Running News Daily

Records fall again as world’s best runners shine at California International Marathon

Tsegay Weldlibanos demolished a men’s course record that stood for more than 30 years en route to victory in his first-ever California International Marathon. British Olympian Callie Hauger-Thackery’s record-smashing pace was just enough to edge Jacqueline Gaughan and take home the women’s CIM title Sunday in Sacramento.

It was a day to celebrate, as is so often the case on one of the fastest marathon courses in the country. Sunny, dry conditions, temperatures a crisp but comfortable high 40s, and a world-class field in peak form led to another record-setting Sunday in the state capital.

Weldlibanos, of Eritrea, who lives and trains in high country Flagstaff, Arizona, turned the notoriously fast Folsom-to-Capitol course into a personal playground Sunday, crossing the finish line at two hours, seven minutes and 35 seconds — three seconds faster than the previous course best set by Jerry Lawlor in 1993.

CJ Albertson, the “Fresno Kid” and come-from-behind men’s winner in 2023, missed out on back-to-back wins, taking home a second-place finish and a trip to the podium.

Hauger-Thackery set a blistering pace and needed every bit, her 2:24:28 beating Gaughan’s 2:24:40 by .12 of a second. Stephanie Bruce finished third. One of the fastest British marathoners ever, Haugher-Thackery burst onto the scene in 2023 and earned a spot to represent Great Britain in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Husband and coach Nick Hauger, who finished third on the men’s side moments earlier, met the women’s winner at the finish in an emotional moment. Hauger was draped in the Stars and Stripes; the Union Jack adorned Haugher-Thackery’s shoulders as the couple embraced in victory.

Fifth-place women’s finisher Brittney Feivor’s cheering section hugged the rail at the finish. Susan Kessler, Feivor’s mother-in-law, traveled from Kenosha, Wisconsin, to watch the former Marquette University standout’s run Sunday.

“It’s exhilarating. We know how much work she puts in,” said Kessler. Feivor logs 50 to 90 miles or more a week in training. “It’s cheering and giving her the support she needs.”

The day didn’t just belong to the elites. As many as 10,000 runners and another 1,000 relay runners were expected to cross the finish line on race day, traveling from across the country and Northern California for the chance to notch a personal best or qualify for marathons on the 2025 calendar.

The California International Marathon is a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. The 129th running is April 21. It’s a short walk — or jog — from the finish line at Ninth Street and Capitol Mall to a bell at the state Capitol’s west steps. Runners here know what the bell’s peal means: Someone’s going to Boston next year.

On Sunday, that someone was Alex Mills, 23, of Tacoma, Washington, shaking the bell nearly off its moorings as proud family — 10 in all — watched on from the Capitol steps.

Mills, who graduated this year from George Fox College in Oregon, wasted no time. Sacramento was the first marathon for the collegiate cross-country runner.

Mills’ mother, Shelly, and entourage planned their vacation around the Sacramento trip. Now, she said, they’ll have to schedule a second in Boston.

“I’m just happy to get it over with,” said Mills, still draped in his warming blanket.

Sometimes the run is about redemption. Andy Holstrom came down to Sacramento from Portland for this year’s marathon. Holstrom, bib 115, was on the course, wife Rebecca and parents Bob and Marla Mion of Newcastle cheering on from the mall. Andy and Rebecca, expecting a child in April, ran Boston last year, but after a disappointing run in the Bay State, Andy was looking for a personal best in California.

Rebecca, who recently ran an ultramarathon, carried a placard with its own bit of cheeky motivation: “Don’t embarrass our unborn son,” it read. “Run fast.”

Dad-to-be Andy delivered, cracking the 2:40 barrier with a 2:39:12.

Brandon Moran of Boston took the trip west, breaking into the coveted 2:30s, relishing the CIM’s fast downhill after running on Boston’s grueling hills. “It’s been two years since I ran this fast. I’m very, very happy with the result. It’s just the smoothest course I’ve ever run.”

Jakob Ingebrigtsen captures third Euro XC Championship title

Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s absence from the European Cross Country Championships last year only seemed to fuel his determination for a spectacular return in 2024. On Saturday, the Norwegian middle-distance superstar, who won in both 2021 and 2022, captured his seventh Euro XC title—his third as a senior—at Dokuma Park in Antalya, Türkiye.

“The course was very challenging and tactical,” Ingebrigtsen, the two-time world 5,000m champion, told media post-race. “There’s a lot of fighting and pushing, a lot of things that could happen.” The 7.8 km course featured sections of sand and mud.

Ingebrigtsen ran comfortably in the lead pack throughout most of the race, before launching a decisive move in the final stages. He crossed the finish line in 22 minutes and 16 seconds, eight seconds ahead of Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa. Spain’s Thierry Ndikumwenayo took bronze in 22:31.

Women’s race

Italy’s Nadia Battocletti stole the spotlight on the women’s side, securing her third continental title in 2024. The Olympic 10,000m silver medallist from Italy captured her first senior European cross-country title, following a season that saw her clinch a 5000m/10,000m double at the Roma 2024 European Athletics Championships.

Like Ingebrigtsen, Battocletti demonstrated strategic patience, remaining close to the front pack and unleashing a powerful kick in the final kilometres. She finished in 25:43—11 seconds clear of Germany’s Konstanze Klosterhalfen, who took silver for the second year in a row, crossing the line in 25:54 and matching her finishing time in 2023.  The European 10,000m champion, Yasemin Can, ran 26:01 to capture bronze in her home country.

The 52nd Honolulu marathon was another fun and spirited event

Nearly 25,000 runners started the 52nd Honolulu Marathon under 72°F temperatures, 88% humidity and very calm winds. Due to the increased competition that has grown during a second running boom in recent years, Honolulu’s pro marathon field was not as deep as in the past. 

“It’s getting harder to get the top runners here,” admitted marathon president Dr. Jim Barahal. “There are other races now, like Valencia, that have faster so they come back they come back courses, no heat or hills. But I’m happy with the field we got and the races they produced.”

Both defending champions returned, heading up small, but strong lead packs. 

Kenya’s Paul Lonyagata came down with a small injury two months ago back home in Kenya, and wasn’t prepared to defend his title with any strength. He dropped out just before the 10K mark. 

But women’s defender, Cynthia Limo, who debuted with her victory in Honolulu last year in 2:33:01, saw herself in a tight four woman battle that lasted from the 1st mile until 30 km. 

Last year’s third place men’s finisher, Reuben Kerio, 30, of Kenya, for some reason, downloaded a 4:38 11th mile as the race headed out Kalanianaʻole Highway for the 4 mile stretch out to Hawaii Kai and the turnaround. 

What had been a four man pack was instantly reduced to two as Eritrean Olympian Yamane Haileselassie, 26, who debuted in Boston in April, answered the call a few steps behind the rushing Kenyan.

Super shoes not withstanding, a 4:38 is more like a breakaway mile after 30 km not a how-do-you-do mile not even halfway through the race. Pundits on the scene questioned Kerio‘s decision.

At 15 miles, Yamane HaileSelassie made a move of his own, and within a mile had 10 seconds on Kerio. The lead grew to 30 seconds by 20 miles and the race seemed all but over.

HaileSelassie defected to the United States after the world championships in Eugene, Oregon in 2022. He moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, where he drives an Uber making food deliveries 40 hours a week to supplement is racing income. 

He recently won the BAA Half Marathon in Boston on November 10th, running 1:01:46. He was third in that race last year and in seventh the year before. So you knew he was on form. He was also the fifth place finisher at the 2021 Olympic steeplechase final in Tokyo. When you can run top five in the Olympic steeplechase, you know this could be a great marathon runner.

According to his coach, James McKirdy, this is the first season that Yamane has worn super shoes. But he didn’t seem to be dialed in to the new technology quite yet as his feet came out full of blisters at the end of the competition. Still, he held off a never-say-die Reuben Kerio to win the race in 2:11:59

Kerio, who closed within 12 seconds going up Diamondhead at 40 km, finished 17 seconds back with Japan’s Kensuke Horio taking third place in 2:15:30.

Women leaders through Waikiki in mile 6 (33:10)

The women staged a four-person battle from mile one to mile 19. Defending champion Cynthia Limo ran alongside country woman F3 Judith Korir, silver medalist at the 2022 World Championships marathon in Eugene, Oregon. Along with them was F2 Sandrafelis Tuei, also of Kenya, who is has personal best of 2:22:22 from a fourth place finish in Shanghai, China in 2023. The fourth woman in the group was F4 Fanta Gelasa of Ethiopia, runner up at the 2024 Milan Marathon in Italy. 

The tall striding Judith Korir controlled the pace for much of the first half, but at 19 miles the Ethiopian Gelasa finally let go and Cynthia Limo began to show signs of trying to take the race over. 

In mile 20 Judith Korir finally fell away, leaving just Cynthia and Sandrafelis.

Those two stay together until Diamond Head when, at the 39 km mark, at the aid station Tuei seemed indecisive, unsure how to go to the table and almost ran into it before coming around the table to get her drink. But then she failed to grab it, whereas Cynthia easily snatched her bottle and kept on trucking’. 

Suddenly, a side-by-side battle was a two stride advantage. And that seemed to be enough to break Tuei. From there, Limo loped home uncontested to finish in 2:31:13 to take her second straight, Honolulu Marathon title. Tuei finishing 2:31:47, with Judith Korir taking third in 2:36:17.

In this modern area of super shoes, when winning times are faster than ever, sometimes an old-fashioned foot race can be more fun to watch than a solo run against the clock. 

Honolulu never had, nor never will have, a reputation for being a fast marathon. But pro racing is just as important to the Honolulu Marathon Association as tens of thousands of average runners. Though In 2019, Honolulu had both the fastest marathon in the America (2:07:59) and the slowest, as they never close their finish line and some finishers take up to 17 hours to complete their journey. 

But that’s what makes Honolulu special.  And with more people than ever coming to enjoy sun and sand and swaying palm trees while the snow flies back home, it seems the aloha spirit will never go out of style.

Can olive oil replace petroleum jelly for cold-weather runners?

Olive oil has been a hot topic among runners over the past two weeks, thanks to Brigham Young University (BYU). At the NCAA Cross-Country Championships on Nov. 23, BYU athletes coated their arms and legs with olive oil before toeing the line–and both the men’s and women’s teams won the team titles. Could this kitchen staple dethrone petroleum jelly as the go-to for cold-weather insulation?

Temperatures at the Thomas Zimmer Championship Course in Verona, Wisc., dropped to 3 C on race day, with flurries the day before. Conditions like these make it tricky for runners to balance warmth with comfort. Extra layers can feel restrictive and cause overheating, so applying a skin barrier like petroleum jelly (or, apparently, olive oil) has proven to be another workable solution.

Petroleum jelly: the traditional way

Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, creates a protective layer that shields skin from the wind and cold and reduces the risk of frostbite. The balm is affordable–you can get your hands on a 375 g tub for less than $5 at your local drugstore. Its thick, waxy, (nearly) odourless texture allows the dense layer of protection to stay put, providing a durable barrier that won’t absorb into your skin.

Olive oil: BYU’s secret weapon?

BYU men’s coach Ed Eyestone told the New York Times that he coated himself in olive oil when he won the NCAA title in 1985. Now, he and women’s coach Diljeet Taylor passed the trick along to the their athletes.

But olive oil has its drawbacks. A 500-mL bottle of olive oil can cost $10 or more, and its runny texture has a knack for getting everywhere. It provides a thinner and less insulating barrier than its petroleum jelly rival. While easier to apply in colder temperatures, your skin begins to absorb the oil within 20 minutes, making it less effective for longer races–not to mention, you’ll cross the finish line smelling like a frying pan.

While olive oil’s new race-day purpose is intriguing, before you jump on that trend, consider the cost-effective and reliable petroleum jelly.

Chappell Roan’s 5K Personal Record Time Is Pretty Impressive

“I literally don’t feel like I’m going to throw up anymore when I sing and run."

It’s no secret that Chappell Roan is having a massive year. Her single, “Good Luck Babe!” was one of the most streamed songs on Spotify in 2024 and her album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, was also one of the top five streamed records of the year. 

Chappell also performed on SNL, was nominated for a bunch of Grammys, went on tour, and has kind of been everywhere. Now, she’s dueting with Sabrina Carpenter on the new Netflix special, A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter, which is guaranteed to be a hit. 

Chappell has a ton of high-energy performances and it’s fair to wonder what she does for fitness to keep all that up. 

Here’s what she’s shared about her training. 

She worked hard to train for her tour.

Chappell made it clear that she wanted to make sure that she was ready to go by the time her tour rolled around. So, for six weeks every day leading up to hitting the road, the 26-year-old ran through her entire set during a high intensity cardio workout.

“I would be doing burpees, jump squats, jump rope, high knees,” Chappell told 1824.

She also shared on TikTok that she took two months of “cardio vocal training” to be able to run around onstage, which she admits is "very hard."

Chappell said that training was hugely beneficial for her. “I literally don’t feel like I’m going to throw up anymore when I sing and run, so… ” she said.

She ran cross-country in high school.

Chappell runs around a lot on stage and even jogs in place while she’s performing her songs. That's no accident: She actually has a background in long-distance running.

Chappell (real name: Kayleigh Amstutz) ran cross country in high school and got a PR in cross country of 20:06.96 during her freshman year, according to Mile Split. She ended up qualifying for the Missouri State Cross-Country Championships, so go Chappell! 

She had a fitness-themed set at Lollapalooza.

Chappell had a cool set, complete with a boxing ring, punching dummy, and body builders when she performed at Lollapalooza this summer. 

The performance was amazing, featuring Chappell working the stage while people strength trained like bosses in the background. 

How to Get Rid of Blisters, According to Doctors-And how to prevent them in the future.

BLISTERS MIGHT NOT seem like a big deal—until you get one and remember how debilitating they can be.

These painful skin lesions are caused by friction when your skin rubs against your shoes, says Purvisha Patel, M.D., a dermatologist and founder of Advanced Dermatology and Skin Cancer Associates in Memphis, Tennessee. They may be caused by ill-fitting shoes, not wearing socks, or sporting new shoes before breaking them in. 

Blisters commonly happen on your heels, toes, or other parts of your feet, but they can really happen anywhere that body parts rub together or where your skin rubs against clothing, shoes, or other objects, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Usually, blisters get better on their own. But there are a few things you can do to speed things up and minimize the pain. Here’s what you should know about treating and preventing blisters. 

What causes blisters?

BLISTERS FORM UNDER the epidermis (the skin’s top layer) as a sac filled with clear liquid or blood, according to the Cleveland Clinic. 

There are a few types of blisters. • Friction blisters—the kind you get from wearing shoes that don’t fit well or repeatedly using a shovel or another tool—form when your skin rubs against something and clear fluid builds up in the skin layers. 

• Blood blisters happen when your skin gets pinched. Blood vessels break, the lower layers of the skin get damaged, and blood pools, forming a blister.

• Heat blisters can form after a burn or sunburn, Dr. Patel says, and blisters can occur when you get frostbite in the extreme cold. You might also get blisters from allergic reactions or medical conditions, like shingles or chickenpox. 

How to Get Rid of a Blister

FRICTION BLISTERS ARE the most common type, and they’ll usually heal on their own in a few days. But there are a few things that

You can also use padding, such as cotton pads or gauze, on blisters in high-pressure areas, like on your feet, the AAD says. Place the padding over the blister and cover with a bandage. Be sure to change the bandage and padding at least once a day. 

Use a Blister Pad

BLISTER PAD PRODUCTS like 2nd Skin and Compeed can offer a protective barrier while the blister heals. These hydrocolloid patches absorb moisture and create a moist environment that allows the wound to heal quickly. You can also use these pads on blister-prone areas to prevent them from forming. 

Signs Your Blister Is Infected

It’s rare for blisters to get infected, Dr. Lizarzaburu says. But it can happen, so it’s important to recognize the signs. 

Swelling, redness, pus or yellow drainage, increased pain, and warmth around the blister are signs it could be infected, Dr. Patel says. You may also get a fever. 

You should see a doctor if you suspect the blister is infected. 

How to Prevent Blisters

The best way to deal with a blister is to avoid getting one in the first place. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent a blister

Chekwemoi and Chebolei claim victories in Chepsaita

Ugandan teenager Loice Chekwemoi and Kenya’s Samwel Chebolei Masai were unrivalled at the Great Chepsaita Cross Country – a World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold meeting – held on the outskirts of Eldoret on Saturday (7).

Pre-race favourite Chekwemoi, aged just 17, won the women’s race by more than 80 seconds, while 23-year-old Chebolei had a tighter contest in the men’s event.

Ethiopian teenager Shimeles Mekides Molla put in an early surge after the first 2km loop of the women’s 10km race with Chekwemoi and Abigael Chepkoech trailing close behind.

Molla’s lead was short-lived, though, because Chekwemoi moved to the front and opened a gap steadily. It wasn’t long before the African steeplechase champion was running alone out in front with just the thousands of spectators for company.

The Ugandan teenager went on to finish in 34:32, while Molla was almost a minute-and-a-half behind, clocking 35:57 for the runner-up spot. Celestine Biwot completed the podium in 36:43.

“I couldn’t believe that I could win in the home of champions but I told myself I am also a champion and I have to fight for it,” said Chekwemoi. “To be a champion is not easy but I see progression and I am working hard to make sure I qualify for the World Championships in Tokyo next year.”

By contrast, there were 10 athletes running close together at the end of the first lap in the men’s race. That pack was soon reduced to five men, including world U20 cross-country bronze medallist Matthew Kipkoech Kipruto, 2019 African Games 5000m champion Robert Kiprop, and Samwel Chebolei, who was fifth at this year’s World Cross, contributing to Kenya’s team gold medal.

Heading into the fourth lap, Kipruto led from Kiprop and Chebolei. Kipruto’s challenge faded in the closing stages, though, while Chebolei proved to have the stronger finishing kick. He crossed the line in 30:49 to win by nine seconds. Kiprop took second place, improving on his fourth-place finish from last year. Pre-race favourite Kipruto was third in 31:12.

“I had to fight because there were a lot of good athletes in this race, it was not easy,” said Chebolei. “After the third lap, we still felt energetic and the three of us decided to drop the rest and the maths worked for us. I am hoping to build up from here and represent Kenya in Tokyo.”

Kevin Kiprop Biwott won the U20 men’s race, beating world U20 5000m champion Andrew Kiptoo Alamisi by 17 seconds.

Cynthia Chepkurui, who was ninth at the African Cross Country Championships earlier this year, this time emerged as the winner in the U20 women’s 6km race in 21:17.

Several of Kenya’s leading athletes, past and present, attended the Great Chepsaita Cross Country, including Eliud Kipchoge, Faith Kipyegon, Benson Kipruto, David Rudisha, Julius Yego and Janeth Jepkosgei.

16-year-old Aussie sprinter clocks outrageous 100m time

Gout Gout, the young athlete drawing comparisons to Usain Bolt, now holds the Australian U18 100m and 200m records.

Australia’s Gout Gout has left the world speechless once again. At Friday’s Australian All Schools Athletics Championships in Nathan, Australia, the sprinter made a run at the elusive 10-second barrier–at the age of just 16. In heats, he soared to a blazing 10.04 seconds (+3.4 m/s winds), crossing the line more than five tenths of a second ahead of second place. Including all non-legal marks, Gout’s time secured him the number-four spot on the all-time U18 list.

Tailwind speeds exceeding 2.0 m/s are deemed illegal in sprinting, as stronger winds are considered to aid the racers. Wind assistance can impact times by about 0.1 seconds, a substantial difference in the world of sprinting.

In the 100m final at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, Gout went on to run a stunning (and wind-legal) 10.17. The time shattered his own personal best of 10.29 and the previous U18 Australian record of 10.27 held by Sebastian Sultana, and still places him sixth on the all-time U18 list.

The high schooler first made headlines when he cruised to a 20.77-second win in the qualifying rounds of the 200m at the World U20 Championships in Lima, Peru, in August. The following day, he clinched the silver medal in the event’s final.

Gout signed a pro contact with Adidas in October, and just a week later, clocked an electrifying 20.29 at the All Schools Queensland track and field championships. The time broke his own U18 national record, along with the 31-year-old U20 national record and the Oceanic record. His time was the fourth-fastest in Australia’s history.

Gout’s race on Friday clip is his second to go viral in the athletics world in four months; many track and field fans began drawing comparisons of his tall stature and running style to those of Jamaican track legend Usain Bolt.

British ultrarunner completes two-month run across Australia

Jack Pitcher, 28, became the fastest British runner to traverse Australia, completing the 4,320-kilometer journey from Perth to Sydney's Bondi Beach in 61 days.

On Wednesday, Jack Pitcher, a 28-year-old ultrarunner from Berkshire, U.K., completed a 4,320-km run from Perth to Sydney, dipping his feet into the ocean at Bondi Beach. The gruelling two-month journey saw him set a new British record for the fastest coast-to-coast run across Australia, finishing in 61 days.

Pitcher shattered the previous British record of 77 days, set by Nikki Love in 2023, by consistently covering an average of 71 kilometers per day. He began his trek on Oct. 6 at Cottesloe Beach in Perth, and overcame extreme conditions to reach Sydney almost nine weeks later.

Initially accompanied by his friend Joshua Smith, the duo’s plans changed when Smith suffered an injury midway through the transcontinental run. Despite the setback, Smith continued to support Pitcher, cycling alongside him in the final weeks.

Speaking to BBC Berkshire, Pitcher reflected on the highs and lows of his incredible journey. “I’m over the moon. Sixty days would have been ideal, but I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve done,” he said. Pitcher recalled battling 45 C heat, exhaustion and even hallucinations during the final weeks, which temporarily forced him to halt his run, for safety reasons.

The run wasn’t just about breaking records. He dedicated his journey to raising funds for SSAFA, a U.K. military charity, and to honor his father, a former member of the army, who inspired him. “Helping others and making my family proud was my biggest motivation,” he shared.

Pitcher told the BBC he’s grateful for the moments of wonder along the way, from encounters with Australia’s unique wildlife to the kindness of strangers offering cold drinks during scorching days.

While Pitcher now holds the British record, the fastest known run from Perth to Sydney remains in the hands of Chris Turnbull, an Australian ultrarunner who completed the same journey in 39 days, eight hours, and one minute in 2023.

Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2024: Defending Champions Ebenyo and Kebede set to return

The ninth edition of the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, the world's first World Athletics Gold Label 25K race, is set to take place on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

With a prize pool of USD 142,214 and equal rewards for men and women, the event will see elite athletes competing for top honors on the fast and scenic streets of Kolkata.

Daniel Ebenyo (Kenya) and Sutume Kebede (Ethiopia), defending champions and current event record holders, will lead the star-studded lineup. Ebenyo set the men's record at 1:11:13 last year, while Kebede clocked 1:18:47 to dominate the women's race. Both are determined to better their timings and defend their titles.

Ebenyo aims to surpass his personal best and challenge the unofficial world record of 1:11:08, set by Eliud Kipchoge during a marathon split. "The Kolkata roads are fast, and conditions are ideal; it's a perfect opportunity to defend my title and better my timing," Ebenyo said.

Women's Race

The women's field is packed with talent. Kebede, the reigning champion, has shown remarkable improvement this year with personal bests in the half marathon (1:04:37) and marathon (2:15:55). Her competition includes:

Desi Jisa (Bahrain), the 2022 champion, known for her strong performances in marathons and cross-country events.

Degitu Azimeraw (Ethiopia), 2017 Kolkata champion, fresh off a sixth-place finish at the Chicago Marathon following a comeback post-maternity break. Alemaddis Eyayu (Ethiopia), winner of the 2024 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, making her 25K debut.Viola Chepngeno (Kenya), a consistent top-three finisher in international races. Sintayehu Lewetegn (Ethiopia), a World Cross-country bronze medalist. Men's Race Along with the current champion Daniel Ebenyo, there will be some other tough competitors as well.Benson Kipruto (Kenya), Tokyo Marathon 2024 champion and Paris Olympics bronze medalist, who was officially timed at 1:11:39 for 25K this year. Stephen Kissa (Uganda), fifth in the 2023 World Championships Marathon and a half marathon PB of 58:56.Haymanot Alew (Ethiopia), a top performer from last year's race, eager to make it to the podium. Diriba Girma (Ethiopia), making his debut and aiming to follow in the footsteps of his world-champion brother, Lamecha Girma. With runners motivated by an Event Record Bonus of USD 5,000, the competition promises excitement and potentially record-breaking performances.

How to review your running year so you can improve in the months to come

THE END OF THE YEAR IS A GREAT TIME TO reflect on your running over the past 12 months – whether your aim has been fun, achieving parkrun PBs or preparing for a marathon. 

A year-end review can help you spot trends, address setbacks and enhance your training for the upcoming year – whether that’s to boost performance or increase enjoyment. To do this, I encourage you to conduct a light performance analysis. It doesn’t require extensive data; instead, ask yourself key questions to start the new year with focus. 

Audit yourself 

Begin by reflecting on your goal-setting from a year ago. What were those goals? Are they still relevant? Perhaps you achieved several PBs or completed a couch to 5K programme and need a new challenge. Alternatively, you might need to scale back this year if your previous goals were unattainable. Remember, running should be enjoyable, and it’s normal to experience ups and downs. 

Then take a closer look at your training, racing and lifestyle over the past year. Use data, along with the self-reflection questions to follow, to score yourself from one to five in the areas identified. This will guide your goal-setting and action plan for the year ahead. 

1. Physical 

This covers your overall fitness, strength, endurance and injury prevention. If you’re more experienced, you might use data from apps such as Strava or Garmin Connect, or a detailed training log. This can include metrics such as mileage, heart rate or HRV measurements. For the performance-minded, consider lab testing such as lactate and VO2-max testing. If you’re less experienced, focus on how your rate of perceived exertion (RPE) might have changed in different training sessions and races as the year went on. 

● Endurance Review your total volume over the year in distance or time. Were there gaps in consistency owing to injury, motivation or life events? Have you included longer runs regularly? Do you feel your heart rate or effort has reduced for similar paces, or are you able to sustain your pace for longer periods?

● Speed and power Analyse improvements in shorter races compared with longer ones. Use the RW race-time predictor to see if you align more closely on longer or shorter races, or if you are well balanced. Reflect on your training: did you include a mix of long runs, intervals, fartlek sessions, hill workouts, tempo runs and recovery runs? A well-rounded training plan leads to balanced improvement. 

● Injury and strength Track how many injuries you’ve had, and their severity and causes. Has strength training supported your running? Use strength and flexibility tests such as knee-to-wall tests and sit-and-reach tests to benchmark yourself against norms for your age. 

2. Planning and performance 

This section looks at your approach to training plans and race performance. 

● Race pace vs training pace Are you performing consistently in races compared with training? Do you feel you underperform or overperform in competitive situations? 

● Variety Did you include races of different distances and on various surfaces throughout the year? Or did you stay in a comfort zone with your favourite or strongest type of race? 

● Splits Evaluate how you pace yourself during races. Do you start too fast and fade, or do you

3. Mindset and wellbeing 

Your mindset and emotional wellbeing play a significant role in your running performance, as well as in maintaining your motivation and consistency. 

● Motivation and enjoyment Did you maintain enthusiasm for running or were there periods of low motivation? Identify factors that contributed to any highs and lows. 

● Anxiety and pressure Did you regularly feel stressed or anxious about your running or performance? Consider your goal-setting and whether you have the right balance between process and outcome focus. 

● Race nerves and focus Evaluate how you handled race-day pressure. Did you feel confident and focused or did nerves affect your performance? Assess your mental approach to tough runs and races – did you stay positive and push through challenging moments? Did you explore any mental techniques such as positive self-talk or mantras for key moments in races? 

● Consistency and commitment Look at how disciplined you were with your training. Did you skip runs or stay consistent? What external factors affected your behaviour and how well did you handle those disruptions? 

4. Recovery 

You can follow the perfect plan with a good mix of training, but if you don’t recover, your fitness gains will be limited and you’re more likely to pick up injuries. Various pieces of data can help you monitor recovery, such as sleep tracking, heart-rate variability and the ‘recovery’ metrics from most GPS watches. Often, however, you’ll know if improvements are needed by answering some key questions: 

● Sleep and rest Assess how well you prioritised rest, including sleep quality and duration. Poor recovery can lead to fatigue, injury and decreased performance, so reflect on how (or if) you balanced your hard training with adequate rest. 

● Nutrition and hydration Did you fuel properly before during and after runs? Did you hydrate adequately, especially during long runs and races? Have you noticed patterns between nutrition and performance? Did you effectively plan and practise your race-day nutrition? 

● Health and vitality Did you frequently catch colds or infections? In the run-up to key races, did you keep doing the simple things, such as using hand gel and taking any supplements you might need? 

● Injury recovery Did you give yourself enough time to heal, follow rehab exercises and ease back

Write these down as a simple action plan with up to five priorities. Create objectives that are realistic and motivating, balancing short-term achievements – such as improving your pace or increasing weekly volume – with long-term ambitions, such as completing a marathon or getting a personal best. 

Lastly, remember that running isn’t just about performance. Think about how to add enjoyment to your running, such as participating in races of different distances or on various surfaces. Consider joining a club or training group to maximise the social and mental health benefits of running. 

Combining all of these lessons will help you get more from your running in 2025, whatever your goal may be. Good luck! 

You Failed Your Workout—Now What?

It’s Tuesday. No, it’s not only Tuesday. It’s critical velocity day. My coach has assigned me two warm-up miles and six by 800 meters in 3:13-3:21, with a 90 second jog between each one. I head out to smash the workout. I’m confident. I’m excited. Then, I start.

It’s blistering hot. Sweat is dragging all my face sunscreen down my forehead into my eyes. Water sloshes in my stomach. I’m so thirsty, but I can’t drink anymore or I’ll puke. I start to slow. Miss my paces. What is happening? My head spins and I get this horrible gut-wrenching feeling as I pull through the last interval. My coach is going to be disappointed. My Strava is going to be humiliating. Because I absolutely, undoubtedly failed this run.

Thinking of yourself or your run as a failure can be debilitating and keep you down for days. For a while, I thought I needed to stifle this feeling. But as it turns out, I should be making nice with failure rather than fighting it.

The ‘F’ Word: Failing a Workout 

So what exactly does it mean to “fail” a run? It looks different for everyone, but to many runners it means missing the splits of your prescribed workout. You can fail in training and fail in a race—both can be disheartening. However, running coach and founder of Run Your Personal Best, Cory Smith, says this doesn’t always mean you’re running too slow.

“A lot of people think the faster you run, the better,” he says. “But if you’re trying to hit a certain zone or train a certain adaptation and you run too fast, then you’re training something different than your coach wanted you to train, that can be a failure, too.”

In fact, Smith doesn’t believe going slower than your prescribed paces should be defined as the typical, negative definition of failure.

“Failure is data collection,” he says. “It’s learning information. If I fail a workout, it doesn’t make me a failure as a person or an athlete, it’s just an opportunity to look at the data and figure out how to grow from it.”

Oftentimes you’ll hear runners call it the “F word” or scold others for talking about failure, but

“We have an opportunity, with our language, to normalize failure,” she says. “If we can redefine it, we change our relationship with it.”

What both Foerster and Smith stress the most is that one bad workout doesn’t make or break you. Smith compares it to basing your retirement fund on one day when the market went down, even though we know it goes up and down all the time.

“The most powerful thought around failure is that one workout never makes or breaks a race or athlete,” Foerester says. “We’re in a constant state of learning, if we open ourselves up to be.”

Beating yourself up over a workout can often bleed into your next run, creating a sort of downward spiral effect.

“It puts you into a negative mindset, and then the next workout you’re going to put more pressure on yourself to do well, to convince yourself that last workout was just a fluke,” Smith says. “This leads to anxiety, which can hurt your workout performance.”

One study reports that a negative emotional state can hinder athletic performance. Speed, specifically, was proven to be affected by emotional state. This study examined the correlation between sadness and depression and reduced running speeds, head movements, and arm swinging.

In other words, failure can be heavy, if you let it.

 An Upsetting UTMB: Failing a Race 

Like we said, failure looks different for everyone. So far, we’ve been talking about failing during training sessions—which can be referred to as process failure. An outcome failure, however, is not meeting an end-result or goal for which you trained. Like a race.

For Addie Bracy, it looks like an uncharacteristic 116th place in the 2023 CCC 100K last September. Bracy is an elite trail runner, winning the 2021 Run Rabbit Run 100 and placing third at the 2023 Speedgoat 50K. She has a consistent track record across the board and even has her masters in Sport and Performance Psychology.

“I had a pretty poor performance,” she says, reflecting on CCC. “Objectively, one of the worst I’ve ever had in trail running, and certainly not the race I trained for.”

Bracy says she can’t pinpoint a rhyme or reason why, but that it just wasn’t clicking that day. At a certain point, she realized the race wasn’t going the way she thought and reframed her mindset. Failure, in her definition, is only when you give up—and she chose not to.

“I think that’s the beauty of ultras—they’re so long that you’re going through the mental process then and there,” she says. “I had thoughts of stopping, but I went through the mentality of ‘That’s not why you do this,’ and gave my best effort to focus on just finishing instead of making a certain time.”

This is what Smith identifies as performance standards versus outcome goals.

“Outcome goals are the splits you or your coach sets or the final finishing time,” he says. “The performance standards aren’t outcomes, but how much effort you put into whatever that task is.”

Meaning, Bracy started with an outcome goal of a particular time, and mid-race, reframed her goals to do

Foerster goes a step further and says that failure is not only okay, it’s actually beneficial.

“Anytime we can meet emotional discomfort where we have to deal with heavy emotions like disappointment, we teach ourselves how to navigate that more effectively,” Foerster says. “So that when we meet another uncomfortable moment in a race, we know we can meet it and process through it.”

In a study conducted by Ayelet Fishbach, Behavioral Science professor at University of Chicago, and Kaitlin Woolley, associate professor at the SC Johnson Cornell College of Business, it was proven that discomfort could lead to personal growth. By applying cognitive reappraisal, study participants assigned a new meaning to discomfort before they experienced it so it served as motivation rather than a reason to stop their goals. And, in the case of this study, participants who were forced into discomfort while doing a task reported a greater sense of achievement.

Much like running itself can be uncomfortable, forcing yourself to address the emotions that come with failure can be an unfamiliar, disagreeable experience. But doing so allows you to feel, process, and recognize that you can change your relationship with failure every time you meet it.

“Discomfort is the currency to our dreams,” Foerster says. “If we’re willing to meet it, all our potential is on the other side.”

So miss those splits. Fail, and fail hard. Address the feeling head-on and don’t let it define you. It’s just one out of many more runs to come.

He Fell 200 Feet During a Trail Running Race—And Lived to Tell the Tale

Not all trail races are created equally: 22-year-old collegiate trail running champion Stuart Terrill learned the very hard way at the U.S. Mountain Running Championships last summer

Stuart Terrill’s life forever changed in a blink of an eye during a competitive mountain running race this past summer.

On July 13, the 22-year-old from Crozet, Virginia, summited 11,000-foot Hidden Peak at Snowbird ski resort above Salt Lake City. He was an hour into the 8.7-mile Cirque Series race serving double duty as the 2024 USA Track and Field Mountain Running Championships.

Terrill had just graduated from the University of Richmond, where he ran cross country and track and double-majored in leadership and communication. But he was no stranger to the trails. He won the Collegiate Trail Running Championship in Fairfax, Virginia, in May, besting the competition by nearly a minute over the 10K course to earn his second straight collegiate trail running championship title.

As he crested Hidden Peak and started bombing down the other side, Terrill passed a competitor and lost control, sending him careening towards a cliff. Photographer Matt Johnson watched in horror, pivoting to try to catch Terrill before he fell. But he was too late. Terrill toppled over the edge and tumbled more than 200 feet down the jagged unforgiving terrain below.

“He swung wide to pass a runner. His momentum sent him barreling down towards me and I dropped my camera to try and grab him,” Johnson recalled in the resort’s incident report. “I heard his terrified screams as he went out of sight down the rocky gully. At this point I screamed for a medic and life flight because I wasn’t sure if he was going to even survive. It was rough. It was one of the most horrifying things I’ve ever witnessed.”

Terrill suffered numerous broken bones—eight vertebrae, four ribs, his right collarbone, left wrist, right kneecap, and several bones in each of his feet—and was lucky to be alive. As his mangled body was taken away in a medical helicopter, all those on the scene could do was wonder: how did such a perilous

Mountain Running: A Contact Sport?

While many may be initially attracted to running (on the track and roads) precisely because of its relatively low-risk profile—no contact that could lead to a concussion, no explosive movements that could result in an acute injury—trail running, and in particular mountain running, is another matter. In fact, mountain running, a fast, explosive trail running discipline that usually involves running over rocky, uneven terrain and climbing and descending peaks, comes with considerable risk.

Many mountain running races take competitors along high cliffs and ridgelines with exposure, and down steep, off-trail descents through technical terrain. Minor falls are common, and sprained ankles, broken collarbones, and skin-devouring trail rash are among the most typical injuries.

Injuries are common enough that some races, including the Pikes Peak Marathon in Manitou Springs, Colorado, give out an award for the bloodiest runner. Mount Marathon, a short mountain race in Seward Alaska, reports several minor injuries in a typical year. In 2012, it suffered its first presumed death when 66-year-old Michael LeMaitre, fell on a steep section of the course and, inexplicably, was never found.

Although it wasn’t a super-fast shorter-distance mountain running race, American runner Hillary Allen survived one of the worst known trail running accidents in 2017 at the 57K Hamperokken Skyrace in the mountains outside of Tromso, Norway, after she tripped and ragdolled 150 feet down a ridge and broke both arms, two vertebrae, several ribs, and numerous bones in her feet. Like Terrill, she was lucky to have survived.

“We acknowledge the inherent dangers of producing races in the high alpine, injuries are rare, but do happen unfortunately,” Julian Carr, the race director of the Cirque Series event at Snowbird, wrote in an email. “This is, by far, the most serious injury at a Cirque race since we started our races in 2015.”

“We come from a much more dangerous world of ski mountaineering and climbing, so trail running might seem pretty vanilla compared to that, but you have to be organized and prepared,” Madigan says. “You’ve got to make sure you’re protecting everyone and have a consistent level of safety.”

Not All Trails Are Created Equally

Terrill isn’t new to trail running. In fact, he ran his first trail race in middle school—a mile and a half course with 100 feet of elevation gain in central Virginia. While running cross country and track at the University of Richmond, he also went on to win the Collegiate Trail Running National Championships in both 2023 and 2024.

As a junior in 2023, he took the national title at the Thunderbunny 11K trail race in Athens, Ohio, in 41:27, setting the course record by a minute and a half. That’s when he knew he had a thing for off-road running. Then this past May he repeated as national champ by winning the Fountainhead 10K++ Trail Run in Virginia, obliterating the course record by six and a half minutes in 44:55.

“I’ve always trained in hilly locations, and my stride worked well

How Should I Carb-Load for a Race?

Carb-loading is a game-changer for race day. To perform your best, your body taps into carb stores called glycogen, which is tucked away in your liver and muscles until it’s ready to be used. Carb-loading means that you increase these glycogen stores above their typical capacity so you have more to pull from when doing a strenuous endurance activity like running. Studies show that this nutrition strategy may improve performance by 2-3 percent for runs over 90 minutes.When done right, carb-loading gives you an extra energy boost. But the wrong approach can leave you feeling overly full, sluggish, or uncomfortable at the start line. Here’s how to carb-load to help you reach your peak performance.When to Start Carb-Loading

Carb-loading typically begins one to three days before the race to fill your glycogen storages sufficiently, but the exact number of days you need depends on the race distance, how long you’ll be running, and the intensity of your effort. I usually recommend starting 1-2 days before a half marathon and 2.5-3 days before a full marathon. Waiting until the night before your race to scarf down a ton of Fettuccine Alfredo won’t properly replenish your energy stores, and may leave you feeling weighed down or experiencing digestive discomfort on race day.

Take this example: if your marathon is on Saturday morning, start carb-loading on Wednesday. Spread your intake throughout the day with three carb-rich meals and two to three snacks, daily.How to Carb-LoadDuring the carb-loading phase, aim for 8-12 grams of carbohydrates per kilogram of body weight per day. For a 150-pound runner, this translates to 550 to 800 grams of carbs daily.Focus on simple, carbohydrate-rich foods like white bread, pasta, rice, sweet and regular white potatoes, dried or fresh fruit, and regular or lactose-free dairy milk and yogurt. (Some people experience GI issues if they eat too much dairy, but chocolate milk can be a great choice for carb-loading.) These foods are energy powerhouses. To make the process smoother:

Choose easily digestible, low-fiber foods to avoid feeling overly full. Now is not the time to go gung-ho on the whole wheat bread, quinoa, and vegetables. 

Scale back on high-fiber, high-fat, and protein-heavy foods to leave room for more carbs. Timing and Hydration Tips

Consistency is key. Plan to eat three carb-rich meals and two to three snacks every day. Liquid carbs, such as fruit juice, sports drinks, chocolate milk, or fruit smoothies, can help you meet your carb goals without feeling overly stuffed.

Remember, glycogen (your body’s stored form of carbs) holds water, so staying hydrated throughout your carb-load is crucial. Proper hydration will help you avoid feelings of sluggishness and support your muscles.

Putting It All Together for Race Day

An effective carb-loading block is all about timing, balance, and testing what works for you. Gradually increase your carbs, stick to easy-to-digest options, and don’t forget to hydrate. Consider practicing a one-day carb-load during training, such as before a key workout or long run, to figure out which foods work best for your body.

With the right strategy, you’ll feel strong, energized, and ready to conquer race day without hitting the dreaded “wall.”

The Zurich Marathon, canceled due to the wind, offers a full refund of the registration fee

The Zurich San Sebastian Marathon, which had to be suspended last Sunday due to strong gusts of wind that endangered safety at different points along the route, offers a full refund of the registration fee to the 10,500 runners registered.

The organizers of this test have thanked this Wednesday in a statement "the patience, understanding and support received in these complicated days for their runners".

They have assured that, despite the fact that a series of important expenses have been incurred that will not be able to be recovered, the unconditional support of all sponsors, especially Zurich Seguros, and the institutions makes it possible to refund the full amount of the registration fee, including those of management and the complete ones previously acquired (medal engraving).

Also, although the test has not been held, the Z Zurich Foundation will go ahead with the initiative of 1 finisher 1 euro, which will donate the total amount to the Spanish Federation of Food Banks (FESBAL). Likewise, the organization will offer the leftover shirts to the sports schools of Gipuzkoa.

In addition, depending on the distance of each registered runner (42km, 10km or 21km), runners will be able to choose, apart from the refund, among other compensation options from today until next Friday, December 6 through a form that each one has received through email.

Those who do not respond to the statement within the established period will not be able to request a refund and only until December 31 will have their place saved to participate in the Zurich San Sebastian Marathon 2025.

The organizers deeply regret not having been able to hold the race as they expected, but they advance that they are working with "more enthusiasm than ever to make future editions unforgettable".

When should you end or extend your break?

Two weeks to one month off is the sweet spot for many runners, but sometimes the body signals the need for an extended rest period.

As the running calendar slows down between fall races and spring marathons, many runners face the challenge of balancing time off with preparation. The cold weather, coupled with the holiday season, makes it tempting to prolong your well-deserved downtime. But how long should the break from running really last? and when should you consider extending it?

How long should it be?

If you were to survey 100 runners on the length of their breaks, the responses would vary between two weeks, a month or even the entire winter. There’s no right answer on how long your break should last as it really depends on the individual and how long it takes them to recharge their body and mind after a long training build. 

Listening to your body and mind is crucial in determining the length of your break. Some coaches argue that mental recovery is as important as physical recovery; and if the mind needs extra time to rediscover the joy in training, extending the break will help you return with a renewed outlook.

If shorter breaks leave you feeling out of shape, consider longer ones. Contrarily, if extended breaks help improve your performance and boost your motivation, it’s definitely worth adding on a week or two.

When should it be extended?

On the physical side, the purpose of a break is to allow your body to heal from months of stress, soreness and fatigue. If you’ve just finished a marathon, it will demand longer recovery times than shorter races like 5Ks or 10Ks. Lingering soreness or fatigue from longer distances can point to additional recovery time, especially if it persists beyond two weeks after the race.

Rushing back too soon can lead to inadequate recovery, which is a leading cause of injuries—something you’ll want to avoid to prevent any further setbacks. If you’re targeting a spring race, ensure you allow enough time to build your fitness gradually. For example, a spring marathon typically requires 12–16 weeks of preparation post-break. If your next big race is five or six months away, it gives you the flexibility to extend your rest and enter the training build with a healthy body and clear mind.

The decision to end or extend your break is individual, but when you do decide to return to training, start slow. Gradually reintroduce running into your routine, and avoid jumping back into intense workouts in the first few weeks. This approach will help prevent injuries and ensure a smoother transition back into training.

'It's so rare that on race can define your life'- Cole Hocker reflects on Paris 'Olympic blues' and being the man to beat in 2025

Cole Hocker claimed gold in the 1500m at the Paris Olympics with an Olympics record time, upsetting as star studded line-up.

American middle-distance runner Cole Hocker, fresh off his historic victory at the Paris Olympics, is embracing life as the world’s best 1500-meter runner.

Hocker etched his name in the record books with a stunning time of 3:27.65, setting a new Olympic record and defeating favorites such as defending champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen of Norway and Great Britain’s Josh Kerr, a two-time world champion.

In a candid reflection on his triumph, Hocker described the moment as transformative even as he struggles to grasp the nature of his new reality.

“It’s a life-changing victory, but you don’t ever really know where that’s going to take you,” he said via Citius Mag.

“So many things are still unfolding. I didn’t know how to prepare for this because I didn’t know what to expect. It was just a dream until it actually happened.”

Despite his monumental success, Hocker remains grounded, returning to his training base in Virginia.

“It’s back to business as usual,” he shared. “I’m surrounded by the same people who’ve supported me throughout this journey, and that keeps me focused. It’s an interesting headspace, but I’m embracing the challenge of being the best 1500-meter runner in the world and rising to every occasion.”

The 22-year-old also opened up about the mental adjustment following such a career-defining moment. He acknowledged experiencing what he termed “Olympic blues,” a phenomenon he says is common among athletes.

“You train your entire career for that one moment, and no matter how it goes, that date comes and goes. Even after having the best day of my life, it’s surreal to realize we’re already months past it. Moving forward feels strange, but it’s also exciting.”

Looking ahead, Hocker is determined to capitalize on his Olympic momentum. “I’m focusing on optimizing this victory and carrying that form into the next season. One race can define your life, and I’m making sure to rise to every new challenge.”

With his Paris performance setting the stage, Hocker is now one of the most formidable names in middle-distance running. As he gears up for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on him to see how he builds on his remarkable Olympic success.

'Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce motivates me' - When Ruth Chepng’etich opened up about her inspiration & family sacrifices

Ruth Chepng’etich once stated that Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce inspired her journey, reflecting her motivations and record-breaking marathon achievements.

New women’s marathon record holder Ruth Chepng’etich has long been one of the most dominant forces in long-distance running.

From clinching the World Championship in 2019 to winning gold at the 2021 and 2022 Chicago Marathons, the Kenyan runner has proven her mettle time and again on the global stage.

Earlier this year, in an exclusive interview with Athletics Weekly, Chepng’etich opened up about her admiration for Jamaican sprinting legend Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce.

“Shelly Ann (Fraser-Pryce), she motivates me, inspires me, to do a lot. Shelly Ann, I think she started a long time ago, before me, so I'm following (in) her footsteps. Like her, I want to run for long, run smart, and fall and get up,” Chepng’etich shared.

Fraser-Pryce, widely regarded as one of the greatest sprinters of all time, has not only inspired Chepng’etich’s approach to competition but has also served as a role model for longevity in athletics.

Chepng’etich expressed a desire to emulate the sprinter's perseverance and adaptability, striving to push boundaries in her own discipline of marathon running.

The Kenyan champion also credited her family as a source of motivation, particularly her daughter.

“I think about my daughter, I am pushing so much because of my daughter. My daughter is motivating me to work harder. I have to work hard for her to study. Mothers have a lot to do, so it is not easy. Our children are motivating us to work harder. We want to show them the way in how life goes,” she added.

Chepng’etich’s remarkable journey reached new heights at this year’s Chicago Marathon, where she set a jaw-dropping world record time of 2:09:56, becoming the first woman ever to run a marathon in under 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Her incredible performance not only shattered the previous record of 2:11:53 held by Tigst Assefa but also firmly established her as one of the greatest marathon runners in history.

Reflecting on her world-record performance, Chepng’etich expressed both pride and a sense of accomplishment.

“I feel so great, I'm proud of myself. This is my dream that has come true. I've fought a lot, thinking about the world record, and I have fulfilled it,” she said after the race.

She attributed her success to meticulous preparation, favorable weather, and unwavering determination.

Chepng’etich dedicated her record-breaking run to the late Kelvin Kiptum, a fellow Kenyan marathoner who set a men's world record at the Chicago Marathon last year.

“The world record has come back to Kenya, and I dedicate this world record to Kelvin Kiptum,” she said.

Her achievement is awaiting ratification by World Athletics, but it has already resonated worldwide as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Kenyan runners.

Chepng’etich’s feat not only cements her legacy but also reinforces Kenya's stature as a powerhouse in distance running.

Her admiration for Fraser-Pryce and the motivation she draws from her daughter underscore her commitment to excellence both on and off the track.

California International Marathon is this weekend and defending champion CJ Albertson and Calli Hauger-Thackery headline the elite field

The 41st annual California International Marathon is this Sunday, Dec. 8 bringing some 10,000 runners and spectators to Folsom and the Sacramento region. Along with the many participants comes a number of road closures the day of the event. 

The marathon begins at the intersection of Folsom Auburn Road and Folsom Lake Crossing at 7 a.m.The course continues through Orangevale, Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, and Sacramento, and concludes at the State Capitol. Road closures include Folsom-Auburn Road from Folsom Dam Road to Greenback Lane, Folsom Lake Crossing Road from East Natoma Street to Folsom-Auburn Road, and Oak Avenue Parkway from Folsom-Auburn Road to Santa Juanita Avenue. Closures begin at 3 a.m. and roads are planned to reopen at 10 a.m. Detours will be clearly marked.

The CIM was founded in 1983 by the Sacramento Running Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The event brings an estimated 10 million dollar to the Sacramento County economy each year.The event is certified and sanctioned by USATF and is a Boston Marathon and U.S. Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier. Learn more at runsra.org. For a complete listing of road closures, schedules, and courses, visit the CIM website or see a summary at the conclusion of this article.

With good weather in the forecast, participants and organizers are excited about this year’s event and according to the Sacramento Running Association the event will feature 2024 Paris Olympian Calli Hauger-Thackery and defending 2023 CIM champion CJ Albertson, alongside a mix of returning veterans and first-time participants, setting the stage for potentially record-breaking performances.

The elite men’s and women’s fields will compete for a combined $100,000 prize purse, with additional bonuses for breaking course records. The current records stand at 2:10:27 for men, set in 1993 by Jerry Lawson, and 2:26:02 for women, set in 2022 by Paige (Stoner) Wood.

Hauger-Thackery, representing Great Britain at the 2024 Paris Olympics, holds the fastest personal best in the women’s field—2:21:24, achieved at the 2024 Berlin Marathon earlier this fall. She will make her CIM debut, joining her husband, 2:12 marathoner Nick Hauger, who is also competing.

“I’m excited to do this race for many reasons,” Hauger-Thackery said. “The main one being that my husband has had only fond experiences here over the past two years. I’m also excited because my dad raced CIM in the ’90s, and California is my favorite place! CIM has been on my radar for quite some time now.”

Hauger-Thackery will face stiff competition from four other women who have run sub-2:30 marathons: Laura Thweatt of Superior, Colo., with a personal best of 2:25:38; Jackie Gaughan of Boston, 2:27:08; Stephanie Bruce of Flagstaff, Ariz., 2:27:47; and Allie Kieffer of Austin, 2:28:12, who was the 2023 CIM runner-up.

Bruce returns to CIM with a strong record, having placed second in both the 2016 (2:32:36) and 2018 (2:29:21) editions. Since then, she has achieved milestones such as running her personal best of 2:27:47 at the 2019 Chicago Marathon and placing sixth at the 2020 U.S. Marathon Olympic Trials.

“Returning to CIM feels like an awesome homecoming because it was the first marathon I ran postpartum with my two boys in 2016,” Bruce said. “Now, eight years later, I’m coming back after giving birth to my third baby. I love the city, the energy, and the people who make this race so special.”

The men’s field includes three notable returners: defending champion CJ Albertson (Fresno, Calif.), 2023 runner-up Milton Rotich, and 2019 champion Elisha Barno. Joining them is CIM newcomer Tsegay Tuemay Weldlibanos, a 2:09:07 marathoner currently training in Flagstaff, Ariz., who is expected to push the pace.

“To race at CIM is very special for me,” Weldlibanos said. “Many of my teammates have found success here, and I hope to do the same. I want to make my family, team, and coach proud.”

Albertson has enjoyed a standout year, placing fifth at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials (2:10:07), seventh at the Boston Marathon (2:09:53) and Chicago Marathon (2:08:17), and tenth at the New York City Marathon (2:10:57). Another CIM victory will likely require a course record performance.

Barno, who won the 2019 CIM, has a personal best of 2:09:14. Rotich, last year’s runner-up, boasts a 2:08:55 personal best. Both are strong contenders to challenge Albertson and Weldlibanos for the win and the 2:10:27 course record.

“We’re thrilled about the 2024 elite field at CIM,” said Scott Abbott, executive director of the Sacramento Running Association. “This year has a unique homecoming feel, with so many ‘CIM alumni’ returning. It’s further evidence that CIM is a favorite among elite runners. We expect a strategic race between these battle-tested veterans, and we hope to see both course records fall.”

The Sacramento Running Association, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to encouraging people of all ages and abilities to run. The SRA focuses on developing quality running events that appeal to a wide range of participants.

Internet reacts to 2025 Boston Marathon celebration jacket

The Boston Athletic Association took a gamble with their design for the 2025 marathon jacket.

The Boston Marathon celebration jacket from Adidas has been a cherished tradition at the race since 1991, becoming a symbol of accomplishment for runners who conquer the course each year. This year’s jacket, however, has the running world up in arms after the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) decided to move away from the iconic stitched B.A.A. logo to a printed Bank of America-centric crest on the front and back.

While the jacket boasts sustainable credentials as the first made entirely from recycled polyester material, many runners are more focused on the design. Bank of America, which became the race’s presenting sponsor in 2023 after nearly four decades under insurance company John Hancock, is being criticized for its branding. The jacket’s “Lucid Blue” design, paired with the B.A.A.’s traditional royal blue base, has also drawn mixed reviews. Some see it as a vibrant refresh, while others seem to have wanted a more timeless esthetic.

Reactions to the jacket have been making their circles on social media. “I have been extremely disappointed in the branding since Bank of America came into play,” wrote one user on Facebook. “First messing with the unicorn, now barfing corporate branding all over everything,” Another commenter wrote, “For 2026, are we going to see how many Bank of America logos we can fit on people? Nothing says tradition and prestige like Bank of America.”

The 2024 Boston Marathon celebration jacket was the first edition in which Bank of America was featured, with the bank’s logo screen printed below the traditional B.A.A. crest. In addition to the jacket’s sustainable footprint, the logos on the front and back are entirely reflective, along with the three stripes on the sleeve and the “Boston is my victory” idiom on the left cuff.

Despite the backlash, the 2025 Boston Marathon jacket remains a hot commodity. For runners eager to get their hands on one, it’s available online for CAD $160. Whether you love it or hate it, the jacket remains a badge of honour for thousands.

Faith Kipyegon reveals why she might not run another 1,500m race at Olympics

Multiple world and Olympics champion Faith Kipyegon has hinted at the possibility of abandoning her specialty, the 1,500m, in favor of other races at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Three-time Olympics 1,500m champion Faith Kipyegon might have run her final Olympics over the distance as she is exploring the possibilities of featuring in other disciplines.

Kipyegon made history when she became the first woman to claim three straight Olympics gold medals in 1,500m at the Paris 2024 Games, adding onto her titles secured in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020.

At 30, Kipyegon perhaps does not feel that she will still have the power in her legs to go for a fourth straight gold over the distance at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, and her fans might get to see her square it out for medals in another race instead.

“It was not easy [winning third gold in Paris],” Kipyegon said on Citizen TV’s JKL on Wednesday. “I was praying to God that I just win my third gold and I did it.”

When asked if she sees herself going for a fourth straight Olympics gold, the mother of one replied: “That is a tough one, because it will be 2028 so I don’t know if I will still be doing the 1,500m or maybe 5,000m or marathon, so we don’t know.”

Kipyegon has previously expressed her desire to switch to marathons in the next phase of her career and seems to be looking at that possibility even as she squeezes out what is left in her in 1,500m.

She has also displayed enough quality in 5,000m where she is already the world champion over the distance, after her gold medal heroics in Budapest last year, and also has Olympics silver won in Paris this year.

The 1,500m world record holder will certainly defend her titles at next year’s World Championships in Tokyo but the 2027 Worlds will perhaps give an indication of how she will approach the 2028 Olympics given she will be 34 by then.

World Athletics Council commits to action against gender-based violence

Gender based violence is on the rise and the governing body is keen to ensure that it is rooted out in the sport

The World Athletics Council has expressed its commitment to taking action against gender-based violence by making a series of other decisions ranging from competition updates to further driving the organisation’s innovation agenda during the 236th World Athletics Council Meeting in Monaco on December 3-4.

Building on the extensive work done by World Athletics to expand safeguarding measures in the sport, the World Athletics Council – working alongside the Athletes' Commission and Gender Leadership Taskforce – has identified campaigning against gender-based violence as a priority.

Kenya is one of the counties that is keen to tame the rising tide of gender-based violence and have conducted a series of nationwide forums aimed at raising awreness.

One in three women worldwide face violence in their lifetime, with recent high-profile cases in Africa sending shockwaves through the sport. Gender-based violence is a global issue, with all 18 members of the Athletes' Commission – from 18 different countries across all six areas – highlighting the impact and extent of gender-based violence in their regions.

While the Athletes' Commission recognises that the sport may not have the power to implement policy due to lack of jurisdiction outside of the sporting landscape, World Athletics can use the space in which it does have jurisdiction to drive change through three main areas: raising awareness, education, and lobbying for change.

Commenting on this clear mandate, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said: "I am particularly encouraged by our athletes' commitment to address the subject of gender-based violence as a priority and the discussions on the role that World Athletics can play to address it.

“The fact that both our Athletes’ Commission and our Gender Leadership Taskforce have put the critical item on their agendas fills me with confidence in our stakeholders' understanding that we have a responsibility that goes far beyond what is happening on the field of play. I look forward to working together with them on supporting our female athletes and to enshrine the results of this work in our safeguarding policies.”

The Athletes’ Commission would like World Athletics to take a leadership role, for practical ideas that can help across the globe, and recommends that World Athletics explores partnerships with relevant organisations to combine forces and push for change.

Strava removes 6.5 million “impossible” performances from leaderboards

Is the popular fitness tracking app finally taking the necessary steps to catch cheaters?

You know that time you “accidentally” uploaded your bike ride as a run on Strava and found yourself launched to the top of the segment leaderboard? Well, the Strava police are out to get you. On Tuesday, the fitness tracking service introduced an upgraded algorithm to pre-emptively remove performances that are a little too good–including your impressive (and very impossible) three-minute mile run. The app also revealed they’ll be erasing 6,500,000 suspicious uploads from existing leaderboards upfront.

With 85 million segment efforts uploaded daily to the app, inspecting each performance thoroughly is hopeless. The service relies heavily on its users to report inaccurate or suspicious results in addition to its current filtration system, but millions of “impossible” activities still make their way past these existing lines of defence onto the leaderboard top 10. The new auto-flagging system is set to detect segment performances that are a little too good to be true before they even reach the leaderboards.

“This is BS! I was 30 seconds off [Kelvin] Kiptum’s world record and I only had to change tires once.” one user joked on Reddit.

Runs that are obviously completed on a bike and rides that are clearly logged from a car or e-bike will be the first to go. Strava runners have found the app’s uploads increasingly demoralizing–imagine running a mile-long segment in a best time of 4:30, only to find all 10 runs in the leaderboard are sub-four minutes and completed at a heart rate of 110 BPM.

Strava users have raised doubts on how thorough and effective this new algorithm will be–the service had already advertised upgrades to the flagging system in September and last year, but leaderboards saw little improvement. “This was announced over a year ago already and from what I can see, nothing has changed,” one user wrote. Numerous comments also address the need for an in-app flagging function; currently, Strava only allows users to flag suspicious activities through a web browser.

Other users are ecstatic at the chance to have an honest leaderboard and an actual shot at claiming the Local Legend title. “Yea Strava!” one user wrote. “Thanks for the acknowledgment and efforts to straighten out the issue. A big task to deal with, I know.”

“Brilliant news,” another comment reads. “If this also sorts out the challenges at the same time, that will encourage me to enter them again. Too many are blatantly cheating.”

Strava acknowledged they won’t be able to catch 100 per cent of cheaters, but says the added layer of filtration will help ensure that authentic performances and users get the recognition and the “kudos” they deserve.

Ezekiel Kemboi offers advice to India’s Avinash Sable on becoming a world-class steeplechaser

The four-time world champion has encouraged India’s Avinash Sable to adopt strategic methods to elevate his steeplechase career.

Legendary Kenyan steeplechaser Ezekiel Kemboi has extended a golden piece of advice to India’s rising star Avinash Sable.

The two-time Olympic champion and four-time world champion emphasized the importance of high-altitude training to build strength, endurance, and resilience.

During his visit to India, Kemboi shared his insights on what it takes to excel in the grueling 3000m steeplechase event.

“I think the Indian guy Sable, the steeplechaser, the boy is still young. He still has a lot of time. What I want him to do is to have some motivation for himself. To have a vision, to have a target. To target what comes in a year, like world championship, Olympics," he said.

Sable, who recently represented India in the men’s 3000m steeplechase at the Paris Olympics but finished 11th, has been touted as a promising athlete on the global stage.

The 30-year-old has already made history for India, clinching a silver medal at the 2019 Asian Championships, another silver at the Commonwealth Games, and a gold and silver at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou.

However, Kemboi believes that Sable has the potential to achieve even greater success if he embraces a more tailored training regimen.

Kemboi, widely regarded as one of the greatest steeplechasers in history, suggested that Sable train in the high-altitude regions of Kenya or Ethiopia, known for producing world-class distance runners.

“I also want to request if it could be possible for him to go to Africa… Kenya or in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for some intense training which will focus on building up his endurance so that he gets more power while running,” Kemboi advised.

The Kenyan legend stressed the role of high-altitude training in preparing the body for the physical demands of steeplechase, a race that combines speed, stamina, and technical skill over water jumps and barriers.

“Just go for high-altitude training... because we have the best altitude for training in the regions of Kenya and Ethiopia for his body system to adapt to endurance,” he added.

Kemboi, who dominated the water-and-barrier race for more than a decade, has an unmatched legacy in the sport.

He is one of the few athletes to win two Olympic gold medals in steeplechase (2004 Athens and 2012 London) and four World Championship titles (2009, 2011, 2013, and 2015).

His illustrious career also includes three silver medals at the World Championships and a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi.

Reflecting on his experience, Kemboi highlighted the significance of setting clear goals and following a structured approach to training.

“What I want him to do is to have some motivation for himself. To have a vision, to have a target,” Kemboi reiterated, encouraging Sable to aim for success at future World Championships and Olympics. 

Sable’s journey from modest beginnings to becoming a national icon has already inspired countless young athletes in India.

Kemboi also acknowledged Sable’s youth and determination as assets that could help him achieve a breakthrough on the international stage.

The Kenyan champion invited Sable to join him for training at his base offering a golden opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s finest.

'It wasn't perfect' - Sifan Hassan on why it was terrifying to compete in three distances at the Paris Olympics

Hassan competed in three grueling races at the Paris Olympics, winning marathon gold and bronze in both 5000m and 10000m

Paris Olympics marathon champion Sifan Hassan has revealed why she made a decision to take part in three races at the 2024 Paris Games.

The 31-year-old claimed 5000m and 10,000m bronze before winning the marathon in an Olympic record.

The Dutchwoman was honored at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco on December 1 where she won the women’s out of stadium category before being named as women’s World Athlete of the Year.

"This year, my curiosity pushed me to take a risk and compete in three distances at the Paris Olympics. It was terrifying, and that made each finish line more meaningful. It wasn’t perfect, but sometimes happiness comes from embracing imperfections," she told World Athletics. 

The Paris 2024 marathon course went down as one of the toughest and most challenging in Olympic history, taking place in grueling conditions and featuring one long, sustained climb and a second almost vertiginous climb around the 29km marker before a long, steep, giddy downhill stretch heading back into the city center.

Hassan said she studied the Paris course very well and familiarity gave her the confidence that she had what it takes to reign supreme in the French capital. She added that her Tokyo experience came in handy too.

"After I ran the Tokyo marathon, I looked at the Paris course. I started really practising to run 600m up, then 800m down. I did it so often that I couldn’t sit down, I couldn’t run. I almost injured myself," said the Tokyo Olympics 10000m champion.

“My coach said to me: ‘Why are you only focusing on this?’ And I said: ‘You didn’t see what I saw!’ Really, before Paris, I overtrained. I felt like I was done," the 5000m Tokyo Olympics champion maintained.

Her marathon win in an Olympic record of 2:22:55 came just 37 hours after Hassan had won 10,000m bronze, and six days after her 5000m bronze.

Three tempo sessions to spice up your winter long run

The base-building winter season is upon us; but as snowy sludge builds up on the sidewalks, your long runs can sometimes feel just as slow and heavy. Incorporating a few pickup intervals to transform your typical steady mileage day into a tempo run is the best way to add some spice to your winter training plan.

5 x 6 minutes

For this session, aim for a pace where you’re picking up your feet and breathing faster than your usual easy or long run pace. (This will probably fall between your half-marathon and 10K goal pace.) You should still be able to converse with your running partners intermittently, and easily transition to your easy rest interval after each pickup. If you’re gasping for air afterward, pull back the pace.

Warmup: 10-15 minutes. Tempo: 5 x 6 minutes / 90 seconds easy. Cooldown: 10-15 minutes.

Total time: 60-70 minutes

15 minute progression + 5 x 90 seconds

It’s a great idea to mix progression work into your long run on a regular basis. Start at an easy pace where you can hold a conversation, and gradually increase your speed to finish around your 10K goal pace. For the shorter intervals, aim for a pace just faster than your 10K goal pace, and if you feel strong and smooth, increase your speed with each rep. You should be able to exchange a few words with your running partner, but it should feel like you’re working pretty hard.

Warmup: 10-15 minutes. Workout: 15 minute progression (rest: 5 minutes easy), 5 x 90 seconds/1 minute easy. Cooldown: 10-15 minutes.

Total time: 52-62 minutes

4 x 4 minutes + 8 x 1 minute

These shorter intervals will make your long run fly by. Aim for a pace slightly slower than your 10K goal pace; you should be able to converse with your partners without feeling completely breathless. Complete the one-minute repeats at a speed somewhere between your 10K and 5K goal paces. You should only be able to utter a few words during these intervals, and you’ll need to catch your breath during your rest.

Warmup: 10-15 minutes. Tempo: 4 x 4 minutes/1 minute easy (rest: 5 minutes easy), 8 x 1 minute/1 minute easy. Cooldown: 10-15 minutes.

Total time: 60-70 minutes

Geneva Marathon winner disqualified for doping

The athlete claimed he did not know what EPO or furosemide were and had no idea how they both ended up in his body.

The winner of the 2024 Generali Geneva Marathon in Switzerland, Kibrom Weldemicael has been given a six-year doping ban after testing positive for two substances. Weldemicael was provisionally suspended just days before he was supposed to run at the 2024 Paris Olympics for Eritrea, now, the 37-year-old will be unable to compete until 2030, and his marathon win will be annulled.

According to the Athletics Integrity Unit, Weldemicael provided an in-competition urine sample after his win at May’s Geneva Marathon in 2:09:57. Three months later, a WADA laboratory in Cologne, Germany found an adverse finding in his May 5 sample for the presence of erythropoietin (EPO) and furosemide.

EPO enhances the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity by increasing red blood cell production, which can improve endurance and performance in long-distance runners. Furosemide is a diuretic (often referred to as a “water pill”), which helps the body get rid of excess salt and water by increasing urine production. The drug is typically used to lose weight quickly or to mask the use of other performance-enhancing drugs. EPO and furosemide are both prohibited substances on the WADA 2024 Prohibited List.

According to the AIU, Weldemicael was notified of the adverse finding in person at the Paris Olympics, where he was preparing to run for Eritrea in the men’s marathon. He was given a provisional suspension on Aug 9, after failing to file a written submission on why the suspension should not be imposed. A week later, the athlete provided an explanation saying he had not taken EPO, and said his red blood cell count was high because he had been training in high-altitude locations for his entire career. He also requested a test of his B sample.

Weldemicael failed to pay for the cost of the B sample test by the deadline, waiving his right to the analysis. He later claimed he did not know what EPO or furosemide were, had not taken either and was unable to explain the presence of both in his body.

The AIU said they reviewed the athlete’s explanation and it was clear he had committed an ADRV (Anti-Doping Rule Violation).

The 37-year-old, who ran his marathon personal best of 2:07:25 this year, will be ineligible to compete until May 2030. His result from the 2024 Geneva Marathon will be disqualified, but his win from Maratón BP Castellón in Spain in February will stand. His best performance at a major marathon was his eighth-place finish at the 2015 London Marathon.

Sara Hall Smashes Her Own American Masters Record

In her fourth marathon of 2024, Sara Hall finished 10th at the Valencia Marathon in Spain in 2:23:45. Hall, 41, shattered her own U.S. masters record, 2:26:06, which she set at the Olympic Marathon Trials in February.

The race was won by Megertu Alemu of Ethiopia in 2:16:49.

Hall averaged 5:29 per mile pace in Valencia. It was her best marathon since 2022, when she ran 2:22:10 at the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon, and placed fifth.

Hall has been frequent racer throughout her career, not needing much time to recover between races. Her entry into Valencia was a last-minute addition, after she raced in Chicago eight weeks earlier, and the race did not go according to plan. (Hall was 18th in 2:30:12.) She also ran Boston this year, finishing 15th in 2:27:58.

She posted to her Instagram account after the race.

“After a long stretch of not feeling like myself since Boston, it felt so good to have my normal fight out there,” Hall wrote, in part. “Applied the lessons I learned from Chicago, handled the very similar conditions much better. Chose to believe in myself even when my confidence had been rattled over and over. What a dream to do this four times this year.”

Hall elaborated in a text message to Runner’s World that she missed several bottles in Chicago—she fumbled a couple, and others she didn’t drink much out of—and became dehydrated in the humid conditions. “This time just was much more intentional to consume fluids even if I didn’t feel like I needed it,” she said.

She also increased her electrolytes and said she went out more conservatively than she would normally run and did at Chicago. Hall ran half spits that were almost even—1:11:40 and 1:12:05.

Hall’s PR is 2:20:32 from the Marathon Project in Chandler, Arizona, a one-time event set up for elite runners during the pandemic. That PR puts her fifth on the U.S. all-time list, behind Emily Sisson, Keira D’Amato, Betsy Saina, and Deena Kastor.

Her career is notable for its duration. Hall has appeared in every Olympic Trials since 2004, either on the track or in the marathon, or both. She is coached by her husband, Ryan Hall, who is third on the U.S. all-time list for men’s marathoners.

Hall was not the only record setter in Valencia. Roberta Groner, 46, who represented the U.S. at the 2019 world championships in Doha, Qatar, where she finished sixth, ran 2:29:32, setting an American record for the 45–49 age group.

Groner’s record should be safe for at least the next three years—or until Hall turns 45 in April 2028.

'Women are valued'- Hellen Obiri shares why she prefers staying in the US rather than Kenya

Hellen Obiri is loving it in the US so far as she revealed some of the good things she has experienced that would never have happened to her if she chose to stay in Kenya.

Hellen Obiri has opened up about how her life has changed since she relocated to the US in 2022 with her husband, Tom Nyaundi, and their daughter, Tania.

The two-time Olympic 5000m silver medalist revealed that she has found many opportunities that would never have happened to her if she was still staying in Kenya. Obiri disclosed that in the US, women are valued highly unlike where she grew up, Kenya.

Hellen Obiri lamented that in her village, men are always given a platform but women are advised to stay at home and be humble, a way to protect them but instead, that kills the potential and dreams of many women.

She revealed that relocating has opened her eyes and she now believes that women can do anything and gender does not play any role in what women can do better. She urged women to come through and support each other since that is the only way they are able to grow.

“They say that in life, opportunities knock at your door only once. Had I stayed in Kenya, I could have been in a rural community, even running, but the spotlight is always on men. In the United States, however, women are valued,” Hellen Obiri said as per Foot Boom.

“My mindset expanded greatly while living in the U.S. You feel appreciated and strive to work harder and to grow. Women need to support more women. Today, I feel truly honored.”

She also touched on how signing with On running has been life-changing for her as she looks to make a mark in the world of marathon running. She has been impressive since her debut at the 2022 New York City Marathon where she finished sixth.

Hellen Obiri then proceeded to win the Boston Marathon in 2023 and capped off her season with a win at the New York City Marathon. She opened her 2024 season with a win in the Boston Marathon before claiming the bronze medal in the Olympic marathon. She ended her season with a second-place finish at the New York City Marathon.

“It was shortly after Tokyo. Having the chance to work for a major company is a privilege, a real opportunity for me. I've been wearing running shoes for over ten years, and there’s always a better shoe, a better technology available. How can I help improve these shoes? I ran those marathons as if I were wearing spikes on the track,” Hellen Obiri said.

“It’s incredible because I trust On and believe in the brand's shoes. I won two times in Boston and once in New York, and the Olympic marathon medal while wearing the On Cloudboom Echo. It’s amazing, it’s comfortable and doesn’t cause injuries or discomfort.”

Daniel Ebenyo, Benson Kipruto confirmed for high-profile race in India

Daniel Ebenyo and Benson Kipruto are among top runners scheduled to compete in India this weekend.

If you think athletes are taking a break from running since the festive season is here, maybe you should fasten up your seat belt because things are just getting started.

The track season is now over and the runners have shifted focus to the road races to continue chasing the bag and staying in the loop as far as fitness is concerned. Top athletes have since been confirmed for the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, the World’s 1st Gold Label 25K scheduled for December 15.

Daniel Ebenyo is not resting on his laurels and he is just fresh from racing in the senior men’s race at the Athletics Kenya cross-country leg in Bomet. Ebenyo has had a mixed season and he was just taking some time off before coming back into the grind, ready to show the world what they have missing out on.

He was hoping to make his Olympic debut in Paris, France but a tragic fall during the 10,000m trials at the Prefontaine Classic saw him miss out on a podium finish, something that still haunts him to date. Daniel Ebenyo insisted that he was in the form of his life and would have won Kenya a medal.

The world 10,000m silver medallist made a huge milestone later in the season, making his full marathon debut at the Chicago Marathon where he placed fifth. He returns to a familiar course where he threatened the 25km world best last year with his dominant win. He won the race in a new course record time of 1:11:13.

“The Kolkata roads are fast, and conditions are ideal; it is a perfect opportunity for me to defend my title and better my timing,” the reigning champion Daniel Ebenyo revealed.

He will be challenged by Benson Kipruto, a master in road running who will be out to continue his dominant form in India. Kipruto won the Tokyo Marathon earlier this year, beating Eliud Kipchoge and then proceeded to claim the bronze medal at the Paris Olympic Games.

Meanwhile, the women’s defending champion, Sutume Kebede also returns after winning last year’s race dominantly in 1:18:47. Kebede has been impressive this season, improving her personal best times in the half marathon (1:04:37) and marathon (2:15:55) to take initial world leads in both events this season.

US $142,214 prize money has been set aside for the top finishers. The top three finishers will win $15000, $10000, and $7000, respectively.

Olympic 100m final track invader given €8,000 fine

In addition to the fine, the Australian man who stormed the track received a three-year ban from the Stade de France.

The 24-year-old Australian man who disrupted the men’s 100m final at the Stade de France on Aug. 4 has been fined 8,000 euros (CAD $11,800) by a French court, per AFP News.

The incident occurred moments before the start of the world’s most prominent race, as the top sprinters were in their blocks. The man, wearing a T-shirt reading “Free Palestine,” “Free Ukraine,” and “Jesus,” jumped onto the track from the stands, but was almost immediately intercepted by security staff. His goal appeared to be reaching the 100m straight, but security acted swiftly enough to prevent any disruption to the race.

In addition to the fine, the man received a three-year ban from the Stade de France. The finalists, including eventual champion Noah Lyles, had to wait several minutes for the track to be cleared before the race could begin.

Lyles went on to win his first Olympic gold medal, narrowly beating Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson in a photo finish that came down to five-thousandths of a second. Afterward, Lyles told the media he didn’t see anyone trying to get onto the field, but was wondering what they were waiting for.

Paris 2024 organizers praised the security team’s efficiency in handling the situation, which caused minimal delay. The man was taken into custody and placed under judicial supervision, which included a ban from attending any further Olympic events during the Games.

France has laws against unauthorized entry into sports venues or disrupting public events. These actions typically fall under laws governing public safety and order, such as Code pénal articles on disrupting public gatherings or trespassing. Offenders can face fines, bans from stadiums or events, and even imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence.

Soh Rui Yong and Rachel See shine at the 2024 Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon

The 2024 Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) saw familiar champions reclaim their titles in a showcase of endurance and determination. Soh Rui Yong captured his fifth consecutive men’s national title, while Rachel See defended her women’s national title, solidifying their positions as Singapore’s top marathoners.

With over 55,000 participants, including 13,000 international runners, the 2024 Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM) highlighted Singapore’s growing enthusiasm for endurance sports.

The marathon also featured familiar champions reclaiming their titles in a display of perseverance and excellence. Soh Rui Yong captured his fifth consecutive men’s national title, while Rachel See successfully defended her women’s national title, cementing their status as Singapore’s top marathoners.

Soh Rui Yong: A Dominant Fifth Victory

Soh Rui Yong crossed the finish line at the Anderson Bridge in 2 hours, 46 minutes, and 5 seconds, edging out Benjamin Khoo and Richard Heng in a tightly contested race.

Celebrating his fifth national championship, Soh reflected on the competitiveness of the event, stating, “The fight for the podium was very close, which bodes well for the depth of marathon running in Singapore.”

Praising the camaraderie among participants, he added, “We conquered together as a community. Win or lose, tomorrow a new season begins.”

Soh took to Facebook after the race, expressing his gratitude and reflecting on the challenges of the event. “It was an honour to race a marathon on home soil again, and an even bigger one to win the national championship for the fifth consecutive time,” he wrote.

Soh, 33, continues to set his sights high, targeting a marathon treble at the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok. “If I win two gold medals 10 years apart, that’s pretty good,” he remarked.

Despite challenges with the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) over previous SEA Games and Asian Games exclusions, Soh remains determined to represent Singapore and excel on the international stage.

Rachel See: A Class of Her Own

Rachel See retained her women’s national title with a time of 3 hours, 45 seconds, finishing ahead of Goh Shing Ling and Sharon Tan.

At 42, See continues to defy age with consistent performances that inspire the running community.

Reflecting on her victory, she said, “This year I was very aware and alert, and I enjoyed every moment of it. I came with an open mind to do my best.”

Despite a more relaxed approach to training compared to 2023, See’s strategic pacing and experience proved decisive.

Her back-to-back titles reinforce her reputation as one of Singapore’s premier female distance runners.

A Journey of Determination for Soh

Soh’s athletic journey has not been without hurdles. Over the years, his relationship with the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) has been fraught with challenges, including disputes that led to his exclusion from the SEA Games in 2019 and 2021.

His selection for the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games marked a turning point, where he secured a silver medal in the 10,000m and gained international praise for sportsmanship by offering his drink to Indonesia’s Rikki Marthin Luther Simbolon, who had accidentally missed his cup at the water point.

However, challenges persisted. In 2023, Soh faced exclusion from the Asian Games in Hangzhou due to alleged failure to honor commitments made to the SNOC.

The council cited disparaging remarks he made in public as undermining his assurances to conduct himself professionally.

This controversy followed earlier disputes, including a defamation case involving a former teammate, which further complicated his path to international competitions.

Despite these setbacks, Soh continues to focus on his athletic ambitions. His recent marathon victory and his effort to meet SEA Games qualifying marks demonstrate his resilience and dedication to the sport.

Hassan and Tebogo named World Athletes of the Year

Olympic champions Sifan Hassan and Letsile Tebogo have been announced as World Athletes of the Year at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco.

Following a vote by fans, Hassan and Tebogo received top honors on an evening that saw six athletes crowned in three categories – track, field and out of stadium – before the overall two winners were revealed.

Tebogo was confirmed as men’s track athlete of the year, with Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone receiving the women’s honour. Hassan claimed the women’s out of stadium crown and Tamirat Tola the men’s, while Mondo Duplantis and Yaroslava Mahuchikh were named field athletes of the year.

This year’s Rising Stars were also celebrated, with Sembo Almayew and Mattia Furlani receiving recognition.

World Athletes of the Year for 2024

Women’s World Athlete of the Year: Sifan Hassan (NED)Men’s World Athlete of the Year: Letsile Tebogo (BOT)

Women’s track: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA)Women’s field: Yaroslava Mahuchikh (UKR)Women’s out of stadium: Sifan Hassan (NED)Men’s track: Letsile Tebogo (BOT)Men’s field: Mondo Duplantis (SWE)Men’s out of stadium: Tamirat Tola (ETH)

Women’s Rising Star: Sembo Almayew (ETH)Men’s Rising Star: Mattia Furlani (ITA)

“At the end of what has been a stellar year for athletics, we are delighted to reveal our list of World Athletes of the Year – both in their respective disciplines and overall,” said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. “This group of athletes represents the very best of our sport and has this year redefined what is possible in terms of athletic performance.

“Our 2024 cohort set new standards in heights, speed and distance, including six world records and a host of Olympic and national records between them.

“I congratulate all our award winners, and all of the athletes nominated for these honors, and I thank them for inspiring us all with their performances this year.”

World Athletes of the Year Hassan and Tebogo both won gold and claimed multiple medals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Dutch star Hassan’s medal treble in Paris was capped by her winning the final athletics gold medal of the Games with her triumph in the marathon in an Olympic record of 2:22:55. That performance came just 37 hours after Hassan claimed bronze in the 10,000m, and six days after her first medal in the French capital – also bronze – in the 5000m.

As a result, she became the first woman to win medals in the 5000m, 10,000m and marathon at the same Games, and the first athlete since Emil Zatopek, who won all three men’s titles in Helsinki in 1952.

Tebogo also made history in Paris when he won the 200m, as he claimed a first ever Olympic gold medal in any sport for Botswana. He ran an African record of 19.46 – a time that moved him to fifth on the world all-time list – and that performance followed his sixth-place finish in the 100m final. He went on to form part of Botswana’s silver medal-winning men’s 4x400m team.

He dipped under 20 seconds for 200m a total of nine times in 2024, with those performances topped by his Olympic title-winning mark which remained the fastest of the year.

His fellow track athlete of the year, McLaughlin-Levrone, improved her own world 400m hurdles record twice, to 50.65 and 50.37, and claimed Olympic gold in that event as well as in the 4x400m. Tola, who joined Hassan in being named out of stadium athlete of the year, won the Olympic marathon title in Paris in an Olympic record.

World records were set by both field athletes of the year. Mahuchikh cleared 2.10m to improve the world high jump record before winning Olympic gold, while Duplantis revised his own world pole vault record three times, eventually taking it to 6.26m, and won the Olympic title.

"Thank you to the fans, to everybody who voted," said Hassan, who was in Monaco to receive her two awards. "I never thought I was going to win this one. This year was crazy. It’s not only me – all the athletes have been amazing. I’m really grateful. What more can I say?"

Standing alongside Hassan on the stage at the Theatre Princesse Grace, Tebogo said: "It feels amazing to know that the fans are always there for us athletes. It was a great year.

"This means a lot," he added. "It’s not just about the team that is around you, there are a lot of fans out there that really want us to win something great for the continent. It was a real surprise to hear my name because I didn’t expect this."

Almayew and Furlani named Rising Stars of 2024

Not only did Sembo Almayew and Mattia Furlani achieve great things as U20 athletes in 2024, they both also secured success on the senior stage.

Almayew finished fifth in the 3000m steeplechase final at the Paris Olympics, going close to her own national U20 record with her 9:00.83 performance, before she travelled to Lima where she won the world U20 title, setting a championship record in the process. With that win, the 19-year-old became the first ever Ethiopian world U20 women’s steeplechase champion.

Furlani improved the world U20 long jump record to 8.38m at the European Championships on home soil in Rome to secure silver, and he won two more senior major medals at the World Indoor Championships, where he got another silver, and the Olympic Games, where he claimed bronze.

In Glasgow – at the age of 19 years and 24 days – Furlani became the youngest athlete ever to win a world indoor medal in the horizontal jumps.

Knight wins President’s Award

The winner of the President’s Award was also announced in Monaco on Sunday (1), with Nike co-founder Phil Knight receiving the honour in recognition of his constant inspiring support for athletics and the development of the sport.

The President's Award, first awarded in 2016, recognises and honours exceptional service to athletics. Past winners of the award include the Ukrainian Athletics Association, British journalist Vikki Orvice, Swiss meeting director Andreas Brugger, Jamaican sprint superstar Usain Bolt, the Abbott World Marathon Majors, and 1968 men’s 200m medallists Tommie Smith, Peter Norman and John Carlos for their iconic moment on the podium in Mexico.

“Phil Knight’s passion for athletics is pretty much lifelong,” said Coe. “He developed an almost father-son relationship with his coach, the legendary Bill Bowerman, whose training approach was a departure from the orthodoxies of the day and who not only guided Knight’s career on the track but became a central figure when Phil took his first tentative steps in the running shoe business that became the dominant global force Nike.

“His love of athletics runs through Nike. It is a business created and driven by runners, with Phil never afraid to be the front runner.”

Knight said: “Thank you, Seb Coe, for the ultimate honour of the President’s Award, given by World Athletics. I am in great company, with Tommie Smith and John Carlos, and Usain Bolt. Obviously, I didn’t run as fast as those guys, but I am in such high company that I am thrilled by the award. Track and field has always been an important part of Nike – it has always been a central part of who Nike is.

“I do think running will continue to grow. Not only does Seb and his team do a great job promoting the sport, but it is a sport that not only is enjoyable, but it is probably the best fitness activity you can do. So, for me to win this honour, it is very meaningful.”

During the ceremony, a moment was taken to remember last year’s men’s out of stadium athlete of the year Kelvin Kiptum, the marathon world record-holder who died in a road traffic accident in February, as well as other figures from the sport who have passed away in 2024.

Yuya Yoshida wins Fukuoka marathon in Japan's 3rd fastest time

Yuya Yoshida took a fast first step toward qualifying for next year's world athletics championships by winning the Fukuoka International Marathon in 2 hours, 5 minutes, 16 seconds, Japan's third-fastest time.

The 27-year-old beat the standard qualifying time of 2:06:30 for the 2025 worlds in Tokyo. Yoshida stayed with the leading group until seizing the sole lead at the 32-kilometer mark.

"I ran this race in the belief that I have the strength to break the Japan record, and I ran knowing I had a little extra left if I needed it," Yoshida said.

"Although I didn't reach the national record, I believe this represents growth beyond just my time. Going forward, I want to get stronger still, so I can compete on the world stage."

Yusuke Nishiyama, who represented Japan at the 2022 worlds, was second in the race that started and finished at Fukuoka's Heiwadai athletics stadium.

Marathon world lead for debutant Sawe in Valencia

Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe set a world lead on his marathon debut, while Ethiopia’s Megertu Alemu also captured a solid victory at the Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso – a World Athletics Elite Platinum Label event – on Sunday (1). 

Sawe’s winning time was 2:02:05, just 12 seconds off the fastest ever debut set by his compatriot Kelvin Kiptum two years ago and a mark that moves him to fifth on the world all-time list, while Alemu ran 2:16:49, just 15 seconds outside her lifetime best.

The men’s event had been billed as a thrilling showdown between experienced specialists such as Sisay Lemma, Deresa Geleta and Kenenisa Bekele, versus some promising debutants including Sawe and Hillary Kipkoech. Perfectly paced by a trio of pacemakers – Kenya’s Samwel Mailu, Erick Sang and Vincent Nyageo – the leading men went through the opening 5km in 14:31. That cadence was maintained until the leading pack reached the 10km checkpoint in 29:04 and 15km in 43:39. By then, nine athletes remained at the helm including all the favourites, Geleta and Lemma running closest to the pacemakers. 

The halfway mark was passed in 1:01:17, 42 seconds slower than last year’s split when Lemma set the course record of 2:01:48. Unlike last year, when he performed conservatively over the first half, Bekele was running quite bravely as the 42-year-old travelled in third or fourth place. But some two kilometres later, the multiple Olympic and world champion began to lose ground and by the 28th kilometre the relentless 2:55/km rhythm whittled down the leading pack to five: Kenya’s Mateiko and Sawe plus Ethiopia’s Geleta, Lemma and Birhanu Legese. 

Once the last pacemaker dropped out with the clock reading 1:33, Lemma began to falter to lose any chance of retaining his title. At the front, Mateiko and Geleta broke away from Sawe and Legese, those pairs separated by 30 metres inside the 32nd kilometre. It was Mateiko, who was not able to finish the Chicago 2023 and London 2024 marathons, who seemed to decide the victory was in his favour shortly afterwards as he became a lonesome leader. The three-time Valencia half-marathon podium place finisher had built a five-second gap on Sawe and Geleta, while Legese could not maintain that pace and travelled in fourth place way back.

Mateiko’s getaway proved to be short-lived as he was reeled in by Sawe and Geleta at the 36th kilometre, when the predicted final time remained at 2:02:35. It was then that the eventual winner found another gear to speed away easily from Mateiko and Geleta, who finished fifth at the Paris Olympics. Sawe, who has completed all his nine half marathons under the 60-minute barrier, upped his pace to the 2:48/2:50 range to gradually extend his lead. By the 40km point he clocked 1:55:42, 20 seconds ahead of Geleta, while a tired Mateiko travelled another 35 seconds in arrears. 

Sawe showed a magnificent display of solo running over the closing kilometres, going faster and faster as the end was approaching to finally finish unopposed in a world leading performance of 2:02:05, including a 14:06 closing five kilometres.

Geleta, the Seville Marathon winner, improved his career best to 2:02:38 for second place, while Mateiko slowed dramatically over the final stages but still managed to finish the distance at the third time of asking in 2:04:24, holding off a late challenge from Tanzania’s 2017 world bronze medallist Alphonce Simbu.

Simbu achieved a perfectly balanced two halves (1:02:13/1:02:25) to finish fourth in a PB of 2:04:38, two seconds clear of the 42-year-old Swiss athlete Tadesse Abraham, who clocked a lifetime best and national record of 2:04:40 for fifth. In a race of an incredible depth, 10 men ducked under the 2:05 milestone while Bekele dropped out shortly after the 31st kilometre.

Sawe, the world half marathon champion, has won seven out of his nine half marathon appearances, topped by a 58:02 time in Rome in 2022. His two defeats came in Valencia, so Sunday’s performance marks his first victory in the city. 

The winner, whose two halves were timed at 1:01:18 and 1:00:47, said: “Honestly, I had built up very good for this debut and was quite confident of doing well. It’s an amazing day, I’m so happy to be here and win in Valencia, which is so beautiful.  

“I was used to running the half marathon event, I was comfortable during the first half, then I was close to the helm of the race and I thought I could go faster and I just did it. I dedicate this win to the victims of the Valencia floods, I pray for them.”

Alemu confirms she is the strongest 

Following the withdrawal of Ethiopia’s course record-holder Amane Beriso due to a stress fracture, the women’s contest kicked off at the scheduled 3:12 rhythm on an attempt to lower the current 2:14:58 course record set in 2022. The opening five and 10 kilometres were covered in 16:02 and 32:03, respectively, and by then all the favourites stayed in the leading pack, with Alemu joined by her compatriot Tiruye Mesfin, Uganda’s Stella Chesang and Kenya’s Evaline Chirchir. The clock read 47:56 for the 15th kilometre and that cadence proved to be too quick for Mesfin and Chirchir, that pair running 18 seconds in arrears by then.

Running alongside lots of male athletes, Alemu and the Paris Olympics eighth-place finisher Chesang went through halfway in 1:07:15, well on schedule to break Beriso’s record, with Mesfin and Chirchir some 300 metres back timed at 1:08:06 but quick enough to set respective career bests. Chesang’s resistance came to an end some 1:11 into the race when she just could not stay with Alemu’s pace. The Ethiopian managed to maintain her speed until the 30th kilometre, which she reached in 1:35:55, but from then on the 27-year-old dropped her rhythm as she timed 16:48 for the following two five-kilometre sections (30-40km) and her chances of a course record clearly vanished. 

Even so, Alemu’s win was never in jeopardy as she strengthened gradually her advantage on Chesang to 40 seconds by the 30th kilometre and a massive 1:21 at the 40km checkpoint, while Mesfin easily got rid of Chirchir just before reaching the 25th kilometre. At the tape, Alemu posted her second quickest ever time thanks to a 2:16:49 clocking, while the runner-up Chesang broke the 2:20 barrier for the first time in a national record of 2:18:26. Mesfin completed the classy podium, also improving her lifetime best by 12 seconds with 2:18:35.

“I know I can do a better mark but I’m happy to win today,” said Alemu. “Between 35 and 40 kilometres I wasn’t feeling good, so I decided to reduced my rhythm. At the finish line, all the people were clapping and that was really special. I can feel today it’s a different day for Valencia.”

It is only in recent weeks that event organisers were able to confirm that the race would go ahead. At the end of October, the province of Valencia was hit by extreme floods, claiming the lives of 229 people. The natural disaster lasted for more than two weeks, causing substantial damage in the area. Organisers confirmed that all the proceeds from the sponsors, the organisation’s own funds and the runners will be donated to one or more projects for the reconstruction of the affected areas.

Leading results

Women1 Megertu Alemu (ETH) 2:16:492 Stella Chesang (UGA) 2:18:263 Tiruye Mesfin (ETH) 2:18:354 Evaline Chirchir (KEN) 2:20:335 Majida Maayouf (ESP) 2:21:436 Chimdesa Kumsa (ETH) 2:21:547 Laura Luengo (ESP) 2:22:318 Isobel Batt-Doyle (AUS) 2:22:599 Moira Stewartova (CZE) 2:23:4410 Sara Hall (USA) 2:23:45 

Men1 Sabastian Sawe (KEN) 2:02:052 Deresa Geleta (ETH) 2:02:383 Daniel Mateiko (KEN) 2:04:244 Alphonce Simbu (TAN) 2:04:385 Tadesse Abraham (SUI) 2:04:406 Chimdessa Debele (ETH) 2:04:447 Maru Teferi (ISR) 2:04:458 Hillary Kipkoech (KEN) 2:04:459 Samuel Fitwi (GER) 2:04:5610 Sisay Lemma (ETH) 2:04:59

Lelisa Desisa, 2019 world marathon champion, returns for 2025 Dubai Marathon

The 34-year-old won global gold in Doha five years ago plus Boston and New York City marathon titles.

Former world marathon champion Lelisa Desisa will return to the scene of one of his most memorable victories when he joins the elite field of world-class athletes at the 24th Dubai Marathon on Sunday January 12.

In 2013, the Ethiopian set a personal best of 2:04:45 when winning the Dubai Marathon, producing a performance that announced his arrival on the world stage and set him on a path that would lead to two wins in the Boston Marathon, victory in the 2018 New York Marathon and a gold at the World Championship in 2019.

Staged under the auspices of the Dubai Sports Council, the Dubai Marathon will see the 34-year-old return to competitive competition after a few years devoted to business and family matters.

Following his World Championship win in Doha in October 2019, Desisa found his international running opportunities curtailed by the global pandemic and with an eye on his post-running future focused his efforts on starting a business in Ethiopia.

With his affairs now sorted and two young children recently welcomed to the Desisa family, the three-time big city marathon champion is back in full-time training having confirmed the Dubai Marathon for his running return.

“Lelisa’s victory in 2013 saw one of the most memorable finishes in the history of the Dubai Marathon so we are happy to welcome him back to the event,” said Race Director Peter Connerton.

“Eleven years ago, Lelisa won in a sprint finish that saw the top five all finish in under 2:05 – the first time that had happened in marathon history. It’s a testament to the flat and fast route we have in Dubai that Lelisa wants to continue his comeback in the UAE on January 12.”

Prior to the pandemic, Desisa was one of the hottest properties in long distance running – eight top three big city marathon finishes, including those three victories, in six years established him at the top of the sport – and his return to international competition will be eagerly anticipated.

Desisa, who also won the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in 2014, will join a field of world-class elite athletes for the 24th staging of the Middle East’s fastest international marathon and will be joined by thousands of runners competing in the three-race event. Registration for the marathon, the 10km road race and the 4km fun run can made online only at dubaimarathon.org.

Stuck on the cross-train? Try these three workouts

If you’ve been sidelined by an injury, you might find yourself cross-training to maintain your fitness. But just because you can’t run doesn’t mean you can’t get a good workout in. Cycling, pool running and using the elliptical are all excellent ways to continue building your endurance while staying off your feet. Here are three of my favourite timed-interval workouts to do while stuck on the cross-train.

These workouts are about 30 minutes of working time, and can be easily modified by adjusting or removing sets if you’re looking to do something shorter. You should aim for about 10 minutes for your warmup and cooldown.

1.- Simple repeats

This is my go-to workout if I need a quick interval session. A higher volume of shorter repeats keeps the workout interesting, since it can be very demanding mentally to stay at a high intensity for a long time while cross-training.

Workout: 30 minute of intervals; total time with rest: 48 minutes

Set 1: 3, 2, 1 minute(s) hard/1 minute easy. Rest: 2 mins easy. (Repeat 5 times.)

2.- The ladder workout

Ladders aren’t everyone’s favourite workout, but once you get past the longest reps at the halfway point, the rest of the workout feels easy. Beginning and ending the workout with some speedwork also adds an exciting twist to the interval climb.

Workout: 33 minute of intervals; total time with rest: 53 minutes

Set 1: 8 x 30 seconds hard/30 seconds easy. Rest: 3 minutes easy

Set 2: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 minute(s) hard/half interval easy. Rest: 3 minutes easy

Set 3: 8x 30 sec hard/30 sec easy.

3.- The all-in-one workout

The number of sets might make this workout look intimidating, but the constantly changing intervals keep you engaged and helps the workout fly by. Plus, who doesn’t love having a mix of everything?

Workout: 34 minute of intervals; total time with rest: 57 minutes

Set 1: 5 x 2 minutes hard/1 minute easy. Rest: 2 minutes

Set 2: 5 x 1 minute hard/30 seconds easy. Rest: 2 minutes

Set 3: 3, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2, 3 minute(s)/1 minute easy. Rest: 2 minutes

Set 4: 10 x 30 seconds hard/30 seconds easy.

Sabastian Sawe ready to debut at Valencia Marathon after insightful lessons from mentors

Sabastian Sawe is bubbling with confidence ahead of his marathon debut in Valencia on Sunday as he gears up for a race against legends Sisay Lemma and Kenenisa Bekele.

Sabastian Sawe will be making his full marathon on Sunday at the Valencia Marathon and he expects to have a great outing, racing against a stacked field.

His greatest opposition will come from the Ethiopian duo of Sisay Lemma and Kenenisa Bekele but he is confident in his training and has fingers crossed to post impressive results.

Sabastian Sawe’s previous outings in Valencia have not yielded great results as he was forced to finish outside the podium bracket and as he takes on a greater milestone, he hopes for great results.

The world half marathon champion competed at the 2022 Valencia Half Marathon where he finished sixth before heading to finish fifth at the 2023 edition of the race. He revealed that he will be competing with his mentors in the field and that gives him a lot of optimism that he will run a great race.

“Thank you for inviting me and thank you to the race organizers. My condolences to the tragedy that has happened in Valencia. This time, I hope for good results, I have trained well and I’m well prepared for it,” Sabastian Sawe said in a pre-race press conference.

“I’m eager to run with mentors like Sisay Lemma and Kenenisa Bekele who are strong opponents and I hope they help me to run well and I hope to get good results. It will be my first time running the full marathon and I don’t want to predict any fast times but I’m ready.”

He trains with the likes of Olympic marathon bronze medallist Benson Kipruto and the 2022 New York City marathon champion Evans Kipruto under coach Claudio Berardelli and there is a lot he has picked from them as he prepares for the debut.

He promised to execute everything learnt from his training mates who are also accomplished marathon runners.

“My training mates have encouraged me a lot because they are also my mentors and they have taught me a lot. I’m ready, on Sunday to use everything they have taught me,” he shared.

Father of Ingebrigtsen brothers faces charges involving champion Jakob

The father and former coach of Jakob Ingebrigtsen will stand trial next year on charges of alleged physical abuse against the Norwegian two-time Olympic gold medalist, lawyers for Gjert Ingebrigtsen said on Friday.

Norwegian police earlier this year pressed charges against the elder Ingebrigtsen, and his lawyer said in a statement at that time that they involved only one of his children while other charges were dismissed.

The charges will now extend to incidents involving Jakob, 24, who took the gold medal in the 5,000 meters in Paris this summer, his lawyer Mette Yvonne Larsen told Reuters.

"He is now charged with having abused two of his seven kids ... We had expected that this would happen," she said.

Gjert's lawyers, John Christian Elden and Heidi Reisvang, said in a statement: "Gjert Ingebrigtsen maintains what he has said all along, that he does not admit criminal guilt for the offenses he has been charged with and that he has never subjected any of his children to either physical or mental abuse."

Jakob accused his father of several incidents of abuse, according to Norwegian media, including slapping him twice in 2008 and kicking him in the stomach after he fell off a scooter in 2009.

There were also numerous incidents of verbal abuse and threats in 2015 and 2016, according to Jakob, who said in one incident that his father assaulted him for between 15 and 30 minutes.

The Times reported that, according to the indictment, Gjert allegedly threatened to beat Jakob "to death."

Jakob and his brothers, Filip and Henrik, accused their father of physical violence and abusive behavior in a Norwegian newspaper column last year. The elder Ingebrigtsen has repeatedly denied the claims.

Gjert Ingebrigtsen announced in 2022 that he was stepping down as coach not long after Jakob won gold in the 1,500 meters in Tokyo, prompting widespread speculation over their rift.

Jakob Ingebrigtsen finished third in his much-anticipated showdown with Brit Josh Kerr in the 1,500 meters in Paris this summer as American Cole Hocker took an unexpected gold medal. However, Ingebrigtsen did win gold in the 5,000 meters.

'I didn't let it break me' - Emmanuel Wanyonyi on how early ridicule in his career strengthened him mentally

The Paris Olympics 800m champion faced a tough upbringing but that was the catalyst as it liberated him from the jaws of poverty to his newly-acquired status

Paris Olympics 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi has revealed how his tough childhood has been the cornerstone in who he is today.

The 20-year-old knows the pain of running without shoes, becoming a man at a tender age and providing for the family, and the death of his father proved to be the turning point in his budding career that has already earned him the Olympian title.

Wanyonyi initially faced ridicule because, unlike other parts of Kenya, his home region is not known for producing elite runners. Growing up in extreme poverty in a small village in western Kenya, Wanyonyi's daily life was marked by hardships.

"When Emmanuel was running, people were mocking and laughing at him. I was crying and feeling sad about it, but my boy told me: 'Don't cry, mum. One day I will buy you land and you will live a good life. I thought it was just a joke, but God was with him," Wanyonyi’s mother Margaret Nasimiyu recalled as reported by the BBC.

Wanyonyi said his passion for running was unstoppable and trained even without shoes. Wanyonyi's resourcefulness and drive caught the eye of his teachers, and he began competing in regional events.

Standing out with his raw speed and endurance, despite a lack of formal training, he quickly rose through the ranks with a string of victories.

Wanyonyi credits his early years and the the challenges he overcame as an inspiration that toughened him psychologically.

"There is no challenge in life that can shock me. When people doubted me or laughed at me, I didn't let it break me," the Trans Nzoia native said. His never-give-up attitude has made him a hero locally and internationally and Wanyonyi, born in a family of 11, is a two-time Diamond League champion.

Three workouts from record-breaking trail runner and coach David Roche

David Roche is no stranger to running greatness. As a record-breaking trail runner and sought-after coach, Roche has helped countless athletes reach new heights with his balanced, science-backed approach to training. We have some of his favourite workouts to share with you.

In August, Roche broke a long-standing record at Leadville 100 (in his 100-mile debut) and followed that with a winning performance at Javelina Jundred; despite it being a scorching hot day, Roche ran the second-fastest time ever on the course. His philosophy? Workouts should build fitness while keeping runners healthy and motivated. Here are three of his favourite sessions that deliver big results without overcomplicating your routine. For each workout, add a 10 (or more)-minute easy running warmup; follow the intervals with a 10 (or more)-minute cooldown.

1.- 16 x 1 minute fast, 1 minute easy

This workout is Roche’s year-round staple for developing speed and efficiency. The fast segments are run at your velocity at VO2 max (vVO2)—a controlled but challenging pace. Early in the training season, Roche suggests keeping the recovery portions of the run very easy, they can evolve into a quicker “float” as your fitness improves.

What it’s good for: Speed, efficiency and adaptability. Roche loves its versatility, noting it’s an ideal way to boost your running economy at any fitness level.

2.- 5-minute uphill intervals (treadmill)

Perfect for winter or when you want to reduce impact, this treadmill hill session is a powerhouse for building aerobic capacity. Start with 4 x 5 minutes at a moderate effort, with 1-2 minutes of easy recovery, on a 10 per cent incline (adjust between 4 per cent and 15 per cent based on comfort). More advanced runners can increase to 8-12 intervals.

What it’s good for: Aerobic development and strengthening muscles without overloading joints. Roche calls it a low-impact way to tackle big fitness gains.

3.- 5 x 3-minute hill repeats + tempo run

For aerobic power, Roche swears by hill repeats on gentle inclines. Run uphill for 3 minutes at a hard but sustainable effort, recover with an easy jog back down, and follow it up with a few miles of steady tempo running.

What it’s good for: Builds aerobic power and transitioning strength gains into endurance. Roche highlights the combo of hill work and tempo as a game-changer for all-around fitness.

Bonus: strides for all seasons

Though flashy workouts steal the spotlight, Roche insists strides—short bursts of 20-30 seconds at a quick but relaxed pace—are indispensable. Hill or flat, 4-8 strides after an easy run are his go-to for sharpening form and staying injury-free.

Kenenisa Bekele and Alemu Megertu lead Valencia line-ups

The Spanish city hosts star-studded fields, with athletes hoping to run extremely quick times on the traditionally fast course.

Some of the greatest marathon runners in the world will once again descend on Valencia on Sunday (December 1), just two months on from the horrific floods that devastated the region.

Given the severity of the damage on Valencia – it saw two months of rain in as many days at the end of October – there was uncertainty about whether the event would even take place.

Organisers decided that the Valencia Marathon would go ahead in the end, with a moment of remembrance occurring before the start of the elite races.

“It will be a hug to this wounded city and a promise of recovery, a moment in which sport becomes hope and help for those who need it most,” organisers said.

“This year, the record we want to beat is that of solidarity, the record of a marathon that will remind each one of us of the power of being together. The immense strength of the collective as a society, and of sport, as a vehicle for reconstruction and recovery.

“We want that Valencia Marathon, your race, be a symbol of support for every family that has suffered, for every street and every corner of Valencia that is in the process of reconstruction.”

People lining the streets can look forward to watching some scintillating action, with a myriad of stars taking to the streets of the Spanish city.

A stacked men’s field is led by Kenenisa Bekele and Sisay Lemma.

Bekele, a triple Olympic and five-time world track champion, is the third fastest marathon runner in history, with his personal best of 2:01:41 set back in Berlin five years ago.

The 42-year-old also created in history at last year’s Valencia Marathon, after he became the first athlete aged over 40 to run a sub-2:05 marathon, clocking 2:04:19.

At this year’s London Marathon, Bekele lowered that mark by four seconds, before going on to finish 39th for Ethiopia in the Olympic marathon in Paris.

On paper, Lemma – the reigning champion in Valencia – is the one to beat once again.

Last year, the 33-year-old clocked 2:01:48 in his victory, going fourth on the all-time list over 26.2 miles behind Bekele, Eliud Kipchoge and the late Kelvin Kiptum.

Lemma also secured the Boston marathon crown back in March and is a two-time major marathon champion, after his victory in London three years ago.

The athlete who might be most likely to challenge Lemma is Sabastian Sawe, who is the world half-marathon champion and making his debut over 26.2 miles in Valencia.

The Kenyan’s first ever marathon carries a lot of anticipation and expectation, given the 28-year-old’s personal best in the half-marathon is a blistering 58:05, which he set in Copenhagen back in September.

Double Tokyo Marathon champion Birhanu Legese and the 2021 Berlin Marathon winner Guye Adola will also be ones to watch.

The British challenge is led by Ross Braden, who boasts a personal best of 2:14:32 from London two years ago and has clocked 2:19:49 this season. Dan Nash and Norman Shreeve are also among the British men in action.

Expect a pulsating battle in the women’s field, with Ethiopian Megertu Alemu the stand-out name, following the withdrawal of her compatriot Amane Beriso through injury.

Alemu, who’s placed second and third at the London Marathon in the last two years respectively, has a best of 2:16:34, which has her 14th on the all-time list.

You should also be aware of Hiwot Gebrekidan and Tiruye Mesfin, who are the second and third quickest athletes in the women’s field, with respective bests of 2:17:59 and 2:18:47.

Sara Hall flies the flag for the US and goes into Valencia off the back of fifth and 15th place finishes at the US Olympic Marathon trials and Boston.

Clara Evans will be hoping to improve her PB of 2:25:01, which was set in Valencia last year, after finishing top British woman at the Olympics with 46th place in Paris.

Evans is fresh from setting a Welsh half-marathon record of 69:00 in Valencia too.

She is joined by fellow Brits Becky Briggs and Alice Wright among others.

Ireland’s Fionnuala McCormack finishes off a spectacular season in the Spanish City, with the 40-year-old having finished 28th in the Olympic marathon – her fourth Games – in Paris.

Another fascinating storyline is that of Alice Braham, who is aiming to get near her personal best of 2:35:20 from 2008.

The 48-year-old became the oldest British female to run a marathon in under 2:40 in Berlin, clocking an incredible 2:39:42 on the streets of the German capital.

Braham recently spoke exclusively with AW, opening up about how she got into running, overcoming adversity and her top tips for others over 26.2 miles.

The second coming of Lelisa in Dubai?

Former world champion Lelisa Desisa is returning to the Dubai Marathon, scene of his debut triumph, hoping that the second coming on 12th January will bring him as much success as the first. Desisa’s sprint to victory in Dubai 2013 with four pursuers strung out closely behind him was the first time five men had gone under 2hr 5mins for a marathon anywhere. With 2.04.45, one of the fastest debuts in history the 22 year old Desisa underlined his new elite status by winning Boston barely three months later, and finishing second in the world championships in Moscow in the summer.

The Ethiopian endeared himself to the Boston public that year of the bombing tragedy by returning to the city two months after the event, dedicating his victory to the victims, and presenting his framed medal to the mayor in a much lauded public ceremony. He endorsed his status as a favourite adopted son by winning Boston again in 2015, then finishing second the following year. He may not be as famous as some, but his record after that suggests he had a good case to be considered male marathoner of the decade – he won in New York in 2018, after a second and third in earlier years; all of which led up to his apotheosis as IAAF world champion in the torrid midnight heat of Doha 2019.

Then came the pandemic, a respite after the efforts of the previous six years; and an opportunity to spend time with his young family and start a business back in Ethiopia. According to his manager Hussein Makke, he is now raring to go again. “Desisa took time off to start his business and put staff in place, to ensure if you like his post-racing career,“ said Makke. “He and his wife also welcomed two children. But he is well rested and he told me he is far from finished in competitive running. He’s back to full force training and looking to return to podiums in 2025.“

“It’s great to have such an illustrious winner back,“ said Dubai race director Peter Connerton this week. “Although we’ve had all-time greats like Haile Gebrselassie here in the past, current Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, and women’s world record holder Ruth Chepngetich, all winning in fast times, we’ve also built up a reputation as a race for debutants; and Lelisa and others have certainly proved that point.“

“We suffered with the pandemic, as did all marathons worldwide, but we’re getting back to pre-pandemic interest and entry levels, and looking to make Dubai 2025 the best ever.“

Three tips for runners making a comeback

Pressed pause on training for a period? Here's how to make your return to running pain and problem-free.

Every runner faces a return to the sport at some point, whether it’s after months or even years away. Rebuilding your strength and fitness can be a fulfilling part of the process, but it’s crucial to do it thoughtfully—and we have some tips to help you stay on track. Whether it was an injury, a major life change or an unplanned extended break that kept you sidelined, now is the time to focus on moving forward.

1.- Leave your past behind

One of the biggest challenges when returning to running is resisting the urge to compare your current abilities to your past performance. It’s natural to feel frustrated when you think back to times when running felt easier, especially when every step now feels more difficult. But here’s the reality: you’re starting fresh from today. Dwelling on past achievements won’t get you anywhere; instead, focus on the progress you’re making as you move forward. Accept where you are right now and take pride in rebuilding your strength for the next phase of your running journey.

2.- Start slow and steady

Rebuilding is not the time for all-or-nothing thinking. Avoid the temptation to jump from zero runs to a packed training schedule—gradual increases are key to avoiding injury and burnout. While your return-to-running plan should be customized with your unique abilities and level of fitness in mind, it’s a good idea to start with two to three short runs per week. Sprinkle in walk breaks as needed, and keep it simple. Add new elements, like strength training or extra mileage, only after you’ve built consistency over several weeks.

3.- Forget pace and heart rate—for now

Press pause on worries about pace or heart rate data. Early in your return, the goal is to enjoy the act of running. Forget about pace, effort or numbers—instead focus on consistency and how running makes you feel. Keeping things comfortable and sustainable will help you rediscover what you love about the sport.

Colley, Kelati push through rain to win 88th Manchester Road Race

Andrew Colley and Olympian and now four-time winner Weini Kelati brought glory to the table for Thanksgiving after coming out on top at the 88th Manchester Road Race on Thursday morning.

Rainfall throughout the morning didn't stop Colley and Kelati from leading the pack in the men's and women's divisions of the historic 4.737-mile loop through downtown Manchester. 

While professional runners typically dominate the results, they're far from the only people that travel to Main Street on Thanksgiving morning.

Organizers declared that the Manchester Road Race's numbers were back to pre-pandemic levels with 12,116 participants signing up for the race by the end of the day on Tuesday, falling just short of the 2018 race's 12,435 registrations and exceeding the 2023 event by more than 1,000.

This one piece of cheering advice could transform your race day

American distance running coach Ed Eyestone helped his athletes find their extra gear with this supportive technique.

Every runner has been there: the gruelling point in a race where exhaustion takes over, and not even a “let’s go” or “keep pushing” from the crowd feels like it’s helping. But what if the right words could reignite your drive and help you find that extra gear to push you to a personal best?

That’s precisely what American distance running coach Ed Eyestone proved at the 2024 NCAA Cross Country Championships last weekend in Madison, Wisc. Eyestone, who coaches U.S. Olympic marathoners Conner Mantz and Clayton Young, along with Brigham Young University’s (BYU) cross-country program, utilized a brilliant strategy to motivate his runners to the top of the podium.

Eyestone wore a quarterback-style wristband inscribed with each athlete’s specific motivational triggers. These were not generic cheers, but deeply personal cues each runner wanted to hear at pivotal race moments. The result? BYU became only the fourth school in NCAA Division I history to win both the men’s and women’s team titles in the same year—a feat not accomplished in 20 years.

Why does personalization matter?

It’s easy to default to encouraging phrases like, “Great job!” or “Good work!” While these sentiments have good intentions, studies have shown that tailored, meaningful feedback has a far greater impact on an athlete’s performance. Specific, personalized words can shift focus, reignite motivation and help athletes fight those challenging moments.

The key as a coach or support crew? Understanding what drives the athlete. Whether it’s reminding them of a goal, reinforcing their training, or simply offering a grounding phrase; these personalized remarks can make all the difference. 

When the body starts to struggle, the mind often follows. Strategic cheering taps into sports psychology principles, helping athletes overcome these mental battles by reconnecting them with their purpose and “why.” In this example, coach Eyestone uses small details—like saying exactly what an athlete wants to hear when the going gets tough.

Takeaways for your race day

If you’re cheering for a runner, here are a few ways you can level up your support: first, learn what motivates them. Is it their goal time? A mantra they rely on? A personal reason for running? Use this knowledge to craft your encouragement. Lastly, be specific. Instead of saying, “You’ve got this,” try something more tailored to the race itself, like “You’re right on pace!” or “This is the hill you’ve been training for.” (Or better still, ask them if there are some specific words or phrases they’d find motivating.)

Eyestone’s masterclass in motivation is a reminder that support is more than just words—it’s about connecting meaningfully with the person on the course. Whether you’re coaching, cheering or even giving some self-talk, the right message can turn a good race into a great one.

Timothy Cheruiyot reveals when he plans to hang up his spikes & his post-retirement goals

Timothy Cheruiyot plans to retire from the 1500m after a final championship, transitioning to long-distance and marathon races.

Timothy Cheruiyot has expressed his intention to retire from the 1500m discipline after the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

The 2020 Olympic silver medallist aims to transition to long-distance and road racing, marking a significant shift in his illustrious career.

Cheruiyot, one of the most consistent middle-distance runners over the past decade, has set his sights on concluding his 1500m journey with a strong performance in Tokyo.

“My plan is to post good results at the 2025 World Championships. This will be my last 1500m after having done it for 10 years,” said Cheruiyot as per The Star.

“I will switch to 5000m or 10000m and then the marathon.”

The 29-year-old’s track record speaks for itself. His first major breakthrough came at the 2017 World Championships in London, where he secured a silver medal with a time of 3:33.99, finishing just behind fellow Kenyan Elijah Manang’oi.

Cheruiyot elevated his game in Doha 2019, claiming the world title in 3:29.26, solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.

Cheruiyot also earned a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, clocking 3:29.01 in a tightly contested race won by Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen.

His dominance extended to the Diamond League, where he clinched five titles, and his medal haul includes two silvers each from the Commonwealth Games and African Championships.

However, Cheruiyot’s journey has not been without challenges. In Budapest 2023, he suffered a tendon injury that sidelined him for nine months.

Despite the setback, he returned to competitive form, surprising even himself by securing a spot at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“This season was good for me. Despite tearing both my tendons last year, I am happy I came back strong,” he reflected.

“I started my training later than anyone. Making it to the Olympics surprised me; I did not run with confidence at the trials.”

While Paris didn’t go as planned—Cheruiyot finished 11th in a highly competitive race—he remains optimistic about his future. His focus has shifted to 2024, where he plans to participate in several 10km road races to prepare for his transition.

“I have not done any road race before, but I am hoping to test it next year before Tokyo. I will look for a 10km race to gauge my body,” he explained.

Cheruiyot emphasized the importance of strategic planning with his coach, Bernard Ouma, as he gears up for his sixth World Championships appearance.

“I need to sit down with my coach and plan well on the races I will participate in preparations for the World Championships,” he said.

Having made his global debut in 2015, Cheruiyot’s career has been a mix of highs and lows.

From a seventh-place finish in Beijing to gold in Doha and struggles in recent years, his resilience has been remarkable.

Now, as he nears the twilight of his 1500m career, Cheruiyot is determined to leave on a high note.

His ambition to tackle longer distances and eventually the marathon signals a new chapter for the Kenyan athlete, whose legacy in middle-distance running remains firmly intact.

My three biggest inconveniences as a runner

More often than not, I’m convinced my struggles as a runner make me stick out like a sore thumb. I’m always surprised with the number of athletes who share these experiences and make me feel a little less like an oddball. Here are the three recurring inconveniences I encounter on a regular basis, along with adaptations that have helped me thrive.

1. Eating enough food

Running is a demanding sport; you’ll expend a lot of energy and need to fuel to replenish those nutrients. As someone with a naturally fast metabolism, it can be tough to keep up with how quickly I get hungry. I found meal prepping has been essential for making sure I’m eating enough, with high-protein meals keeping me full for longer. During peak training months, I’m sometimes eating four meals a day, which can make grocery shopping seem like a full-time job. I also always have a protein bar on hand (I just keep one in my bag at all times) for a post-workout snack or in case of immediate hunger.

Constantly being hungry also makes it difficult to fuel close enough to a race or a workout–I’m hungry, but I don’t want food sitting heavily in my stomach when the pace picks up. I used to follow the two-hour rule, but I’ve slowly trained myself to eat small amounts of food (a bagel, oatmeal or yogurt) closer to the start of my run to ensure I’m not running on empty. Gels and gummies are also perfect for a light, energy-boosting mid-workout snack, without the weight of solid food.

2. Cold hands

Although I have yet to see someone wear gloves while running as often as I do, I know cold extremities are a very common inconvenience among runners. With Raynaud syndrome (decreased blood flow to extremities), even mildly chilly days can make my fingers painfully cold. As fall comes around, you’ll find me with countless pairs of gloves and mittens in my running bag, plus plenty of throw-away gloves for race day. I know–gloves and a tank top isn’t exactly a fashion statement, but I’ve learned to own it.

3. Sweating… a lot

This is something I know all runners deal with, but it can feel excessive when you’re drenched five minutes into your run. It’s easy to compare how much I sweat to my peers, asking myself why I’m the only one changing into clean, dry clothes between workouts. I’ve even wondered if I have hyperhidrosis. Over time, I’ve started to embrace it–after all, it’s just my body doing its job. My solution? Have an extra set of clothes and a sweat towel in my running bag at all times, always drink electrolytes post-workout and never skip deodorant.

Eliud Kipchoge Foundation lands major financial boost to aid in 2025 developments

The Eliud Kipchoge Foundation has received financial support from a leading sports wearables company to aid in their 2025 executions.

The Eliud Kipchoge Foundation has landed a major boost from COROS, a global company specializing in performance sports wearables.

COROS will be running their Black Friday from November 29 to December 3 and announced that the company will donate 5% of all proceeds from direct sales to the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation. The financial boost will come in handy in ensuring Eliud Kipchoge and his team execute their duties diligently in 2025.

The funds will be allocated towards building a new library containing books and resources for individual research and learning. This will be the second library built since the first was constructed in 2022. The library was built for Kapsisiywa Secondary School in Chesumei Sub County, Nandi County, with funding from former President Uhuru Kenyatta. The library currently has 30 computers with internet access.

The remaining funds were used to construct 10 classrooms, an administration block, and the extension of a perimeter wall. The new library will be looking to provide a safe community space for young people with COROS customers having a direct impact in fostering educational empowerment.

The funds will also help in the construction of classrooms to host educational sessions for the youth staying around the area. Eliud Kipchoge extended a hand of gratitude to COROS for their charity and once again insisted on the importance of education.

"Growing up in Kenya, I know that access to books and knowledge is not always available to everyone. Libraries open doors to endless possibilities. By building more, we extend knowledge and create lasting change,” the two-time Olympic champion said.

Meanwhile, the foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing education and environmental sustainability. It was founded in 2020 and has always strived to provide better access to education.

The foundation’s goal is very clear and will be looking to empower the next generation through both education and environmental initiatives.

2014 Boston Marathon winner to finally receive prize money

10 years after setting the course record, Ethiopia's Buzunesh Deba will be awarded her prize money through the B.A.A.'s new voluntary payments initiative.

On Tuesday, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.), which organizes the Boston Marathon, announced new plans to address prize money discrepancies caused by doping offences over the past 40 years. Starting in January 2025, the B.A.A. will begin issuing voluntary payments to athletes whose results were re-ranked due to disqualifications, dating back to 1986—the year prize money was first introduced.

This announcement is significant for Ethiopian runner Buzunesh Deba and Kenyan athlete Edna Kiplagat, who were both elevated to first place after Kenya’s Rita Jeptoo (2014) and Diana Kipyokei (2021) were disqualified for doping. In Deba’s case, she was originally awarded the second-place prize, but was later recognized as the winner of the 2014 race; she also set the course record of 2:19:59. Despite this, Deba has waited nearly a decade to receive the USD $100,000 owed to her: $75,000 for first place and $25,000 for the course record.

Deba’s payment, set to be issued in January, will be the largest compensation under the B.A.A.’s voluntary payout program. Earlier this year, a Wall Street Journal article put a spotlight on the B.A.A., sharing Deba’s 10-year wait for the prize money. The story caught the attention of Philadelphia businessman Doug Guyer, who sent Deba a USD $75,000 cheque to cover the difference between the first- and second-place prizes.

Jack Fleming, B.A.A. president and CEO said in a press release, “Our initiative aims to ensure that clean athletes are compensated appropriately. While the process to reclaim and redistribute prize money has been challenging, it remains essential to uphold fair competition.”

Eighty runners from eight Boston Marathons and nine participants from the Boston 5K event are eligible to receive payments totalling USD $300,000. Athletes found guilty of doping offences at any time will be ineligible for compensation. The B.A.A. says it will seek to reclaim payments from any recipient later disqualified.

The B.A.A. collaborates with global anti-doping organizations, including the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), to ensure a level playing field at its events. Notably, no male Boston Marathon champion has been stripped of their title for doping.