:21Dera Dida (ETH) 2:19:24Edna Kiplagat (KEN) 2:19:50Eunice Chumba (BRN) 2:20:02Sharon Lokedi (KEN) 2:22:45Hellen Obiri (KEN) 2:23:10Fatima Gardadi (MAR) 2:24:12Kellyn Taylor (USA) 2:24:29Fabienne Schlumpf (SUI) 2:24:30Aliphine Tuliamuk (USA) 2:24:37Dakotah Lindwurm (USA) 2:24:40Lily Partridge (GBR) 2:25:12Jessica McClain (USA) 2:25:46Des Linden (USA) 2:25:55Tristin Van Ord (USA) 2:25:58Khishigasaikhan Galbadrakh (MGL) 2:26:32Maggie Montoya (USA) 2:28:07Katja Goldring (USA) 2:29:01Savannah Berry (USA) 2:29:13

MenEvans Chebet (KEN) 2:03:00Gabriel Geay (TAN) 2:03:00Bashir Abdi (BEL) 2:03:36Tamirat Tola (ETH) 2:03:39Geoffrey Kamworor (KEN) 2:04:23Abdi Nageeye (NED) 2:04:45Addisu Gobena (ETH) 2:05:01Abel Kipchumba (KEN) 2:06:49Albert Korir (KEN) 2:06:57Conner Mantz (USA) 2:07:47Clayton Young (USA) 2:08:00Rory Linkletter (CAN) 2:08:01Callum Hawkins (GBR) 2:08:14Ser-Od Bat-Ochir (MGL) 2:08:50Elkanah Kibet (USA) 2:09:07Noah Droddy (USA) 2:09:09Jonny Mellor (GBR) 2:09:09Jared Ward (USA) 2:09:25Colin Bennie (USA) 2:09:38Futsum Zienasellassie (USA) 2:09:40CJ Albertson (USA) 2:09:53Nico Montanez (USA) 2:09:55Yuma Morii (JPN) 2:09:59

Great North Run titles for Ngugi-Cooper and Kipchumba

It was a similar story at the Great North Run at a wet Tyneside on Sunday (8), with contrasting half marathon wins secured by Kenya's Mary Ngugi-Cooper and Abel Kipchumba. The women produced a thrilling mass finish at the World Athletics Label road race, but from the start there was only one man in it.

Six women dominated from start to finish: Kenya’s Ngugi-Cooper, Sheila Chepkirui and Vivian Cheruiyot, plus Ethiopia’s Senbere Teferi and Megertu Alemu and Britain’s Eilish McColgan, whose mother Liz won this race when it was the World Championships in 1992. 

Ngugi-Cooper and Chepkirui led from Teferi and Alemu, with former winner Cheruiyot and McColgan forming the lead pack across the Tyne Bridge and through the first mile in 5:05. The sextet maintained that pace for the entire race, passing 5km in 16:03, 10km in 32:20 and 15km in 48:20. All looked comfortable as they swung downhill on to the coast road and the final mile.

The experienced Cheruiyot, who is now 40, moved up, but then was the first to drop when the others responded. Five were in contention with 200m to go, then it turned into a fight between Ngugi-Cooper and the Ethiopian pairing. The win went to the 35-year-old Kenyan, who as Mary Wacera was world half marathon runner-up a decade ago.

“It was mentally tough because everyone was there,” she said, referring to the pack. Ngugi-Cooper has strong British connections. Her coach is Steve Cram, she has a British husband, Chris Cooper, and spends a lot of the year in Leeds. “I guess that helped,” she joked, referring to the wet conditions.

While Ngugi-Cooper had company for 13.1 miles, Kipchumba was alone, apart from his watch which he checked at the mile and 5km points, so clearly signposted on the route from Newcastle to South Shields. He would have known that he passed 5km in a snappy 13:37.

The Kenyan, who only arrived in town on Saturday due to a two-day visa delay, pulled clear in the third mile with Sondre Nordstad Moen giving chase. At 10km, Kipchumba was 25 seconds up (28:01 vs 28:26), but both Moen and 2021 winner Marc Scott (28:51) weren’t losing too much more ground. That picture was only temporary as Kipchumba surged again past halfway. After that, the most significant development was that Scott caught Moen in the 12th mile.

Up front, Kipchumba looked more like a middle-distance runner with the finish in sight, and clearly knew that a sub-one hour was in prospect. He covered the last 176m from 13 miles in 24 seconds to clock 59:52. 

“I decided to move early, and then I maintained,” he reflected, summing up the race in a sentence.

Chepkorir and Kitiyo top Prague 10km

Kenya’s Diana Chepkorir and Dennis Kibet Kitiyo claimed wins in contrasting styles at the Birell 10K Race, a World Athletics Elite Label road race, in Prague on Saturday (7).

Kitiyo kicked away from his rivals in the closing stages to win the men’s race in 27:17, while Chepkorir solo ran her way to victory in the women’s race, clocking 30:12.

They each led a Kenyan top two, as Kitiyo was followed by Vincent Kibet Langat (27:25) and Chepkorir by Miriam Chebet (31:28).

Ethiopia’s Tadese Worku had taken control of the men’s race after the pacemaker stepped aside after around 10 minutes of running, and both Worku and Kitiyo formed part of a breakaway group of four by the halfway point, which was passed in 13:29.

Kitiyo saved enough for a final surge and managed to create a gap on his rivals, eventually winning by eight seconds. Worku was third in 27:32 and Rodrigue Kwizera of Burundi fourth in 27:39.

Chepkorir led the women’s race from gun to tape. She had a lead of 36 seconds by 5km, which she reached in 14:43, and powered on to win by 76 seconds.

Ethiopia’s Lemlem Nibret followed Chepkorir and Chebet to claim third place in 32:20, while Britain’s Samantha Harrison was fourth in 32:47.

McColgan is set for Great North Run victory

Eilish McColgan bids to win the Great North Run half-marathon for the first time when she lines up alongside 60,000 other runners on Sunday.

The Scot returned from injury to compete for Great Britain at the Paris Olympics, finishing 15th in the 10,000m.

She enters this weekend's race in much better condition having won the Big Half marathon in London last weekend in 69 minutes and 14 seconds.

The 33-year-old British record holder will come up against two-time champion Vivian Cheruiyot, of Kenya, and Ethiopia's Senbere Teferi.

While McColgan's mum Liz won the Great North Run three times, Eilish's best result is second place in 2021.

"Returning from this year's Paris Olympics and on the road back from injury, I'm especially looking forward to the tens of thousands of spectators and supporters lining the streets, as well as the 60,000 runners taking part alongside me," said McColgan.

Britain's Marc Scott, the 2021 Great North Run champion, competes in the men's race against the likes of Olympic 10,000m silver medallist Berihu Aregawi and 2021 London Marathon winner Sisay Lemma, both from Ethiopia.

Leading the field in the men's wheelchair race is 2022 Commonwealth Games champion JohnBoy Smith, while fellow Briton Jade Hall will bid to add the 2024 Great North title to her triumph in 2021.

What is the Great North Run course?

The annual 13.1-mile race starts in Newcastle city centre, crosses the River Tyne and goes through Gateshead before finishing by the sea in South Shields.

Runners raise millions of pounds for charity and you can watch comprehensive coverage on BBC One from 10:00 BST on Sunday.

Eliud Kipchoge: Control the mind control the body

Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge emphasised the importance of being “psychologically fit” during his educational visit to Manchester United.

Always eager to learn, Kenya’s world-renowned runner spent a day at Carrington to see our facilities, watch training and speak with the coaching staff. He then visited Old Trafford to attend the Reds’ Premier League match against Liverpool. The greatest marathoner of all time, Kipchoge won back-to-back gold medals at the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games. He has also claimed victories in prestigious marathons around the world, including Berlin, Chicago, London and Tokyo.Kipchoge is best known for being the first person to run a marathon under two hours, clocking a time of 1:59:40 in 2019. His achievement wasn't recognised as a world record, as it was not run under open marathon conditions, but it signified a historic step forward in human performance. 

During his visit to the Theatre of Dreams, the 39-year-old icon explained how mentality is just as important as physicality when it comes to achieving greatness. “Mindset is important for a sportsman and all the footballers,” said Eliud. “You must be physically fit but above all you must be psychologically fit.

“What drives a man, what drives a woman, is the mind. If you are able to control the mind then you can control your body and you are able to consume the right things. Then out of that will come good things.

“In training you must have a strong and a high-profile mind. Playing the game, you need the right mind. The right way. When you are tackling your opponent, if you have the right mind then you can tackle well.

“If you are sprinting for a ball, if you have the right mind then you can sprint further than your opponent. So, the key is to be positive in life, always positive every day. “That's the beginning of good results and that's the beginning of real professionals. If all of the sportsman, or living people, can have positivity with each other then they are successful.”

Asked about other sportsmen or women being receptive to his positive message, Kipchoge admitted that interaction fuels him to continue his illustrious career.  “It is lovely, it gives me more to wake up and to still press on every day. It's a big motivation for me when people are inspired by what I am doing and when people consume the positivity and try to improve their minds. That's my happiness.”

Korir and Gebreslase to lock horns at Sydney Marathon

The 2022 World Marathon silver medalist Judith Korir is set to rekindle her rivalry with the 2022 World Champion Gotytom Gebreslase of Ethiopia at the Sydney Marathon on September 15.

During their last meeting at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, Gebreslase edged out Korir by nine seconds to claim the title in a course-record time of 2:18:11. Israel’s Lonah Chemtai was third in 2:20:18.

Race organizers have touted this year’s lineup as one of the most competitive as athletes eye glory in one of Australia’s most iconic cities.

“The calibre of athletes participating this year is a testament to Sydney’s allure as a world-class marathon destination. We’re excited to witness these extraordinary competitors race through our new course, against the backdrop of our iconic city,” said Sydney Marathon race director, Wayne Larden.

Korir, 28, takes a wealth of experience and success to Sydney, having won the 2022 Paris Marathon (2:19:48), 2021 Abu Dhabi Marathon (2:22:30) and Lugano Half Marathon (1:06:25), 2019 Venice Marathon (2:29:21) and the 2020 Izmir Marathon (2:33:59).

She finished sixth at last year’s London Marathon (2:20:41) and settled for fourth at the 2022 edition (2:18:43).

Gebreslase is a world marathon silver medalist from last year’s championships in Budapest, Hungary, in a time of 2:24:34, behind compatriot Amane Beriso (2:24:23) and ahead of Morocco’s Fatima Ezzahra (2:25:17).

The Ethiopian has victories from the 2021 Berlin Marathon (2:20:09) and the 2021 Bahrain Half Marathon (1:05:36).

At last year’s Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, she finished second in 1:05:51. She has finished third at the Hamburg Marathon (2:21:19), the 2022 Tokyo Marathon (2:18:18), 2022 New York Marathon (2:23:39) and the 2022 Liboa Half Marathon (1:07:11).

Korir will be joined by a formidable group of compatriots including Beatrice Cheptoo, the 2022 Istanbul Marathon champion, Rotterdam Marathon runner-up Viola Kibiwot and Sharon Chelimo, third place finisher at last year’s Frankfurt Marathon.

Two-time Frankfurt Marathon champion Brimin Kipkorir spearheads the Kenyan charge in the men's race.

Kipkorir bagged the 2022 Frankfurt title in 2:06:11 and defended it last year in a personal best of 2:04:53.

The 35-year-old is a two-time Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon champion — 2017 (2:12:39) and 2019 (2:10:43).

He will be joined by Fukuoka Marathon champion Michael Mugo, 2017 Rotterdam Marathon third-place finisher Laban Korir and three-time Kosice Marathon winner Reuben Kerio.

They will face stiff competition from Ethiopia’s Leul Gebresilase, the 2022 world marathon bronze medalist, Seoul Marathon third-place finisher Haftu Teklu and last year’s Tokyo Marathon champion Deso Gelmisa. 

Rebecca Cheptegei, died from full organ failure

Rebecca Cheptegei, died from full organ failure following a horrific attack by a former boyfriend on Sunday, which left her with burns covering 75 per cent of her body.

Rebecca Cheptegei, an Olympic marathoner for Uganda who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, tragically passed away on Thursday morning after reportedly being set on fire by her former boyfriend in Kenya. She was 33.

According to the Kenyan newspaper Nation, Owen Menach, the Director of Clinical Services and Surgery at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, confirmed that Cheptegei died around 5 a.m. local time due to “full organ failure.” This followed a horrific attack by her boyfriend at her home in Kenya on Sunday, which left her with burns covering 75 per cent of her body. She was admitted to the hospital in critical condition.

The alleged attacker, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, was also injured by the flames and is currently hospitalized. Neighbors reportedly overheard the couple arguing outside the house shortly before the attack. Both Cheptegei and Marangach were rescued from the fire by neighbors.

The Uganda Athletics Federation led tributes to Cheptegei on X (formerly Twitter), posting: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence early this morning. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace.”

Cheptegei finished 44th in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics in August and previously won gold at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in 2022. She had a marathon best of 2:22:47.

Tragically, this is not the first instance of domestic violence involving elite female athletes in East Africa. In 2021, Kenya’s two-time 10,000m world championship bronze medalist, Agnes Tirop, was found stabbed to death by her husband at their home in Iten, Kenya. Tirop’s husband, Emmanuel Ibrahim Kipleting, was arrested after fleeing Iten and found hundreds of kilometers away. She was 25 at the time of her death.

Ngetich to attempt world record on Valencia Half Marathon debut

World 10Km record holder Agnes Ngetich will lead an attempt on the 21km world record when she debuts at the Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich on October 27.

Ngetich returns to the city where she achieved her 10km world record of 28:46 (and 5km — 14:13) at the Valencia Ibercaja in January.

It's the city where Ethiopia’s Letesenbet Gidey set the women’s half marathon record of 1:02.52 in 2021 and Kibiwott Kandie set the second fastest time in the world, 57:32, in 2020. 

Ngetich will lead the attempt on Gidey's mark in a race which has produced eight of the top 10-fastest times over the distance.

She faces tough competition from compatriots Lilian Kasait Rengeruk and Catherine Amanang'ole and Ethiopia's Tsigie Gebreselama.

In the men's category, Kenya's Daniel Mateiko (58:26) will challenge the Ethiopian duo of Yomif Kejelcha (57:41) and Selemon Barega (57:50).

The European battalion is led by Samuel Barata (Portugal), Pietro Riva (Italy), Amanal Petros (Germany) and Emile Cairess (Great Britain).

Marc Roig, coach of the event's international elite athletes, assessed this start list as: “the best half marathon this year, with high-level duels that aim, once again, to achieve 57-minute performances by several athletes.

"And a clear challenge to the stopwatch in the women's race. Never before has a debutant who has run a 10K in under 29 minutes taken to the start line. We are looking forward to seeing how fast the race will be on October 27.” 

Chebet to test New York reediness at Sunday's Great North Run

Two-time Boston Marathon champion Evans Chebet will gauge his readiness for November’s New York Marathon at Sunday (September 8) when he lines up at the Great North Run, England.

The Great North Run is the largest half marathon in the world, and it is staged in North East England.

Chebet revealed he is looking to test his body as he aims for positive results ahead of the New York Marathon.

 “I want to test my body in England and see how it responds. This race will be part of my preparations for the New York Marathon. I am confident of positive results in both races,” Chebet revealed.

Chebet sustained a tendon rapture during the Boston Marathon in April, dashing his hopes of a historic hat-trick.

Despite the injury, he managed to secure a third-place finish with a time of 2:07:22, trailing Ethiopia’s Sisay Lemma (2:06:17) and Mohamed Esa (2:06:58).

Before that, he had picked up last year’s title with a time of 2:05:54,  beating Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay (2:06:04) and Olympic bronze medalist Benson Kipruto (2:06:06).

He also led an all-Kenyan podium sweep during the 2022 edition—cutting the tape in 2:06:51 to lead Lawrence Cherono (2:07:21) and Kipruto (2:07:27) to the podium.

Now fully fit, the 35-year-old is determined to reclaim his winning form.

“My body feels great. I’m ready for the Great North Run and I am looking forward to positive results. I am also well prepared to win a second title in New York,” Chebet noted.

Chebet won the 2022 New York Marathon in 2:08:41 ahead of Ethiopia’s Shura Kitata (2:08:54) and the Netherlands' Abdi Nageeye (2:10:31).

Chebet’s resume also includes victories from the 2020 Valencia Marathon (2:03:00), the 2019 Buenos Aires Marathon (2:05:00) and the 2020 Lake Biwa Mainichi Marathon (2:07:29).

He placed third at the 2016 Berlin Marathon (2:05:31) and second at the 2016 Seoul Marathon (2:05:33) and 2019 Generali Milano Marathon (2:07:22).

Chebet is set to renew his rivalry with Lemma as he looks to assert revenge on the Ethiopian after he beat him to the Boston title.

The 2021 Valencia Half Marathon champion Abel Kipchumba will join Chebet on the start line as they look to secure a Kenyan 1-2 finish.

Other key competitors include Marc Scott, who will be representing the host nation. Scott clinched the 2021 title in 1:01:22, beating Edward Cheserek (1:01:31) and USA’s Galen Rupp (1:01:51).

In the women’s race, Rio 2016 Olympic 5,000m champion Vivian Cheruiyot leads a strong Kenyan contingent, including 2022 Commonwealth 10,000m bronze medalist Sheila Chepkirui and 2014 World Half Marathon silver medalist Mary Ngugi.

Their competition will come from 2015 World 5,000m silver medalist Senbere Teferi of Ethiopia and Britain’s record holder in the 10km Road race Eilish McColgan.

Vivian Cheruiyot confirms next stop with eyes on victory

The four-time world champion has confirmed where she will run next after her third-place finish at the Paris Marathon in April.

Vivian Cheruiyot has confirmed her next race after her third-place finish at the Paris Marathon in April.

Cheruiyot will race at the AJ Bell Great North Run scheduled for September 8 where she will line up against tough opponents including Eilish McColgan.

Cheruiyot has raced three times this season, opening her season in Paris and proceeding to the National Cross-Country championships where she finished 16th before racing at the Kilimanjaro Half Marathon where she finished second.

On her part, McColgan holds the British records on the roads at 5km, 10km, 10 miles and half-marathon and has won other Great Run events and in 2021 finished runner-up to Hellen Obiri at the Great North Run.

An injury set her back at the Paris Olympic Games but is expected to bounce back at the Big Half in London on September 1 before heading to the Great North Run and then the Vitality London 10,000 on the roads of London.

Another challenger will be Sheila Chepkirui who was third behind McColgan at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in the 10,000m.

The Ethiopian charge will be led by Senbere Teferi, the former women-only 5km world record-holder with Mergetu Alemu also in the mix. British-based Kenyan Mary Ngugi-Cooper will also be competing at the event.

The men’s race will be headlined by Marc Scott who will try to reclaim the title he won in 2021. He faces a stern test from Berihu Aregawi, the Ethiopian who won the Olympic 10,000m silver.

Aregawi is a formidable opponent since he also went No.3 on the world all-time rankings for 3000m behind Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s world record in Poland.

Sisay Lemma, 2023 Boston Marathon winner Evans Chebet and Kenya’s NYC Half winner from earlier this year, Abel Kipchumba will also be in the mix.

Masai, Kiptanui spearhead Kenya's charge at Frankfurt Marathon

The 2021 Chicago Marathon second runner-up Eric Kiptanui and Beijing 2008 Olympics 10,000m bronze medalist Linet Masai will spearhead Kenya’s charge at the Frankfurt Marathon set for October 27.

Race organizers anticipate a turnout of 12,000 participants, with expectations of a thrilling, fast-paced competition.

“We are looking forward to another high-class race that will certainly hold one or two surprises. After having the fastest race in the event's history last year in terms of the two winning times added together, we are excited to see what will be possible on October 27,” said race director Jo Schindler.

During last year’s race, Brimin Kipkorir sealed the title in 2:04:53 ahead of Ethiopian duo of Mulugeta Asefa (2:06:47) and Guye Idemo (2:07:44).

In the women’s elite race, Ethiopia’s Buzunesh Getachew (2:19:27) beat Winfred Moseti (2:20:55) and Sharon Chelimo (2:22:07) to the title.

Kiptanui enters the race with an impressive resume, including half marathon victories in Berlin (58:42) and Lisbon (1:00:05) in 2018, and Barcelona in 2019 (1:01:04).

In the marathon, he boasts a title from the Xiamen and Tuscany Marathon in 2021 (2:05:47-PB). He also secured runner-up finishes in Dubai 2020 (2:06:17) and Chicago 2021 (2:06:17).

His other accolades include a victory at the 2017 Madrid 10k Road race (27:34).

His main rival will be Ethiopia’s Herpasa Negasa, who finished second at the 2022 Seoul Marathon.

Negasa holds a personal best of 2:03:40 set during the 2019 Dubai Marathon where he placed second behind compatriot Getaneh Molla (2:03:34).

The Ethiopian’s accolades include runner-up finishes at the Hengshui 2018 Marathon (2:09:14), Lyon 2015 (2:10:17) and a second runner-up finish at the 2018 Warszawa Marathon (2:11:46).

In the women’s race, Masai will face a stern challenge from 2022 Berlin Marathon third-place finisher Tigist Abayechew.

Masai brings a rich trophy cabinet that includes bronze from the Beijing 2008 Games in the 10,000m (30:26.50) and a world title in the same event from the 2009 Berlin World Championships (30:51:24).

The 34-year-old is also a gold medalist from the 2007 World Cross Country Championships and a three-time silver medalist from Amman 2009, Bydgoszcz 2010 and Punta Umbria 2011.

In the full marathon, Masai holds a lifetime best of 2:23:46 from the 2018 Amsterdam Marathon where she finished fifth.

Abayechew holds a best of 2:18:03 she set during the Berlin Marathon, where she placed third behind Rosemary Wanjiru (2:18:00) and Tigst Assefa (2:15:37).

NCAA school faces backlash over 28-year-old Kenyan freshman

This time of year, many 18 and 19-year-olds are preparing for their first year of college or university. Kenyan runner Solomon Kipchoge will be experiencing the same firsts as a 28-year-old freshman at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. Kipchoge has a half marathon best faster than the American record and will be 10 years older than the majority of the incoming NCAA recruiting class for the 2024/2025 season, which has caused a stir among athletes.

The 28-year-old holds a half-marathon personal best of 59:37, which was set at the Semi-Marathon de Lille 2023 in France (a World Athletics Elite Label road race). His personal best is faster than any time ever run by an American over the half-marathon distance. (The American record of 59:43 is held by Ryan Hall.)

The 28-year-old holds a half-marathon personal best of 59:37, which was set at the Semi-Marathon de Lille 2023 in France (a World Athletics Elite Label road race). His personal best is faster than any time ever run by an American over the half-marathon distance. (The American record of 59:43 is held by Ryan Hall.)

Although the NCAA has no restrictions on age, eligibility rules grant athletes a period of five years to complete four seasons of their sport. This means that athletes entering university at age 18 (the standard age for graduating high school) will be finished competing at age 23. Athletes who postpone the start of their post-secondary education will still be eligible at an older age–but beginning at age 28 seems like quite a stretch; the Kenyan will be competing against a field with athletes 10 years younger than himself.

Many users on Instagram are unsupportive of Kipchoge’s (very) late start to his degree in agricultural education. “It’s awesome that these guys are getting this opportunity and they should take advantage of it…With that being said, the NCAA regulations are objectively extremely flawed, and there is no reason nearly pro-caliber runners should be competing against teenagers 10+ years younger than them who are straight out of high school,” one comment reads.

Some international athletes still choose to compete in the NCAA (despite financial barriers) to take advantage of opportunities for development–but the Kenyan is already one of the fastest half-marathon runners in the world. In May, Kipchoge took fourth in an elite field at the Rimi Riga Half-Marathon, clocking 1:02:15. Already a world-class athlete, Kipchoge is unlikely to find development opportunities within NCAA-level competition.

Newly-crowned world record holder in four-hour police interrogation over feud with his father

The Olympics champion, who set a new world record at the weekend, had to endure a long grilling exercise by Norwegian authorities in a case where his father is accused of abuse.

Newly-crowned world 3,000m record holder Jakob Ingebrigtsen was interrogated by police in Norway over a case where his father Gjert Ingebrigtsen has been accused of mistreating his children.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen was grilled for four hours in Stavanger on Wednesday, his lawyer Mette Yvonne Larsen, saying it was in relation to the case of violence against a family member involving his father that took place between 2018 and 2022.

"There has been follow-up of his previous interrogations and timing of events. It has gone very smoothly,” Larsen told Norwegian media.

"Are there plans for new interrogations? Since he has now been in three long interrogations, and that there will be a subsequent reading of these, I do not think it will be relevant to re-examine him.”

When Gjert Ingebrigtsen was charged with mistreatment of one of his children, the police dropped the cases against several of the other children but the decision was overturned following an appeal by Jakob Ingebrigtsen.

The hearings would be postponed until August after the athlete sought ample time to rest and prepare for the Paris 2024 Olympics in July.

He went on to win gold in the 5,000m, after a disappointing fourth place finish in the 1,500m, and announced his intentions of finishing the season strongly by lowering the 3,000m world record at the Silesia Diamond League in Poland last weekend.

The 23-year-old smashed the 3,000m world record of 7:20.67 set by Kenya’s Daniel Komen in 1996, setting a new mark of 7:17.55, in the Polish city.

Gjert Ingebrigtsen, the father and former coach of Jakob Ingebrigtsen, was charged with one count of physical abuse against a family member by Norwegian authorities.

In October 2023, brothers Henrik, Filip and Jakob Ingebrigtsen came forward with claims of physical violence and abusive behavior by their father and former coach, who has denied all the allegations.

Eilish McColgan leads Great North Run elite line-ups

Berihu Aregawi, Sisay Lemma and former winner Marc Scott are part of a strong men’s field for the September 8 event.

Eilish McColgan’s autumn road racing steps up a gear on September 8 when she tackles the AJ Bell Great North Run.

The 33-year-old holds the British records on the roads at 5km, 10km, 10 miles and half-marathon but has not yet won the iconic 13.1-mile race during her career. She has, however, won several other Great Run events and in 2021 finished runner-up to Hellen Obiri at the Great North Run.

After an injury-hit 2023, McColgan returned this summer to make the Olympic team in Paris, finishing 15th in the 10,000m. But after several more weeks of training she is expected to be stronger as she tackles the Big Half in London on September 1 followed by the Great North Run seven days later and then the Vitality London 10,000 on the roads of London again on September 22.

At the Great North Run she will face, among others, Vivian Cheruiyot, the Great North Run winner in 2016 and 2018, plus Sheila Chepkirui, the Kenyan who was third behind McColgan when the Scot won the Commonwealth 10,000m title in 2022.

Cheruiyot, who is now 40, also won the London Marathon in 2018 and the Olympic 5000m gold in 2016.

There is also Senbere Teferi, the former women-only 5km world record-holder and 65:32 runner in the half-marathon, plus two-time London Marathon podium placer Mergetu Alemu and British-based Kenyan Mary Ngugi-Cooper.

In the men’s race Marc Scott returns to try to retain the title he won in 2021. But he faces tough opposition from Berihu Aregawi, the Ethiopian who won Olympic 10,000m silver close behind Joshua Cheptegei in Paris.

Last weekend Aregawi also went No.3 on the world all-time rankings for 3000m behind Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s world record in Poland.

Also racing on Tyneside are 2024 Boston Marathon and 2021 London Marathon winner Sisay Lemma, 2023 Boston Marathon winner Evans Chebet and Kenya’s NYC Half winner from earlier this year, Abel Kipchumba.

McColgan said: “I have incredible memories of competing in Newcastle and participating in the Junior Great North Run events over 20 years ago, and we have a family history at the Great North Run, with mum being a three-time winner, so this year’s Great North Run will be a special one for me to finally follow in my mum’s footsteps and because as I have yet to run the original route from Newcastle to South Shields.”

She added: “Returning from this year’s Paris Olympics and on the road back from injury, I’m especially looking forward to the thousands of spectators lining the streets of the North East, as well as the 60,000 inspirational runners taking part in their own journey.”

McColgan’s best half-marathon time is 65:43 set in Berlin last year. Paula Radcliffe has run three seconds quicker – at the Great North Run in 2003 – but the course is not eligible for records.

This year’s run will also welcome back the elite men’s and women’s wheelchair races, held to the backdrop of this year’s Paralympic Games closing ceremony in Paris.  Notable competitors include JohnBoy Smith, Sean Frame, Michel McCabe and Jade Hall.

Sir Brendan Foster, founder of the Great North Run, said: “Our fantastic spectators are once again in for a great day thanks to our impressive elite field at the top end of our Great North Run Sunday.

Olympic Champion Cheptegei at the start of Dam tot Damloop

Strong field of participants at the 38th edition  of Dam tot Damloop.

Olympic Champion Joshua Cheptegei will be at the start of the Dam tot Damloop on Sunday 22 September. The champion in the 10,000 meters smashed the Olympic record in Paris this summer and has now been set by sports organization Le Champion for the Dam tot Damloop.Last year's Kenyan winner Mathew Kimeli, Muktar Edris (ETH) and Isaac Kipkemboi (KEN) are formidable opponents and make this year's field very strong.

In the women's race, the battle will be between Kenyan Cintia Chepngeno and Ethiopians Dibabe Beyene, Biri Abera and Mebrat Gidey.The 27-year-old Cheptegei has a well-stocked trophy cabinet and there is a good chance that many more titles will be added, as the Ugandan runner indicated earlier this year that he wants to shift his focus from the track to road races.

With both the current world record in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters, he is also the absolute favorite for the 38th edition of the Dam tot Damloop. Cheptegei about his participation: 'This year was very successful for me with winning gold at the last Olympic Games. After spending some time with my family, I am happy to return to racing in the, for me, familiar streets of Amsterdam and Zaandam.

I have already run the Dam tot Damloop three times, the last time was in 2018 when I won. I'm going for the title again.'CompetitionIn 2018, he won the running event that starts in Amsterdam and finishes in Zaandam in 45.15 minutes. Competition will mainly come from Kenyan Kimeli, who made her debut last year and won in 45.20 minutes. Together with the Ethiopian former world record holder in the 5,000 meters Edris and the Kenyan Kipkemboi, the race will be hard.

In the women'srace, Chepngeno and Beyene will compete with Abera and Gidey. Chepngeno's fast legs are fine, the Kenyan recorded the 10 kilometers in Valencia in 30.08 minutes this year.

Dam tot DamloopThe 10 English Miles of the Dam tot Damloop is extremely popular this year.

Within a few weeks, the registration was completely sold out.

At the moment there are only starting tickets available for the Damloop by night, which will take place on Saturday evening 21 September. Registration is open until Monday 9 September. A total of 65,000 runners will be in action during the Dam tot Damloop.

Eisa runs championship record to retain world U20 5000m title in Lima

On a cool, crisp evening in the Peruvian capital on Tuesday (27), Ethiopia’s Medina Eisa turned up the heat on her rivals to successfully defend her 5000m title, the highlight of the first day of action at the World Athletics U20 Championships Lima 24. 

Eisa’s winning time of 14:39.71 carved more than 28 seconds off the championship record set by Genzebe Dibaba, which had stood since 2010, and brought her home well clear of her compatriot Mekedes Alemeshete. The two broke away from the field from the outset and alternated pace-setting duties, passing 2000m in 5:58.59 with a 40-meter lead. 

By 3000m, reached in 8:57.28, they’d built a 70-meter lead and from there it only extended, with Eisa breaking clear of her compatriot with three and a half laps to run and lapping most of the field to hand women’s 5000m gold to Ethiopia for the eighth time in the last nine editions.

“I'm very happy with this win and to achieve a championship record after the Olympics,” said Eisa, who finished seventh in the 5000m in Paris. “I wanted to be a champion, I have wanted this for months.” 

Alemeshete followed her home in 14:57.44, with Uganda’s Charity Cherop getting bronze in a PB of 15:25.02. 

The men’s 5000m proved a very different race, with some early moves proving inconsequential and the final boiling down to a sprint finish, with seven clustered together at the bell. As the contenders hit full speed on the final turn it was Kenya’s Andrew Kiptoo Alamisi who soon took flight like a bird, soaring to victory in 13:41.14 ahead of Ethiopia’s Abdisa Fayisa (13:41.56) and Uganda’s Keneth Kiprop (13:41.73). 

Australia reigned supreme in the mixed 4x400m final, their quartet of Jordan Gilbert, Bella Pasquali, Jack Deguara and Sophia Gregorevic controlling the race and hitting the line comfortably in front in an Oceanian record of 3:19.27. Poland claimed silver in 3:20.44 with China coming through strongly for bronze in 3:21.27 courtesy of a big final leg from Liu Yinglan. 

In the men’s shot put, it was no surprise to see gold go to the Netherlands for the first time in 24 years, but it wasn’t the thrower many were expecting, with Dutch U20 record-holder Yannick Rolvink – who topped the entry lists by more than a metre – finishing fifth with 19.88m.

It was his teammate, Jarno van Daalen, who shone brightest, the 18-year-old adding 36cm to his lifetime best with his opening round effort of 20.76m. That was a mark no one else could match in the subsequent rounds, though South Africa’s JL van Rensburg came close, launching a PB of 20.74m in the final round for silver. Germany’s Georg Harpf took bronze with 20.28m. 

With four events completed in the heptathlon, Croatia’s Jana Koscak tops the standings with 3536 points, the 2022 European U18 champion adding to her 13.80 hurdles performance and 1.81m high jump earlier in the day with a 12.01m shot put and 25.12 200m in the afternoon session. 

Second overnight is Switzerland’s Lucia Acklin, who rocketed up the standings during the latter part of the day after throwing 13.42m in the shot put and clocking a PB of 24.42 in the 200m. That leaves her on 3472 points. Australia’s Mia Scerri sits third with 3385, closely followed by Czechia’s Adela Tkacova who is fourth with 3351, aided by her season’s best of 24.14 in the 200m.

"It's been a long day, but I'm happy," said Koscak. "I ran a solid 200m, a good high jump, but the hurdles and shot put could have been a little better. It's been a long process because I've been travelling a lot, with climate changes, times zones. This is the World Championships so I'm not going to complain."

In the women’s 100m semifinals, Jamaica’s Alana Reid was highly impressive when winning in 11.44 (-0.3m/s), easing off the gas far from the line to beat Nigeria’s Justina Tiana Eyakpobeyan (11.56) and Aleksandra Stoilova of Australia (11.58), who also advanced. Kishawna Niles of Barbados and Britain’s Nia Wedderburn-Goodison were the quickest qualifiers, both clocking 11.39 in the first semifinal ahead of South Africa’s Viwe Jingqi (11.49). Germany’s Chelsea Kadiri won the third semifinal in 11.52 ahead of Adaejah Hodge of the British Virgin Islands (11.59). 

Thailand’s Puripol Bonsoon, who finished fourth in this event two years ago, was the quickest qualifier for the men’s 100m final, clocking 10.30 (-0.6m/s) in the semifinals to edge South Africa’s Bradley Nkoana by one thousandth of a second. Jamaica’s Gary Card qualified in third with 10.39.

Deandre Daley of Jamaica powered to victory in the first semifinal in 10.34 (-0.9m/s) with Japan’s Naoki Nishioka taking the second automatic spot in 10.43. South Africa’s Bayanda Walaza recovered from an early stumble to win the third semifinal in 10.33 (-0.2m/s) ahead of Britain’s Teddy Wilson (10.35) and China’s He Jinxian (10.36), who also advanced. 

China’s Wang Xiaobo led the way in men’s javelin qualification, launching 73.83m with Slovenia’s Tom Tersek next best with 73.37m ahead of Germany’s Oskar Janicke (73.02m). Ukraine’s Illia Saievskyi was the only other thrower to surpass the 72.50m automatic qualification mark.

In women's pole vault qualification, the automatic qualifying mark of 4.25m wasn't necessary and four athletes cleared 4.10m with faultless performances. One vault was all it took for USA's Molly Haywood to make the final as she entered at 4.10m and cleared that first time. She'll be joined by athletes including Estonia's Miia Tillmann, Australia's Tryphena Hewett and Austria's Magdalena Rauter.

The women’s 3000m steeplechase heats saw a dominant performance from race favourite Sembo Almayew who coasted to victory in 9:30.59 ahead of Kenya’s Diana Chepkemoi and Uganda’s Nancy Chepkwurui (9:49.06). Ethiopia’s Firehiwot Gesese eased to victory in the other heat in 10:00.96 ahead of Uganda’s Loice Chekwemoi (10:01.85) and Kenya’s Sharon Chepkemoi (10:07.59). 

Faith Kipyegon confirms next stop as she gears up for tough test in Brussels

Faith Kipyegon has revealed her next spot as she gears up for title defence at the Diamond League Meeting final in Brussels.

Three-time Olympic 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon headlines a stacked field in the women’s 1500m at the Diamond League Meeting in Rome scheduled for Friday, August 30.

Kipyegon will be racing for the first time after a quite dramatic Paris Olympic Games that saw her almost lose her silver in the women’s 5000m. Kipyegon was shortly disqualified for obstruction and her medal was stripped but Athletics Kenya officials filed an appeal and it was later reinstated.

Going into the women’s 5000m, Kipyegon knew she had her work cut out and put in the work to ensure she defended her title for the third time. She first won the title at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games before winning the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

She now heads to Rome with a lot of confidence in winning the race as she gears up for the Diamond League Meeting final in Brussels. She enters the race with a ton of experience as she claimed two gold medals at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, winning the 1500m and 5000m.

Kipyegon, widely regarded as one of the greatest 1500m runners of all time, will face off against a strong Ethiopian cast but the Kenyan never disappoints when it comes to showing up on the global stage.

The race in Rome will be her second Diamond League of the season after she improved her previous world record in a blistering time of 3:49.04 to win the Diamond League Meeting in Paris.

She goes up against home talent Nadia Battocletti, the Olympic 10,000m silver medalist and a two-time European champion. Battocletti also placed fourth in Paris, in the 5000m. Sintayehu Vissa and Ludovica Cavalli will also be in the mix.

In the line-up, Ethiopians Diribe Welteji, Birke Haylom, Worknesh Mesele, and Nigist Getachew will be out to showcase their prowess.

Ethiopia’s Roza Dereje To Race 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

Roza Dereje has raced just once in the last three years yet her commitment to the 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is a massive coup for this World Athletics Elite Label Race.

Twice she has dipped under the 2:20 barrier and can point to a personal best marathon time of 2:18:30 set when she won the 2019 Valencia Marathon.

Moreover, she represented Ethiopia in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic marathon - held in Sapporo, Japan in 2021. Under hot humid conditions she narrowly missed the podium finishing 4th that day. Then there is her incredible record at World Marathon Majors: a second place finish at the 2018 Chicago Marathon (2:21:18) and, six months later, a third place in the 2019 London Marathon (2:20:51).

Her one outing was a credible 6th place finish at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon in Northern Ireland (August 25th, 2024) - a tuneup for her first visit to Canada.

Never before has the Toronto Waterfront Marathon enjoyed the addition of an athlete sporting such credentials.

There is a good explanation for her hiatus from the sport ever since those Tokyo Olympics. A little over a year ago she gave birth to her first child, a son named Yobsan.

“Life has changed a lot,” the 27 year old admits. “Being a mom is a great thing to be in this world and life is so good after it.”

Roza’s husband is Dereje Ali, a former world class marathon runner, who finished second in the 2011 Ottawa Marathon. The couple and their infant live in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa and have reversed traditional roles in their household. Indeed, Roza credits her husband’s sacrifice for her ability to compete at the highest level and to make her comeback at this year’s TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

“He stopped running just to support me,” she explains. “We talked about it and he stopped to take care of the children and household and allow me the time to rest and recover in between training sessions and to prepare food etc. to help me to be a champion.”

Those training sessions involve meeting up with her elite training group under renowned coach Haji Adilo three times a week. She trains alone on other days. The meetups can be in a variety of different locations depending upon Haji’s objective for the session.

“Akaki, Sendafa, Entoto, they are great training places too,” Roza continues. “I drive with my husband Dereje to all of the sessions. We are very fortunate to have a good car and can travel freely to the sessions and not have to wait on public transportation.”

Normally, training sessions begin at sunrise before there is heavy traffic on the roads at these locations. During the rainy season (June to September) it is sometimes necessary to change locations since the majority of roads are unpaved and can become slippery underfoot.

Besides the sacrifices made by Dereje her greatest influence has been Haji her longtime coach whose career as a marathon runner was cut short due to health complications. He went into coaching with a personal best of 2:12:25 from 1999.

“Haji's great support has taken me this far, his hard work and commitment to the sport is what brings me to where I am now,” she declares. “I started my career with him and I am who I am today because of him and my other coaches in the team.”

Choosing Toronto for her come back made sense as many of Haji’s athletes have competed here.

"I used to watch other athletes running there (on YouTube livestream) so I am excited to come and run,” she adds. “Last year one of my training partners (Amid Fozya Jemal) was part of an exciting race right to the finish so I am hoping to come and make an exciting race too.”

The Toronto Waterfront course record of 2:22:16 was set in 2019 by Kenya’s Magdalyne Masai. It’s a time that Roza had beaten four times prior to her Olympic marathon race in 2021. However, talk of record breaking in Toronto, at least this far out, is not discussed though she might be very capable of achieving this standard.

“Even though it is my first time to race since I gave birth, running is not new to me,” she declares. “So I am not nervous about it. I am preparing well for the race to make my come back fruitful.

“I am training well targeting this race and I have more time to prepare myself too.”

Asked for a specific goal her answer is concise: “Winning, with the will of God!”

Mainova Frankfurt Marathon on 27th October: Negasa, Kiptanui, Masai and Abayechew look for new momentum in Frankfurt

A group of athletes who have achieved world-class results in different events in the past want to use the fast course of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon to give their careers new momentum. Among the runners targeting fast times is Ethoipia’s Herpasa Negasa, who became the eighth fastest ever at the Dubai Marathon 2019, and Kenya’s 2009 World 10,000m Champion Linet Masai.

The 41st edition of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon on 27th October is a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race. Organisers expect a total of over 25,000 athletes for their event, among them around 12,000 marathon runners. 

“We look forward to another high-class race which could well produce surprises. After achieving the fastest combined winning time in the history of our race last year we are eager to see what will be possible on 27th October,“ said Race Director Jo Schindler.

Herpasa Negasa achieved a breakthrough at the Dubai Marathon 2019, when the Ethiopian was runner-up in a world-class time of 2:03:40. Two years ago he clocked another very good time in Seoul where he ran 2:04:49 and placed second once more. Now the 30 year-old intends to reach those levels again. Herpasa Negasa belongs to what currently is probably the world’s strongest marathon training group. Coached by Gemedu Dedefo in Addis Ababa Olympic Champion Tamirat Tola and current Boston winner Sisay Lemma are among his training partners.

Eric Kiptanui will be among Herpasa Negasa’s strongest challengers. As a newcomer he immediately established himself as one of the fastest half marathon runners of 2018. First the Kenyan took the Lisbon Half Marathon, then he ran a 58:42 course record in Berlin that still stands today. During a Corona lockdown he won one of very few high-class marathon races in Siena, Italy, in 2021 with 2:05:47. Despite fine results in Chicago 2021 (3rd) and Boston 2022 (5th) he could not yet improve his time from Siena. After a weaker year in 2023 the 34 year-old now wants to bounce back in Frankfurt.

For Linet Masai the Mainova Frankfurt-Marathon could be one of her last chances and may be the best one to achieve a late breakthrough in the marathon. The 34 year-old is the 10,000m World Champion from 2009 and won an Olympic bronze medal over this distance in 2008.

From 2009 to 2011 she took three silver medals in a row in the highly competitive World Cross Country Championships. However after a fine 2:23:46 debut in Amsterdam in 2018 (without the benefit of the new shoe technology) she was not able to build on this performance. In Frankfurt Linet Masai wants to finally break her PB. 

Tigist Abayechew will be among the favourites on 27th October. Two years ago the 30 year-old Ethiopian smashed her personal best and improved to 2:18:03 for third place. After a break due to an injury she came back with a ninth place in Tokyo this March. Tigist Abayechew will now want to cross the line first in Frankfurt’s indoor finish at the Festhalle.

Chepngetich shatters Buenos Aires record as Kenyans dominate races

2019 World Marathon champion Ruth Chepngetich blazed through the Buenos Aires Half Marathon on Sunday, setting a new course record of 1:05:58.

Chepngetich broke the previous record of 1:06:10, held by Ethiopia’s Ababel Yeshaneh, who claimed the title last year.

Alemaddis Eyayu finished second with a time of 1:07:04 while Joyce Chepkemoi rounded out the podium clocking 1:07:35.

Veronica Loleo secured fourth in 1:08:09, with Dorcas Jepchirchir coming in seventh at 1:09:03 and Sandrafelis Chebet finishing 11th in 1:12:19.

Chepngetich improved on her previous appearance in the half marathon, where she placed third in 1:06:18, trailing Ethiopia’s Yashaneh (1:06:10) and Gutemi Shone (1:06:12).

In the men’s event, Ethiopia’s Gerba Dibaba outshined the Kenyan contingent, clinching the crown in 1:00:24.

Kenya's Cosmas Mwangi (1:00:25), Richard Yator (1:00:44), Bernard Biwott (1:00:53), Gideon Kiprotich (1:00:54) and Isaac Kipkemboi (1:01:06)followed in that order. 

Mwangi improved on his third-place finish from last year, where he clocked 59:29 behind Roncer Konga (59:08) and Felix Kipkoech (59:28).

Yehualaw clinches third Antrim Coast Half victory

Ethiopian Yalemzerf Yehualaw secured a third win in the Antrim Coast Half Marathon women's event as Kenya's Alex Nzioka Matata earned men's victory.

Yehualaw, who won the 2022 London Marathon, was well clear by halfway and her finishing time of 65 minutes and 34 seconds in wet and windy conditions left her one minute and 16 seconds clear of compatriot Loice Chemnung.

2021 London Marathon winner Joyciline Jepkosgei was expected to be Yehualaw's main challenger but had to settle for third place a minute and 33 seconds off the pace.

Amid the inclement weather on the 13-mile course in and around Larne, Yehualaw's winning time was well outside her personal best of 63:51.

Yehualaw, 25, thought she had set a new world record in her first run in the Northern Ireland event in 2021 after crossing the line in 63:44 but that time was not ratified after the course was found to be 54 metres short.

In the men's race, Nzioka Matata, 27, produced a brilliant run in the awful weather conditions to break 60 minutes as he clocked 59 minutes and 48 seconds.

The Kenyan's time was only 11 seconds outside his personal best set when he won the Padova Half Marathon in Italy earlier this year.

Nzioka Matata's winning time left 41 seconds ahead of compatriot Hillary Kipkoech (60:29) with Ethiopia's twice Tokyo Marathon winner Birhanu Legese a further one second back in third place.

The winner broke clear of the world's sixth fastest ever marathon runner Legese just after halfway and was never threatened thereafter.

Out of this world!

Jakob Ingebrigtsen obliterates the 3000m world record at the Memoriał Kamili Skolimowskiej with 7:17.55.  

He goes more than 3 seconds faster than the previous world record!

Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen shattered the world 3000m record in the Silesia Diamond League on Sunday (25) afternoon with 7:17.55 to become the first athlete in history to break the 7:20-barrier for the seven-and-a-half lap distance. 

The Olympic 5000m champion slashed more than three seconds off the previous mark of 7:20.67 which had stood to Kenya’s Daniel Komen since 1996, the longest standing world record in an individual men’s track event.

But the 23-year-old Norwegian took the record into uncharted territory, churning out the last two laps in 57.46 and 55.47 respectively - 1:52.93 for the last 800 metres - to break away from Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi and take a significant chunk of 3.12 seconds off Komen’s enduring record.

“It feels special, amazing. I was hoping to challenge the world record here but based on my training, I can never predict exactly what kind of time I am capable of. I would not have imagined I could run 7:17, though,” said Ingebrigtsen.

. “I would not have imagined I could run 7:17, though. At the beginning the pace felt really fast, but then I started to feel my way into the race and found a good rhythm.

“[The] 3,000 is a tough distance,” continued Ingebrigtsen. “After four-five laps you feel the lactic acid, but you need to get going. The conditions were difficult with the heat today, but it is the same for everyone. Now I want to challenge world records at all distances, but it is one step at a time.”

He finished ahead of a trio of Ethiopians, with the Paris Olympics 10,000m silver medallist, Berihu Aregawi. second in a personal best and the third-fastest time in history (7:21.28). Yomif Kejelcha was third.

Three days ago, the Norwegian had exacted a small measure of revenge over the American Cole Hocker by winning the men’s 1500m in Lausanne in 3:27.83, two weeks after Hocker shocked the Olympic field to win gold in Paris.

He won $50,000 for setting the record.  

Why David Rudisha believes Emmanuel Wanyonyi is destined to break his 800m world record

Wanyonyi got to within an eighth-hundredth of a second away from equalling David Rudisha's 12-year 800m world record at the Lausanne Diamond League classic on Thursday.

When David Rudisha tipped Emmanuel Wanyonyi as the athlete most likely to break his 12-year-old 800m world record during the Kenyan trials for the Olympic Games at Nyayo National Stadium last June, it wasn’t just a casual remark. 

Rudisha’s prediction is now gathering weight, especially after Wanyonyi clocked a blistering 1:41.11 at the Lausanne Diamond League meet in Switzerland on Thursday. 

This time not only equaled Wilson Kipketer’s record but also placed Wanyonyi second on the all-time list, just eight hundredths of a second away from Rudisha’s world record of 1:40.91 set at the 2012 London Olympics.

“Wanyonyi is a young talented athlete. He has so much potential, and all he needs to do is fine-tune his craft, and this will see him push his time even lower,” Rudisha had told the media last June.

Rudisha, who knows a thing or two about world records, added, “He always shows his bravery and confidence whenever he steps on the track, and that has been the secret behind his success. 

“World records are special. We are looking forward to seeing how the young generation is going to take up the challenge. Of course, there is a lot of innovation, and it improves performances. We believe that world records are there to be broken.”

Wanyonyi’s stunning performance in Lausanne has made him a force to be reckoned with in the world of athletics. 

His time of 1:41.11 ties him with Kipketer and positions him as the most serious threat to Rudisha’s reign in the 800m. At just 20 years old, Wanyonyi’s rise to the top has been meteoric, and his determination to succeed mirrors that of Rudisha.

Rudisha himself had an illustrious career, beginning as a decathlete before switching to sprints and later focusing on the 800m in 2005. Just a year later, he won the 800m title at the World U20 Championships in Beijing, clocking 1:47.40.

In 2008, he claimed the African senior title in Addis Ababa with a time of 1:44.20. Then, on August 22, 2010, Rudisha set his first world record in Berlin, running 1:41.09 and breaking Kipketer’s 1997 mark. 

Seven days later, he improved his record to 1:41.01 in Rieti. Rudisha continued his dominance by winning the world 800m title in Daegu in 2011, reclaiming it in Beijing in 2015, and becoming the first man since Peter Snell to retain the Olympic 800m title in Rio in 2016.

Now, Wanyonyi is carving out his own legacy. At 20, he became the youngest-ever Olympic 800m champion, leading a race of unprecedented depth in Paris.

He held off Canada’s Marco Arop, the reigning world champion, who briefly took the lead off the final turn before Wanyonyi surged back in the final steps. Arop finished with a North American record of 1:41.20 for silver, while Algeria’s Djamel Sedjati claimed bronze in 1:41.50.

Reflecting on his victory, Wanyonyi said, “It was going to be hard to defend as the only Kenyan in the final. I had a lot of pressure. I spoke to Rudisha yesterday, who told me I would win if I employed my tactics. I decided to run the way he did in London. If I had run a slow race, they would have beaten me.”

Although Wanyonyi didn’t quite match Rudisha’s record, he is keen on having another go at it when the Diamond League moves to Silesia, Poland, this Sunday. 

While he has remained modest about his world-record ambitions, saying, “Maybe, but not now,” the Diamond League offers the perfect stage for him to make history. The Wavelight technology, which has been instrumental in helping athletes maintain pace, will also be in use, providing Wanyonyi with every opportunity to push the boundaries.

Wanyonyi is no stranger to breaking records. At 19, he shattered the previous one-mile (1,600m) record of 3:56.13 set by American Hobbs Kessler at the World Road Running Championships in Riga, Latvia, last year. 

With Rudisha as his role model and mentor, Wanyonyi is poised to continue his upward trajectory and possibly eclipse the mark set by the man he so deeply admires.

As the athletics world watches, the question on everyone’s mind is not if, but when, Emmanuel Wanyonyi will break the 800m world record. And when that day comes, it will be the culmination of a journey inspired by greatness and driven by the relentless pursuit of excellence.

WAGANESH MEKASHA RETURNS TO TCS TORONTO WATERFRONT MARATHON

Ethiopian marathon star Waganesh Mekasha has unfinished business at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and returns with the intent of achieving victory in this World Athletics Elite Label Race, October 20th.

A year ago she went toe to toe with her compatriot Buze Diriba finishing one second behind Buze’s winning time of 2:23:11. Second place on that occasion was bittersweet.

“Yes it is frustrating to lose by a second,” she admits. “I prepared well and wanted to take the course record. Unfortunately it did not happen. I thought if we had a strong pacemaker I would win that race because at 35km I was so comfortable.

“I had to go all out and sprint to make the podium. If the girls helped me I wanted to push from 35 km after the pacer dropped out.”

Waganesh has known Buze since they were both members of the Ethiopian junior team competing at the 2011 World Cross Country Championships in Punta Umbria, Spain. On that occasion Waganesh finished 4th overall to help her country win the gold medal while Buze was 10th.

“We are not friends and we do not train together; but we see each other in different training locations,” Waganeshsays of their relationship.

Aside from missing out on the $20,000 first place prize money - she collected $10,000 for second - Waganesh’srecollections of her initial visit to Toronto are all positive. 

"Toronto is such a beautiful city,” she declares. “The crowds are amazing and we had a beautiful racing experience.

“The race was fantastic but the pacers did not do as we needed. After 35k I wanted to push but the (other two) ladies did not help. That’s why we three had to finish in a sprint.”

The third-place finisher on the day was another Ethiopian, Afera Godfay, who finished in 2:23:15. The four seconds separating the top 3 was an anomaly in marathon racing and made for a dramatic finish although, clearly, Waganesh has another perspective.

Waganesh was able to explore downtown Toronto on her first visit albeit while keeping close to her hotel so as not to expend unnecessary energy.  A shopping excursion to a nearby mall was one outing she prioritized - to buy clothes for her children.

“I did go shopping to buy clothes for my children. And I did see my friends (Canadian residents),” she confirms.

Like most Ethiopian runners she runs to help support her family which is comprised of her two young children, Benjamin, 7, and Amen, 4 and her husband, Anwar Arega.

“I want to give them a better opportunity,” Waganeshexplains. “But I do not encourage them to be a runner. I want them to do what they enjoy.

“My husband is always on my side. He drives me to training, cooks me food and, if necessary, he acts as my physio. Generally he is always there to help me push beyond my limit.”

Along with her training partners and, under the guidance of legendary Ethiopian coach Getamesay Molla, she has already begun her buildup for Toronto Waterfront. Her personal best marathon remains the 2:22:45 she ran at the 2019 Dubai Marathon. Could this be the year she surpasses it?

Experience counts immensely in marathon racing and at the age of 32 she has plenty. On her first visit to Canada she was the 2023 Ottawa Marathon champion. More recently, on February 25th of this year, she won the Osaka Marathon in 2:24:20. 

Like many athletes who have raced Toronto Waterfront she continues to eye the course record of 2:22:16 set by Kenya’s Magdalyne Masai in 2019.

“I know the course now and want to come back stronger,” she declares. “If things go as I wish and, if we have a strong pacemaker, I will do my best to break the course record and run fast and win the race. I do believe i will run faster than that (record).”

Asked about her running future she is clear: “Age is a number, I do believe I will have another ten years ahead.”

Winfred Yavi's Bahrain heavily sanctioned by World Athletics following multiple accounts of doping scandals

Bahrain have been heavily sanctioned by World Athletics over doping scandals which will heavily impact their athletes, including Kenyan-born Olympic champion Winfred Yavi.

The World Athletics Council has approved a series of corrective actions against the Bahrain Athletics Association (BAA) following historical breaches of the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules (ADR). 

This decision comes after an 18-month investigation by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), which uncovered serious violations linked to doping practices within the BAA.

The investigation was triggered by doping infractions involving two Bahraini athletes at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, where both were found guilty of homologous blood transfusions. 

Additionally, it was discovered that the BAA had employed a coach between 2019 and 2021 who was banned from the sport for prior anti-doping violations.

Acting negligently and recklessly in relation to doping, thereby damaging the reputation of World Athletics and the sport as a whole.

Failing to conduct proper due diligence when hiring athlete support personnel, which increased the risk of doping within the national team.

In response, the BAA admitted to the charges and has cooperated with the AIU throughout the process. As a result, the following sanctions and corrective measures have been imposed:

1.Restricted Participation: The BAA's involvement in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo 2025 will be limited to a maximum of 10 athletes, a move that could impact stars like Winfred Yavi and others.

2.12-Month Ban: The BAA will be barred from participating in any other World Athletics Series events for a period of 12 months starting from June 1, 2024.

3.Transfer Freeze: The BAA will not be allowed to apply for transfers of allegiance or recruit any foreign athletes until 2027, marking a significant shift in the association’s recruitment strategy. Yavi is one of many athletes who were recruited from other countries.

4. $7.3 Million Investment: The BAA is required to invest up to $7.3 million over the next four years in measures aimed at addressing doping and integrity issues. This includes the implementation of a detailed strategic plan and operational roadmap (SPOR), developed in coordination with the AIU, to overhaul the federation’s governance and management practices.

5. Establishment of a National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO): Bahrain will establish a WADA-compliant NADO, fully funded by the government until at least 2026. This organization has already been operational for a year, marking a significant step forward in managing doping risks.

6. Talent Development Academy: The BAA will create and fund a talent academy focused on nurturing local athletes, signaling a shift towards developing homegrown talent rather than relying heavily on foreign recruits.

7. AIU Costs: The BAA will cover the AIU’s costs associated with the investigation and the supervision of the SPOR implementation.

David Howman, Chair of the Athletics Integrity Unit, praised the BAA’s leadership for their cooperation and proactive steps in addressing the federation’s failings.

 “The BAA, to its great credit, has displayed genuine contrition about its past wrongdoings and commitment to change,” Howman said. He highlighted the establishment of a new NADO in Bahrain as a particularly significant achievement for clean sport.

Despite the BAA's past shortcomings, the AIU acknowledged that the federation's senior leadership was not involved in deliberate rule breaches and expressed satisfaction with the outcome, which aims to balance punitive measures with the goal of fostering real change within Bahrain's athletics landscape.

As Bahrain's athletes, including World Champion steeplechaser Winfred Yavi, prepare for the upcoming international competitions, the repercussions of these sanctions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the nation’s athletic programs.

Chebet shrugs off threat from Tola as he seeks to recapture New York title

Two-time Boston Marathon champion Evans Chebet is unfazed by the presence of Olympic marathon champion Tamirat Tola in his quest to recapture the New York Marathon title on November 3.

Tola secured the Olympic marathon crown with a record time of 2:06:26,  beating Belgium’s Bashir Abdi (2:06:47) and Benson Kipruto (2:07:00).

The Ethiopian is the reigning New York Marathon champion after setting a course record time of 2:04:58 during last year’s edition, edging out Albert Korir (2:06:57) and Shura Kitata (2:07:11).

However, Chebet is confident Tola will not pose a threat to him in New York. “Tola won’t be a threat to my New York ambitions. I’ve raced this course before and I know the strategies I need to secure another win,” Chebet said.

Chebet secured the New York title in 2022 after cutting the tape in 2:08:41 ahead of Kitata (2:08:54) and Netherlands Abdi Nageeye (2:10:31).

The 35-year-old also reckons Tola will not have sufficient recovery time which is instrumental ahead of the race.

“Tola just raced in Paris and with two months until New York, I don’t think he will have sufficient recovery time which is crucial,” Chebet explained.

After battling a ruptured tendon that cost him his Boston title earlier this year, Chebet assures that he’s back to full fitness.

“I have now fully recovered. My body is feeling fine and I am ready for the task ahead,” he noted.

Chebet walked into the April Boston Marathon as the reigning champion but failed to defend his crown after finishing third in 2:07:22— trailing the Ethiopian duo of Sisay Lemma (2:06:17) and Mohamed Esa (2:06:58).

To ensure he is in top form, Chebet revealed that his training consists of 32km runs daily. “I do 32km daily runs—20km in the morning and 12km in the evening,” he noted.

Joining Chebet on the New York startline will be Korir, two-time champion Geoffrey Kamworor and 2021 Valencia Half Marathon winner Abel Kipchumba.

Chebet believes the trio has the potential to deliver a Kenyan podium sweep. “Kamworor, Korir, and Kipchumba are strong competitors. We’re capable of a clean sweep through teamwork,” Chebet noted.

The men’s elite race will also see Olympic silver medallist Bashir Abdi and a strong American contingent, including Conner Mantz, Clayton Young and Noah Droddy, vying for top honours.

On the women’s side, Olympic marathon bronze medallist Hellen Obiri will defend her New York crown, leading a formidable Kenyan lineup that includes 2016 Olympic 5,000m champion Vivian Cheruiyot, two-time Boston Marathon champion Edna Kiplagat, and 2022 champion Sharon Lokedi.

Obiri secured the title last year with a time of 2:27:23, beating Letesenbet Gidey of Ethiopia (2:27:29) and Sharon Lokedi (2:27:33). Their stiffest competition will likely come from Ethiopia’s three-time Olympic champion Tirunesh Dibaba.

Antrim Coast Half Marathon: Yehualaw returns despite 2021 world record blow

Yalemzerf Yehualaw returns to the Antrim Coast Half Marathon a year after seemingly breaking the women's world record only to learn weeks later that the course had been 54 metres short.

Race director James McIlroy is guaranteeing there will be no repeat of last year's hiccup which meant the Ethiopian's time could not be ratified.

"You don't want to blame Covid but it certainly was a factor," says McIlroy.

"The protocol is to measure the course twice but we were unable to do that."

"We couldn't get anyone to fly here before the race to do the measurement [because of the Covid situation] so we had to do it post the race.

"The frustration is that with 50 metres short, if you add 10 seconds on, 65% of the elite race would still have run a personal best and Yalemzerf would still have been the first woman to run under 64 minutes.

"But she's back again in good shape and the course is ratified and measured correctly."

Course even faster this year - McIlroy

Indeed, McIlroy believes course tweaks this year could lead to Yalemzerf going even faster than the 63 minutes and 44 seconds she clocked last year - although the 23-year-old will have to go some to break the world mark of 62:52 set by compatriot Letesenbet Gidey in Valencia last October.

Yalemzerf's own time of 63:51 set as she finished runner-up that day remains the second fastest time in history but the 59 seconds to Gidey's world mark is a huge amount - even in half marathon terms.

McIlroy admits the UK all-comers half marathon record of 65:52 set by Kenyan Edith Chelimo in Cardiff five years ago will be a more realistic target for Yalemzerf and several of other leading ladies.

"We think we've made the course even faster," added former Great Britain Olympic 800m athlete McIlroy.

"We've taken out the section in the harbour so we've taken out one tight turn and going around the roundabout clockwise instead of anti-clockwise should also help the athletes."

While Yalemzerf, 23, will be a strong favourite, the presence of her compatriots and training partners Tsehay Gemechu [PB 65:08] and Gete Alemayehu [PB 66:37] should ensure that she has competitive company in the early stages as opposed to merely her male pacemakers.

Last year, Yehualaw finished more than six minutes ahead of Kenyan runner-up Vane Nyanamba.

2021 men's winner Jemal Yimer is also back in the Larne field and will again be the man to beat give his outstanding personal best of 58:33 set in 2018, which is 49 seconds quicker than the next fastest competitor, compatriot Tesfahun Akalnew.

Yimer was three seconds outside Sir Mo Farah's course record of 60:27 set in 2020 when he triumphed 12 months ago.

Akalnew finished one second behind his compatriot 12 months ago and is again back in the field along with last year's third placer Shadrack Kimining of Kenya.

With the field also including sub-60 minute men Ethiopians Huseydin Mohamed and Gizealew Ayana, organiser McIlroy is very optimistic that the one-hour barrier will be broken for the first time on Irish soil, with Geoffrey Kamworor's UK all-comers mark of 59:10 from 2016 possibly also in danger.

Englishman Marc Scott finished only five seconds behind Yimer in fourth spot 12 months ago and will be joined in the field by fellow British Olympian Callum Hawkins, whose has a half marathon best of exactly 60 minutes.

With Ireland's Tokyo competitor Stephen Scullion a late withdrawal from Sunday's race, Irish male hopefuls David Mansfield and Paul O'Donnell will both be aiming to improve their respective personal best of 63:23 and 63:37.

The women's event could see a good domestic battle for top-10 finishes between Emma Mitchell, Fionnuala Ross and Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games competitor this summer, Hannah Irwin.

The Eamonn Christie-coached Mitchell is the fifth fastest in the women's field on lifetime bests behind the African contingent with a 72:28 mark set in Valencia in 2019, while Ross has clocked 73:08 and Irwin 73:23.

The mass race in the event which starts and finishes in Larne will have around 6,000 competitors with McIlroy delighted to report "entrants from 19 countries this year".

Jackson wins gold at World Masters Athletics championships

Charles Jackson’s first time overseas was a golden trip. 

He flew to Gothenburg, Sweden last week and will return Tuesday as a world champion. He won the gold in the 100-meter dash at the World Masters Athletics Stadia Championship, running in the 35-39 age group. 

“I feel honored and humbled,” Jackson said. “Honored because of the experience around other people from all over the world with the same passion and goal. Humbling to know the work that it gook to get here. I was not seeded as the top runner, so taking gold was amazing.

“(I enjoyed) seeing the 8,000 athletes from all over the world with the same passion that I had and seeing all the athletes from different countries coming together in peace and unity.”

 His world title was a photo finish. He had a strong start in the finals Thursday but the rest of the field started to catch up in the final meters. When he crossed the finish line in 10.91 seconds, he still wasn’t sure if he had won.

 He thought France’s Florent Ribet had beat him to the coveted medal, but Jackson won by a hundredth of a second.  “The start is my specialty,” Jackson said. “I have been to six regular national championships in the 60-meter dash, so I’m very explosive out of the blocks.

“My plan was to react to the gun and drive out as I usually do. My form began to break down at the end and that’s when the other guy began to come. But I held on for dear life. The times are not special at all, but the eight-hour time difference, the injury setback and the rounds take a toll. That’s why I was just so ecstatic that I persevered through adversity. The other guys were telling me that I won it, but I didn’t believe it until I saw it.”

Back in January, the Molo Middle School physical education teacher tore the meniscus and suffered a bone bruise in his right knee. 

“It was believed that I would not be able to recover from it fully and especially for Worlds,” Jackson said. “January, February and March I was limping and in pain.

“With much prayer and dry needling, I recovered enough to train at the end of April, so in June I ran two track meets and just prepared for Worlds.”  He conserved energy in the first preliminary round to win his heat at 11.33 seconds and fifth overall. In the semifinals, he dropped to 10.96 and was second in his heat behind the top qualifier for the finals, Kenya’s Ibrahim Muyah Makonjo (10.72).

Mankonjo was third in the finals at 10.97.  “When running rounds, I adjust according to the field of runners in my heat. So if I’m running and the other guys are behind me, I don’t have to run so hard because I have another round to run. “

 He had hopped to medal in the 200 as well but finished fifth in that even at 22.55 on Monday. He also was part of the sixth-place 4×100 relay team (43.90) on Saturday.  Jackson, a five-time champion in the 100 (3) and 200 (2) at the USA Track and Field Masters Outdoor Championships, doesn’t plan to attend the next WMA outdoor championship in South Korea in 2026 but will go to the WMA indoor championship in Gainesville, Florida, in March of 2025 to compete in the event he considers his specialty, the 60-meter dash.

Kenya’s John Korir claims dominant men’s win at Falmouth Road Race, while Fentaye Azale takes women’s in sprint finish

Kenya’s John Korir flirted with the course record at the Falmouth Road Race on Sunday, dominating the men’s field to win by 51 seconds in 31 minutes, 15 seconds over the seven miles.

Korir took control early and never relented, opening a 23-second gap by the 5K mark. That lead stretched to over a minute through 10K, and the field closed ever so slightly as Korir missed the course record, set last year by Wesley Kiptoo, by just seven seconds. Korir ran the third-fastest winning time in the race’s 52-year history.

“I was confident. I knew I was going to win because I am in very good shape,” said Korir. “I was feeling good, so I decided to go and see how it went.”

It was an entirely different race on the women’s side, where Ethiopia’s Fentaye Azale needed every yard from Woods Hole to Falmouth Heights to put away the competition. In the end, Azale edged countrywoman Melknat Wudu by just a second with a winning 36:10. The two came flying down the final hill side by side, but Azale had an extra gear in the final steps.

Emma Bates, the top American woman at back-to-back Boston Marathons, was just six seconds behind the dueling Ethiopians. Another American, Emma Grace Hurley, led a trio across the line just behind Bates.

“It’s always so welcoming here,” said Bates. “People were shouting ‘Emma’ the entire way and I was running with Emma Grace Hurley, so both of us were just soaking up the energy from the crowd.”

Morgan Beadlescomb was the top American on the men’s side, finishing fifth, 66 seconds behind Korir. Three-time champion Ben Flanagan of Canada was seventh.

More than 11,000 runners participated in both races this year.

What Kenya intend to do about foreign countries poaching athletes

Kenya's government is developing policies to prevent the poaching of athletes by foreign nations and enhance local sports infrastructure.

Kenyan President William Ruto recently addressed the pressing issue of athlete poaching by foreign nations during a breakfast reception at the Eldoret State Lodge.

With key stakeholders in attendance, including the Kenyan Olympics team that performed admirably at the Paris Olympics, President Ruto outlined the government's commitment to tackling the migration of top-tier athletes to countries like Bahrain, Israel, Qatar, and the USA.

Amidst a celebratory atmosphere for the team's return, the President voiced his concern over the growing trend of Kenyan athletes representing other nations.

"The Government will work with all stakeholders to develop a policy that will address the challenges hindering Kenya’s progress in sports," he declared.

"Our athletics dominance is increasingly being encroached upon. We must come up with initiatives to correct the situation," President Ruto emphasized.

His government plans to work closely with national and county governments, as well as sports federations, to craft a comprehensive sports policy that addresses these concerns comprehensively.

The poaching of athletes has been a contentious issue, highlighted by incidents where Kenyan-born athletes have excelled on the international stage under foreign flags.

Notably, Winfred Mutile Yavi recently won gold and set a new Olympic record in the 3000m steeplechase for Bahrain, sparking widespread debate in Kenya about the loss of native talent to other countries.

The President reassured the public and athletes that the Sports Fund, established to support sportspeople's welfare, will be strictly used for its intended purpose.

"The fund would not be used for other purposes but to cater for the welfare of our sportsmen and women who he described as the greatest ambassadors of Kenya," he affirmed.

Ruto's administration also aims to diversify the sports disciplines at the international level, encouraging more inclusive participation across various sports.

“By expanding and diversifying our sports, we will get more people participating,” the President noted.

Furthermore, the government has intensified efforts to combat doping, a significant concern that has marred the country's sports reputation.

"We will deal with the doping menace not to undermine our sporting activities, but to deal with the problem," President Ruto stated.

In addition to policy reforms, President Ruto encouraged the nation to celebrate rather than criticize their athletes.

"Let’s criticize our athletes less and celebrate them more. We should always thank and appreciate our success in sports," he urged.

The initiatives outlined by President Ruto not only aim to retain athletic talent but also to elevate the standards and global competitiveness of Kenya's sports sectors.