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Earlier this year in Barcelona, Jacob Kiplimo delivered one of the most jaw-dropping performances in distance running history. The 24-year-old Ugandan covered 13.1 miles in a stunning 56:42 — a half marathon time 48 seconds faster than the previous world record.

Now, just two months later, Kiplimo is in London for his much-anticipated marathon debut. The buzz is growing louder: could he break the marathon world record? Could he even challenge the two-hour barrier in an official race? London Marathon event director Hugh Brasher believes we could be about to witness something historic.

“I think it’s going to be the most fascinating debut ever,” Brasher said. “Is it feasible he could take Kelvin Kiptum’s record as the fastest debutant? Without a doubt. Could he eventually become the first man to run under two hours? Yes. But let’s see what happens on Sunday.”

Kiplimo’s story is remarkable. Growing up on a farm 1,500 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Elgon, he found inspiration in his older half-brothers — Robert Chemonges and Victor Kiplangat — both of whom would go on to become world-class marathoners.

“We were helping our brothers, the big brothers,” Kiplimo said. “We would see them training and I told them: ‘I want to become like you.’ So I just kept training.”

By 15, Kiplimo had been spotted and brought to Italy to prepare for the Rio Olympics. Although he exited in the 5,000m semifinals, the experience launched his international career. His early times were already astonishing: 13:19 for 5,000m and 27:26 for 10,000m — all before the supershoe era.

While his track career was hampered by the lack of a blazing sprint finish, Kiplimo found his true strength on the roads. He went on to win two senior world cross country titles, along with Olympic and World Championship bronze medals in the 10,000m.

Sunday’s London Marathon will be his toughest test yet. He will face one of the strongest fields ever assembled: Eliud Kipchoge, Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, defending champion Alexander Mutiso, and Sebastian Sawe — who ran 2:02:05 to win Valencia, the second-fastest marathon debut in history. British eyes will also be on Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee, aiming for a 2:09 debut.

Kiplimo says he is ready. He has built up his weekly mileage from 75–90 miles during his track days to 125–135 miles for the marathon.

The lead pack is expected to hit halfway in around 61 minutes, setting up a possible negative split. With a favorable tailwind forecast in the second half — though temperatures could be on the warm side — conditions could be ideal for something special.

Kiplimo has already shown he can rewrite history. On Sunday, the world will be watching to see if he can do it again.

Ugandan distance running sensation Jacob Kiplimo is poised to make his marathon debut at the 2025 TCS London Marathon on Sunday, April 27. This highly anticipated event follows his record-breaking performance at the Barcelona Half Marathon in February, where he set a new world record of 56:41, surpassing the previous mark by 49 seconds .

A Meteoric Rise

At just 24 years old, Kiplimo has already established himself as a formidable force in long-distance running. His accolades include a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and two World Cross Country Championship titles . His recent half marathon world record has only heightened expectations for his transition to the full marathon distance.

Facing a Formidable Field

Kiplimo’s debut will see him compete against some of the sport’s most decorated athletes, including:

• Eliud Kipchoge: The Kenyan legend and two-time Olympic champion, aiming for a record-extending fifth London Marathon title .

• Tamirat Tola: The reigning Olympic champion from Ethiopia.

• Alexander Mutiso: The 2024 London Marathon winner.

• Sabastian Sawe: The second-fastest marathon debutant in history, with a time of 2:02:05 in Valencia .

Despite the stiff competition, Kiplimo’s coach, Peter Chelangat, has expressed confidence in his protégé’s preparation, stating that they are building his endurance through intense training tailored for the 42-kilometer race .The Road Ahead

The London Marathon, renowned for its flat and fast course, offers an ideal setting for Kiplimo’s debut. While breaking the elusive two-hour barrier remains a monumental challenge, Kiplimo’s recent performances suggest he could be a strong contender for a podium finish.

As the running world eagerly awaits April 27, all eyes will be on Kiplimo to see if he can translate his half marathon prowess to the full marathon distance and make history in London.

The marathon world has long been captivated by the elusive sub-two-hour barrier. While Eliud Kipchoge’s 1:59:40 in Vienna 2019 showcased human potential, it occurred under controlled conditions and isn’t recognized as an official world record. As the 2025 TCS London Marathon approaches on April 27, the question arises: Could this be the race where history is officially rewritten?

The Elite Field: A Convergence of Legends and Rising Stars

London’s 2025 lineup is arguably its most formidable yet. Eliud Kipchoge, the four-time London champion and former world record holder (2:01:09), returns to a course he has dominated. Joining him is Kenenisa Bekele, the third-fastest marathoner ever (2:01:41), seeking redemption after a close second-place finish in 2024. The field also features Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, reigning London champion Alexander Mutiso, and debutant Jacob Kiplimo, who holds the half marathon world record at 56:42.

“The elite field for London is loaded, but my pick (if I must) is Jacob Kiplimo after watching him destroy the half marathon record,” says MBR editor Bob Anderson. “But the marathon is a different animal, and a sub-two-hour marathon is very possible. However, the weather will need to be perfect, and Jacob needs to have an ‘on’ day for it to happen. He might just go for the win. I wonder how his training has differed in preparation?”

Course and Conditions: London’s Favorable Terrain

The London Marathon’s flat and fast course, combined with its sea-level altitude, provides an ideal setting for record-breaking attempts. The 2025 weather forecast predicts partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 56°F (7°C to 13°C) and minimal wind—conditions conducive to fast times.

Technological Advancements: The Role of Innovation

Modern advancements, notably in footwear technology, have played a significant role in recent marathon performances. The latest “super shoes” offer enhanced energy return, potentially shaving crucial seconds off elite runners’ times. Additionally, strategic pacemaking and optimized nutrition strategies are integral components in the pursuit of the sub-two-hour marathon.

The Verdict: Is Sub-Two Within Reach?

While the convergence of elite talent, favorable course conditions, and technological support makes the prospect enticing, breaking the two-hour barrier in an official race remains a monumental challenge. However, if ever there was a race poised to witness such a historic feat, the 2025 London Marathon stands as a prime candidate.

Stay tuned to My Best Runs for comprehensive coverage of the London Marathon and insights into the evolving landscape of elite distance running.

British long-distance runner Marc Scott has announced his withdrawal from the upcoming 2025 TCS London Marathon, citing a persistent knee injury that has impeded his training. Scott shared the news on Instagram, expressing his disappointment and detailing the challenges he’s faced during preparation.

Scott, who secured a bronze medal in the 3000m at the 2022 World Indoor Championships, made his marathon debut at last year’s London Marathon, finishing eleventh overall with a time of 2:11:19. Despite a promising start to his training for this year’s event, a knee issue emerged following a rigorous long run. Despite various interventions, the injury persisted, leading to his decision to withdraw and focus on recovery.

In his Instagram post, Scott reflected on his training and the subsequent injury: 

“Training was going exceptionally well – I would argue that I was in the best shape of my life and that was exciting. The following day, coming off the back of a fast long run, I had an issue with my knee. Weeks later, it was still giving me trouble and no matter the intervention, it didn’t settle in time to rescue the training we had missed. I’m not prepared to get on the line at London not being at my best.”

Scott remains optimistic about his future in marathon running and aims to return to competition later this year. He concluded his message with words of encouragement for fellow athletes:

“I know I’m capable of a fast marathon; it’s in there somewhere and hopefully this fall I can prove that to myself. For now, back to it when the body allows and get ready for some shorter racing this summer. Good luck to everyone in London.”

Recent Performances Prior to Injury

Before his injury, Scott demonstrated strong form in early 2025:

• January 12, 2025: Competed in the 10K Valencia Ibercaja in Spain, finishing with a time of 28:12.

• February 16, 2025: Participated in the eDreams Mitja Marató Barcelona half marathon, completing the course in 1:01:00.

These performances highlighted Scott’s readiness for the marathon distance before his training was interrupted by injury.

Scott’s withdrawal follows that of Emile Cairess, who also pulled out of the 2025 London Marathon due to an ankle tendon injury. Cairess had previously finished third overall in the 2024 London Marathon and achieved a commendable fourth-place finish at the Paris Olympics.

As the London Marathon approaches, the field continues to evolve, with athletes adjusting their schedules due to injuries and other factors. Fans and fellow competitors will undoubtedly miss Scott’s presence this year and look forward to his return to the marathon circuit in the near future.

Jacob Kiplimo, the 24-year-old Ugandan distance running sensation, has recently captured global attention with his record-breaking performances. His upcoming marathon debut at the 2025 London Marathon has sparked widespread speculation: Could Kiplimo be the first to officially break the elusive two-hour marathon barrier?

A Record-Breaking Prelude

In February 2025, Kiplimo shattered the half marathon world record at the Barcelona Half Marathon, clocking an astonishing 56 minutes and 42 seconds. This feat not only eclipsed the previous record by 48 seconds but also showcased his exceptional endurance and speed. Reflecting on his performance, Kiplimo remarked, “I didn’t expect to break the world record… I told myself that I had to maintain that pace no matter what it took.”

Training Regimen: Balancing Quality and Volume

Kiplimo’s training approach emphasizes quality over sheer volume. Reports indicate that he typically runs between 80 to 95 miles per week, incorporating fartlek sessions, hill workouts, and threshold runs. His coach prioritizes structured, scientifically-based training, focusing on improving speed and personal bests before transitioning fully to marathon distances.

Assessing the Sub-Two-Hour Possibility

While Kiplimo’s half marathon performance suggests immense potential, translating that success to a full marathon presents distinct challenges. The physiological demands of 42.195 kilometers require not only speed but also exceptional endurance and energy management. Historically, even elite half marathoners have faced hurdles when moving up to the marathon distance. As noted in discussions about his transition, “His potential over 42.2km is massive, but marathon success isn’t just about being fast over 21.1km and doubling the effort.”

Strategic Considerations for London

Kiplimo’s race strategy for the London Marathon remains a topic of speculation. Given his aggressive approach in Barcelona, where he took the lead early and maintained a blistering pace, it’s plausible he might adopt a similar tactic in London. However, the marathon’s extended distance and the presence of seasoned competitors like Eliud Kipchoge and Kenenisa Bekele may influence a more measured strategy. Experts suggest that starting with a conservative pace could be advantageous, allowing Kiplimo to conserve energy for the latter stages of the race. Bob Anderson, founder of Runner’s World magazine and the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy, emphasizes the importance of early pacing: 

“The marathon is twice the distance as the half, but to go under two hours Kiplimo has to be in good enough shape to push early,” says Bob Anderson. “He showed us in Barcelona he has the guts to do it. However, he has to be on that day, the temperature has to be perfect and with no wind. It can happen.”

Community and Expert Insights

The running community is abuzz with predictions. Some enthusiasts believe that with optimal conditions, Kiplimo could achieve a sub-two-hour marathon. One commentator expressed, “With the right course and good weather, this guy is going to do a sub 2 hour marathon. Amazing!” However, others urge caution, emphasizing the unpredictability of marathon debuts and the need for experience over the full distance.

Looking Ahead to London

As the London Marathon approaches, all eyes will be on Kiplimo. His performance will not only provide insights into his marathon potential but also indicate whether the sub-two-hour barrier can be breached in an official race setting. While optimism surrounds his debut, the marathon’s unique demands mean that even athletes of Kiplimo’s caliber must approach the challenge with respect and strategic preparation.

While Jacob Kiplimo’s transition to the marathon is highly anticipated, breaking the two-hour barrier in his debut remains a formidable challenge. His journey will undoubtedly captivate the running world, offering a compelling narrative of talent, preparation, and the relentless pursuit of athletic excellence.

The anticipation for the 2025 London Marathon has reached new heights with the announcement of one of the strongest elite marathon fields ever assembled. This year’s race could witness history: the first-ever sub-two-hour marathon in an official competition. With world-class talent toeing the line and conditions often favorable in London, I'm excited to see how this race unfolds.

Leading the conversation is Jacob Kiplimo, the half marathon world record holder with an astonishing 56:42 recently.  Kiplimo didn't need pacers during his world record run.  He just went for it clocking unbelievable splits.  One of his 10k split would be his best time ever for that distance.  And no one had ever run 15k under 40 minutes before.  But the marathon is twice the distance.  What will his strategy be for London? Will he use his blistering speed over the full 42K and go out on his own or will he stay with the pack for at least the half way point? Going to be interesting to see what that split will be. I am thinking 59 minutes or even faster. Kiplimo might not only win but push the clock into uncharted territory.  But there will be so much talent on the starting line. 

The Favorites: Kiplimo, Bekele, and Kipchoge Lead the Charge

While Kiplimo's marathon debut grabs headlines, legends like Kenenisa Bekele and Eliud Kipchoge are far from conceding victory.

Jacob Kiplimo from Uganda enters London as the favorite, thanks to his incredible speed.  The big question is whether he can maintain that pace for twice the distance.

Kenenisa Bekele, with a personal best of 2:01:41, proved last year he’s still elite, setting the Masters world record (2:04:15) in London. Bekele is chasing both victory and history, knowing his window for breaking the two-hour barrier is narrowing.

Eliud Kipchoge returns to London, where he’s won four titles. At 40 years old, Kipchoge remains focused, though he now races in the shadow of Kelvin Kiptum's world record of 2:00:35, set at the 2023 Chicago Marathon.

Rising Stars and Seasoned Champions

Beyond the favorites, an incredible field promises an unforgettable showdown.

Sabastian Sawe, with a personal best of 2:02:05, stunned the world by running the fastest debut marathon ever in Valencia. His aggressive racing style could drive the pace.

Timothy Kiplagat, clocking 2:02:55, thrives in fast-paced races and could be a dark horse if the leaders falter.

Alex Mutiso, the defending London Marathon champion with a best of 2:03:11, returns to prove his 2024 victory was no fluke.

Tamirat Tola, the reigning Olympic marathon gold medalist, has shown he can deliver under pressure, with a personal best of 2:03:39.

Abdi Nageeye, the 2021 NYC Marathon champion and Olympic silver medalist, is known for tactical brilliance and boasts a best of 2:04:45.

Breaking 2: Is It Possible in London 2025?

The two-hour barrier remains the sport’s ultimate milestone. While Kelvin Kiptum’s world record of 2:00:35 came heartbreakingly close, an official sub-two-hour marathon has yet to be achieved.

What makes London 2025 the perfect stage?

Stacked Field: With Kiplimo, Kipchoge, and Bekele pushing each other, the pace will be relentless.

Course Familiarity: The London course is flat, fast, and historic, where many records have fallen.

Optimal Conditions: London in April often provides the perfect cool weather for fast times.

Pacemakers: Expect world-class rabbits tasked with keeping the leaders on sub-2 pace through 30K.

A Race for the Ages

On April 27, 2025, I'll be watching closely. Will Jacob Kiplimo make history in his debut? Can Bekele turn back the clock? Will Kipchoge find one more magical performance? And—perhaps most importantly—will the sub-two-hour barrier finally fall in an official race?

One thing is certain: London 2025 promises a marathon showdown like no other.

I'm marking my calendar. History is calling.

Bob Anderson Notebook

Ugandan long-distance star Jacob Kiplimo has announced that he will make his marathon debut at the 2025 London Marathon in April. Speaking to Xinhua on Wednesday, Kiplimo expressed his excitement and determination as he prepares for the challenge.

"I am preparing well because I'am looking forward to making my first appearance in a marathon," Kiplimo said. "I am following the training schedules designed by my coach with full commitment. It is tough, but I have to complete it, knowing that the marathon is not easy."

Kiplimo, 23, is one of Uganda's most accomplished distance runners. He won a bronze medal in the 10,000m at the Tokyo Olympics and holds the half marathon world record (57:31). His transition to the marathon is highly anticipated, as he will face off against some of the world's best, including Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge and Sebastian Sawe.

His coach, Peter Chelangat, affirmed that Kiplimo is making solid progress in training. "We are building his endurance for the 42-kilometer race through intense workouts and competitions leading up to the event," Chelangat said.

The president of the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), Dominic Otuchet, expressed confidence in Kiplimo's ability to excel in the marathon. "The marathon is challenging, but our long-distance athletes have what it takes to succeed. I am optimistic that he will perform well."

Kiplimo's marathon debut will be closely watched as he takes on the next big step in his already stellar career.

Eilish McColgan, the accomplished British distance runner, is poised to make her marathon debut at the 2025 TCS London Marathon on April 27. This event holds special significance, as her mother, Liz McColgan, clinched victory in the same race in 1996.

Eilish's journey to the marathon has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. In early 2023, she was prepared to compete in the London Marathon; however, a knee injury forced her to withdraw just days before the event. Reflecting on the setback, she expressed her frustration, stating, "It was frustrating not to showcase the form I felt I was in, and get a race out of all the hard work I had put into it." Undeterred, McColgan set her sights on making her marathon debut in 2025.

The announcement of her participation in the 2025 London Marathon was met with enthusiasm, especially given the familial legacy associated with the event. Eilish shared her excitement, saying, "I am really looking forward to making my marathon debut in London this year. After a tough 12 months of injury, I am excited to finally toe the line and start the next chapter of my career on the roads."

Beyond her marathon aspirations, McColgan has an impressive track record in distance running. She secured a gold medal in the 10,000 meters at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, setting a new Games record with a time of 30:48.60. Additionally, she holds British records in the 5,000 meters, 10,000 meters, and the half marathon, underscoring her versatility and endurance across various distances. 

As the 2025 London Marathon approaches, anticipation builds to see how Eilish McColgan will perform in her marathon debut, following in the footsteps of her mother and adding a new chapter to her distinguished running career.

Olympic and world triathlon champion Alex Yee continued to impress with his running prowess, finishing in the top 30 at the Valencia 10K on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Competing in his first official race over the 10K distance, Yee clocked a time of 28:07, showcasing his versatility and speed as he prepares for his marathon debut in April at the London Marathon.

The 25-year-old, who has earned two Olympic gold medals and numerous triathlon world titles, was the third-fastest British runner in the race. Rory Leonard set a new British 10K record with an incredible 27:38, followed closely by Charlie Wheeler, who achieved a personal best of 27:42. Yee, finishing over a minute behind Sweden’s Andreas Almgren—who shattered the European 10K record in 26:53—remains focused on transitioning his elite triathlon career to include long-distance running.

Known for his exceptional running ability, Yee has long been considered one of the fastest triathletes in history, often posting the fastest splits in international competitions. The Valencia 10K marked an important step in his progression as a pure runner, as he sets his sights on challenging for a strong marathon debut in London this April.

Yee’s dual success in triathlon and running highlights his incredible athleticism, endurance, and adaptability, making him a serious contender in the world of distance running.

The 26-year-old reflected on his performance in an Instagram story: “Not bad not good! Needed some strength on K 7/8... What an amazing race to be part of! 7 national records and a European record."

On Monday, the organizers of the TCS London Marathon announced there will be a new face headlining the 2025 race. Great Britain’s Alex Yee, the reigning Olympic triathlon champion from Paris 2024, will make his marathon debut on Sunday, April 27, in his hometown of London.

The 26-year-old, who has won four Olympic medals in triathlon, has a ton of experience in distance running, representing Great Britain in track and cross-country events internationally. He has a 5K personal best of 13 minutes and 26 seconds and has run under 28 minutes for 10,000 meters.

In triathlon, Yee is often regarded as the strongest runner in the sport. The reputation played in his favor earlier this summer in Paris when he caught New Zealand’s Hayden Wilde on the final lap of the Olympic triathlon to win gold. The strong field Yee will face at the 2025 TCS London Marathon will make it one of his biggest challenges to date. However, Yee will look to his home course advantage.

According to the press release, Yee raced the 2.6km Mini London Marathon five times during his junior career and grew up 15 minutes from the start line in Blackheath. “London Marathon day has been such a big part of my life growing up,” recalls Yee. “I remember racing the Mini London Marathon multiple times as a young athlete, and it was one of my biggest and most exciting races of the year. Taking part in a full marathon has always been an itch I’ve wanted to scratch, and there isn’t any other place than London where I would want to start that journey.”

For his London build-up, Yee plans to put his triathlon training on pause to focus solely on marathon training. “I will be focusing my training over the coming months on the marathon and am looking forward to seeing what I can do over the 26.2 miles,” he said.

Last year, Kenya’s Alexander Munyao won his first Abbott World Marathon Major in London, denying Ethiopian distance legend Kenenisa Bekele a hoped-for first London Marathon win with a time of 2:04:01. Bekele did, however, set a new masters marathon record with his time of 2:04:15. The top British finisher was Emile Cairess, who ran 2:06:46 finish third, making him the second-fastest British marathon runner of all time behind Mo Farah.

Yee is the first runner announced for the 2025 London Marathon elite field. The full elite field will be announced in the new year.

London Marathon ballot applicants will find out on Wednesday if they have been lucky enough to get a place but many will be disappointed after a record 840,318 people entered the draw.

The number of hopefuls requesting a place for the 2025 event shot up by 261,944 (45.29%) on the previous record set by the 578,374 who entered the ballot for the 2024 marathon.

It is the first time in history that more than three quarters of a million people have applied to take part in a marathon, with applicants from the UK and across the world entering the draw for the TCS London Marathon on Sunday April 25 2025.

Event director Hugh Brasher said: “There’s a record number of people anxiously awaiting tomorrow’s results and we wish everyone the very best of luck.

“For those who are successful, your journey to the 2025 TCS London Marathon begins Wednesday June 26. 

The 27-year-old broke away from Kenenisa Bekele, who finished second in a new masters world record.

For the second time in the past week, the men’s winner at a World Marathon Majors crossed the line in survival mode. Six days ago, it was Sisay Lemma holding on to win Boston. This morning, it was Alexander Munyao in London. The Kenyan survived a strong move in the 18th mile to win in 2:04:01.

Kenenisa Bekele, arguably the greatest male distance runner in history, placed second in 2:04:15, four seconds faster than the masters world record he set in Valencia last December. The 41-year-old Ethiopian superstar was, surprisingly, largely responsible for the 4:35 18th mile that broke up what had been a nine-man pack.

By 35K (21.7 miles), the race was down to Munyao and Bekele. The two shared the lead more because of doing the best job of recovering after the earlier push than because they were speeding up. Munyao then got half a step on Bekele early in the 22nd mile, and broke him for good over the next mile.

Once they were dropped by Munyao and Bekele, the other earlier members of the lead pack that hit halfway in 61:29 suffered significantly. Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia, the 2022 world champion who broke the New York City course record last November, had looked eager to take over after the final pacer exited the course a little before 30K. Instead, Tola lost more than 20 seconds to the leaders before 35K, and dropped out before 40K.

The severe disintegration of the lead pack led to third and fourth place going to British runners who had been paced more moderately early on. Emile Cairess finished third in a personal best of 2:06:16 after being in 13th place at halfway (62:50). Mahamed Mahamed placed fourth in 2:07:05, also a personal best. Both men are now likely to be named to the British team for the Olympic Marathon, which will be held on August 10.

Munyao and Bekele were also running in part to secure spots on their Olympic teams. Munyao’s win, combined with his 2:03:13 PR and runner-up finish in Valencia in December, makes a good case. Bekele’s bid is even stronger. With Tola’s poor showing and Bekele’s second strong marathon in a row, will Ethiopian selectors recognize that a three-time Olympic and 19-time world champion deserves to toe the line in Paris?

Brian Shrader, the lone U.S. elite entrant, placed tenth in 2:10:50.

Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir smashed the women-only world record by 45 seconds at the TCS London Marathon, winning the World Athletics Platinum Label road race in 2:16:16* on Sunday (21).

In what was widely regarded as one of the deepest and highest-quality women’s fields ever assembled, the three-time world half marathon champion sprinted away from world record-holder Tigist Assefa, 2021 London winner Joyciline Jepkosgei and last year’s runner-up Megertu Alemu – all of whom finished inside 2:17 – to notch up her third victory in a World Marathon Majors race.

Jepchirchir’s compatriot Alexander Mutiso Munyao made it a Kenyan double, winning the men’s race in 2:04:01 to defeat Ethiopian distance legend Kenenisa Bekele by 14 seconds.

No secret had been made of the fact that breaking Mary Keitany’s women-only world record of 2:17:01 was the big target for the women’s race. With that at the forefront of their minds, a lead pack comprising all the big contenders soon detached themselves from the rest of the field and blazed through the first 5km in 15:44 – comfortably inside 2:13 pace.

They maintained that tempo through 10km, covered in 31:26, and at this point they were 67 seconds ahead of Ethiopia’s Tsige Haileslase, the closest challenger to the lead pack.

The front group – which included Assefa alongside past London winners Jepkosgei, Yalemzerf Yehualaw and Brigid Kosgei – got to 15km in 47:37. Soon after, Sheila Chepkirui – the runner-up in Berlin last year – started to drift off the pack.

Not long after passing the drinks station at the 20km point, 2019 world champion Ruth Chepngetich lost contact with the leaders. It meant that just seven women remained in the pack as they reached the half-way point in 1:07:04 – the second-fastest half-way split ever recorded in London, and putting them on schedule to smash the women-only world record by almost three minutes.

Kosgei was the next to drift back, and with the pacemakers having done their job, it left six women out in front: Jepchirchir, Assefa, training partner and Dubai marathon champion Tigist Ketema, 2022 London winner Yehualaw, 2021 London champion Jepkosgei, and 2023 London runner-up Megertu Alemu.

The sextet ran together through 25km (1:19:38) and 17 miles, but Ketema and Yehualaw were unable to hold on for much further and started to lose contact, leaving four women – Assefa, Jepchirchir, Jepkosgei and Alemu – to battle it out for the three podium places.

The difference between 25km and 30km, 16:18, was the slowest 5km section of the race. The lead quartet was either starting to feel the effects of their early efforts, or they were starting to bide their team for an anticipated surge in the closing stages.

With 1:44 on the clock, the four leading women managed to navigate their way around the two lead vehicles that had been forced to stop due to a wheelchair racer who was experiencing some technical difficulties.

Assefa and Jepchirchir both took turns testing the waters by making subtle surges to see how their opponents would respond, but their overall pace continued to drop and they reached 35km in 1:52:48, putting them on course for a 2:16 finish.They passed 40km in 2:09:13, still running side by side. It was clear that no one else other than these four would be claiming places on the podium, but predicting a winner – and, indeed, the athlete who’d miss out on the podium – was still impossible with less than two kilometres to go.

As the clock ticked to 2:15, with little more than a minute of running left, Alemu was finally dropped. Seconds later, Jepchirchir unleashed her trademark finish to leave behind Jepkosgei and Assefa.

The diminutive Kenyan charged through the finish line in 2:16:16, finishing seven seconds ahead of Assefa. Jepkosgei (2:16:24) and Alemu (2:16:34) followed soon after, making this the first marathon in which four women have finished inside 2:17.

Jepchirchir will now turn her attention to defending her Olympic title in Paris in less than four months’ time where she’ll aim to become the first ever back-to-back women’s marathon gold medallist in the history of the Games.

The men’s race played out in similar fashion with a surprisingly large group remaining together into the second half before the final few contenders were left to battle it out in the closing stages.The late Kelvin Kiptum’s world (2:00:35) and course (2:01:25) records were not being targeted by the elite men, but a lead pack of 12 nevertheless set off as a respectable pace, going through 5km in 14:35 and 10km in 29:03.

They remained together through 15km (58:20) with the likes of Munyao, Bekele, 2022 world champion Tamirat Tola and 2021 Chicago winner Seifu Tura all in the lead pack.

They reached half way in 1:01:29 with 10 men still running together, more than 80 seconds ahead of Britain’s Emile Cairess, who was running alone in 13th place. France’s Hassan Chahdi soon drifted off the lead pack, and eight men were in the pack at the 30km point (1:27:20).

With 1:30 on the clock, big changes started to happen. The lead pack was down to five men: Munyao, Bekele, Tola, Ethiopia’s Dawit Wolde and compatriot Milkesa Mengesha.  Less than 10 minutes later, Tola and Wolde had dropped back, leaving Bekele, Munyao and Mengesha as the lead trio. Mengesha lasted five more minutes before he, too, succumbed to the pace, unable to stick with Munyao and the 41-year-old Bekele.

Just before the clock ticked over to 1:55, Munyao finally dropped multiple world and Olympic gold medallist Bekele, who was visibly struggling to match the Kenyan’s pace.

Munyao maintained his lead to the finish, eventually winning in 2:04:01 to Bekele’s 2:04:15, the fastest time ever by an athlete over the age of 40.

With several of the leading contenders dropping out in the closing stages, Cairess came through to take third place in 2:06:46 ahead of fellow Briton Mahamed Mahamed, who clocked 2:07:05, both setting huge PBs.

Tamirat Tola feels a carefully planned build-up will give him every chance of adding the London Marathon title to his success in New York.

The 32-year-old Ethiopian – world champion from 2022 in Oregon – clocked a new course record of two hours, four minutes and 58 seconds when he won in Manhattan during November last year.

Tola hopes his meticulous preparations will allow him to again hit top form as he aims to be the first over the finish line on the Mall on Sunday afternoon, having come third last year.

Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia is the men's open-division winner, setting a course-record time of 2:04:58. #TCSNYCMarathon pic.twitter.com/VZRtRRrZxa

— TCS New York City Marathon (@nycmarathon) November 5, 2023

“(Winning in) London is not easy, but I worked hard to win New York and my training has all been OK since then, so I am ready,” said Tola, who also took the 2023 Great North Run title.

“Everything is good with what my coaches have prepared for me to win, so we can hope for a good result on Sunday.”

The late Kelvin Kiptum, who was killed in a car accident in February at the age of 24, set a new London Marathon record with victory last year.

While that mark of 2hrs 1min and 25secs is unlikely to be tested on Sunday, Tola is still confident of a swift pace.

“If we go together to help each other, then we will run with a better time,” Tola said.

“It depends on a pacemaker, but it is OK for me to go fast, and if it is a normal (pace) then that is also OK for me.”

Emile Cairess will lead Britain’s hopes in the elite men’s race, having finished sixth on his debut last year.

Cairess is aiming to better the Olympic qualifying mark to join training partner Phil Sesemann in the Team GB squad for Paris.

The 26-year-old, though, also has one eye on a long-term target of breaking Sir Mo Farah’s six-year-old British marathon record, which was set in Chicago.

“I have a time in my head. I will be trying to run maybe about three-minute kilometres,” Cairess said.

“Mo’s British record is something I definitely want to beat in the near future, but I am not looking at that this weekend.”

Scottish marathon record-holder Callum Hawkins will make his return in London following a number of injury setbacks, which included ankle surgery after the Tokyo Olympics.

Marc Scott, winner of the Great North Run in 2021, is set for a marathon debut, along with Mahamed Mahamed.

Kenenisa Bekele has honored the late Kelvin Kiptum's legacy ahead of a poignant London Marathon, reflecting on his profound impact on running.

Ethiopia's Kenenisa Bekele has expressed profound sentiments as he prepares for the upcoming London Marathon set for Sunday.

The marathon will be marked this year by the absence of world record holder Kelvin Kiptum whose life tragically ended in a car accident in February.

Kiptum, only 24 at the time of his death, had set a staggering course record at last year's London Marathon and had become a prominent figure in the sport.

Speaking to reporters, Bekele underscored the deep respect and admiration he and his fellow athletes hold for Kiptum.

“Kelvin of course, all of us miss him. Even within his short time, he has been setting an amazing history,” Bekele reflected.

 “The course record is also under his name and we are all remembering him."

Bekele added that Kiptum’s impact transcends his record-setting performances.

 “We put him in a special place in our heart because in a really short time he has done a lot for our sport,” he said.

With the race ahead, Bekele is aware of the challenges in surpassing the benchmarks set by Kiptum. 

The course in London demands a strategic approach, something Bekele is well accustomed to. 

“Most of the time in London, maybe the first half is a very fast start because of pacing, but with me it can depend,” he explained.

Other top contenders, such as Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola, the reigning New York Marathon champion, are also entering the race with high expectations. 

Tola, optimistic about his preparation, remains focused on the present challenge. 

“My training is OK and my body is okay, so we will see (what happens) on Sunday,” he noted.

Before the race starts, memory of Kiptum will be honored with 30 seconds of applause a moment meant to reflect on his contributions and celebrate his life. 

Ruth Chepngetich is targeting victory and a record at the London Marathon against a strong field as she eyes Olympic selection.

Two-time Chicago Marathon champion Ruth Chepng’etich is poised for a challenging race at the 2024 London Marathon this Sunday. 

Chepng’etich, a formidable competitor who secured third place in the 2020 edition of the event, is aiming for a strong performance, although she has not discounted the possibility of setting a new record. 

The pacemakers in the marathon will play a crucial role in maintaining the pace for the women's group, aiming to beat the women-only world record—a distinct possibility in London where the elite women compete in a separate event from the elite men and the larger mass of runners.

In a press conference ahead of the race, Chepng’etich expressed both enthusiasm and realism about her prospects against a competitive field. 

"I’m happy to be back after that race in 2020. I’m ready to run well, but the field is so strong," she stated. 

Her main rivals include Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa, Kenya's Brigid Kosgei, Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir, and Yalemzerf Yehualaw from Ethiopia, who won the London Marathon in 2022.

"Everybody here is chasing something. For me it’s about winning first, then I’ll think about setting records," she added. 

The London Marathon has been a stage for numerous world records since its inception, with seven records broken to date, including Paula Radcliffe's unmatched 2:15:25 in 2003. 

The marathon’s route, largely unaltered since 1981, takes runners through some of London’s most scenic landmarks, such as the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament, starting from Greenwich Park and concluding on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace.

Chepng’etich also touched upon her Olympic aspirations, noting the importance of the upcoming race for her selection to the Kenyan national team for the Paris Olympics. 

"The Federation will make its selection after Sunday so we’ll see. But winning in London will be harder than in Paris," she noted.

World record holder Tigst Assefa hopes to set a new women’s-only best time in the TCS London Marathon on Sunday and believes it will be tougher to win than this year’s Paris Olympics.

Ethiopian Assefa smashed the world record in September when she finished the Berlin Marathon in two hours, 11 minutes and 53 seconds.

Next in Assefa’s sights is success in her maiden London Marathon and the women’s-only record, which is 2:17:01 and was set by Kenyan Mary Keitany at the 2017 event.

“I am very happy to be in London for the first time,” Assefa said via a translator.

“I did train very well for Berlin and I have trained well for this one. God will show how good I am on Sunday.

“I have prepared very well for this race and I am sure I can beat the course record here. As I am sure all my competitors here will feel as well.

“Regardless of whether it is London or Berlin, it will not change my strategy at all.

“I am here to win.”

Assefa took part in pre-race press duties on Thursday and was joined at the media centre in St James’ Park by Brigid Kosgei, Ruth Chepngetich and Peres Jepchirchir.

Kosgei of Kenya held the world record until Assefa broke it in September but has won the London Marathon twice.

All four athletes were asked if victory in Sunday’s 26.2-mile race would be harder than winning the marathon at the Paris Games after London Marathon race director Hugh Brasher suggested that would be the case on Wednesday.

Only Kosgei felt the Paris Games would be harder with Assefa, Chepngetich and Jepchirchir all in agreement this weekend’s strong field made Sunday’s race the most difficult to win.

After Kosgei failed to finish last year’s race due to injury, she revealed preparation this time had gone well.

“I am happy to be here again this year,” Kosgei said. “Last year when I reached here I was not feeling well.

“I have been preparing well in Kenya and I am ready.”

Olympic champion Jepchirchir finished third in 2023 and backed a women’s-only record to be set this weekend.

Jepchirchir added: “On Sunday I know the field is strong and I know it is not easy. We are running with strong ladies.

“For myself, when I see the field is strong, I see the (course) record on Sunday. Yes, may the best win.”

Multiple World Cross-country champion Geoffrey Kamworor has withdrawn from the London Marathon.

Three-time World Cross-Country champion Geoffrey Kamworor has pulled out of the 2024 London Marathon due to persistent hip flexor irritation. 

The Kenyan long-distance runner, who clinched second place at last year’s London Marathon, confirmed that his current physical condition has hampered his training and ultimately led to his withdrawal.

His absence is a blow to the marathon, where he was among the favorites to win.

The athlete's management team noted that Kamworor had been experiencing discomfort during his training sessions and opted for a conservative approach to avoid long-term damage. 

They confirmed that he did not travel to London and would be undergoing further medical evaluation and treatment.

As the elite runners adjust to the news of Kamworor’s withdrawal, the spotlight shifts to the champions of the recent Boston Marathon wheelchair races, who are now heading to London with hopes of back-to-back victories in the Abbott World Marathon Majors.

Among them is Britain’s Eden Rainbow-Cooper, fresh from her historic win at Boston, where she became the first Briton to clinch a wheelchair race at the prestigious event. 

Rainbow-Cooper, who finished third at last year’s London Marathon, shared her excitement about competing again in her home country. 

“Winning in Boston was surreal, and competing in London feels like coming home. I’m ready to give my all once again,” she said.

Rainbow-Cooper’s victory in Boston was a remarkable feat, finishing the course in 1:35:11, ahead of seasoned competitors like Manuela Schär of Switzerland and Australia’s Madison de Rozario, the defending London Marathon champion.

In the men’s wheelchair category, Swiss athlete Marcel Hug is also eyeing another major win after setting a new course record in Boston.

Despite a crash at Mile 18, Hug completed the race in an impressive time of 1:15:33, continuing his dominant streak with 11 consecutive marathon victories.

Three Kenyan women aim to break the women’s-only marathon world record at the 2024 TCS London Marathon.

Three of the top four fastest women in marathon history, all from Kenya, are set to take center stage at the 2024 TCS London Marathon, aiming to break the women's-only world record. 

This elite trio, comprised of Brigid Kosgei, Ruth Chepngetich, and Peres Jepchirchir, are gearing up for what could be a historic race on the streets of London.

Brigid Kosgei, who previously set the world record at the 2019 Chicago Marathon with a time of 2:14:04, is the veteran of the group. 

She has been in top form since breaking Paula Radcliffe's longstanding record and is no stranger to the pressures of big-city marathons. 

Joining Kosgei is Ruth Chepngetich, the fourth-fastest woman of all time with a personal best of 2:14:18. 

Chepngetich's aggressive racing style and ability to maintain a blistering pace make her a serious threat to the current record.

Rounding out the trio is Peres Jepchirchir, the reigning Olympic champion. 

Jepchirchir's tactical acumen and proven track record, especially in championship races, position her as a key challenger in this record-breaking attempt. 

Her victory at the Tokyo Olympics showcased her endurance and determination, qualities necessary for a successful run in London.

The current women's-only world record was set by Mary Keitany during the 2017 London Marathon, with a time of 2:17:01. 

However, with advancements in training and competition, this record has been under threat, particularly with the recent performances of these Kenyan athletes.

Hugh Brasher, Event Director of the TCS London Marathon, emphasized the significance of this race in the context of marathon history. 

"We are in a golden age of women’s marathon running," said Brasher. He added, "Despite the incredible achievements in recent years, Mary Keitany’s record has remarkably stood the test of time.

However, with athletes like Kosgei, Chepngetich, and Jepchirchir in the field, alongside ten other women who have all run under 2:17:30, that record is under serious threat."

The race strategy for Kosgei, Chepngetich, and Jepchirchir will likely involve a collaborative effort with pacemakers to ensure a fast, consistent pace throughout. 

The London Marathon's unique setup, with elite women running separately from the men, provides an optimal environment for record-breaking performances. 

Additionally, the event will feature other top-tier athletes, including Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa, the current world record holder, and Yalemzerf Yehualaw, the 2022 TCS London Marathon champion.

Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei has put her rivals on notice ahead of next month’s London Marathon after warming up for the race with a dominant performance at the Lisbon Half Marathon.

Brigid Kosgei is gearing up for a triumphant return to the London Marathon on April 21, following an impressive victory at the Lisbon Half Marathon on Sunday.

Kosgei, a former world marathon record holder, used the Lisbon race as a tune-up for the upcoming London Marathon and demonstrated her exceptional form by clinching victory in commanding fashion.

Despite narrowly missing the course record, Kosgei showcased her dominance by clocking a remarkable time of 1:05:51, securing the win with a lead of over three minutes ahead of her closest competitor.

The 30-year-old athlete surged into the lead past the halfway mark and maintained an unrelenting pace, leaving her rivals struggling to keep up.

While Kosgei had hoped to lower her personal best in the half marathon, she nonetheless proved too formidable for the rest of the field. Ethiopian Bosena Mulatie finished in second place with a time of 1:09:00, followed by Kosgei's compatriot Tigist Mengistu in third place with a time of 1:09:14.

Having previously triumphed in the London Marathon in 2019 and 2020, Kosgei is determined to rectify her fourth-place finish in 2021. Her dominant performance in Lisbon serves as a promising indication of her readiness for the upcoming challenge in London.

"This was a preparation for London Marathon next month,” said Kosgei. “I'm really happy, I appreciate what I have run today [Sunday]. Thanks to organisers, I appreciate what you have done"

The victory in Lisbon held special significance for Kosgei, who celebrated her win with her two children at the finish line.

"I'm feeling very happy, because I csme with my kids. They celebrated with me when I won the race. They were really, really happy for what I did," she added

As she sets her sights on the London Marathon, Kosgei's stellar form and determination sets the stage for an exciting and competitive race in April, where she will undoubtedly be one of the top contenders vying for victory.

Geoffrey Kamworor and Alexander Mutiso might have to worry less about Ethiopian legend Kenenisa Bakele at next month’s London Marathon after he admitted he is far from ready.

Ethiopian long-distance running legend Kenenisa Bekele has voiced doubts about his potential success in the upcoming London Marathon following his seventh-place finish at the New York Half Marathon on Sunday.

Bekele clocked 1:03:59 for seventh place in a race won by Kenya’s Abel Kipchumba, who timed 1:00:25, with Morocco’s Zouhair Talbi (1:00:41) and Ethiopian Yemane Haileselassie (1:01:37) completing the podium.

The race was part of Bekele’s pre-London preparations but he looked to have bitten more than he could chew in the streets of New York.

Reflecting on the challenges encountered during the New York race, Bekele acknowledged the demanding nature of the course and emphasised the need for additional preparation to assess his fitness levels.

"The course was tough. This race was important to see how my shape is so I think I need more preparations," Bekele remarked.

Despite his determination to excel in the London Marathon on April 21, Bekele admitted that he is still in the process of building up his form and fitness for the upcoming challenge.

"I am still on the build-up because my big goal is success in London but this race was important to see my shape so I think I need more preparations," he explained.

Acknowledging the importance of both time and positioning in the London Marathon, Bekele emphasised his commitment to being fully prepared for the prestigious event.

"Not only time but the position is really important in London. I think I will be ready. I have a couple of weeks to prepare and try to be ready to do something," he asserted optimistically, despite his reservations.

As Bekele looks ahead to the London Marathon, he faces the challenge of fine-tuning his preparation and performance to meet the high expectations set for himself.

The Ethiopian great will be up against a formidable cast in London that includes Kenya’s Geoffrey Kamworor, two-time New York Marathon champion and second in London last year, and Alexander Mutiso, who finished second in Valencia last year.

He also has Ethiopian compatriots Tamirat Tola, the New York Marathon champion, and Mosinet Geremew, the seventh-fastest man in history.

This is also part of the two-time Berlin Marathon champion’s preparations towards the Olympics although he still not sure if he will make Ethiopia’s marathon team to the Paris Games.

“They can select based on time, and position is also very important,” Bekele said when asked about his chances of making the Olympics team.

“It will depend on the competitors and they have their own method of selection. There are many Ethiopian marathoners so they have their own plan. I think my chance is 50-50 so I have to try my best.”

Bekele has been to London six times, managing second place in 2017 after third a year earlier, but could only finish sixth in 2018 and fifth in 2022. He, however, had a setback in 2020, when he was forced to withdraw with a calf injury, before failing to finish last year’s race.

Distance runner Rachel Hodgkinson says being able to compete in next month's London Marathon as an elite athlete has made her nervous.

The 31-year-old was the second fastest British woman in last year's London Marathon having not started as part of the elite athlete's cohort.

She has since won gold at the Tokyo Marathon and finished fifth in the IAU 50km World Championship.

"Just getting there is an achievement," she told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"I'm excited and also quite nervous.

"Last year I came second for the British women, so I already knew at that point that I probably wouldn't be able to run with the masses and with the men again. So I knew I'd be making that step up into the women's only race.

"It was a shock last year when I came in second because I didn't start with the elite women. I didn't know I was in second, I only found out when I crossed the line that some of the elite women had dropped out."

With Olympic qualification for this summer's Games out of reach and question marks over the future of the Commonwealth Games, Hodgkinson's competitive aims have been pushed to the distant future.

"I'm not going to make the Olympics this year but they come around every four years so why not go again and have a shot?" she added.

"The Commonwealth Games is in question at the minute and may or may not happen. I'd like to represent England as I haven't done that, but that's generally some shorter distance stuff and speed is not necessarily my strength. I'm an endurance runner but we'll see.

"I could easily go down the ultra running line and step up to 50km or 100-milers."

The world record will be in danger with three of the top four fastest women in the history having been confirmed for the 2024 London Marathon.

World marathon record holder Tigst Assefa will brace up for a tough battle at the 2024 London Marathon that has attracted three of the top four fastest women in history.

The strong field assembled for the assignment on Sunday, April 21 will be keen to ensure that the women’s world record goes down one more time after being lowered during the 2023 Berlin Marathon.

The record was set by Assefa, who became the new world record holder when she ran an incredible 2:11:53, obliterating the previous best mark of 2:14:04 set by Brigid Kosgei during the 2019 Chicago Marathon.

Assefa and Kosgei will now clash for the first time with Kosgei going for the world record which she noted belongs to Kenya.

Others with eyes on the record include Ruth Chepng’etich, the fourth-fastest woman of all time (2:14:18), Peres Jepchirchir (Kenya), the reigning Olympic champion, and Yalemzerf Yehualaw (Ethiopia), the 2022 TCS London Marathon champion.

Pacemakers will be tasked with keeping the leading women on track for the women’s-only world record, which is possible at the TCS London Marathon as the elite women run a separate race to the elite men and masses.

Hugh Brasher, Event Director of the TCS London Marathon, said: “We are in a golden age of women’s marathon running.

“When Paula Radcliffe ran her incredible world record of 2:15:25 at the 2003 London Marathon, we had to wait 16 years for Brigid Kosgei to beat it.

“But since then, a further four women have run faster than Paula’s time including Tigst Assefa, who lowered the world record even further with her stunning run in Berlin last year.

“Despite this, the women’s-only world record of 2:17:01, set by the great Mary Keitany here at the London Marathon in 2017, has amazingly stayed intact.”

He added that however, he suspects that with Assefa, Kosgei and the likes of Chepng’etich, Jepchirchir and Yehualaw in the field, the world record is going to be under serious threat at the 2024 TCS London Marathon.

Multiple World Cross-country champion Geoffrey Kamworor will try his luck one more time at the 2024 London Marathon, going up against some of the greatest marathoners from Ethiopia.

The men’s elite field at the 2024 London Marathon will see Geoffrey Kamworor take on former clubmate Kenenisa Bekele.

Kamworor will be keen to improve on his second-place finish during last year’s edition of the event while Bekele will seek to have a great build-up toward the Olympic Games in Paris, France.

Bekele, widely regarded as one of the greatest marathoners the world has ever known, will be looking to cement his name further in the streets of London.

He recently changed his management and will be keen to impress them after finishing fourth at last year’s Valencia Marathon. He will also be looking to bounce back after failing to finish the race during last year’s edition of the race.

Meanwhile, the elite men’s race is headlined by reigning TCS New York City Marathon champion Tamirat Tola who will also be looking to continue his hot streak in the streets of the English capital.

The seventh-fastest man in history Mosinet Geremew of Ethiopia (2:02:55) and Kenya's Alexander Mutis, who was runner-up at the 2023 Valencia Marathon in a time of 2:03:11, have also confirmed to be on the start line on Sunday, April 21.

From a British perspective, Emile Cairess returns after becoming the third-fastest Brit in history when he ran 2:08:07 on his TCS London Marathon debut last year.

He will be joined by Callum Hawkins, who has twice finished fourth at the World Championships and will be making his first appearance at the London Marathon since setting his PB of 2:08:14 at the 2019 event.

Fresh from winning the Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Half Marathon, Daniel Mateiko has set his focus at the London Marathon scheduled for April 21 in the United Kingdom.

Mateiko arrived in the country on Monday following his exploits in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday.

He won the race in a world-leading time of 58:45 minutes, beating John Korir to second in a PB of 58:50 and Isaiah Lasoi to this also in a personal best of 58:55. 

“It is time to focus on the London Marathon following good results at RAK,” said Mateiko, who failed to complete the 2023 Chicago Marathon.

“I developed some challenges and failed to complete the race . This time around, I pray that all will be good at the London race,” said Mateiko.

He said he hopes to make up for his failures at the 2023 Chicago in London.

He noted that in the last eight half marathons, he has managed to run a sub-59 and this is good for his marathon career.

“I think I am improving with every race. When I first competed in RAK in 2022, I finished in position 6. Last year I was second and won the title this year,” he said.

In other races over the weekend, Kenya’s Dorine Cherop won the Castellon Marathon in Spain. Jerop won the title in 2:29.39 ahead of Irene Jerobon (2:30.51) with Aderra Minalle coming third at 2:31.24.

In men, James Kiplagat was the best Kenyan in the race after finishing second in 2:15.14 behind the Ethiopian duo of Ghebregiabhier Welldmicael Kibrom (2:07.25) and Abraham Medhanie (2:15.32).

At the Napoli Half Marathon, Kenyans dominated the races in both men and women.

In the men's race, Brian  Kwemoi won the title in 59:26 ahead of  Antony Kimtai (59:45) and Bernard Kipkurui (59:47). 

Great Britain's Emile Caress (60:01 hrs), Kenyan Gideon Kiprotich Rop  (60:28) and Charles Wanjiru (61:49) followed in that order. 

Wheelchair racers at this year’s TCS London Marathon will compete for the same prize money as able-bodied athletes.

In a significant step for disability sports, the annual event will become the first marathon in the world to offer all entrants parity, meaning the winners of each of the elite races will receive $55,000 (£43,410), with the runner-up taking $30,000 (£23,678) and third-place $22,500 (£17,758).

The move comes after organisers increased the prize pot for wheelchair participants by $54,500 (£43,018) to $308,000 (£243,111), the same as that on offer to non-disabled athletes.

Event director Hugh Brasher said: “We are proud of our history in championing participants with disabilities, from introducing our first wheelchair race in 1983 to hosting the IPC World Championships on multiple occasions and providing a pathway from the Mini London Marathon to the London Marathon and beyond for Paralympic legends such as David Weir.

“We are delighted to continue our commitment to disability sport with this landmark move that ensures the prize money available to our elite wheelchair athletes is exactly the same as for those in the non-disabled elite races.

“We have made great strides in recent years towards our ambition to make the TCS London Marathon the most diverse and equitable marathon in the world and this is another important step towards achieving that goal.”

Eight-time winner Weir will take part in his 25th consecutive London Marathon, where he will go head-to-head with Switzerland’s world number one Marcel Hug.

Weir said: “It’s a very exciting year for me and for wheelchair racing. Again London Marathon has set the bar for parity across the racing divisions.

“This is a huge benchmark for disability sport and I hope other races and sporting bodies can take note.”

Reigning women’s wheelchair champion Madison de Rozario also welcomed the decision and its wider implications for para sport and society in general.

Australia’s De Rozario said: “We often say that sport is a mirror to society, but it can also be the starting point for much larger change, and that’s what the TCS London Marathon is doing here.

“This decision doesn’t just affect the athletes lining up in London in April, it has an overflow effect to not just how every other event values athletes with a disability, but how we view the 15 per cent of the global population living with disability.

“Sport has an enormous responsibility to community and the TCS London Marathon is at the forefront of doing that justice. It is setting an entirely new standard and I can’t wait to see what that means for para sport going forward.

“Knowing that a generation of wheelchair racers are going to get to come into a sport and never question their value or their place is beautiful.”

Eliud Kipchoge has tipped Kelvin Kiptum to break the marathon records he has set and possibly become the first man to run under two hours.

Kiptum took the world by surprise in April by shattering Kipchoge's course record at the London marathon. It was only his second-ever race, yet he managed to set the second-fastest time in history.

Kipchoge remains the most decorated marathoner in history and holds the current world record of 2 hours, 1 minute and 9 seconds. Kiptum was just 18 seconds away from eclipsing Kipchoge's record in London.

In light of recent events, Kipchoge has now backed Kiptum to even go a step further and run a marathon in under two hours. Kipchoge is the only man to have run a sub-two marathon race, but it was under special conditions and thus not recognized as a world record but remains a huge fete nonetheless.

Why Kipchoge's world record is under threat

Previously, Sports Brief reported that if the 2023 London Marathon is anything to go by, then Kipchoge's world record of 2:01:09 might be under threat sooner than we expected.

Kelvin Kiptum blitzed through an experienced field on April 23 to win the London Marathon at 2:01:26, which is just 18 seconds more than Kipchoge's world record.

Kiptum's major introduction to the marathon world sets up an interesting prospect, especially with the Berlin Marathon this year up for grabs. The Berlin Marathon has proven to be a positive hunting ground for world records, with 12 world records (men and women) having been set in the German capital, including Kipchoge's.

The 2024 TCS London Marathon has set a world record by receiving the most applications ever to be submitted to a marathon.

Marathon organizers say 578,374 hopefuls from the United Kingdom and across the globe entered the ballot for the 2024 TCS London Marathon, marking the first time the number of applications to a marathon has topped half a million. The previous world record total of 457,861 applications was set pre-pandemic in 2019 for the 2020 London Marathon.

Almost 53 per cent of the 457,105 applications from U.K. residents for 2024 were from men and 46.4 per cent were from women; the non-binary category received 0.6 per cent of total U.K. applications. A further 121,269 non-U.K. residents applied on the international ballot.

“This incredible new world record reflects the extraordinary inspirational effect of the TCS London Marathon on April 23,” says Hugh Brasher, event director for the TCS London Marathon. “We saw a record number of more than 48,600 finishers on marathon day and more than 8,200 children took part in the mass TCS Mini London Marathon the day before.”

Brasher said marathon organizers work “to inspire activity in people of all ages and abilities and these record-breaking numbers show how the TCS London Marathon weekend does that. The unique camaraderie and togetherness that participants feel when they take part in the London Marathon continues to have an extraordinary impact on the desire for people to take part. It is an event that inspires people to take up running and to raise millions for charity.”

The ballot for the 2024 TCS London Marathon was operated for the first time by Let’s Do This as part of a new five-year partnership. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in London, LDT is the registration partner to many of the leading running events around the world.

The TCS London Marathon always attracts a strong contingent of Canadian runners, however, there were no Canadians in the elite field in the 2023 event. Sam Hunt was the first Canadian to cross the finish line this year with a time of 2:37:38. Meaghan Strum was the fastest Canadian woman, in 2:52:06. The only Canadian runner in the non-binary category was Christy Dadswell, who finished in 3:46:38.

Two-time Olympic champion Sifan Hassan made her marathon debut at the 2023 London Marathon, and she won in heroic fashion–making a comeback after stopping twice to stretch an impinged hip. Heading into the race, Hassan said she went through the typical pre-race antics that every runner has: why did I decide to do this? Did I train enough? I don’t know what to expect.

Hassan executed her resiliency, showing that anything can be possible and how normal it is to question everything before your race. Here are five takeaways from the 2023 London Marathon champion.

1.- It is OK to be nervous!

Even after setting world records and winning multiple Olympic medals in her career, Hassan said she was excited, yet very nervous about her marathon debut in London.

Runners are only human, and most put in countless hours of training into a goal race–so being nervous is not a bad thing. Nerves are just runners’ sympathetic nervous system (SNS) kicking in, which is one of two components of the body’s central nervous system. The SNS releases two hormones in response to high-stress situations–epinephrine and norepinephrine (also known as adrenaline and noradrenaline), which result in that feeling of having butterflies in your stomach.

According to research, nerves are a good thing, and they can help your body perform better. Nerves help your reflexes become faster and improve blood circulation before exercise. 

2.- Put expectations to rest

Before the London Marathon, the 2019 world 1,500m champion said during a pre-race press conference she did not change much in her training and had no goal time in her mind. “The marathon is a different distance for me; I do not know what to expect, but I want to try it,” said Hassan.

If you are trying a new distance or race, you will not know what to expect until you finish. Try to leave your expectations behind and embrace the experience. There’s a good chance you’ll surprise yourself. 

3.- Trust yourself

There are a million training tips online on what to do before your first marathon or how much mileage you should run per week, but not all tips will work for you. Hassan said she did not change up much of her training and kept a similar schedule similar to her 2020 Tokyo Olympics build.

It is okay to take advice, but there’s no 100 per cent blueprint on how to train for the marathon since all runners are different. Find out what works for you, and stick with it.

4.- Don’t be afraid to stop

Hassan might be the first woman to win a marathon major while stopping twice to walk. She clarified after the race that she had hip tightness and found that the pain only increased as she continued to run. Once she stopped, walked, and stretched out the discomfort, she started running again, eventually catching the lead group around 35 km.

Running is a high-impact sport on your joints and muscles. If there is any tightness or tenderness, it can usually be better to stop and quickly address the issue rather than running and doing more damage. 

There is a negative connotation around stopping during a race, but a short walking interval can also break up the monotony and help you deal with the mental challenges or discomfort you may be feeling. This tip is helpful for runners doing longer distances (like a half or full marathon) for the first time.

5.- Have fun out there

Although trying something new can bring challenges, have fun and enjoy the experience. Hassan had no thoughts of winning the London Marathon beforehand, she just wanted to try something she wasn’t used to doing, which ended up working in her favor, leading to her first Abbott World Marathon Major win.

The desire to help those battling the same disease that claimed his sister fuelled David Picksley of Croydon, Surrey, to claim the British 90+ men’s marathon record at this year’s TCS London Marathon. Picksley, the oldest of the more than 48,000 runners at this year’s event, finished the race with a time of 7:16:46.

He becomes the first to record a master’s marathon record in the British male 90+ category. Previously, the oldest British male marathoner on record was Alf Gibson, who at age 85 ran the 1993 London Marathon in 5:48:09. In 2002, Jenny Wood-Allen set the standing record in the British 90+ women’s category, running the London Marathon in 11:34:00.

In Canada, the record in the oldest men’s masters group is held by the late Ed Whitlock, who topped the men’s 85+ category with a 3:56:38 marathon finish in Toronto in 2016.

Picksley entered this year’s marathon as a fundraiser for JustGiving, a U.K. charity aimed at eradicating bowel cancer, and has raised more than $12,000 for the organization through this year’s marathon.

“When my sister April was diagnosed in 1973 with bowel cancer, this was generally seen as a death sentence,” Picksley shares in a statement on his fundraising page. “She died just a few months later at 42, with three young children. Now, almost 50 years on, of those in the UK diagnosed at the earliest stage, 97% will survive five years after their diagnosis. Currently, only just under 40% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage. The focus of the policy and the influencing work of Bowel Cancer UK over the next three years is to improve early diagnosis. I am walking the London Marathon in 2023 to recognise the improvements made in the last 50 years, and to support their campaign, to save more lives by spreading knowledge of the symptoms.”

The TCS London Marathon course is familiar territory for Picksley, who has a long history going the 42.2-km distance.

“In my 50s and 60s I ran 13 marathons, including 4 in London, and since those days I have been enjoying a walk with my stick, early every morning,” says Picksley. “Latterly that had become a lockdown habit, and when a Virtual London Marathon was introduced, I took it on. After a finish in under 7.5 hours in 2021, I did it again in 2022, in 7:13:15, just 3.5 minutes over the ‘good-for-age’ over-85 age category.”

In a video tweeted by TCS London Marathon organizers, Picksley says “it feels wonderful, it really does,” to have finished the event at age 90.

Asked if he “might have a small glass of something to celebrate,” Picksley replies: “Yeah, I should think I will. I might even make it a big one.”

Kelvin Kiptum found a way to better his marathon debut world record as he dashed away from a quality field, blitzing a stupefying 59:45 second half to win the London Marathon with a 2:01:25 clocking.

“I am so happy with my performance in my first World Marathon Majors, and to run the second fastest time in history,” Kiptum beamed. “The secret is hard training, and my preparation was very good. Everything was going one way, and I was expecting good results.”

Race day certainly went Kiptum’s way as the 23-year-old not only pared 72 seconds off Eliud Kipchoge’s London course record, he scared Kipchoge’s 2:01:09 global standard, and moved past Kenenisa Bekele to No. 2 on the all-time list.

Left far behind was the competition as Geoffrey Kamworor ran a PR 2:04:23 to finish 2nd as Tamirat Tola filled out the podium with a 2:04:59 effort.

Kiptum picked up right where he left off last December in Valencia when he ran a stunning 2:01:53 marathon debut, closing the second half in 60:20. Having logged that impressive sub-2:02 debut, this run was less stunning than it was spectacular as Kiptum hit speeds seldom seen on a marathon course.

While the runners set off on wet pavement, the expected steady rain did not materialize and the light wind, 50-degree (10C) temperatures and a crisp 38-degree dewpoint combined for some fast running. Well at least for Kiptum.

Defending champ Vincent Kipruto and Kiptum were ready for a fast getaway, clipping at the pacers’ heels through the downhill opening 5K (14:30) before settling into a steady 2:56K pace.

Crossing 20K on the Tower Bridge in 58:31 (2:03:27 pace), Kiptum seemed to egg on the trio of pacers as they upped the tempo to pass halfway in 61:40. The move also yielded a generational change of sorts as the 40-year-old Bekele slipped out of contention while Kiptum sped on in an effort that would supplant the Ethiopian’s 2:01:41 Berlin ’19 win.

The ensuing 5K segment in 14:22 between 20 and 25K pared the pace down to a 2:03:01 clip, and the lead group to 6 contenders. Kenyans Kiptum, Kamworor and Kipruto led the charge, a stride ahead of the Ethiopian trio of Tola, Seifu Tura and Leul Gebrselassie.

Covering the subsequent 5K in 14:30 pushed the tempo down to 2:02:57 at 30K (1:27:23) when Kiptum’s obvious exuberance could no longer be restrained.

Kiptum’s break came after he missed his 30K fluid grab. “My plan was to catch a water,” he said. “But unfortunately, I missed and I said, ‘Let me make a move,’ so I try.”

Kiptum’s try was a sharp acceleration covered at first by Kamworor and Tola, but soon they were left behind.

After facing Kiptum in Valencia, Tola was ready for the move but discovered one of his legs wasn’t: “When he was moving, I start with him but my leg was not OK, so I kept on my pace to finish.”

Kamworor clung to the radical speed a bit longer before coming to his senses: “When Kelvin made a move, that was a crazy pace and I couldn’t go with it because that was insane, so I said, let me go with my pace.” Note that this perspective comes from an athlete who knows something about insane pace as he closed out his 2018 World Half-Marathon Championship in Valencia with a blistering 13:01.

Once cut loose, Kiptum covered ground effortlessly, with a little side-to-side shoulder movement in his arm swing, but from his bib number on down he ran as smoothly as Kipchoge. Looking well within his comfort zone Kiptum’s breakaway was sealed with a 13:49 split to hit 35K in 1:41:12 — 2:02-flat pace.

The sub 2:50 kilo pace continued all the way down the Thames Embankment with a 14:01 split through 40K, and running 6:12 over the final 2195m.

Kiptum admitted, “It was difficult between 30 and 40K, and at 41 and 42 I was so exhausted I had no energy.”

The 58:42 half-marathoner’s transition to the full distance seems complete as for a second race in a row, after some 30km of running, Kiptum was able to shift back into the 2:48 pace of a sub-59:00 HM.

Scant few marathoners split a sub-2:50 kilometer; Kipchoge recorded 8 in the first half of his WR run last October, and 4 in his 2:01:39 record run. Kiptum ran 6 consecutive sub-2:50s between 31 and 37K in Valencia, and went even faster here, averaging 2:47.5 over the final 12,195 meters.

That’s 1:57:48 marathon pace.

Kiptum’s improbable finishing speed and rise to the top tier of marathoners over the short span of 5 months and two competitions is a rare achievement. The Kenyan phenom has impacted the marathon world like an unassuming rookie pitcher hitting the big leagues and pounding the strike zone with 105mph fastballs.

Managed by Marc Corstjens, the soft-spoken Kenyan is based in Chepkorio, 6km east of Kipchoge’s Kaptagat camp. Kiptum is self-coached, often trains alone with a preference for long, hilly runs in the forest — reminiscent of Sammy Wanjiru’s ’08 Olympic year training.

“My focus now is marathon,” Kiptum said. “I have done some half-marathons, I have run 59 or 58 seven times, so I said, ‘Let me try to shape up for the marathon.’”

As for chasing Kipchoge’s WR, Kiptum demurred with the patience evidenced in his opening 30K: “I will go home and see, but not now. Maybe in 2 or 3 years with good preparation.”

Among the field’s highly decorated veterans, Kamworor was happy to run his best race since his ’19 motorbike accident: “The race was good, and I am happy that I have come back after a long time struggling with injuries.”

Mo Farah closed out his marathon career finishing 9th in 2:10:58, while Bekele was less fortunate, perhaps closing out his stellar career with a DNF.

Top 10 Men Finishers

1. Kelvin Kiptum (Kenya) 2:01:25

2. Geoffrey Kamworor (Kenya) 2:04:23

3. Tamirat Tola (Ethiopia) 2:04:59

4. Leul Gebresilase (Ethiopia) 2:05:45

5. Seifu Tura (Ethiopia) 2:06:38

6. Emile Cairess (Great Britain) 2:08:07

7. Brett Robinson (Australia) 2:10:19

8. Phil Sesemann (Great Britain) 2:10:23

9. Mo Farah (Great Britain) 2:10:28

10. Chris Thompson (Great Britain) 2:11:50

Kenya's Kelvin Kiptum smashed compatriot Eliud Kipchoge's course record to win the men's London Marathon in the second-fastest time ever.

The 23-year-old was just 16 seconds outside Kipchoge's world record, finishing in two hours one minute 25 seconds.

Sifan Hassan also produced a remarkable run to win the women's race.

The Dutch Olympic track champion, 30, suffered with a hip injury but battled to win on her debut at the distance.

“It was really amazing,” she says. She never thought she could win, so can’t believe that she did. The crowd are amazing, she says, and every single kilometre she was grateful to be there.

She’s so happy and it’s beautiful to see; she explains she has a pre-existing hip problem, hence the stretching, and because she was fasting she didn’t practise so didn’t know where to stop for drinks.

At 20km she felt she wasn’t tired and was thinking about getting experience for her next marathon and at every moment she was grateful. She didn’t have confidence because she didn’t practise drinking and she found it really tough; she realised she didn’t have to have as much as she should.

Living in the States, she used to set her alarm to watch this race, and now she’s won it she’ll never forget it. She’d been told she’d hurt, but felt much better after 35km than she thought, and when she saw the line she thought it that really it?!

She needs to decide what race she’ll run at the Paris Olympics next summer but she’s so grateful. What an incredible racer and lovely person.

Kiptum produced the fastest marathon debut in Valencia in December, where he finished in 2:01:53 - the third-fastest time in history.

He went faster still on the streets of London, knocking one minute and 12 seconds off Kipchoge's previous course record to beat second-placed compatriot Geoffrey Kamworor by almost three minutes.

Ethiopia's reigning world champion Tamirat Tola was third, while Britain's Mo Farah finished ninth in what he says will be his last marathon.

Emile Cairess, 25, produced a superb run to finish as the first British man home, taking sixth in 2:08:07 on his marathon debut. 

It was the third-fastest marathon time by a British man - behind Farah and Steve Jones - and the second fastest by a Briton in the London race. 

Four British runners finished in the top 10 in total, with Phil Sesemann eighth and Chris Thompson 10th.

In the women's race, Hassan, who won the 5,000m and 10,000m at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, appeared out of the race after dropping back early on with a hip problem, but gradually fought back.

She then produced a sprint finish to win in two hours 18 minutes 33 seconds.

Ethiopia's Alemu Megertu was second and Kenya's previously unbeaten Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir third. 

Kenyan world record holder Brigid Kosgei looked to be limping from the start and dropped out after just three minutes, while Ethiopia's defending champion Yalemzerf Yehualaw was fifth. 

Sam Harrison, 27, was the first British woman home, clocking a new personal best of 2:25:59 for the 26.2-mile distance as she claimed 11th. 

It was the fifth-fastest time by a British woman in the event. 

Switzerland's Marcel Hug knocked 50 seconds off his own course record to win a third consecutive London Marathon men's wheelchair race - and fifth in total.

Hug, 37, finished in one hour 23 minutes 48 seconds, well ahead of the Netherlands' Jetze Plat in second, with Japan's Tomoki Suzuki third and the United States' Daniel Romanchuk in fourth.

Britain's David Weir, 43, finished his 24th London Marathon in fifth place.

Australia's Madison de Rozario held off Manuela Schar, of Switzerland, in a sprint finish to win the women's wheelchair race for a second time.

The four women's favourites made it on the Mall together before De Rozario and Schar pulled away.

De Rozario won in one hour 38 minutes 52 seconds, with defending champion Catherine Debrunner, of Switzerland, in third and the United States' Susannah Scaroni fourth.

Eden Rainbow-Cooper, 21, who was third in 2022, was the first Briton home in seventh.

The event has returned to its traditional date in the calendar, in April, for the first time since 2019 after being moved during the Covid-19 pandemic.

More than 47,000 runners are taking part, with huge crowds lining the streets of London despite damp conditions.

Kipruto, who used a 4:21 25th mile to win last year’s race, says his preparation has gone well for London, and while he hasn’t done every session with high-powered training mates Evans Chebet and Benson Kipruto (who just went 1-3 in Boston), he has run a number of workouts with them and has finished alongside them. He said his fitness is on par with when he won this race six months ago.

“Last year’s shape and this year is really similar, no change,” Kipruto said.

Kipruto was asked in the main press conference about his thoughts on Kenya’s doping problem — the country saw at least 25 athletes suspended in 2022 — and spoke candidly about the issue, calling it “an embarrassment.”

“It’s really killing me sometimes, my heart, because when you see someone has been caught, it’s really raising a lot of questions in your mind,” Kipruto says. “You’re asking yourself why this person go through this? You find someone injecting yourself, you find someone buying some medicine, swallow some medicine and you know [they’re healthy and don’t need it]. So someone is not even thinking about his health.”

Kipruto echoed the comments fellow Kenyan marathoner Mary Ngugi made to the BBC on Wednesday, saying success is the product of patience and time. He believes too many athletes want to take a shortcut to success by doping.

“When you tell someone be patient, they see you like you are talking nonsense,” Kipruto said. “…What kills athletes mostly is impatience, they need to rush. You find someone getting everything. they want to run faster to get money, which is not correct. But if someone is clever enough, you better be patient and your time will come.”

Kipruto is pleased that the Kenyan government has taken action to fight doping, dedicating $5 million per year over the next year toward tackling the issue. He says he believes the AIU is doing a good job by using more sophisticated methods to catch dopers and asked for them to keep pushing.

“The request I have for the AIU and [the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya] is to tighten up a lot, even to bring more technology how to catch dopers,” Kipruto says. “…If they introduce even more systems how to handle this doping, I’ll be happy.”

On Sunday, 2019 Berlin Marathon champion Kenenisa Bekele of Ethiopia will take on defending champion Amos Kipruto of Kenya in a potentially explosive 2023 London Marathon race.

Last year, he finished fifth in  2:05:19 behind Kipruto (2:04:39). In an exclusive interview with Nation Sport, the two-time Olympics 5,000 metres and 10,000m champion admits that this year’s race features one of the strongest fields. He talked to our writer Bernard Rotich.

Question: Having completed your training for the London Marathon, how have your preparations been so far?

My training has been good, but not perfect. I had minor injuries earlier on in my training programme, but I feel healthy and fit for Sunday’s race.

Where do you train specifically, and what does your day to day programme look like?

I train around Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. I do runs at altitude, and Entoto Forest Park in Addis Ababa is one good place for that. But I also do low altitude training around Sendafa, a small town located some 38 kilometres to the East of Addis Ababa. Of course, exercise training becomes an important part of my training programme ahead of races.

How does your diet look like when training for races? Do you have special food during that period?

Not any specific food. Most importantly, I like a variety of food. I eat a lot of vegetables, nuts, fruit, some meat, pasta, rice, milk and of course our national food injera which is high in nutrients. For me, just plain food is enough, not too much spices and oil.

Which was your last race and what can you say about your performance in it?

My last race was the 2022 London Marathon. I had hoped for more in the race, but I couldn’t achieve what I set out to do. I was struggling healthwise, having suffered a double Covid-19 infection.

At the 2019 Berlin Marathon, you came close to breaking Eliud Kipchoge’s then world record in the marathon of 2:01:39 by two seconds, but Kipchoge further lowered that time. Is Kipchoge’s new world record of 2:01:09 within reach for you?

Actually, it is what motivates me. Of course I still hope it will happen one day.

When competing against Kenyans, do you come under pressure, or do they help you to push yourself to the limit?

Good competition always helps to motivate me to push myself the extra bit. We need each other to excel in athletics.

You have had a long and successful athletics career. What is your secret to longevity?

My talent is God-given. This is what God chose for me to do. I had dreams, and I still have many goals to achieve. That keeps me going.

How have you invested your earnings from athletics, and what advice can you give upcoming athletes who look up to you?

I built my own synthetic athletics track in Sululta, about 20km north of Addis Ababa. Initially, I built it for my track training. I needed a good soft track surface to avoid injury. Nowadays, almost all Ethiopian athletes train there, which supports athletics in Ethiopia. Next to it, I built a training center and guesthouse where athletes can stay. We need to help each other and build for the community.

What is your message to your fans ahead of Sunday’s race?

I’m very happy with all the support I get from all over the world. The crowds are usually really amazing in London. I really appreciate the support I get from my fans during my preparations. I see it, and it motivates me.

You belong to NN Running Team. How has your experience been so far?

For me, the medical and nutritional support of the team has made the difference. I have access to the best sports doctors, physios, nutritionists and products. I owe them a lot. It has been career extending, and they are the reason I am still chasing my dreams and goals.

What do you think of the 2023 London Marathon line-up? Do you feel pressure to deliver?

Of course in a World Marathon Major, you can only expect a top field of athletes. The competition is really strong this year, but I’m looking forward to getting the most out of myself.

Who are your training partners? What do you think of them?

I train with Leul Gebresilase who will also compete in London Marathon. Training together with other strong athletes motivates me to push the boundaries. I think Leul is strong. He finished second last year, but let’s see what will happen in this race.

Eilish McColgan has pulled out of the London Marathon on Sunday because of a knee problem.

Event organisers announced on Thursday evening that McColgan delayed her travel to London to give her the best chance of competing, and would not be attending a scheduled pre-event media conference on Friday morning.

The 32-year-old Scot, who won her first major title on the track at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, had hoped to see how the injury responded, but confirmed she had not been able to shake off the issue in time to run.

“I was sort of hopeful to be honest,” she said. “I have had a bit of knee bursitis back in February, March time and it was something I could run through.

“But I couldn’t run through this. I’ve tried, trust me, but it has just got to the point where it is not going to be feasible to run a marathon this weekend.”

McColgan had planned to run the 2022 London Marathon last October before being forced to withdraw due to a medical issue.

The problem was identified as rebound hypoglycaemia, a common occurrence among endurance athletes which leads to reduced blood sugar levels and not enough glucose in the blood to meet the body’s needs.

McColgan, whose mother Liz won the London Marathon in 1996, said: “There are a few factors that have come together to lie a bad storm. A whole host of things in the last three weeks have built up and this knee thing has been the final crack in the armour.

“I’m disappointed. I know I’m ready to run a good marathon. I’d have loved to have given it a go and see what happens.

“These things happened for a reason. There will be another marathon, they’ll be another London Marathon in my future which hopefully I’ll get the chance to perform well at.

“I’ve shed a lot of tears in the last two days. It feels tougher because I’ve missed two now, for two entirely different reasons.

“All elite athletes go through this, I hope one day I will be on that start line. I know I can run a good marathon and I know one day it will be in London.”

Two-time New York City Marathon winner Geoffrey Kamworor declares he is in his best shape ever and promises fireworks in England.

Kamworor, fondly referred to as the man of all surfaces, was hit by a motorcycle while training in Kaptagat on June 27, 2020, fracturing a tibia. He underwent surgery to mend the injury.

Things suddenly changed for Kamworor as his career in athletics turned upside down.

He was then gunning for his fourth consecutive World Athletics Half Marathon Championships title, but injured he failed to defend the crown on October 17, the same year in Gdynia, Poland.

Kamworor, who had the previous year recaptured the New York City Marathon title he had won in 2019, would embark on a frustrating long period of recovery. He eventually bounced back after 18 months to claim silver at the Istanbul Half Marathon on April 4, 2021.

Amidst a series of injuries Kamworor, the 2014 world 10,000m silver medalist, was still good enough to  run the fastest time on Kenyan soil as he won the Kenyan Olympic Games trials 10,000m in 27 minutes and 01.06 seconds at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani.

The man of all surfaces’ dream of returning for the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games went up in smoke with an ankle injury.

The fighter he is, he returned for the Valencia Marathon on December 5, 2021 where he finished fourth in a personal best  time of two hours, five minutes and 23 seconds.

He opened the 2022 season with an 18th place finish in the Boston Marathon on April 18 as a recurring ankle injury put paid to his title ambitions.

Kamworor still earned a place in the Kenya marathon team for the World Athletics Championships held on July 17 in Oregon, United States where he battled to a credible fifth place.

“For sure the last two years have been frustrating for me since the accident, injury after another crept in,” said Kamworor, as h3 announced that he was back into his best shape and ready for his debut in the London Marathon on Sunday.

“I am now running and conducting my training without any discomfort. I feel like I am back to the shape I was in 2017 to 2019 before all these misfortunes happened,” said Kamworor,  the 2015 and 2017 world cross country champion.

He went through his last speed work on Tuesday in Eldoret ahead of his departure to London yesterday.

Kamworor said that it’s a dream come true for him to finally compete in the London Marathon.

“I want to thank the organizers for giving me this opportunity. I can promise a beautiful race in the British capital,” said Kamworor. He predicted a tough race owing to the quality entries.

“It will depend on how you wake up but I am ready for any weather conditions,” said Kamworor.

He said he is ready for any pace and whatever tactics that will be thrown into the race by his opponents

Among the top cream of athletes Kamwowor will battle on the streets of London are fellow countrymen Amos Kipruto, who is the defending champion, and Kelvin Kiptum, 23, who produced the fastest marathon debut in history when he claimed victory in Valencia in 2:01:53 in December.  This is, in fact, made him the  third fastest man in history.

The Kenyans are up against home athlete Mo Farah and Ethiopian legendary distance runner Kenenisa Bekele among others.

Mo Farah expects there to be tears on Sunday when he runs the marathon in the city he calls home for one final time.

The four-time Olympic gold medallist turned 40 last month and has confirmed this weekend’s London Marathon will be his last race over that distance. He then plans to run in just two more events before he retires at the end of this year.

This will be Farah’s fourth marathon in the capital, after finishing eighth in 2014, third in 2018 – when he broke the British record - and fifth in 2019.

And he thinks it will be an emotional farewell in the city he was smuggled to from Somalia aged eight – and where he enjoyed his greatest glory by winning golds in the 5,000m and 10,000m at London 2012.

‘This is it. It will be my last marathon,’ said Farah in London on Thursday. ‘When you know it’s the end of the road, you always get emotional. I think it will get to me. Maybe after the race there will be tears.

London is my home. This is where my journey started as a young boy who took part in the mini marathon, won that, and watched the senior race thinking, “One day I’m going to run the London Marathon”.

‘Also the memory of 2012 and that Super Saturday. That still motivates me to keep going. All the people in the UK have been a big part of my career and I owe them.’

Farah, who has been training in Ethiopia and finished seventh in a 10km race in Gabon earlier this month, has not run a full marathon in three years and pulled out of last year’s race with a hip injury.

‘I don’t know if my body can do it but I have to finish,’ he said. ‘It has definitely been quite emotional these last couple of years. As an athlete, you always want to go out there and do the best you can, but my body hasn’t allowed me to do what I needed to do in training.

‘That’s been the hardest thing. For many years, I tended to take it for granted. As you get older, that totally changes because you can’t do what you did. That is the most frustrating thing. Age does catch up with you and your body.’

Farah’s legacy has, of course, been tarnished by his relationship with his former coach Alberto Salazar, who was banned for four years in 2019 for doping violations. The American has since been banned for life for sexual and emotional misconduct.

Asked if he had any regrets in his career, Farah insisted: ‘Not at all. I wouldn't have done anything different. I just took that journey and kept going and kept grafting. As an athlete you go out there and deliver and win races. That’s what I’ve done.’

Sifan Hassan’s 2023 London Marathon challenge: “I’m going to finish the distance or the distance is going to finish me” the Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan said in February when announcing she would race in 23 April’s London Marathon.

While the words were delivered with a customary laugh, there’s a real element of the unknown about Hassan’s jump from the 10,000m on track to a distance of over four times that where many runners' dreams have been scuppered.

Heck, even the marathon race itself is based on the legend of an ancient Greek messenger who drops stone cold dead after running it.

But if there’s one thing Hassan is known for above anything else, it’s her love of a challenge.

“Many people say I’m crazy,” she said of her previous big challenge of racing in three distances at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics that took place in 2021. “Believe me, I think I’m crazy too.”

Sifan Hassan: From refugee to the elite athletics star with energy to burn

In many ways, Hassan’s decision to run the London Marathon is reminiscent of her first big distance race in Eindhoven in 2011.

Just three years after arriving in the Netherlands as a refugee from Ethiopia, she told her coach, Ton van Hoesel, that she wanted to run a half marathon - even though she hadn’t trained for the race.

“I told her OK but do not start too fanatically because you might get injured. Well, she won the race!” recalled Van Hoesel in an interview with thenationalnews.com.

With the London Marathon, Hassan will once again be stepping into the unknown. However, this is an athlete who has faced and overcome fierce challenges both in running and in life.

While Hassan doesn’t talk about the reasons she left Ethiopia as a teenager, her experience after arriving in the Netherlands, which included being housed in a centre for minors for eight months in Zuidlaren where she “cried every day”, was one of the hardest challenges of her life.

Soon after, her introduction to the world of athletics gave her a new focus. After borrowing used spikes and kits from her local club, she began a journey that would take her to even more challenges - one of which is among the most breathtaking in Olympic history.

The London Marathon 2023: Hassan steps into the unknown

Hassan’s attitude to life so often mirrors her success in running - and she’ll need to draw upon her own mantras more than ever when she takes on her first-ever marathon in London.

“I tell people, when life is hard you will see yourself like you never imagined,” she said after her history-making showing in Tokyo. “Never give up.”

There is a playful curiosity about Hassan, who seems to peek over at new challenges and ask herself the question, “why not?” when so many others would get stuck on the “why”.

“I just want to see what I can do in the marathon,” Hassan said when announcing she would race in London, as if ticking off another item on a whimsical bucket list.

While the London Marathon doesn’t mark a permanent transition to the longer distance for the 29-year-old, who has said she plans to return to the track in time for Paris 2024, it does open up yet more possibilities for someone who is once again pushing the boundaries of track & field.

This is an athlete whose satisfaction comes from achieving the extraordinary. Even when some, including herself, think that borders on the preposterous.

As she herself said in Tokyo: “The last two weeks, sometimes I woke up from a nightmare and I asked: ‘Why do I have to make myself so stressed? But something inside me said to keep on going. I think I was kind of crazy, but now I am really happy."

World marathon silver medalist Judith Korir believes she has what takes  to secure a podium place in the 43rd London Marathon in the United Kingdom on Sunday.

But it will be a tall order for her as she faces a formidable field that has her compatriots, reigning Olympics marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir and Olympics marathon silver medallist Brigid Kosgei, who is also the world marathon record holder.

The runners will be targeting the course’s best time, which is a women’s only world record time set by Kenya’s Mary Keitany in 2017.

Last year, Korir who trains under the Italy-based Rosa Associati management, was initially entered in the London Marathon as a pacesetter but the last minute withdrawal of Brigid Kosgei saw her registered as a competitor.

She went on to finish fourth in a time of 2:18:43. This time she has been training in the full knowledge she is in the list of the elite women competitors.

“The line-up is tough but I believe in my training. I can’t compare it with last year where I prepared for one month,” Kosgei said when Nation Sport caught up with her at the Ndura Sports Complex in Kitale, last week as she put the finishing touches to her training.

“Competing with some of the best athletes in the marathon like Jepchirchir and Kosgei motivates me to work extra hard,” she said.

“London Marathon line-up is tough and my target is just to run well because we have some of the best athletes in the world participating,” added Korir, who is the 2022 Paris Marathon champion.

Nation Media Group’s NTV will broadcast the race live. There will be a watch party in Eldoret, at the Uasin Gishu County big screen along Uganda Road, starting at 8am on race day.

The Canadian women’s marathon record holder, Natasha Wodak, will not be racing at the 2023 London Marathon this Sunday. The 41-year-old announced on her Instagram Tuesday that she has been trying to train through injury and sickness but has not been 100 per cent, which has forced her to withdraw. 

“I am absolutely gutted to announce I’ve pulled out of Sunday’s London Marathon,” wrote Wodak. “The last few days have been incredibly tough trying to decide what to do, but  I am so grateful to all the people in my life that have reassured me that we have made the right decision.”

Earlier in her marathon training build, Wodak was dealing with two separate injuries, which resulted in her missing training. “We put up a great fight when injuries tried to derail us,” wrote Wodak. Two weeks before the marathon, I started having stomach issues, and I’ve unfortunately been sick since. I have not been able to eat much, and we all know you can’t race a marathon under-fuelled.”

Last year at the 2022 Berlin Marathon, Wodak set a new Canadian marathon record of 2:23:12 with her 12th-place finish.

The two-time Canadian Olympian beat the previous record by a minute and 38 seconds, held by Malindi Elmore from the 2020 Houston Marathon (2:24:50).

Wodak was set to take on one of the greatest women’s marathon fields ever assembled, including Olympic champions Sifan Hassan and Peres Jepchirchir, plus the world record holder Brigid Kosgei and the marathon debut of Eilish McColgan. 

Wodak remained optimistic about a return to the marathon, “Right now, I will take the time to rest and reset,” she said. “We have more races to come.”

With Wodak’s withdrawal, there will now be no Canadian elites at the 2023 London Marathon. Rory Linkletter was supposed to start in the men’s elite field but also had to withdraw from an IT band flare-up in late March. 

Vincent Kipchumba may be down but certainly not out.

It has always been his dream to finally win the world's most prestigious marathon, but the 32-year-old distance runner will once again miss this year’s London Marathon scheduled for Sunday.

Kipchumba, who has finished second twice in the British capital, has revealed that he has just recovered from a knee injury, hence not ready for the grueling marathon.

This will be the second time Kipchumba is missing the London Marathon after a recurring leg frame injury knocked him out last year’s race.

It’s the same injury that also saw the Kapsabet-based distance runner withdraw from the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games held in August, 2021.

“I was preparing so well, having completely healed from the frame injury only to go down again with a knee injury this time round,” said Kipchumba.

“I was really determined not to finish second again in London but this is so frustrating.”

Kipchumba had made a return after 17 months to finish 14th at the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon on February 18 this year before the knee injury crept in.

Kipchumba made his World Marathon Majors (WMM) debut in London in 2020 where he clocked two hours, five minutes and 42 seconds to finish second, losing to Ethiopia’s Shura Kitala by 16 seconds in 2:05:58.

Kipchumba, 2019 Amsterdam and Vienna Marathon champion, would return to the British capital the following year where he improved his personal best to 2:04:28, but still settled second again behind another Ethiopian Sisay Lemma, who clocked 2:04:01.

It would be his last marathon race as he stayed out of action for the better part of last year, only making his first appearance at  Ras Al Khaimah in February this year.

"I will not lose hope and I believe my time will come. I will one day win in London and also get to represent Kenya for the first time too. I want to heal properly first before I can plan my next race,"said Kipchumba, who is handled by Claudio Berardelli.

Kipchumba’s exit now leaves three Kenyan men in the race- defending champion Amos Kipruto, Kelvin Kiptum and Geoffrey Kamworor.

The race will for the first time in history have two men, who have run inside two hours and two minutes- Ethiopia’s Kenenisa Bekele, who is the second fastest man in marathon history with 2:01:41 and Kiptum (2:01:53).

After three decades immersed in athletics, there are not too many times now when Eilish McColgan is stepping into the unknown.

Next Sunday, however, will be one of those unusual occasions when she stands on the start line not knowing quite what to expect as she will make her marathon debut in London.

For all the thousands upon thousands of miles she has run in training over the years, she is treading new ground.

“I’ve never run 26 miles,” she says. “I don’t actually know many athletes who do the full distance in training.

“We coach amateur runners and we advise not to do more than 22 miles in training and that’s what I’ve been doing myself. There is the mental aspect of can you actually get round 26 miles? But I’ve done 22-mile runs and I had no doubt at the end of them I could have run another four-mile loop. So it’s not so much the distance for me that will be tough, it’s going to be the pace of it.

“There’s a big difference between a long run and a hard, hard effort for that long. So for me, that’s what’s unknown and not something I’ve particularly tested in training.

“I think that’s something that only comes with the experience of racing.”

McColgan is certainly not easing herself in gently. London boasts the strongest women’s marathon field ever assembled with defending champion and world 10k record holder Yalemzerf Yehualaw, marathon world record holder Brigid Kosgei and Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir all going to be on the start line.

However, with the 32-year-old from Dundee having had the year of her life over the past 12 months, she could not be in a better frame of mind.

McColgan has been on the international scene since 2012, when she competed in her first Olympic Games, but it was in 2022 that she really grabbed the spotlight.

Commonwealth gold in the 10,000m in Birmingham was the most memorable of her performances, but that win was accompanied by a raft of Scottish, British and European records both on the track and on the road.

McColgan has continued her sparkling form into 2023, with her opening appearance of the year a run over 10,000m of 30 minutes 0.86 seconds, breaking Paula Radcliffe’s long-standing national record and smashing her own personal best by 19 seconds.

That was followed by a win at the Berlin Half Marathon two weeks ago in yet another British record and McColgan admits that despite the trepidation that is certainly present about running her first marathon, she is in a confident mood.

“I’m really pleased with my runs. To have come away with British records and such big PBs, I was really happy,” she says. “It’s given me quite a lot of confidence knowing that the training I’m doing is really suited to me.

“I know for sure I can run a good 5k, a good 10k and a good half marathon so now the question is whether or not I can run a good marathon because it’s something I’ve never done. I’m certainly in a better place to run the marathon now than I ever have been but how I actually cope with it, we won’t know till race day.”

The one, and perhaps only, down side of McColgan’s spectacular year is that expectations from observers are now sky-high regarding what she is likely to achieve in London.

However, McColgan is far too pragmatic and too experienced to expect anything spectacular and instead, she sees next weekend’s race as the start of her marathon journey which will, she hopes, lead to the start line of the Olympic marathon in Paris next summer.

“This first marathon is about getting the experience of it,” she says. “I’m in a much stronger position than I’ve ever been and so I’ve given myself the best opportunity to run a good marathon but there’s a lot of things that come into play on the day with regard to the mental side of it, the physical side of covering that sort of distance at that fast pace and the fuelling side of things to make sure I don’t hit the wall.

“There’s a lot more elements that come into a marathon than do on the track or on the shorter road races.

“I know other people maybe expect me to go to London and be competitive but that’s not realistic.

“I’m going into the best marathon field that’s ever been assembled so I have to be realistic with what I can achieve within that. I’m certainly not going in there to win.”

McColgan may not be targeting a podium place but she is not lacking goals for the race.

With the 2024 Olympic Games already in her mind, qualification for Paris is of primary importance – and ideally sooner rather than later – but she also has her mum, Liz’s, one remaining time that is faster than her in her sights over those 26.1 miles in London.

“I have a few goals for London,” she says. “Firstly, I want to get round in one piece. That’s my No.1 goal – to get round and feel like yes, I want to do the marathon at the Paris Olympics,” she says.

“Secondly, this is the final PB that my mum still has of 2 hours 26 mins. Steph Twell took her Scottish record a couple of years ago when she ran 2:25 so I have that in my head as a time target.

“I do feel I’m capable of running faster than my mum and getting that Scottish record and it’d be a triple-whammy because it’d be a qualifying time for the Paris Olympics too.

“I’d like to be competitive against the British girls and if I can do that, I think I can knock those three goals off in the process.

“If I can achieve all my personal goals, that’d be a good day for me.”

The stacked women’s field at 2023 TCS London Marathon will not include American record holder Emily Sisson. At 7:00 am ET today, the race announced Sisson had withdrawn from the race and then a few hours later Sisson explained why in an Instagram post.

“I tweaked something in my hip during a workout a few weeks ago, and it just didn’t quite heal fast enough! I have taken a few days off since then & have been slowly increasing my runs—and things are feeling a lot better!” wrote Sisson. “Initially I was pretty bummed, but I’m going to pivot to some shorter races this summer instead now! And I will do a marathon later this year. I will keep my race schedule posted.”

Sisson’s withdrawal comes just 13 days after the former American record holder Keira D’Amato told Runner’s World she also wouldn’t be competing in London due to a tweaked knee.

The race also announced today that the fourth fastest Brit in history, Jess Piasecki (2:22:27 pb) , would not be competing as well due to injury. Since the race announced its record-breaking lineup in February, a number of people have withdrawn besides the two Americans and Piasecki. Also withdrawing have been the 5th fastest woman in history Tigist Assefa (2:15:37 pb) of Ethiopia, Australian record holder Sinead Diver (2:21:34), as well as Brits Charlotte Purdue (2:23:16 pb) and Stephanie Davis (2:27:16 pb).

Keira D’Amato has decided to skip the London Marathon, after inflammation in her left knee in January set her training for the April race back by a few weeks.

D’Amato, 38, said in a phone call with Runner’s World that she tweaked her knee and instead of trying to run through it, she decided to take a couple of days off. Those days turned into a couple of weeks, long enough she would have had to rush her London buildup.

She’s done marathons off of shorter training cycles, including twice last year. She ran the New York City Marathon in November just six weeks after the Berlin Marathon. In New York, she ran 2:31:31—after running 2:21:48 Berlin.

She was also a last-minute replacement for Molly Seidel at the 2022 World Championships in July in Eugene, Oregon. D’Amato finished eighth in 2:23:34, despite being named to U.S. team less than three weeks earlier.

Having done those rushed marathons, D’Amato said, “I want to make sure my next one is totally right.”

She had X-rays and an MRI on her knee—both were negative. She then spent a few days at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, where she had her form and balance evaluated to make sure nothing structural was contributing to her knee pain. The evaluations turned up nothing.

“I crossed my Ts and dotted my Is,” D’Amato said. “It was a little bit of freak thing.”

She hopes her next marathon will be at the World Championships in August in Hungary. The team will be selected by a descending order time list for marathons run between December 1, 2021, and May 30, 2023. D’Amato has the second-fastest time on the list currently, 2:19:12, from her American record in January 2022 in Houston.

Emily Sisson, who is planning to run London, has the fastest time, 2:18:29. She broke D’Amato’s record in October in Chicago. The idea of a head-to-head matchup between the country’s two fastest marathoners in London had fans excited.

D’Amato, however, is looking forward. She is beginning her build now for August, and she hopes if it goes well, she’ll be racing at shorter distances on the roads through the spring and summer. She feels she has more great marathon performances in her.

Aday after releasing the men’s start list for the 2023 London Marathon, race organizers have announced the women’s field, and it is jam-packed with stars. The race will feature marathon world record holder Brigid Kosgei, reigning Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir and Sifan Hassan, who will be making her highly anticipated marathon debut. The race is April 23, and with so many amazing runners set to toe the line in London, it will be incredible to watch.

Who to watch for in London 

Kosgei has the fastest seed time of the women’s field–by a long shot. (Her 2:14:04 world record is a full minute and a half faster than that of Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa, who owns the fifth-fastest marathon in history at 2:15:37.) However, Kosgei isn’t necessarily a lock for the win, as there are far too many other extremely successful athletes in the mix. Jepchirchir has had an incredible string of marathons, winning the last five she has entered, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic marathon, Boston and New York. She’ll be a heavy favourite to make it six in a row (and grab yet another World Marathon Major) in London. 

Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw is another must-watch athlete; not only is she the 10K world record holder, but she also won her debut marathon in Hamburg last spring. Just a few months later, she followed up with a win at the London Marathon and is the defending champion.

Like Hassan, Great Britain’s Eilish McColgan will be running her debut marathon. She’s coming off an amazing season in 2022 that saw her win Commonwealth Games gold in the 10,000m and silver in the 5,000m and set three national records, including her 1:06:26 half-marathon best. Canadian marathon record holder Natasha Wodak is also set to race in London. 

Hassan’s debut

Hassan is one of the fastest runners in history. She is the reigning Olympic champion in the 5,000m and 10,000m (she also won bronze in the 1,500m last Olympics) and the owner of two world championship gold medals, plus she has multiple Dutch, European and world records to her name. What’s so impressive is not simply that Hassan has so many world records, but also the breadth of her success. Her shortest record is over 1,000m (her time of 2:34.68 is the Dutch record). Jumping up to the 1,500m, she has the European best of 3:51.95, and her mile PB of 4:12.33 is the world record. The European records in the 3,000m, 5,000m, 10,000m and half-marathon all belong to Hassan, and she owns the one-hour world record, too. 

With so much success over so many distances, she will likely do something amazing in the marathon. It shouldn’t be a surprise if it takes her a race or two to get into the marathon mindset (going from the half to full marathon is a big jump, even for the world’s best runners), but it also won’t be a surprise if she ends up running one of the fastest marathon debuts in history on April 23. 

The 2023 TCS London Marathon elite men’s field will be a landmark occasion when, for the first time in history, two men who have run inside 2:02 will be together on the same start line at the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on 23 April.

Ethiopia’s Kenenisa Bekele, the second-fastest man ever with a PB of 2:01:41, and Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum, the winner of the 2022 Valencia Marathon and the fastest marathon debutant in history (2:01:53) have both been confirmed for the race.

With Ethiopian duo Birhanu Legese (2:02:48) and Mosinet Geremew (2:02:55) also in the field, it means this year’s London Marathon will have four of the five fastest men in marathon history on the start line.

In addition, the defending champion Amos Kipruto of Kenya and world champion Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia will also return to London, along with multiple world and Olympic champion Mo Farah and two-time New York Marathon winner Geoffrey Kamworor.

Kipruto’s win at last year’s London Marathon was the biggest victory of his career and his first Abbott World Marathon Major triumph. “Winning last year’s TCS London Marathon was an incredible experience for me,” said the 30-year-old, who was second at last year’s Tokyo Marathon behind world record-holder Eliud Kipchoge and third in the 2019 World Championships. “I am now preparing hard for this year’s race and I can’t wait to return to London as the champion.

“London always has a really strong field and this year is the same so I know I will face a battle to defend my title, but I’m confident and looking forward to it.”

Tola, who won the world title in Oregon last year, will be one of several men aiming to prevent Kipruto from winning back-to-back titles. Tola, 31, is in a fine run of form over the 26.2-mile distance, winning the 2021 Amsterdam Marathon and finishing third at the 2022 Tokyo Marathon (behind Kipchoge and Kipruto) before winning his world title last summer.

Also in the field is last year’s runner-up Leul Gebresilase of Ethiopia, and the second-placed finisher in London in both 2020 and 2021 Vincent Kipchumba.

The new holder of the Oceanian marathon record Brett Robinson, who ran 2:07:31 in Fukuoka last year, returns to London after finishing eighth in 2022. Japan’s 2018 Boston Marathon champion Yuki Kawauchi is making his London Marathon debut in what will be his 114th marathon. By finishing in London, Kawauchi will be eligible for his Abbott World Marathon Majors six star medal for finishing all six major marathons: London, Tokyo, Boston, Berlin, Chicago and New York.

The elite women’s field will be announced tomorrow.

Elite men’s field

Kenenisa Bekele (ETH) 2:01:41

Kelvin Kiptum (KEN) 2:01:53

Birhanu Legese (ETH) 2:02:48

Mosinet Geremew (ETH) 2:02:55

Amos Kipruto (KEN) 2:03:13

Tamirat Tola (ETH) 2:03:39

Kinde Atanaw (ETH) 2:03:51

Leul Gebresilase (ETH) 2:04:02

Vincent Kipchumba (KEN) 2:04:28

Seifu Tura (ETH) 2:04:29

Mo Farah (GBR) 2:05:11

Geoffrey Kamworor (KEN) 2:05:23

Yuki Kawauchi (JPN) 2:07:27

Brett Robinson (AUS) 2:07:31

Dewi Griffiths (GBR) 2:09:49

Rory Linkletter (CAN) 2:10:24

Chris Thompson (GBR) 2:10:52

Tom Gröschel (GER) 2:11:03

Ben Connor (GBR) 2:11:20

Joshua Griffiths (GBR) 2:11:28

Frank Lara (USA) 2:11:32

Luke Caldwell (GBR) 2:11:33

Weynay Ghebresilasie (GBR) 2:11:57

Emile Cairess (GBR) debut.

Ethiopia's Yalemzerf Yehualaw will defend her London Marathon title in April, with world record holder Brigid Kosgei and Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir of Kenya also set to run, organisers said on Thursday.

Reigning Olympic 10,000m and 5,000m champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands will make her marathon debut at the age of 30, with 1,500m world record holder Genzebe Dibaba, 2016 Olympic 10,000m champion Almaz Ayana and Berlin Marathon champion Tigist Assefa also taking part.

Home hopes will be carried by Britain's Eilish McColgan, the Commonwealth Games 10,000m champion, who will also be making her marathon debut.

"My victory at last year's TCS London Marathon was a day I will never forget. I can't wait to go back to London and be part of this amazing team," world 10km record holder Yehualaw said.

Hassan said she was considering both track and marathon options ahead of next year's Olympic Games in Paris.

"I need to test myself over the marathon distance... I'm really excited to be making my marathon debut. It will be a step into the unknown in many ways for me but I'm looking forward to it," she added.

Race director Hugh Brasher is delighted with the strength of the field.

"This is quite simply the greatest women's field ever assembled for a marathon – arguably the greatest field ever assembled for a women's distance race," he said.

"We have two reigning Olympic champions, three world record holders and multiple national record holders, in addition to an incredibly strong British contingent led by Eilish McColgan."

Four of the five fastest marathon men in history go head-to-head in mouth-watering race in London on April 23.

The TCS London Marathon has pulled out all the stops to put together one of the greatest men’s line-ups of all time. When it comes to the best marathon runners on the planet, only Eliud Kipchoge, is missing.

Kipchoge is racing in Boston instead but he would have his work cut out if he had chosen to race in London as the field includes:

» Kenenisa Bekele – No.2 on the all-time rankings with 2:01:41, former world 5000m and 10,000m record-holder and multiple winner of Olympic and world titles on the track and country.

» Kelvin Kiptum – the fastest debutant in history with a best of 2:01:53 from Valencia in December.

» Amos Kipruto – defending London Marathon winner from last October.

» Tamirat Tola – reigning world champion from Eugene last summer.

» Mo Farah – British record-holder and 10-time global track champion.

In addition to this the field boasts Ethiopians Birhanu Legese and Mosinet Geremew, who have both run 2:02 marathons, plus last year’s London runner-up Leul Gebresilase, the 2020 and 2021 runner-up Vincent Kipchumba and two-time New York City Marathon winner Geoffrey Kamworor.

Kipruto, the Kenyan who won last October, said: “I am now preparing hard for this year’s race and I can’t wait to return to London as the champion.

“London always has a really strong field and this year is the same so I know I will face a battle to defend my title, but I’m confident and looking forward to it.”

Brett Robinson, the Australian who ran an Oceania record of 2:07:31 in Fukuoka late last year, will hope to improve on his eighth place from London last October. Sean Tobin, who earned headlines recently for his Antarctic marathon exploits, makes his road marathon debut in London.

Yuki Kawauchi, the Japanese runner who prevailed in terrible weather to win the 2018 Boston Marathon, is also in the line-up.

TCS London Marathon – elite men’s field

Amos Kipruto (KEN, PB 2:03:13)

Kenenisa Bekele (ETH, 2:01:41)

Kelvin Kiptum (KEN, 2:01:53)

Birhanu Legese (ETH, 2:02:48)

Mosinet Geremew (ETH, 2:02:55)

Tamirat Tola (ETH, 2:03:39)

Kinde Atanaw (ETH, 2:03:51)

Leul Gebresilase (ETH, 2:04:02)

Vincent Kipchumba (KEN, 2:04:28)

Seifu Tura (ETH, 2:04:29)

Sir Mo Farah (GBR, 2:05:11)

Geoffrey Kamworor (KEN, 2:05:23)

Yuki Kawauchi (JPN, 2:07:27)

Brett Robinson (AUS, 2:07:31)

Dewi Griffiths (GBR, 2:09:49)

Rory Linkletter (CAN, 2:10:24)

Chris Thompson (GBR, 2:10:52)

Tom Gröschel (GER, 2:11:03)

Ben Connor (GBR, 2:11:20)

Joshua Griffiths (GBR, 2:11:28)

Frank Lara (USA, 2:11:32)

Luke Caldwell (GBR, 2:11:33)

Weynay Ghebresilasie (GBR, 2:11:57)

Phil Sesemann (GBR, 2:12:10)

Charlie Hulson (GBR, 2:13:34)

Andrew Heyes (GBR, 2:13:52)

Adam Craig (GBR, 2:13:58)

Alex Monroe (USA, 2:14:15)

Ross Braden (GBR, 2:14:32)

Nick Earl (GBR, 2:14:38)

Nigel Martin (GBR, 2:15:19)

Ronnie Richmond (GBR, 2:16:59)

Nicholas Bowker (GBR, 2:17:35)

Alex Milne (GBR, 2:17:40)

Josh Lunn (GBR, 2:17:59)

Fraser Stewart (GBR, 2:18:40)

Matthew Dickinson (GBR, 2:19:23)

Emile Cairess (GBR, Debut)

Sean Tobin (IRL, Debut)

Ryan Forsyth (IRL, Debut)

The men’s and women’s wheelchair fields will be announced on Wednesday afternoon (Feb 1) while the elite women’s field will be announced on Thursday (Feb 2).

Eilish McColgan believes her athletics future lies in marathon operating as she prepares to make her debut within the occasion at London.

McColgan loved a ground-breaking 2022 on the monitor, profitable her first main title within the 10,000 metres on the Commonwealth Games in August.

The 31-year-old Scot additionally completed second within the 5,000m in Birmingham earlier than including 10,000m silver and 5,000m bronze medals on the European Championships a couple of weeks later.

But McColgan is now very a lot targeted on the marathon and says she may even compete within the occasion on the 2023 World Championships in Budapest “if it goes seriously well” in London.

“I’d like to think it (my future) is the marathon,” stated McColgan as she confirmed her entry for the London race on April 23.

“My mindset is certainly that London is step one to doing extra highway racing and extra marathons.

“I don’t suppose I’ll go completely away from the monitor and I nonetheless need to be aggressive over 10,000 metres.

"My mindset is certainly that London is step one to doing extra highway racing and extra marathons," says Eilish McColgan.

“But the priority is definitely the marathon, although that might change if I’m no use at it.

“That’s the sort of way my mum planned it. One day we’d move up, it’s just happened maybe a couple of years later than we’d originally scheduled.”

McColgan’s mom Liz gained the girl’s elite race on the London Marathon in 1996 and it’s a race that she has a powerful affinity with.

She says when her mom was racing down The Mall she was typically “eating all the buffet food at the hospitality tents” and “watching on a tiny TV screen”.

“I just remember a buzz around the whole city and a busy place to be in,” stated McColgan.

“I’ve seen those images of my mum finishing the final 200 metres in front of Buckingham Palace. It’s an image I’ve created in my head from the pictures.

“My mum didn’t speak too much about running, but that was something she spoke about.

“It’s such an iconic race, even people who haven’t got an interest in running know about the London Marathon. It’s definitely a bucket-list race for me.”

McColgan had deliberate to run the 2022 London Marathon final October earlier than being pressured to withdraw as a consequence of a medical difficulty.

The downside was recognized as rebound hypoglycemia, a typical incidence amongst endurance athletes which results in lowered blood sugar ranges and never sufficient glucose within the blood to satisfy the physique’s wants.

But thorough testing seems to have resolved the fuelling difficulty, with McColgan saying she has already felt the advantages of a brand new carbohydrate drink.

“They said there were a few things different to what they’ve seen in other athletes,” stated McColgan, who underwent a 90-minute treadmill take a look at at Leeds Beckett University final week.

“But they think this carbohydrate drink will be the best solution going towards London, and I didn’t have the same crashes I was experiencing previously.

“I felt a lot more confident about it. When I was running I didn’t have that same low and heaviness and tiredness.

“I had a mask on and there were wires everywhere. It was really uncomfortable, so it better be worth it for the amount of discomfort you’re in for that long.”

McColgan will construct in the direction of the 2023 season at excessive altitude in Colorado Springs over the following few weeks and plans to run a half-marathon in March earlier than London.

On making a potential championship marathon debut as early as this August, she stated: “It’s really difficult to know without the hindsight of doing a marathon or recovering from one.

“I’m very wary with this being my first one, so I don’t want to definitely set my sights on the Budapest marathon.

“Realistically, it’s probably too soon. I’d be asking a lot of myself to do London and back it up with another one in close succession.

“But I’ve seen people do it before, and maybe I’ll be swayed if it goes seriously well.

“Deep down, I believe the right decision would be to do London, see how it goes, and then potentially do the 10k in Budapest before building towards another marathon.”

Britain’s most successful track athlete has confirmed he’ll be on the entry list for this year’s men’s elite race around the capital.

Sir Mo Farah, who missed last year’s event due to a hamstring injury, says he is now recovered and looking forward to racing in his hometown again.

Farah has signalled that 2023 will be the final year of his athletics career after confirming he will give the TSC London Marathon "one more shot" in April.

“It’s been an amazing career and taking part in the London Marathon is a very big deal,” he said. “I was gutted not to race last year, and I just want to give it one more shot.“It depends on my body.

I just want to get to the start line and see what I can manage. I’m just taking one race at a time.“I’m not a spring chicken anymore. You can’t keep coming back in the right shape and, for me, I’d love to be able to finish it at home.“We are getting closer to the end of my career, for sure.”

Farah has ruled out a fourth Olympics next year but hinted that with the World Athletic Championships in August, he could still be tempted to put on the GB vest one last time.“I’m not going to go to the Olympics, and I think 2023 will be my last year,” he added.

“But if it came down to it towards the end of the year and you did get picked for your country, I’d never turn that down.“But like I say, I’m just taking it one race at a time and getting ready for the London Marathon, which is a big one.”

In 2018 Farah finished third at the London Marathon, setting a new British record, which he later went on to beat again when he won the Chicago Marathon that same year in a time of 2:05:01.

This April will be his first-time racing over the marathon distance since 2019 where he came 5th in the London Marathon.Last year he raced just twice, winning The Big Half and coming second in a shock defeat to club runner Ellis Cross in the Vitality 10km.

“It’s been a little different,” he said.“Throughout my career I’ve always approached every race knowing you’ve got to do the right training. “So, it’s been a little while. But I’ll be preparing well, I’ll head out to Ethiopia and put in a lot of solid training and see what I can do when it comes to April.”