Running News Daily

The women's marathon world record could come under serious pressure at the 2026 Valencia Marathon on December 6, with Ethiopia's Fotyen Tesfay, Kenya's Joyciline Jepkosgei and newly announced marathon debutant Agnes Jebet Ngetich among the major attractions in what promises to be a fascinating contest.

With three outstanding distance-running talents expected on the start line, attention will inevitably turn to Ruth Chepngetich's extraordinary world record of 2:09:56, set at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. The Kenyan made history by becoming the first woman to break the 2:10 barrier, but her remarkable achievement could face a formidable challenge on Valencia's famously fast streets.

Tesfay stands out as one of the strongest potential challengers. The Ethiopian produced a sensational marathon debut in Barcelona in March 2026, clocking 2:10:51 to record the second-fastest women's marathon performance in history. She finished just 55 seconds outside Chepngetich's world record, immediately establishing herself as a serious contender for the sport's greatest distance-running honour.

What makes her performance even more impressive is that it came in her first appearance over the marathon distance. With valuable experience now behind her, Tesfay could approach Valencia with greater confidence, improved tactical understanding and an even stronger belief in her ability to challenge the world record.

However, the arrival of Agnes Jebet Ngetich adds another exciting dimension to the women's race. The Kenyan distance-running sensation is set to make her highly anticipated marathon debut in Valencia, marking a significant new chapter in an already remarkable career.

Ngetich will arrive in Spain with an extraordinary collection of achievements, having established herself as the world 10km record-holder, world half-marathon champion and individual world cross-country champion. Her credentials across different distances underline the exceptional versatility and endurance that make her marathon transition particularly intriguing.

The Kenyan holds the women's 10km world record of 28:46 and has a half-marathon personal best of 1:03:04, a national record. Her impressive track credentials include 8:08.95 for 3,000m, 14:01.29 for 5,000m and 30:27.38 for 10,000m, while her road 5km best stands at 14:13.

These performances demonstrate the remarkable speed and strength Ngetich brings to the marathon distance. However, the 42.195km challenge presents a completely different examination of endurance, race management and tactical discipline. Valencia will provide the first opportunity to see how her exceptional shorter-distance ability translates over the full marathon.

Although she will be making her debut, Ngetich cannot be overlooked in a field featuring some of the world's finest distance runners. Kenyan fans will be particularly eager to see whether she can make an immediate impact and possibly challenge for victory on her first attempt.

Kenya will also have another major contender in Joyciline Jepkosgei, who is expected to return to defend her Valencia Marathon title after winning the 2025 edition in 2:14:00. The former world half-marathon record-holder possesses the experience and endurance to provide a formidable challenge, while her familiarity with the course could prove particularly valuable.

A competitive front-running group involving Tesfay, Jepkosgei and potentially Ngetich could produce an exceptionally fast race. Having several athletes capable of pushing the pace would create favourable conditions for a serious assault on the world record, provided the race unfolds as anticipated.

Another major advantage is the Valencia course itself. Widely regarded as one of the fastest marathon circuits in the world, its relatively flat profile, efficient organisation and reputation for favourable racing conditions make it an attractive destination for athletes targeting exceptional times. Tesfay is also familiar with the Spanish city, having previously demonstrated her remarkable speed there with a 1:03:21 half-marathon performance.

Beyond the prestige of rewriting marathon history, the financial incentive is another major talking point. Valencia has placed a €1 million reward on offer for an athlete who breaks the marathon world record on its course. For the women's race, that means running faster than Chepngetich's existing 2:09:56.

Such an extraordinary reward adds another dimension to an already exciting contest. With the possibility of making history and securing a life-changing prize, the incentive could encourage an exceptionally ambitious approach from athletes, coaches and their respective teams.

Nevertheless, breaking the world record remains an enormous challenge. Marathon performances depend on numerous factors, including weather, pacing, competition and how athletes respond physically over the final kilometres. While Tesfay has already demonstrated her ability to run exceptionally close to the record, Ngetich faces the additional challenge of discovering how her remarkable talent translates to the marathon distance.

With an established champion returning, an Ethiopian record challenger in outstanding form and a Kenyan distance-running sensation preparing for her first marathon, Valencia is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated women's marathon contests of 2026.

Chepngetich's 2:09:56 has stood since October 2024, but the question now is whether Valencia will witness another historic breakthrough.

Will Fotyen Tesfay finally bring down the world record? Can Agnes Ngetich announce herself with a spectacular marathon debut? Or will Joyciline Jepkosgei successfully defend her crown?

December 6 promises to deliver a fascinating battle on the streets of Valencia.

Australian middle-distance sensation Cam Myers is already looking beyond his impressive achievements in 2026, with the ambitious goal of reaching the very top of the sport at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games before pursuing an even bigger dream on home soil at Brisbane 2032.

The 2026 season has been a remarkable breakthrough for the talented Australian, who has established himself among the leading names in international middle-distance running. Myers enjoyed a campaign filled with major victories, record-breaking performances and significant championship success, demonstrating that his potential extends far beyond being one of Australia's most exciting young athletes.

Among his outstanding achievements this year was winning the Diamond League 1500m title, confirming his ability to deliver against the world's best when the pressure is at its highest. He also claimed silver in the Commonwealth Games mile, finishing behind Britain's Josh Kerr, while securing national titles in both the 1500m and 5000m at the Australian Athletics Championships.

His success extended to two major international performances that further underlined his growing reputation. Myers captured victory in the prestigious Bowerman Mile at the Prefontaine Classic in a remarkable Oceanian record of 3:46.06 before producing another outstanding performance in Paris, where he won the 1500m in 3:28.00, setting another Oceanian record.

However, despite the impressive collection of achievements, Myers is not allowing his recent success to distract him from the bigger picture. Speaking in the November issue of Athletics Weekly, the Australian outlined his long-term ambitions, revealing that while Los Angeles 2028 remains a major target, the opportunity to compete at a home Olympic Games in Brisbane four years later carries even greater significance.

For the Los Angeles Olympics, Myers is targeting a place on the podium, with an Olympic gold medal representing the ultimate prize. But his ambitions stretch much further than simply winning a medal.

With six years separating the present moment from Brisbane 2032, the Australian believes he has sufficient time to develop into an even stronger and more complete athlete, eventually reaching a level where he can dominate the 1500m and become virtually unbeatable.

"My goal in LA is to win a medal, and preferably a gold medal, but I've got six years between now and Brisbane. Hopefully by then I can be unbeatable," Myers explained.

Interestingly, Myers is also choosing a different approach to the growing competitiveness and rivalry within elite middle-distance running. Rather than engaging in verbal exchanges or attempting to attract attention through trash talk, he prefers to let his performances speak for themselves.

His philosophy is centred on consistent improvement, delivering results on the track and allowing his achievements to define his standing among the world's best.

With a Diamond League crown, Commonwealth silver, two Australian national titles and two Oceanian records already secured in 2026, Myers has laid down a significant marker for what could become an extraordinary career.

The immediate challenge will be maintaining that momentum and translating his current form into Olympic success in Los Angeles. Beyond that lies an opportunity to achieve something truly special: standing on the Olympic podium in front of his home crowd in Brisbane in 2032.

For now, the Australian is building towards that future, but his ultimate ambition is unmistakable. He does not simply want to compete with the world's best; he wants to reach a point where nobody can beat him.

British marathoner Josh Griffiths has served a three-month suspension imposed by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after both his A and B samples tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, following his participation in the 2026 Belfast City Marathon.

The 33-year-old, who has represented Great Britain at two World Athletics Championships, came under investigation after finishing fourth in Belfast on May 3, clocking 2:18:01. The positive finding was subsequently confirmed in both samples collected following the race.

The AIU announced the disciplinary decision on Wednesday, November 11, confirming that Griffiths had received a three-month ban for the anti-doping rule violation. His suspension ran from June 19 to September 18, 2026, meaning he had already completed the sanction before the case became public.

Griffiths, whose marathon personal best stands at an impressive 2:11:28, strongly denied knowingly taking cocaine and maintained that he had no explanation for how the substance entered his system.

In his response to the anti-doping authorities, the Welsh athlete stated that he had "never knowingly ingested Cocaine and was not aware of Cocaine having been used by anyone close to him."

During the proceedings, scientific evidence was presented to support the argument that the concentration detected was inconsistent with cocaine consumption during the competition period. Coca tea and other possible sources of low-level exposure were also raised, although the precise source of the substance could not be established.

Importantly, the AIU accepted Griffiths' explanation that any ingestion must have occurred outside competition and been unrelated to sporting performance.

This distinction was central to the final decision. Under anti-doping regulations, cocaine is classified as a substance of abuse and is prohibited in competition. Where an athlete establishes that its use occurred outside competition and was unrelated to sporting performance, the applicable sanction can be reduced to three months.

Griffiths admitted the anti-doping rule violation and accepted the three-month suspension.

The consequences extended beyond the period of ineligibility. All his competitive results from May 3, 2026, onwards during the applicable disqualification period were annulled, including his fourth-place finish at the Belfast City Marathon. Any associated prize money was also forfeited.

Griffiths first attracted widespread attention at the 2017 London Marathon, where he produced an outstanding performance as a club athlete, finishing in 2:14:49 to become the fastest British man in the race.

His breakthrough performance earned him selection for Great Britain at the 2017 World Athletics Championships in London. He subsequently represented his country again at the 2022 World Championships in Oregon.

He also represented Wales at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and recorded an eighth-place finish at the 2021 London Marathon, further establishing his reputation as one of Britain's notable marathon runners.

The latest ruling represents a difficult chapter in the career of an athlete who rose from club-level competition to represent his country on the biggest international athletics stages.

Kenyan athletes Antonina Kwambai and Barnaba Kipkoech are set to headline the elite fields at the 2026 Kobe Marathon, which will take place on Sunday, November 15, in Kobe, Japan, as international and Japanese distance runners prepare to battle for top honours.

Kenya will have a strong presence in both the men's and women's races, with several experienced marathoners among the leading entries. The competition promises an exciting contest, particularly in the men's race, where two Kenyans share the fastest entry time.

Leading the women's field is Antonina Kwambai, who arrives with an impressive personal best of 2:23:47. The Kenyan will be among the leading contenders for victory and will face a competitive international field featuring athletes from Japan and Australia.

Japan's Kaede Hagitani, with a personal best of 2:31:05, is among the leading home contenders, while Australia's Tara Palm (2:31:58) and Japan's Ayaka Shimoyamada (2:32:09) are also expected to add depth to the contest.

Kwambai will not have an easy assignment, however, with Japan's strong representation providing a significant challenge. Other notable women's entries include Kotomi Tsubokura (2:32:34), Kokone Sakai (2:35:22), Australia's Alexandra Lyndon (2:36:22), Haruna Takano (2:38:33), Mizuki Oda (2:38:36) and Kenya's Catherine Njunge (2:40:21). Ayaka Furukawa (2:42:35) completes the leading group.

TOP WOMEN'S ELITE ENTRIES

1. Antonina Kwambai (Kenya) – 2:23:47

2. Kaede Hagitani (Japan) – 2:31:05

3. Tara Palm (Australia) – 2:31:58

4. Ayaka Shimoyamada (Japan) – 2:32:09

5. Kotomi Tsubokura (Japan) – 2:32:34

6. Kokone Sakai (Japan) – 2:35:22

7. Alexandra Lyndon (Australia) – 2:36:22

8. Haruna Takano (Japan) – 2:38:33

9. Mizuki Oda (Japan) – 2:38:36

10. Catherine Njunge (Kenya) – 2:40:21

11. Ayaka Furukawa (Japan) – 2:42:35

In the men's race, Kenya's Barnaba Kipkoech and Elisha Rotich headline the field with identical personal bests of 2:06:54, making them two of the strongest contenders heading into the competition.

Rotich brings valuable experience to the race, having won the 2025 Kobe Marathon. He will be aiming to defend his title against a competitive international field, while Kipkoech will be equally determined to deliver a memorable performance and challenge for the top honours.

Eritrea's Goitom Kifle, with a personal best of 2:07:38, is another major contender capable of challenging the Kenyan athletes. Japan's Keijiro Mogi (2:09:06), Yuma Morii (2:09:59) and Hiroto Kanamori (2:10:01) will lead the home challenge.

MEN'S ELITE ENTRIES

1. Barnaba Kipkoech (Kenya) – 2:06:54

2. Elisha Rotich (Kenya) – 2:06:54

3. Goitom Kifle (Eritrea) – 2:07:38

4. Keijiro Mogi (Japan) – 2:09:06

5. Yuma Morii (Japan) – 2:09:59

6. Hiroto Kanamori (Japan) – 2:10:01

7. Ser-Od Bat-Ochir (Mongolia) – 2:10:10

8. Hiromasa Kumahashi (Japan) – 2:10:31

9. Daniel Nghidinwa Paulus (Namibia) – 2:10:51

10. Koki Sato (Japan) – 2:11:07

11. Yudai Fukuda (Japan) – 2:11:16

The men's field also features Mongolia's Ser-Od Bat-Ochir (2:10:10), Japan's Hiromasa Kumahashi (2:10:31), Namibia's Daniel Nghidinwa Paulus (2:10:51), Japan's Koki Sato (2:11:07) and Yudai Fukuda (2:11:16), adding further international depth to the competition

The 2026 edition will also carry significance for Japanese elite athletes, as Kobe Marathon forms part of the 2026–27 Marathon Grand Championship (MGC) Series. The men's competition has been upgraded to G2 status, while the women's race retains its G3 classification, providing an additional incentive for Japanese runners targeting future national team opportunities.

The marathon will cover the traditional 42.195km distance, starting outside Kobe City Hall before heading towards the Akashi area and returning to finish at Kobe Harborland. The course offers runners an opportunity to compete along the city's scenic coastal surroundings.

With Kenya boasting leading contenders in both categories, all eyes will be on Kwambai, Kipkoech and Rotich as they seek to deliver outstanding performances on Japanese soil.

The stage is set for an exciting Sunday of marathon racing, with international competition, Japanese ambition and Kenyan determination expected to make the 2026 Kobe Marathon one to watch.

The New York City Marathon delivered one of its most emotional stories of the 2026 edition when 78-year-old James Thomas, affectionately known as “Marty” among his running friends, crossed the finish line in Central Park at approximately 11:20 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, becoming the final runner to complete the historic race.

While the leading athletes had crossed the finish line many hours earlier, Thomas was still making his way through the streets of New York, determined to complete a journey that had become a remarkable part of his life for more than four decades.

For the veteran runner from Rockland County, this was no ordinary marathon. It was his 43rd appearance at the New York City Marathon and, more significantly, the final chapter of an extraordinary relationship with one of the world's most celebrated road races.

Thomas began his New York Marathon journey in 1980. Since then, he has returned year after year, building an incredible record of perseverance, commitment and loyalty to the iconic event. At 78, he once again took on the demanding 26.2-mile (42.195km) course, which winds through all five boroughs of New York City before reaching its famous finish in Central Park.

Starting at approximately 9:20 a.m., Thomas spent nearly 14 hours completing the course. By the time he approached the finish line, darkness had fallen over Central Park, and much of the day's marathon excitement had passed. However, his arrival created a memorable moment as spectators and supporters remained at the finish to welcome him home with applause and encouragement.

His achievement carried additional significance because the 2026 edition marked the 50th anniversary of the New York City Marathon's five-borough course, making his final appearance even more special.

Following his emotional finish, Thomas revealed that he had decided to bring his New York City Marathon journey to an end. Although his desire to continue running remains strong, he acknowledged that the physical demands of marathon running eventually require difficult decisions.

Reflecting on the challenge, he explained that the mind may still be willing to push forward, but it is ultimately the body that must carry a runner through the distance. His message captured the reality of endurance sport, where determination and physical capability must work together.

Completing 43 editions of the same marathon over more than four decades is an extraordinary accomplishment. It represents thousands of training miles, countless hours of preparation and an enduring passion for running that has survived the changing seasons of life.

Thomas may have been the last person to cross the finish line in 2026, but his story had nothing to do with finishing positions or race times. Instead, it highlighted the deeper meaning of marathon running: resilience, dedication, courage and the determination to keep moving forward regardless of how long the journey takes.

His final appearance also served as a powerful reminder that the marathon belongs to everyone, not just the elite athletes who battle for victories and records. Every participant has a personal story, and every finish line represents an achievement worth celebrating.

At 78, James “Marty” Thomas has brought an extraordinary chapter of his running life to a close. After 43 New York City Marathon finishes since 1980, he chose to say goodbye on his own terms, surrounded by supporters who stayed late into the night to witness his final steps.

He was the last runner across the line, but his remarkable journey ensured that he would not be the last one remembered from the 2026 New York City Marathon.

A truly unforgettable farewell to a marathon legend! 

The international athletics community has received encouraging news from Brazil following the discharge of marathon star Daniel Ferreira do Nascimento, the Brazilian and South American marathon record holder, after 85 days of medical treatment and recovery.

The 28-year-old distance runner was discharged on November 10, 2026, marking an important milestone in a difficult personal journey that has attracted considerable attention and concern from the global running community.

Daniel, popularly known as Danielzinho, made headlines earlier this year after disappearing from his family home in Paraguaçu Paulista, São Paulo, on June 19. His disappearance triggered an extensive search and widespread appeals for information, leaving his family, friends and supporters deeply worried.

After 43 days of uncertainty, he was eventually located in São Paulo on August 1. His safe return brought enormous relief, and he subsequently received specialised medical attention before beginning an extended period of treatment and rehabilitation.

News of his discharge was shared by fellow Brazilian athlete Paulo Paula, who has been supporting Daniel and his family throughout this challenging period.

According to the update, Daniel will remain in São Paulo for another four days before discussions are held with his family and support team regarding arrangements for his continued care and recovery.

Daniel is widely recognised for his remarkable achievements on the international road-running circuit, particularly his fearless racing approach and ability to compete against some of the world's finest marathoners.

He made history on April 17, 2022, at the Seoul Marathon in South Korea, where he clocked an outstanding 2:04:51 to establish Brazilian and South American marathon records. The performance confirmed his place among the leading marathon runners in the world and remains the fastest marathon time recorded by a Brazilian athlete.

He also represented Brazil at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021 and the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, further strengthening his reputation as one of South America's most accomplished distance-running talents.

For an athlete whose career has been defined by extraordinary determination and ambition, the latest development represents a significant moment beyond the sporting arena. His journey over recent months has been particularly challenging, making this news a welcome source of relief for everyone who has followed his situation.

At this stage, the priority remains his health, personal well-being and continued recovery rather than any immediate return to competitive athletics. His discharge is an encouraging step, although further support and care will remain important as he begins the next chapter of his journey.

The Brazilian athletics community and the wider international running family will now be hoping for continued positive developments as Daniel moves forward from this difficult period.

British distance-running legend Paula Radcliffe has officially added another prestigious milestone to her extraordinary career after receiving the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) honour at Windsor Castle, recognising her outstanding services to sport.

The 52-year-old former marathon world record-holder was presented with the honour by the Prince of Wales, Prince William, during a royal investiture ceremony on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. Her appointment had first been announced in the King's New Year Honours List in January.

Paula Radcliffe is now officially Paula Radcliffe OBE, marking another significant recognition for an athlete whose achievements have helped shape the history of women's distance running.

The honour represents a step up from the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) she received in 2002, a remarkable year in which she won the London Marathon, the Chicago Marathon and the European 10,000m title.

Just one year later, Radcliffe produced the performance that would define her place in marathon history.

At the 2003 London Marathon, she stormed to an astonishing 2:15:25, establishing a women's world record and becoming the first woman to break the 2:16 barrier. The record stood for 16 years before Kenya's Brigid Kosgei shattered it with 2:14:04 at the 2019 Chicago Marathon. Radcliffe's legendary performance remains the British national record.

Her dominance over the marathon distance was not limited to record-breaking performances. She accumulated seven World Marathon Majors victories during her career, winning the London Marathon three times, the New York City Marathon three times and the Chicago Marathon once.

Another defining achievement came at the 2005 World Athletics Championships in Helsinki, Finland, where she captured the women's marathon gold medal in 2:20:57, adding a world championship title to her already impressive collection.

Radcliffe also established herself as one of Britain's greatest track and cross-country athletes, collecting major international honours across the 5,000m, 10,000m and cross country.

Although she retired from elite competitive athletics in 2015, her connection with marathon running never disappeared.

In 2025, a decade after stepping away from professional competition, Radcliffe returned to the marathon distance with a remarkable personal challenge: completing all six Abbott World Marathon Majors to earn her coveted Six Star Medal.

She began the final chapter of that journey at the Tokyo Marathon, finishing in 2:57:26, before travelling to the United States seven weeks later for the Boston Marathon. There, she crossed the finish line in 2:53:44, completing all six major marathons and adding another extraordinary achievement to her running story.

Her return demonstrated that her passion for the sport extended far beyond the records and championships she had accumulated during her professional career.

During Tuesday's ceremony, Radcliffe also spoke about the significant progress made in women's and girls' participation in sport. She highlighted the importance of women-only races, safer running environments and more inclusive opportunities that encourage women to take up athletics.

She also praised Princess Charlotte as a positive role model for young girls, highlighting how seeing prominent members of the Royal Family participating in physical activities can inspire the next generation to become more active.

Radcliffe discussed these issues with Prince William, who also recalled watching her compete during his younger years. Their conversation reflected the lasting influence of her performances and the wider importance of encouraging people to embrace sport and healthy lifestyles.

Today, Radcliffe remains one of the most recognisable voices in international athletics. Rather than chasing victories on the roads, she now regularly brings major athletics competitions and marathon races to millions of viewers through her broadcasting and commentary work with the BBC.

It is a fitting continuation of a remarkable relationship with the sport, as she now analyses and commentates on the same prestigious races she once dominated as an elite competitor.

From her historic 2:15:25 world record to seven World Marathon Majors victories, a world championship title and her remarkable Six Star Marathon achievement, Radcliffe's contribution to distance running stretches across generations.

Her latest royal recognition is a reminder that sporting greatness is not measured only by medals, finishing times and world records, but also by the influence an athlete leaves behind.

At Windsor Castle, a new honour was added to an already extraordinary legacy, officially recognising Paula Radcliffe's lasting contribution to British sport and global athletics.

The race for places at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games has officially taken another significant step forward, with World Athletics publishing the qualification system for the athletics programme, outlining the standards, qualification windows and selection procedures that will determine which athletes earn the opportunity to compete on the biggest sporting stage.

However, it is the marathon qualification pathway that is already attracting considerable attention, with the governing body setting demanding entry standards of 2:05:00 for men and 2:22:20 for women as the world's leading distance runners begin preparing for the journey to Los Angeles.

The marathon qualification period will run from 1 November 2026 through to 30 April 2028, giving athletes an extended opportunity to secure their Olympic places through outstanding performances at recognised competitions and the World Athletics rankings.

Unlike previous qualification systems that relied on a more balanced distribution between entry standards and rankings, LA28 will adopt a dual-pathway approach in which approximately 40 per cent of athletes are expected to qualify through the automatic entry standards, while the remaining 60 per cent will earn their places through world rankings.

Importantly, achieving the qualifying standard will not automatically guarantee an Olympic place if the number of athletes meeting the mark exceeds the available quota. In such circumstances, priority will be given to the athletes with the strongest performances during the qualification period, within the established allocation limits.

For the men's and women's marathon, the qualification process will also introduce a significant ranking-based mechanism designed to provide greater clarity well before the final selection deadline.

According to the published regulations, any athlete ranked within the top 56 on the filtered 'Road to LA' marathon qualification list as of 19 March 2028 will be considered qualified, with the rankings calculated using a maximum of three athletes per National Olympic Committee.

The remaining 15 places will subsequently be allocated through the established dual qualification system, without displacing athletes who have already secured their positions by the March deadline.

Another important feature of the marathon qualification pathway concerns performances at Platinum Label marathons. The first five finishers at these designated races throughout the entire qualification period will automatically be considered to have achieved the Olympic entry standard and will receive priority placement on World Athletics' official 'Road to LA' qualification list.

National Olympic Committees will also retain limited flexibility when finalising their Olympic teams. They may reallocate a marathon quota place to an athlete who has not otherwise qualified, provided the selected runner has recorded at least 2:11:00 for men or 2:29:00 for women during the qualification window.

The new standards reflect the increasingly competitive nature of international marathon running, with World Athletics explaining that its calculations were informed by performances from the previous four major global championships: the 2022 and 2023 World Athletics Championships, the 2025 World Championships and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The governing body also considered the continuing improvement in marathon performance levels, particularly the trend towards faster winning and qualifying times during Olympic years, when performances have historically been approximately 30 to 60 seconds quicker than ordinary projections.

With the marathon qualification window opening in November 2026, elite runners now have a clearly defined target as they begin planning their campaigns towards Los Angeles. The coming months and seasons will be crucial for athletes seeking to establish themselves among the world's leading marathoners and secure a place in the Olympic conversation.

The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic athletics programme will feature 23 events for men and 23 for women, alongside two mixed relay events. The Games are scheduled to take place from 15 to 30 July 2028, with athletics once again expected to provide some of the most compelling moments of the Olympic competition.

World Athletics is expected to launch its official 'Road to LA' qualification monitoring platform during the latter part of 2027, allowing athletes, national federations and athletics fans to follow the developing Olympic qualification race.

With the qualifying standards now officially published, the countdown to the Los Angeles Olympic marathon has entered a new phase, setting the stage for an intense international battle as the world's finest distance runners chase their Olympic dreams.

Latvian distance-running sensation Agate Caune has announced her retirement from professional athletics at just 22 years old, bringing an unexpected end to a promising career that saw her rise from a highly decorated junior athlete to an Olympian and one of Europe's most exciting young distance-running talents.

Caune made the announcement on Monday, November 9, opening up about the difficult experiences behind her decision to walk away from competitive athletics at an age when many distance runners are only beginning to reach their full potential.

In reflecting on her journey, the young Latvian revealed that her career was not always as straightforward as it appeared from the outside. She spoke candidly about periods when she questioned whether her body could continue coping with the physical demands of professional running and whether she would ever achieve the performances she had worked so hard to reach.

She also disclosed that certain hurtful words and experiences affected her more deeply than those around her may have realised, offering a glimpse into the personal challenges she faced away from the competition arena.

Despite the difficult moments, Caune looked back on her athletics journey with gratitude, emphasising that the experiences and achievements she collected along the way had given her more than she could have imagined.

"Some may say my athletic career was short, but I would say it was long enough to experience and achieve a lot," she reflected.

She also expressed appreciation to the people who supported her throughout her career, extending her gratitude to her coaches, physiotherapists, doctors, family members, supporters and everyone who played a part in her development and stood beside her during both the successful and challenging periods.

Although she is stepping away from professional competition, Caune has made it clear that running itself is not leaving her life. She intends to continue running for fitness, personal enjoyment and occasionally alongside friends, while turning her attention towards new ambitions, opportunities and challenges beyond professional sport.

Her departure marks the conclusion of a career that delivered several outstanding achievements, particularly during her remarkable junior years. Caune first attracted international attention at the 2022 World Athletics U20 Championships in Cali, Colombia, where she secured silver in the women's 5000m, establishing herself among the most promising young distance runners in Europe.

She continued her impressive progression in 2023, producing a memorable double victory at the European Athletics U20 Championships in Jerusalem, Israel, where she captured gold medals in both the 3000m and 5000m. The performances confirmed her status as one of the continent's leading emerging talents.

That same year, she added another significant achievement by winning the women's 5000m title at the European Games in Poland, further strengthening her growing reputation on the international stage. She also established several Latvian age-group records during her development, underlining the scale of her potential.

One of the defining moments of her career came at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, where she demonstrated remarkable courage against some of the biggest names in women's distance running.

Competing in the 5000m heats, Caune took an aggressive approach, surging into a commanding lead ahead of established stars including Ethiopia's Gudaf Tsegay and Kenya's Beatrice Chebet. Although the experienced contenders eventually caught and passed her in the closing stages, her fearless performance earned her a place in the final and attracted widespread attention.

In 2024, she reached another major milestone when she represented Latvia in the women's 5000m at the Paris Olympic Games, taking her place among the world's finest distance runners on the biggest sporting stage.

Her competitive journey also extended beyond the track, with Caune exploring road racing as part of her development. During the 2026 season, she competed in the women's half marathon at the World Athletics Road Running Championships, finishing 72nd in 1:14:27.

For an athlete who had achieved so much in such a relatively short period, the decision to leave professional athletics at 22 represents a particularly unexpected turning point. Her journey, however, is a reminder that the life of an elite athlete involves challenges that are not always visible through medals, records and championship appearances.

From junior championship podiums and European titles to the World Championships and Olympic Games, Caune leaves professional competition having represented Latvia on some of the sport's biggest stages.

While her professional racing career has come to an end, her connection with running remains. The Latvian now looks forward to a different chapter, one in which she can enjoy the sport without the pressures and demands of elite competition, while pursuing new goals beyond the athletics track.

Ethiopia’s Netsanet Selemon delivered a commanding performance to capture the women’s 800m title at the 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, while the Philippines celebrated a historic breakthrough as Naomi Marjorie Cesar secured the silver medal.

Selemon produced an impressive performance in Monday’s final on November 9, crossing the finish line in 2:04.43 to take the gold medal and establish a new personal best. The Ethiopian showcased her strength and composure over the two laps, securing another major achievement for Ethiopia’s celebrated middle-distance running tradition.

The biggest talking point of the race, however, was Cesar’s outstanding second-place finish. Representing the Philippines, she clocked 2:09.34 to claim the silver medal, delivering a landmark result for her country on the international athletics stage. Her podium appearance marked a significant milestone for Philippine athletics and placed her among the standout young performers of the competition.

In a particularly memorable achievement, Cesar became the first Philippine athletics athlete to win a medal in Youth Olympic Games history. Her silver also gave the Philippines its first medal at the 2026 edition of the Games in Dakar, making her performance an important moment for the country's sporting history and a source of inspiration for the next generation of Filipina athletes.

Cesar's achievement was even more remarkable considering the competitive nature of the final. The young Filipina demonstrated determination and confidence against an international field, securing her place on the podium and bringing considerable attention to the development of middle-distance running in the Philippines. Her breakthrough represents a significant step forward for Philippine athletics on the global stage.

Morocco’s Khadija Elmostaqim completed the podium, taking bronze in 2:10.05 after a strong performance, while Slovenia’s Masa Weber finished fourth in 2:10.58.

Togo’s Yvette Kpatcha placed fifth in 2:15.80, followed by Chile’s Valentina Cancino in sixth with 2:18.59. Spain’s Benítez Ashly finished seventh in 2:21.07, Botswana’s Mpho Maano was eighth in 2:26.58, and Mali’s Awa Diarra completed the top nine in 2:31.29.

The final brought together emerging middle-distance talents from different continents, highlighting the growing international depth of women’s 800m running and providing a glimpse of athletes who could make their mark at senior level in the years ahead.

For Ethiopia, Selemon’s victory added another gold-medal moment to the country’s rich athletics legacy. For the Philippines, Cesar’s silver-medal achievement provided one of the most significant stories of the competition, underlining the growing reach of athletics beyond its traditional powerhouses.

The women’s 800m final in Dakar will be remembered for Selemon’s gold-medal performance and Cesar’s historic breakthrough, as two young athletes from different continents made their mark on the Youth Olympic stage.

At an age when many people have long stepped away from competitive sport, 75-year-old Idomeneas Avramakis continues to demonstrate that determination, resilience and an extraordinary love for running can overcome challenges that would force many others to give up.

The Greek veteran became one of the most memorable figures at the 43rd Athens Authentic Marathon on Sunday, November 8, 2026, after completing the historic race barefoot while dressed as an ancient Greek hoplite warrior. Wearing a traditional-style bronze helmet, a red cloak and carrying a shield and sword, Avramakis brought the event to a remarkable conclusion, receiving a warm ovation as he entered the iconic Panathenaic Stadium.

Representing Heraklion, Crete, the retired employee of the Region of Crete took on the demanding 42.195-kilometre course in an outfit inspired by the ancient Greek soldiers associated with the Battle of Marathon. His arrival at approximately 6:15 p.m., more than nine hours after the race began, marked the closing chapter of an extraordinary day of marathon running.

However, behind the unusual appearance lies a deeply personal story of survival, recovery and an unwavering commitment to life.

Avramakis' journey into barefoot running and ancient Greek warrior attire began approximately 18 years ago, following a serious health crisis that left him fighting for his life. He spent about a month in intensive care and reportedly remained in a coma during that period. Following his recovery, he made a remarkable return to physical activity, abandoning running shoes and choosing to compete barefoot.

Since then, running without shoes has become an essential part of his identity, while the hoplite costume has symbolised what he considers a second opportunity at life. His participation in the Athens Authentic Marathon carries additional meaning because the event celebrates the legendary journey of Pheidippides, the ancient Greek messenger associated with the historic run from Marathon to Athens.

His determination was tested once again in 2022 when he suffered serious injuries in a road accident. The incident required surgery, during which doctors inserted a metal rod into his leg. Despite the lasting difficulties associated with the injury, Avramakis refused to abandon his passion for distance running.

Instead, he gradually returned to training and competition, demonstrating remarkable perseverance. In 2024, at the age of 73, he completed the Athens Authentic Marathon in 8 hours and 47 minutes, despite challenging weather conditions.

His latest appearance at 75 further underlined his extraordinary consistency. According to reports, he has completed more than 54 marathons throughout his running journey, although he has admitted that he has lost count of the exact number.

Avramakis also maintains an active lifestyle away from competition. His training reportedly includes barefoot running sessions lasting between two and a half and three and a half hours every other day, alongside swimming in the sea throughout the year and hiking in the mountains. He believes that the human body can gradually adapt to running without footwear, although his approach remains a personal choice rather than a recommendation for other runners.

The Athens course itself presents a considerable challenge, with a demanding uphill section extending through much of the middle kilometres before the route descends towards the city centre. Completing that distance barefoot, while carrying a shield and sword and wearing a warrior's costume, makes his achievement even more remarkable.

The historic significance of the occasion was also reflected in the atmosphere at the finish line. Sofia Sakorafa, president of the Hellenic Athletics Federation (SEGAS), was present to welcome Avramakis and personally award him his finisher's medal. After crossing the line, the 75-year-old knelt down, bringing an emotional end to his extraordinary marathon journey.

His philosophy is captured in a Greek expression he frequently repeats: "Run so that they don't run you." The saying reflects his belief in remaining active, embracing life and continuing to move forward while the opportunity exists.

He has also made it clear that unfavourable weather conditions are no reason to abandon his passion. In a previous interview with the Cretan newspaper Patris, he expressed his love for running even in heavy rain, revealing the mindset that has kept him committed to the sport for nearly two decades.

Barefoot marathon running has a remarkable history, most famously associated with Ethiopia's Abebe Bikila, who captured Olympic marathon gold at the 1960 Rome Games without shoes. Although Avramakis' story is different, his appearance in Athens once again highlights the many ways people connect with the sport and its history.

The 2026 Athens Authentic Marathon attracted a record 85,000 participants from 124 countries across its various race categories, making it a landmark edition of the historic event. Ethiopia's Manazot Siyum Taferi won the men's marathon in a course-record time of 2:10:03, but as the evening approached, the spotlight shifted to a 75-year-old barefoot runner whose determination had captured the imagination of spectators.

For Avramakis, however, the greatest victory was never about finishing ahead of another competitor. It was about returning to the starting line despite surviving a life-threatening illness, overcoming a serious accident and continuing to pursue his passion well into his seventies.

He may have been the final athlete to complete the 2026 Athens Authentic Marathon, but his arrival became one of the day's most unforgettable moments, proving that sometimes the most inspiring marathon stories are not written by those who reach the finish line first, but by those who refuse to stop moving.

World Athletics has officially confirmed four extraordinary world records from the 2026 athletics season, bringing formal recognition to remarkable performances by Josh Kerr, Yomif Kejelcha, Alison dos Santos and Masai Russell.

The announcement, made on November 9, 2026, marks another memorable chapter in athletics history, with the four athletes having rewritten the record books across middle-distance running, road racing and hurdling.

The performances were achieved at three major international competitions in London, Buenos Aires and Zurich, demonstrating the extraordinary level of competition and continuous evolution of the sport.

Great Britain's Josh Kerr was the first to make history, delivering a sensational performance in the men's mile at the Novuna London Athletics Meet on July 18. The reigning world-class distance star clocked an incredible 3:42.66, taking 0.47 seconds off the previous world record of 3:43.13 set by Morocco's Hicham El Guerrouj in Rome on July 7, 1999.

Kerr's performance ended a 27-year wait for a new men's mile world record. Competing in front of approximately 60,000 spectators at the London Stadium, he became the first athlete to officially break El Guerrouj's legendary mark, delivering one of the most memorable middle-distance performances of the season.

Ethiopia's Yomif Kejelcha was the next athlete to secure his place in the history books, producing a breathtaking performance at the Buenos Aires Half Marathon in Argentina on August 23.

Kejelcha stormed to victory in 56:51, taking an astonishing 29 seconds off the previous world record of 57:20 set by Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo in Lisbon on March 8, 2026.

The performance also saw Kejelcha reclaim a record he had previously held after running 57:30 in Valencia in October 2024. His latest achievement further underlined his exceptional versatility and strength over long distances, adding another major milestone to an already impressive international career.

Zurich, Switzerland, provided another unforgettable evening on August 27, when two world records fell within less than 40 minutes at the Weltklasse Diamond League meeting.

Brazilian superstar Alison dos Santos opened the historic sequence by clocking 45.80 in the men's 400m hurdles, taking 0.14 seconds off the previous world record of 45.94 held by Norway's Karsten Warholm.

Warholm had established the previous mark during the Tokyo Olympic Games on August 3, 2021, in one of the greatest performances in the history of the discipline. Dos Santos' remarkable run finally brought that record-breaking era to an end, confirming his position among the greatest 400m hurdlers of his generation.

Less than 40 minutes later, American hurdling sensation Masai Russell delivered another spectacular performance, setting a new women's 100m hurdles world record of 12.09.

Russell improved the previous world record of 12.12, established by Nigeria's Tobi Amusan at the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, on July 24. Her performance took three hundredths of a second off the existing mark and completed an extraordinary double world-record celebration in Zurich.

The significance of the Zurich meeting was particularly remarkable, as two different athletes rewrote the world record books in their respective hurdles disciplines on the same evening.

With World Athletics now having officially ratified all four performances, Kerr, Kejelcha, Dos Santos and Russell can celebrate their achievements as recognised world record holders.

From Kerr's historic mile in London to Kejelcha's extraordinary half marathon in Buenos Aires and the remarkable double world-record performance in Zurich, the 2026 season has delivered some truly exceptional moments.

These achievements also highlight the relentless pursuit of excellence in modern athletics, where established records continue to fall as athletes explore new limits of human performance.

Four world records, three host cities and four unforgettable performances that will remain part of athletics history for years to come.

The official ratification of these four world records marks another significant milestone in the 2026 athletics season, further raising the competitive standards across middle-distance running, road racing and hurdling. With the records now formally recognised by World Athletics, attention will turn to how long these historic marks can withstand the challenge of a new generation of world-class athletes. 

Which of these four world records impressed you the most, and who do you think will be the next athlete to make history? 

The 44th edition of the prestigious Cross Internacional de Itálica delivered a spectacular celebration of international cross-country running on Sunday, November 8, 2026, as Rodrigue Kwizera and Likina Amebaw emerged victorious in the men's and women's elite races in Santiponce, near Seville, Spain.

The World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold meeting attracted a formidable international field, with some of the world's finest distance runners battling across the challenging 9.55km course through the historic archaeological surroundings of Itálica.

Burundi-born distance star Rodrigue Kwizera produced another outstanding performance to claim his third men's title at Itálica, matching the remarkable achievement of Ethiopian distance-running legend Kenenisa Bekele.

Kwizera crossed the finish line in 27:37 after an intensely contested race that went down to the final metres. Kenya's Charles Kiboino Kiprono delivered a tremendous challenge, finishing just one second behind in 27:38, while his compatriot Frankline Kibet secured third place in 27:39 to complete an impressive Kenyan presence on the podium.

The victory added another significant chapter to Kwizera's relationship with the Spanish cross-country classic. Having previously won the competition in 2021 and 2025, his latest triumph makes him a three-time champion, equalling Bekele's record of three victories achieved between 2003 and 2007.

Kwizera's achievement was particularly significant given his connection with Spain, where he has established himself as one of the country's leading distance-running talents. His success further underlined his remarkable consistency at the highest level of international cross-country competition.

Kenya also enjoyed an excellent outing, with Kiboino and Kibet demonstrating the country's continuing strength in distance running. Denis Kipkoech Kemboi Kipkemoi finished fourth in 27:52, while Spain's Thierry Ndikumwenayo completed the top five in 27:59.

MEN'S TOP 10 RESULTS – 9.55KM

1. Rodrigue Kwizera – 27:37

2. Charles Kiboino Kiprono – 27:38

3. Frankline Kibet – 27:39

4. Denis Kipkoech Kemboi Kipkemoi – 27:52

5. Thierry Ndikumwenayo – 27:59

6. Miguel Ángel Martínez Chazarra – 28:00

7. Andrew Kiptoo Alamisi – 28:17

8. Dismas Yeko – 28:24

9. Berihu Aregawi – 28:24

10. Samuel Simba Cherop – 28:42

In the women's competition, Ethiopia's Likina Amebaw produced a magnificent performance to secure victory at the Cross Internacional de Itálica, delivering an impressive display of endurance, confidence and tactical intelligence.

Amebaw, who finished third at last year's edition, demonstrated impressive patience before delivering a decisive acceleration during the final lap.

The Ethiopian crossed the finish line in 30:41, establishing an eight-second advantage over Uganda's rising distance-running talent Charity Cherop, who secured second place in 30:49.

Kenya's Cynthia Chepkurui completed the international podium, finishing third in 30:57 after another determined performance against a highly competitive field.

The women's race had initially been controlled by Cherop, who dictated much of the early pace. However, Amebaw remained close to the Ugandan before launching her decisive move in the closing stages, gradually opening a gap that her challengers could not overcome.

The victory represented another important achievement for Amebaw, who continues to establish herself among the leading names in international distance running. Her ability to combine endurance, patience and a powerful finishing kick proved decisive on the historic Spanish course.

Ethiopia's Yenenesh Shimket finished fourth in 31:24, while Kenya's Maurine Jepkoech Chebor placed fifth in 32:02. Burundi's Francine Niyomukunzi finished sixth in 32:06, followed by the Netherlands' Amina Maatoug in seventh in 32:18. Spain's Carolina Robles completed the top eight in 32:51.

WOMEN'S TOP 10 RESULTS – 9.55KM

1. Likina Amebaw – 30:41

2. Charity Cherop – 30:49

3. Cynthia Chepkurui – 30:57

4. Yenenesh Shimket – 31:24

5. Maurine Jepkoech Chebor – 32:02

6. Francine Niyomukunzi – 32:06

7. Amina Maatoug – 32:18

8. Carolina Robles – 32:51

9. María Forero – 33:16

10. Elena Burkard – 33:21

The 2026 Cross Internacional de Itálica once again demonstrated why the competition remains one of the most respected fixtures on the international cross-country calendar.

Kwizera's historic third triumph, which brought him alongside Bekele in the competition's record books, and Amebaw's outstanding victory provided two major highlights of an exciting afternoon of racing.

With Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Burundi and Spain all represented prominently among the leading finishers, the 44th edition delivered another reminder of the extraordinary depth of international distance-running talent.

What began as an ambitious challenge to conquer all seven Abbott World Marathon Majors in a single calendar year turned into one of the most remarkable and emotional marathon journeys of 2026 for Deirdre Keane.

Keane set out with a clear objective: complete the seven prestigious marathon races across the world, from Tokyo to Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York. However, an unexpected discovery after her third marathon transformed the challenge into something far more extraordinary. She was pregnant!

Even more surprising, she had already completed two of the seven marathons while unknowingly carrying her baby. Her pregnancy was discovered after the third race, meaning that what initially appeared to be a straightforward year of marathon racing had suddenly become a very different personal journey.

Rather than simply walking away from the challenge, Keane adapted her approach, adjusting her training and running pace as her pregnancy progressed. Each subsequent marathon presented a new experience, requiring careful consideration of her changing circumstances.

Her journey began at the Tokyo Marathon in Japan, where she clocked an impressive 3:16 before becoming pregnant. She returned to the start line at the Boston Marathon, also recording 3:16 at five weeks pregnant, although she was not yet aware of her condition. At the London Marathon, she crossed the finish line in 3:38 at six weeks pregnant, still unaware that she was expecting.

After discovering the pregnancy, the remaining four races became an entirely different chapter of her adventure. She completed the Sydney Marathon in 4:05 at 25 weeks, followed by Berlin in 4:01 at 29 weeks. Chicago came next, where she recorded 3:58 at 31 weeks pregnant.

The final destination was the legendary New York City Marathon, where Keane achieved the remarkable milestone of completing all seven World Marathon Majors in the same year. At 34 weeks pregnant, she crossed the finish line in 4:06, bringing an unforgettable global marathon adventure to a close.

Her achievement was not measured by finishing times alone. Behind every race was a deeply personal story, particularly her connection to her late father, who introduced her to running and became one of the most important influences in her life.

There was an especially emotional dimension to her New York appearance. She completed the final marathon on what would have been her father's 75th birthday. Remarkably, her father had also run his final New York City Marathon 25 years earlier, creating a touching connection between two generations of runners.

Reflecting on a year that unfolded very differently from her original plans, Keane captured her feelings in a heartfelt message: "Not quite the year I had planned, but I wouldn't change a thing."

From Tokyo to New York, her seven-race journey became a story of unexpected discoveries, personal memories and a challenge that took on an entirely new meaning along the way.

Seven World Marathon Majors. Seven finish lines. One extraordinary year. And with a new addition to her family on the way, Deirdre Keane may have an even more special finish-line celebration ahead.

The remarkable achievement has added another unforgettable chapter to the 2026 marathon season, with Deirdre Keane completing all seven Abbott World Marathon Majors despite an unexpected pregnancy. Her journey has captured attention for its extraordinary circumstances, personal significance and emotional connection to her late father. As she prepares to welcome her baby, her story stands out as one of the most memorable marathon journeys of the year.

Ethiopia produced a remarkable double triumph at the 43rd edition of the Athens Marathon – The Authentic, with Manazot Siyum Taferi and Yatane Kormoshe Dusha delivering outstanding performances to win the men's and women's races respectively, both setting new event records on Sunday, November 8, 2026.

The historic marathon, run over the traditional 42.195-kilometre route from the town of Marathon to the iconic Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, witnessed exceptional performances from the Ethiopian athletes, who dominated both elite competitions.

In the men's race, Manazot Siyum Taferi delivered a sensational performance, crossing the finish line in 2:10:03 to establish a new course record. The Ethiopian took 31 seconds off the previous mark of 2:10:34, set by Kenya's Edwin Kiptoo in 2023.

Taferi's victory was particularly impressive given the demanding nature of the historic route, which features challenging uphill sections before the spectacular finish inside the legendary Olympic stadium. His performance secured a memorable victory and placed him among the standout names in the event's history.

Fellow Ethiopian Asefa Tefera Mengisa completed an impressive one-two finish for his country, taking second place in 2:10:18, just 15 seconds behind the winner. Kenya's Patrick Ketter Kiplagat secured third position in 2:11:22 after another strong performance on the international stage.

Kenya's Vincent Kipsang Rono finished fourth in 2:12:06, while Eritrea's Nguse Amlosom Tesfaldet completed the top five in 2:12:20. Kenya also had Victor Kipkoech Biwott finishing sixth in 2:14:10, demonstrating the country's strong representation in the men's competition.

MEN'S TOP 10 – ATHENS MARATHON 2026

1. Manazot Siyum Taferi (Ethiopia) – 2:10:03

2. Asefa Tefera Mengisa (Ethiopia) – 2:10:18

3. Patrick Ketter Kiplagat (Kenya) – 2:11:22

4. Vincent Kipsang Rono (Kenya) – 2:12:06

5. Nguse Amlosom Tesfaldet (Eritrea) – 2:12:20

6. Victor Kipkoech Biwott (Kenya) – 2:14:10

7. Adane Nega (Ethiopia) – 2:17:30

8. Konstantinos Stamoulis (Greece) – 2:17:37

9. Charalampos Pitsolis (Greece) – 2:18:58

10. Nikolaos Stamoulis (Greece) – 2:19:05

The women's race delivered another spectacular Ethiopian success, with Yatane Kormoshe Dusha producing a historic performance to capture the title in 2:30:04.

Dusha not only claimed victory but also established a new event record, improving the previous mark of 2:31:06 set by Lithuania's Rasa Drazdauskaitė in 2010. The old record had stood for 16 years, making the Ethiopian's achievement particularly significant.

Her compatriot Tsiyon Abebe Temesgen ensured another Ethiopian one-two finish, crossing the line in 2:30:29, just 25 seconds behind Dusha. The two Ethiopians demonstrated their class over the demanding course, securing the top two positions in a highly competitive women's field.

One of the outstanding performances came from American athlete Jane Jepkemboi Bareikis, who claimed third place in an impressive 2:32:59. Her podium finish prevented a complete Ethiopian sweep of the women's top three and added an international dimension to the competition.

Ethiopia's Atsede Baysa Tesema finished fourth in 2:33:10, while Kenya's Millicent Jemutai Kibet delivered a strong performance to secure fifth place in 2:35:10.

Host nation Greece also had reason to celebrate through Stamatia Noula, who finished sixth in 2:35:13. Her performance was particularly significant as she recorded the fastest time by a Greek woman on the historic Athens Marathon course, surpassing the previous national mark.

Athanasia Kokkorou finished seventh in 2:36:28, followed by Dafni-Eftychia Lavasa in 2:45:06, Georgia Kanouta in 2:45:40 and Xeni Katsimantou Filipopo in 2:46:02, completing the women's top 10.

WOMEN'S TOP 10 – ATHENS MARATHON 2026

1. Yatane Kormoshe Dusha (Ethiopia) – 2:30:04

2. Tsiyon Abebe Temesgen (Ethiopia) – 2:30:29

3. Jane Jepkemboi Bareikis (United States) – 2:32:59

4. Atsede Baysa Tesema (Ethiopia) – 2:33:10

5. Millicent Jemutai Kibet (Kenya) – 2:35:10

6. Stamatia Noula (Greece) – 2:35:13

7. Athanasia Kokkorou (Greece) – 2:36:28

8. Dafni-Eftychia Lavasa (Greece) – 2:45:06

9. Georgia Kanouta (Greece) – 2:45:40

10. Xeni Katsimantou Filipopo (Greece) – 2:46:02

The 43rd edition once again demonstrated why the Athens Marathon remains one of the most historically significant events in international distance running. Its route retraces the legendary journey associated with the origins of the modern marathon, culminating at the magnificent Panathenaic Stadium, where athletes experience a finish unlike any other in the sport.

For Ethiopia, the 2026 edition will be remembered as a remarkable day of distance-running excellence. Taferi and Dusha not only captured the men's and women's crowns but also rewrote the event's record books, leading an impressive national double victory in Athens.

Kenya, meanwhile, secured strong podium representation in the men's competition and a top-five finish in the women's race, ensuring its presence among the leading international contenders.

The 2026 Boston Half Marathon delivered an impressive showcase of international road-running talent, with Eritrea’s Habtom Samuel producing a commanding performance to capture the men's title, while Ethiopia’s Fentaye Belayneh narrowly defeated Kenya’s Winfred Mbithe in an exciting women's contest.

Samuel was the standout performer of the men's race, stopping the clock at 59:49 to comfortably break the one-hour barrier. The Eritrean distance-running star demonstrated his strength and class throughout the contest, establishing a decisive advantage over his closest challengers and securing an emphatic victory.

His triumph was made even more remarkable by the fact that he broke a 13-year-old Boston Half Marathon course record with his outstanding 59:49 performance. Samuel delivered a historic run, adding another major achievement to his growing list of successes on the road.

The victory also completed an impressive two-week winning streak for the Eritrean star. Just last weekend, Samuel claimed victory in the Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5K before returning to Boston to conquer the half marathon. Winning two consecutive races over different distances in successive weekends underlined his excellent form and competitive consistency.

Samuel's latest achievement sends a strong message about his current condition as he continues to establish himself among the leading names in international distance running. His ability to transition from a successful 5K performance to an outstanding half-marathon victory demonstrates his versatility and impressive endurance.

Kenya's Andrea Kiptoo finished second in 1:01:03, while compatriot Abel Kipchumba completed the podium in third place with 1:01:16. Samuel's winning margin of 1 minute and 14 seconds underlined his superiority on the day.

The men's race was particularly impressive for Samuel, who became the only athlete among the top three to finish inside the 60-minute mark. His performance highlighted his ability to maintain an exceptional pace over the demanding 21.1-kilometre distance.

Kiptoo and Kipchumba, meanwhile, ensured a strong Kenyan presence on the men's podium. Their performances demonstrated the depth of Kenyan talent in international road racing, although neither could match Samuel's decisive winning pace.

The women's competition offered a completely different kind of excitement, with the outcome remaining finely balanced between the leading contenders. Ethiopia's Fentaye Belayneh eventually emerged victorious after a determined battle with Kenya's Winfred Mbithe, crossing the finish line in 1:09:14.

Mbithe pushed her Ethiopian rival all the way but had to settle for second place in 1:09:16, just two seconds behind the winner. Such a narrow margin illustrated how closely matched the two athletes were, with every second proving crucial in determining the final outcome.

Another Ethiopian athlete, Sintayehu Lewetegn, secured third place in 1:09:26, completing a strong Ethiopian presence among the leading women. She finished 10 seconds behind Mbithe and 12 seconds behind the race winner.

Belayneh's victory was particularly significant given the quality of the opposition she faced. Holding off a determined Kenyan challenger over the final stages required composure, strength and a strong finishing effort, qualities that ultimately secured her the Boston title.

The results once again underlined the remarkable influence of East African athletes in international distance running. Ethiopia, Kenya and Eritrea all featured prominently, providing a compelling demonstration of the region's continued excellence across road-running competitions.

From Samuel's historic course-record performance and consecutive victories to the thrilling two-second difference in the women's race, the 2026 Boston Half Marathon delivered memorable performances and another exciting chapter in international road racing.

Kenyan distance-running star Irine Cheptai has earned international recognition for a remarkable act of kindness and sportsmanship that demonstrated the true spirit of athletics, securing her place among the three finalists for the prestigious 2026 World Athletics International Fair Play Award.

Cheptai's nomination follows a memorable moment during the Sydney Marathon, where she put competition aside to help Australian Paralympic marathoner Michael Roeger, offering a powerful reminder that humanity and respect can be just as important as winning.

The incident happened at approximately the 30-kilometre mark, when Roeger encountered difficulties accessing the hydration stations positioned along the right-hand side of the course. Born without his lower right arm, the Australian athlete faced an additional challenge collecting drinks while maintaining his rhythm during the demanding race.

Noticing his situation, Cheptai responded without hesitation by sharing her own water bottle with him. It was a simple but extraordinary gesture, particularly in the closing stages of a marathon when every second, every movement and every ounce of energy can make a difference.

What made the moment even more special was that both athletes were competing at an exceptionally high level. Roeger went on to finish in 2:18:36, establishing a new T46 marathon world record, while Cheptai delivered an outstanding performance to finish second in the women's race in 2:22:11.

Although the Sydney Marathon produced impressive performances and memorable results, Cheptai's selfless intervention became one of the defining stories of the event. Her actions demonstrated that sporting excellence is not measured exclusively by finishing times, medals or records, but also by the values athletes demonstrate when faced with opportunities to help others.

Being named among the three finalists for the World Athletics International Fair Play Award is a fitting recognition of a moment that resonated far beyond the marathon course.

For Cheptai, the gesture may have lasted only a few seconds, but its message carries much greater significance. In a sport where athletes push their physical and mental limits in pursuit of personal glory, she showed that compassion and competitive spirit can exist side by side.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments in sport are not about who finishes first, but about who chooses to make a difference along the way.

Irine Cheptai has reminded the athletics world that true champions are recognised not only by what they achieve, but also by how they treat others. 

The 2027 athletics season has not even begun, but the mind games among the world's biggest sprinting stars are already underway!

Botswana's Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo has reignited his rivalry with American sprint sensations Noah Lyles and Kenny Bednarek after sending a bold warning to his two biggest competitors, only for Lyles to respond with a cheeky but pointed remark that has added another chapter to their growing rivalry.

Taking to social media platform X on Thursday, November 5, Tebogo addressed both American stars, beginning with a show of respect before making it clear that he intends to be the man they will have to catch when the 2027 season gets underway.

"The 2027 season is coming, and the battle is already on. Always respect to @kenny_bednarek, @LylesNoah, but you better be ready to chase."

Lyles wasted little time responding, delivering a playful but direct message aimed at the Botswana star.

"Oh, did you decide you want to stop playing opossum and actually run through the line…. That would be nice."

The comment was a pointed reference to Tebogo's occasional tendency to ease off before reaching the finish line, particularly when he believes he has lost the opportunity to win or secured his position in a race.

One notable example came at the Diamond League Final in Brussels, where Bednarek produced a stunning performance to win the 200m in a then world-leading 19.62 seconds. Tebogo, who had been fighting for a podium position, appeared to ease off towards the finish and eventually dropped to fourth in 20.01 seconds.

Lyles' response has therefore brought an interesting competitive dimension to the exchange, suggesting that the American wants to see Tebogo maintain his intensity all the way to the finish whenever they meet again.

The upcoming rivalry becomes even more intriguing when the performances of the three athletes during the 2026 campaign are considered. Bednarek enjoyed an outstanding season, establishing himself as one of the leading figures in world sprinting. The American was arguably the standout performer of the year, collecting double gold at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest and further strengthening his reputation as a formidable 200m competitor.

Lyles also demonstrated his exceptional speed, recording the fastest men's 100m performance of the year with 9.79 seconds at the USATF Championships. However, his campaign was disrupted after he pulled up during the 200m final, forcing him to miss the remainder of the season.

For Tebogo, the 2026 campaign was comparatively quieter by his exceptionally high standards. The Botswana star managed two Diamond League victories, although neither came in a direct contest against Lyles or Bednarek. Another interesting detail is that Tebogo only returned to training on October 16, meaning his preparations for the upcoming campaign are already underway as he looks to regain his strongest competitive form.

Despite their different journeys throughout 2026, all three athletes have something important to prove when the new season arrives. Tebogo wants to reinforce his status as the Olympic 200m champion and demonstrate that he remains the man to beat. Lyles will be determined to reassert his authority over the distance and remind his rivals of his championship pedigree, while Bednarek will be looking to build on his remarkable achievements and establish himself as the dominant force in the men's 200m.

With Olympic glory, world titles, personal ambitions and bragging rights all part of the equation, the rivalry between these three exceptional sprinters promises to deliver plenty of excitement.

The first major showdown between them in 2027 is still months away, but the psychological battle has already begun. Tebogo has fired the opening warning, Lyles has responded, and Bednarek has every reason to feel confident after his impressive season.

The question now is simple: Who will rule the men's 200m in 2027 — Letsile Tebogo, Noah Lyles or Kenny Bednarek? 

Running a marathon in under 2:50 is an impressive achievement for any athlete. Doing it while dressed as a giant hot dog takes the accomplishment to an entirely different level.

Sarah Pezzino captured attention at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon after completing the demanding 26.2-mile course in an outstanding 2:49:15, all while wearing a full hot dog costume.

Complete with a bun, sausage and a distinctive line of ketchup, Pezzino carried her unusual outfit through all five boroughs of New York City without allowing the costume to stand in the way of an exceptional performance.

Her finishing time translates to an average pace of approximately 6 minutes and 27 seconds per mile (4:00 per kilometre), placing her 59th among more than 28,000 female finishers and fourth in her age group.

What initially began as a joke among friends eventually developed into a serious record-breaking ambition. After discovering the Guinness World Records benchmark for completing a marathon in a food-themed costume, Pezzino decided to see just how fast she could go.

The existing mark stood at 3:11:34, meaning her remarkable 2:49:15 performance was more than 22 minutes faster. However, Guinness World Records must still review and officially verify her performance before she can be recognised as the record holder.

Interestingly, the hot dog costume already has a place in marathon record history.

Back in 2015, Runner's World editor Meghan Kita approached Guinness World Records about establishing a marathon record specifically for runners dressed as hot dogs. The organisation considered the category too narrow and instead introduced a broader fast-food costume category.

Kita subsequently completed the Marine Corps Marathon in 3:57:49, stopping at every mile marker to collect photographic evidence of her costume throughout the race.

More than a decade later, Pezzino has taken the challenge to another level, producing a performance that would be impressive even without the added difficulty of running in a full-body costume.

Her achievement is a wonderful reminder of the creativity, humour and extraordinary determination that make marathon running such a special sport.

While thousands of runners take on New York chasing personal bests, qualifying standards and competitive positions, Pezzino managed to combine entertainment with genuine athletic excellence.

She did not simply bring a smile to the streets of New York. She delivered a sub-2:50 marathon performance that could also earn her a place in the Guinness World Records.

A hot dog costume, 26.2 miles and a remarkable 2:49:15. Sarah Pezzino certainly proved that you can have fun and run fast at the same time!

South Korean singer and SHINee member Choi Min-ho has made headlines beyond the entertainment world after voluntarily relinquishing his finishing result from the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon, following controversy surrounding footage that appeared to show him receiving physical assistance during the race.

The 34-year-old K-pop star took on his first-ever full marathon on November 1, 2026, completing the gruelling 42.195-kilometre distance in an impressive 3:00:18. His performance attracted considerable attention, particularly because he narrowly missed the highly coveted sub-three-hour milestone by just 18 seconds.

However, what initially appeared to be a remarkable debut soon became the centre of a heated debate within running communities and on social media.

Footage circulating online showed another runner, believed to be his pacemaker, running close behind Min-ho and appearing to place a hand against his lower back and waist, seemingly pushing him forward. The images sparked questions about whether the physical contact constituted unauthorised assistance and whether it compromised the fairness of his performance.

The controversy quickly gained momentum, with athletics enthusiasts questioning the circumstances surrounding the assistance and calling for greater respect for the principles governing fair competition.

Faced with the growing criticism, Min-ho addressed the situation on November 3 through a heartfelt public apology. He expressed deep regret for disappointing people who had followed his marathon journey, acknowledging that the incident had occurred because of his own shortcomings.

He also emphasised his love and respect for sport, admitting that he felt deeply ashamed of the situation. In a further demonstration of accountability, he announced that he would not accept his finishing result, adding that he would carry the lessons from the experience into the future.

His decision was subsequently accepted by Runable, the organisers of the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon. On November 4, they confirmed that his request to relinquish the result had been accepted and that his finishing time would not be issued as an official race record.

Importantly, the withdrawal should not be confused with an official disqualification for a confirmed rules violation. The organisers did not establish a definitive finding that Min-ho had breached competition regulations, leaving the incident to be viewed primarily through his voluntary decision to surrender the result.

Beyond the controversy, the incident has reignited an important conversation about integrity, fairness and accountability in distance running. Whether competing at elite level or participating in mass-participation events, every runner shares responsibility for respecting the principles that make athletics a fair and credible sport.

For Min-ho, a performance that initially promised to be a memorable milestone in his sporting journey has instead become a valuable lesson about the responsibilities that accompany competition.

His 3:00:18 performance may no longer appear as an official result, but the wider discussion it has generated serves as a reminder that sporting achievements are measured by more than finishing times.

In marathon running, every second matters, but so do honesty, fairness and respect for every athlete who earns their place at the finish line. 

Jamaican sprint icon Usain Bolt has joined the sporting world in celebrating Cristiano Ronaldo's extraordinary international career, delivering a heartfelt message to the Portuguese superstar following his announcement of retirement from international football.

Bolt, widely regarded as the greatest sprinter in history, took to social media to congratulate Ronaldo, sharing a throwback photograph accompanied by a touching message that reflected the football legend's enormous influence beyond the boundaries of his sport.

"Congrats on your retirement from international football @cristiano ⚽️ You made us all a fan," Bolt wrote.

The message from the eight-time Olympic champion was a special recognition of a career that has captivated millions of supporters across the globe. Although Bolt made his name dominating the athletics track, his admiration for Ronaldo highlights the universal appeal of sporting greatness and the ability of exceptional athletes to inspire people across different disciplines.

Ronaldo, 41, announced his decision on November 5, 2026, bringing an end to an extraordinary international journey that began in August 2003. After 23 years representing Portugal, he walks away as the most prolific goalscorer and the most-capped male international footballer in history, having registered an astonishing 146 goals in 234 appearances.

His remarkable journey included captaining Portugal to its historic UEFA European Championship triumph in 2016, followed by UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025. He also made history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first player to score at six different editions of the tournament.

From a promising young talent making his international debut to becoming one of football's most celebrated figures, Ronaldo's contribution to Portugal's footballing history has been extraordinary. His consistency, ambition, professionalism and relentless pursuit of excellence have established standards that will inspire generations of aspiring footballers.

Importantly, his international retirement does not signal the end of his playing career. Ronaldo will continue his professional journey with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where he remains active at club level.

For Bolt, whose extraordinary achievements include eight Olympic gold medals and world records in the 100m and 200m, the opportunity to acknowledge another sporting great carries special significance.

Two global icons, two different sporting arenas, but a shared understanding of what it takes to reach the summit of world sport. While Bolt conquered the track with his breathtaking speed, Ronaldo ruled the football pitch with his remarkable goalscoring ability and longevity.

As Ronaldo closes one of the most remarkable chapters in international football, tributes such as Bolt's serve as a reminder that true sporting greatness goes far beyond medals, trophies and records. It is ultimately measured by the millions of people inspired along the way.

Legends recognise legends!

Spanish marathon legend Martín Fiz has brought an extraordinary chapter of his athletics career to a close, completing his final marathon at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon on November 1, at the age of 63.

The 1995 World Marathon Champion crossed the finish line in 3:01:13, bringing an emotional end to a remarkable journey spanning three decades and 42 marathon appearances. His final outing was made even more special by sharing the experience with his son, Álex Fiz, who was making his marathon debut. The father-and-son duo crossed the finish line together, turning the occasion into an unforgettable family moment.

Born on March 3, 1963, Fiz has enjoyed one of the most remarkable careers in Spanish distance-running history. His decision to retire from the marathon distance marks the end of a competitive journey that took him from international championship glory to extraordinary achievements in masters athletics.

New York was a particularly fitting destination for his farewell. It was in the same city that Fiz competed in his first major commercial marathon in 1996. Thirty years later, he returned to the streets of the Big Apple for marathon number 42, this time alongside his son.

The two had initially hoped to break the three-hour barrier, but several stops to greet relatives and take photographs along the course meant they finished just over the target. Nevertheless, the stopwatch was never the priority. Their greatest achievement was completing the 42.195-kilometre challenge together and sharing the finish-line moment hand in hand.

"I've been married to the marathon for 30 years. But now the time has come to make way for the youngsters," Fiz was quoted as saying in Spanish media, reflecting on his decision to step away from the distance.

Fiz's name is permanently etched in athletics history. He first reached the continental summit by winning the European Marathon Championship in Helsinki in 1994 before producing an even greater achievement the following year.

At the 1995 World Athletics Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden, he captured the men's marathon gold medal, becoming one of the most celebrated distance runners of his generation. He subsequently added a silver medal at the 1997 World Championships in Athens, further establishing his reputation among the world's finest marathoners.

His achievements also extended to the Olympic stage. At the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, Fiz narrowly missed the podium, finishing fourth in the marathon. He later represented Spain at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, where he finished sixth.

During his elite career, he recorded an impressive personal best of 2:08:05 at the 1997 Lake Biwa Marathon in Japan, a performance that underlined his exceptional ability during the golden era of Spanish distance running.

However, Fiz's remarkable story did not end when he stepped away from elite professional competition in 2001. Instead, he continued competing in masters athletics, demonstrating that age did not have to become a barrier to ambition, achievement or sporting excellence.

One of his most extraordinary accomplishments came in the over-50 category, where he became the first athlete to win all six World Marathon Majors: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York.

That remarkable achievement placed him in a unique position in marathon history and inspired countless veteran runners around the world to continue pursuing ambitious goals regardless of age.

His final appearance in New York was therefore about much more than another finish time. It represented the celebration of a lifetime dedicated to athletics, the memories created along the way and the opportunity to pass his passion for running to the next generation.

Although Fiz has officially said goodbye to the marathon distance, he has made it clear that he has no intention of abandoning competitive running altogether. The Spanish legend is already looking towards possible new challenges over the half-marathon and 10-kilometre distances.

From European Championship gold to World Championship glory, Olympic appearances and historic masters achievements, Martín Fiz has built a legacy that extends far beyond medals, records and finishing times.

His final marathon was not about chasing another victory or breaking another barrier. It was about celebrating an extraordinary journey that began three decades ago and ending it in the most meaningful way possible: alongside his son.

At 63, Fiz has reminded the running world that greatness is not measured only by speed or age, but also by longevity, passion, consistency and the courage to keep challenging oneself.

A world champion once, an inspiration forever.

¡Gracias, Martín Fiz! 

Some marathon achievements are remembered for record-breaking performances, while others stand out because of the extraordinary human stories behind them. At the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, Noelle Lambert-Beirne delivered a remarkable performance that demonstrated the power of determination, resilience and motherhood.

Just 13 weeks after welcoming her daughter, Brenley, into the world, the Paralympic sprinter and first-time mother took on the legendary 42.195-kilometre challenge, crossing the finish line in just over six and a half hours to become a marathon finisher.

Her accomplishment becomes even more remarkable when the challenges she faced along the way are considered.

Lambert-Beirne lost her left leg in a moped accident in 2016, but the life-changing incident never stopped her from pursuing her sporting ambitions. She went on to establish herself as a Paralympic athlete, building a reputation for courage and perseverance.

This time, however, she faced a completely different challenge. Preparing for a marathon while adjusting to life as a new mother demanded an extraordinary level of commitment. She had just seven weeks of marathon-specific training, with broken nights of sleep, the responsibilities of caring for her newborn and painful blisters caused by her prosthetic leg adding to the difficulty.

Her preparation also involved countless laps around a track while pushing Brenley in a stroller, turning motherhood and marathon training into one demanding journey.

During the race itself, she even took a break to breastfeed her daughter before continuing towards the finish line. It was a moment that captured the reality of her experience, showing that her marathon journey was about much more than running.

When she eventually reached the finish line, Lambert-Beirne made the moment even more special by carrying little Brenley across alongside her husband, Mark Beirne.

Reflecting on the achievement, she expressed her excitement and disbelief at accomplishing something she had once never imagined possible.

"I AM A MARATHON FINISHER!!!

Truly never thought I would ever say those words. 3 months postpartum. Just 7 weeks of training. Broken sleep, prosthetic blisters, and countless laps around a track pushing Brenley in the stroller.

It wasn't easy, but we showed up, pushed through, and GOT IT DONE!!"

She also acknowledged the support of her husband, family, supporters and Team Maybelline, whose encouragement helped her navigate the demanding preparation and unforgettable race-day experience.

For Lambert-Beirne, the New York City Marathon was not simply another sporting event. It was an opportunity to embrace a new chapter of motherhood while proving to herself that even the most demanding challenges can be approached with courage and determination.

Her journey also offered a powerful reminder that athletic achievements do not always have to be defined by finishing times, podium positions or personal records. Sometimes, the greatest accomplishment is simply finding the strength to take on a challenge and refusing to give up when the journey becomes difficult.

Thirteen weeks after childbirth. Seven weeks of marathon preparation. One prosthetic leg. A newborn daughter and an unforgettable journey through the streets of New York.

Noelle Lambert-Beirne's marathon finish was a celebration of resilience, family and the remarkable strength of the human spirit.

For most marathon runners, the challenge is simply getting through 26.2 miles. But for 38-year-old American runner Travis Meier, covering that distance is only part of the battle. He has taken on an extraordinary challenge: running marathons while carrying an 18-pound canoe on his shoulders, with the ambitious goal of completing 52 canoe-carrying marathons in 52 weeks.

Meier, who comes from Minneapolis, Minnesota, attracted attention at the Twin Cities Marathon on October 4, 2026, when he appeared on the starting course carrying a carbon-fibre solo canoe instead of the usual running equipment.

While other competitors relied on energy gels, hydration belts and lightweight racing gear, Meier chose to shoulder the approximately 18-pound canoe for the journey from Minneapolis to St. Paul.

He eventually crossed the finish line in 5:57:06, having carried the unusual load for almost the entire 26.2-mile distance. However, his remarkable effort came with a price: race officials disqualified him because carrying an additional prop was against the competition rules.

Interestingly, Meier was fully aware that his unconventional approach could lead to disqualification. He reportedly anticipated being stopped during the opening miles and even kept the canoe away from the starting corral to avoid obstructing other competitors.

But the disqualification did little to discourage him. For Meier, the marathon was never simply about earning an official finishing position or collecting another medal. His real objective was to use the unusual spectacle to draw attention to an environmental cause he deeply believes in.

Since his appearance in Minneapolis and St. Paul, he has continued taking his canoe onto marathon courses, completing the Gandy Dancer Marathon in Wisconsin and the Mankato Marathon in Minnesota. Each event has provided another opportunity to spread his message.

Now, he has set himself an even more demanding target: completing 52 canoe-carrying marathons in 52 weeks. With a full-time job to balance, he acknowledges that attending an organised marathon every week may not always be possible. On those occasions, he intends to cover the required distance independently while still carrying his canoe.

Behind the extraordinary physical challenge is a campaign to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a spectacular natural region in northern Minnesota renowned for its interconnected lakes, rivers, forests and wildlife.

Meier is particularly concerned about the proposed Twin Metals copper-nickel mining project near the wilderness area. Environmental advocates warn that mining activities within the surrounding watershed could threaten the region's pristine waters through pollution and other long-term environmental damage. Supporters of the mining project, meanwhile, point to its potential economic benefits, employment opportunities and contribution to domestic mineral supplies.

The controversy has become an increasingly important political issue, with the future protection of the Boundary Waters attracting attention at both state and federal levels.

Meier has chosen an unconventional way of joining that debate. Rather than limiting his activism to statements or online campaigns, he is taking his message directly to the streets, using marathon running and an unmistakable canoe to attract public attention.

He has even given himself a fitting nickname: The Lorax of the Boundary Waters, inspired by the fictional character known for speaking up for nature and protecting the environment.

His challenge is certainly not an ordinary marathon adventure. Carrying an 18-pound canoe over 26.2 miles places additional demands on the shoulders, upper body and core, while also requiring concentration and balance throughout the journey.

Yet Meier appears determined to keep going, regardless of whether his efforts earn official race results or recognition from organisers.

One man, one canoe and 52 marathons in a year. For Travis Meier, every mile is an opportunity to make people stop, look and ask questions about the wilderness he wants to protect.

And while the canoe may have cost him an official result in the Twin Cities Marathon, it has given him something far more important in his eyes: a platform to take his environmental campaign to a much wider audience.

Running a marathon is a demanding physical challenge, but sometimes the greatest battle takes place in the mind. When fatigue sets in, the legs begin to weaken and the finish line still feels painfully distant, mental strength can become the difference between giving up and achieving something extraordinary.

American distance runner Jess McClain demonstrated exactly that at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, where an intelligent psychological approach helped her overcome mounting fatigue and secure a remarkable second-place finish in the women's race.

Rather than allowing herself to become overwhelmed by the thought of running the entire 26.2 miles, McClain relied on a mental technique known as chunking — the practice of dividing a difficult or overwhelming task into smaller, more manageable sections.

The strategy became particularly important around mile 16, when her legs began to struggle and the physical demands of the race intensified. Instead of thinking about how much distance remained, she concentrated on reaching the next milestone.

Her immediate target was to get across the Queensboro Bridge. Once that challenge was behind her, she shifted her attention to the next section of the course, taking the race one landmark and one neighbourhood at a time.

First Avenue came next, followed by the Bronx and, eventually, the familiar roads leading towards Central Park, where the marathon would reach its dramatic conclusion.

McClain even described part of her approach as essentially "gaslighting" herself into believing that she would feel better once she reached the next checkpoint. It was a clever way of keeping negative thoughts at bay and preventing the enormity of the remaining distance from taking control of her mind.

By continuously resetting her focus, she gave herself smaller objectives to pursue, allowing her to remain engaged in the race even as the physical discomfort became increasingly difficult to manage.

And her determination produced a spectacular finish.

With the finish line approaching, McClain summoned one final burst of energy, producing a powerful closing 200-metre sprint that saw her overtake defending champion Hellen Obiri and claim second place in one of the most dramatic moments of the women's race.

Her performance was a reminder that marathon running is not simply a contest of endurance, speed and physical preparation. It is also a test of patience, concentration, emotional control and the ability to keep believing when the body begins to question how much further it can go.

For runners of every level, McClain's experience offers a valuable lesson: You do not always have to conquer the entire marathon in your mind. Sometimes, you only need to conquer the next bridge, the next street, the next kilometre or even the next few minutes.

Chunk by chunk, step by step, the finish line eventually gets closer.

After a remarkable season filled with record-breaking performances, major victories and another demonstration of her extraordinary talent, British middle-distance sensation Keely Hodgkinson is already back at work, turning her attention towards the challenges that await in 2027.

The Olympic 800m champion has returned to training following her victory at ATHLOS London in September, where she brought her 2026 campaign to a winning conclusion with an impressive performance over two laps, clocking 1:56.40.

Now, with the excitement of another demanding season behind her, Hodgkinson is shifting her focus towards rebuilding her endurance, developing her strength and laying the foundations for another ambitious campaign under the guidance of her coach, Trevor Painter.

Her 2026 season will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most significant chapters of her career. On February 19, she produced a sensational performance at the Meeting Hauts-de-France Pas-de-Calais in Liévin, France, storming to a new women's indoor 800m world record of 1:54.87 and rewriting the history books.

She subsequently confirmed her dominance on the global indoor stage by winning the world indoor 800m title in Kujawy Pomorze, Poland, in a championship-record time of 1:55.30.

Outdoors, the British star continued to deliver exceptional performances, lowering her personal best to 1:54.33 in Stockholm and demonstrating that she remains one of the most formidable competitors in the event.

However, her season was not without difficulties. A hamstring injury sustained shortly before the European Championships 800m final in Birmingham disrupted her plans, forcing her to adjust her training and approach to competition. Despite the setback, she demonstrated remarkable determination, eventually returning to finish her campaign with victory at ATHLOS London.

At just 24 years old, Hodgkinson has already established herself among the outstanding middle-distance runners of her generation. Her Olympic triumph in Paris, world indoor success and record-breaking performances have further strengthened her position as one of Britain's biggest athletics stars.

As preparations for 2027 begin, the priority will be to build a strong physical foundation, maintain consistency and ensure that her body is ready for another demanding year at the highest level.

With the women's 800m becoming increasingly competitive, particularly with the emergence of formidable rivals such as Switzerland's Audrey Werro, the coming season promises another fascinating battle for supremacy.

Hodgkinson has already shown the world what she is capable of. The question now is how much further she can push the limits of her extraordinary talent.

2026 delivered a world record and another major championship title. With a fresh training block underway, the British superstar is once again putting in the work, with her eyes firmly set on what comes next.

The records have been written. The next chapter is already taking shape! 

Making a marathon debut is one of the toughest examinations in distance running. Covering 42.195 kilometres for the first time demands extraordinary endurance, tactical intelligence, mental strength and the ability to manage a distance that has humbled even the most accomplished athletes.

Yet, a remarkable group of runners has achieved something even more exceptional: winning a marathon at the very first attempt, with some producing performances that immediately placed them among the greatest distance runners in history.

At the top of this remarkable list stands the late Kenyan sensation Kelvin Kiptum, whose extraordinary 2:01:53 victory at the 2022 Valencia Marathon remains the fastest marathon debut in history. On December 4, 2022, Kiptum delivered a sensational performance, announcing his arrival on the marathon stage in spectacular fashion. It was not simply a winning debut; it was a performance that revealed the extraordinary potential of a runner who would go on to rewrite marathon history.

Kenya's dominance of the list is particularly striking. Another outstanding performance came from Sabastian Sawe, who demonstrated his remarkable abilities on December 1, 2024, when he won the Valencia Marathon in 2:02:05. His debut placed him among the fastest marathon runners ever recorded, further underlining Kenya's extraordinary influence on international distance running.

Ethiopia has also produced some exceptional marathon debut performances. Tsegaye Mekonnen clocked 2:04:32 to win the 2014 Dubai Marathon, while Lelisa Desisa announced himself with a 2:04:45 victory in the same event in 2013. Kenenisa Bekele, widely regarded as one of the greatest distance runners of all time, made an impressive transition from the track to the marathon, winning the 2014 Paris Marathon in 2:05:04.

The list also features legendary Kenyan marathoner Eliud Kipchoge, who began his marathon journey with a victory at the 2013 Hamburg Marathon in 2:05:30. Already an Olympic 5000m champion and a world-class track athlete, Kipchoge quickly demonstrated that his extraordinary talent could extend beyond the track and into the demanding world of marathon racing.

Other notable names include Evans Rutto, who won the 2003 Chicago Marathon in 2:05:50, and Samuel Wanjiru, whose 2:06:39 victory at the 2006 Fukuoka Marathon marked the beginning of an illustrious marathon career that would eventually include Olympic glory in Beijing in 2008.

One of the newest additions to this remarkable conversation is Sweden's Andreas Almgren. On November 1, 2026, Almgren produced a memorable performance to win the TCS New York City Marathon in 2:06:01, defeating Italy's Yemaneberhan Crippa, who finished second in 2:06:14. His victory was particularly significant because he became the first Swedish man to win the prestigious New York City Marathon. His achievement demonstrated that a successful transition from shorter distances to the marathon remains possible, even at the highest level of competition.

Beyond the modern era, the history of marathon racing takes us back to the inaugural Olympic Games in Athens in 1896. Greece's Spyridon Louis secured his place in sporting history by winning the first Olympic marathon in 2:58:50. His triumph became one of the defining moments of the early Olympic movement and established him as a national sporting hero.

The historical list also features legendary names such as Finland's Hannes Kolehmainen, France's Boughera El Ouafi, America's Johnny Hayes and Czechoslovakia's Emil Zátopek, illustrating how marathon excellence has evolved across generations.

What makes these achievements particularly fascinating is that winning a marathon debut is about much more than running ability. Experienced marathoners understand the physical and psychological demands of 42.195 kilometres, but debutants must discover many of those challenges while competing against some of the world's finest athletes. There is little room for error, and even the smallest tactical mistake can turn a promising performance into a painful experience.

From Kiptum's extraordinary 2:01:53 in Valencia to Almgren's memorable triumph, these performances represent some of the most impressive introductions to the marathon distance. They remind us that while experience is invaluable, exceptional talent, preparation and courage can sometimes produce history from the very first attempt.

One race. One debut. One victory. For these extraordinary athletes, the marathon journey began at the very top.

Three extraordinary achievements. Three unforgettable chapters in athletics history. But when the spotlight shines on the World Athletics Awards, only one moment will earn the ultimate recognition as the 2026 World Athletics Moment of the Year.

The competition features three remarkable contenders whose performances captured the imagination of athletics fans around the world, celebrating the courage, determination and extraordinary talent that make the sport so special.

Kenya's Sebastian Sawe is among the finalists following his sensational performance at the 2026 London Marathon, where he shattered the men's marathon world record with an astonishing time of 1:59:30. In becoming the first man to run an official, record-eligible marathon in under two hours, Sawe achieved a milestone that once seemed beyond the limits of human possibility. His historic performance elevated marathon running to an entirely new level and further strengthened Kenya's reputation as a global powerhouse in long-distance athletics.

British middle-distance sensation Josh Kerr is also in contention after producing a remarkable performance in London, where he established a new world record in the mile with an incredible time of 3:42.66. His achievement demonstrated his exceptional speed, strength and competitive brilliance, further cementing his status among the greatest middle-distance runners of his generation.

Completing the shortlist is Team Botswana, whose extraordinary triumph in the men's 4x400m at the World Athletics Relays on home soil delivered a defining moment for the African nation. Clocking an impressive 2:54.47 to secure gold, the Botswana quartet made history in front of their passionate home supporters. It was more than a sporting victory; it was a powerful celebration of national pride and the country's growing influence in international athletics.

Each achievement tells a different story: Sawe's extraordinary marathon breakthrough, Kerr's record-breaking brilliance and Botswana's historic relay triumph. Yet they share one special quality — the ability to inspire millions, transcend national boundaries and create memories that will remain part of athletics history.

The prestigious winner will be announced at the World Athletics Awards in Monaco on November 29, 2026, when the global athletics community gathers to celebrate the outstanding performances and personalities that have defined the year.

For Kenya, the big question is whether Sebastian Sawe can bring another prestigious international honour home following his remarkable marathon achievement. Will Josh Kerr claim the recognition for Great Britain, or will Botswana's historic relay triumph deliver another moment of glory for African athletics?

Three nations. Three historic achievements. One prestigious award.

WHICH MOMENT DESERVES TO BE CROWNED THE WORLD ATHLETICS MOMENT OF THE YEAR? 

For runners, pushing beyond physical limits is often celebrated as a sign of determination, discipline and mental strength. However, behind every demanding training session and exhausting race lies an important responsibility that should never be overlooked: understanding when the body needs rest and recovery.

One potentially life-threatening condition every athlete, particularly marathon runners, should understand is rhabdomyolysis, commonly known as rhabdo. Although it is not frequently discussed in everyday running conversations, this serious medical condition can have devastating consequences if its warning signs are overlooked and treatment is delayed.

Rhabdomyolysis occurs when skeletal muscle tissue becomes severely damaged and breaks down rapidly, releasing substances normally contained within muscle cells directly into the bloodstream. These include myoglobin, a protein responsible for storing oxygen in muscles, potassium and creatine kinase (CK), an enzyme found in muscle tissue.

While these substances are normally contained within muscle cells, their release in excessive quantities can create serious complications throughout the body. Myoglobin, in particular, can damage the kidneys, potentially resulting in acute kidney injury or kidney failure. Meanwhile, excessive potassium in the bloodstream can interfere with the heart's electrical activity, triggering dangerous and potentially life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms. Severe electrolyte imbalances can further complicate the condition.

Although rhabdomyolysis can develop following traumatic injuries, extreme heat exposure, certain medications and other medical conditions, strenuous physical exercise is another recognised trigger. Prolonged endurance activities, exceptionally demanding workouts and sudden increases in training intensity can place enormous stress on muscles, sometimes resulting in severe muscle damage.

For marathon runners, the risks deserve particular attention. Preparing for 42.195 kilometres requires months of physical conditioning, demanding training sessions and considerable endurance. However, inadequate recovery, excessive training loads, exercising in extreme heat and pushing through severe physical exhaustion can increase the risk of exercise-induced rhabdomyolysis.

Importantly, this is not exclusively a condition affecting inexperienced athletes. Even highly trained, physically fit and experienced runners can develop it. Athletic ability, years of training and previous marathon experience do not make anyone completely immune.

Recognising the warning signs can make a critical difference. Symptoms may include unusually severe muscle pain, swelling, muscle tenderness, cramps, weakness and extreme fatigue. One particularly alarming warning sign is dark, tea-coloured or cola-coloured urine, which may indicate the presence of myoglobin released by damaged muscles.

However, symptoms do not always appear immediately. They may develop hours or even days after strenuous physical activity. Furthermore, the absence of dark-coloured urine does not necessarily mean that an athlete is free from the condition. Some individuals may experience significant muscle damage without displaying every recognised symptom.

Another important concern is that rhabdomyolysis can initially resemble ordinary post-exercise muscle soreness. While temporary discomfort and fatigue are common after demanding workouts, unusually intense pain, significant swelling, profound weakness or symptoms that continue to worsen should never be dismissed as normal training fatigue.

Prevention begins with responsible training. Athletes should increase their mileage and workout intensity gradually, allow sufficient recovery between demanding sessions, maintain appropriate hydration and avoid exercising excessively, particularly in extreme heat. Adequate nutrition, sufficient sleep and recognising the body's warning signals are equally important components of a sustainable training programme.

Runners should also understand that hydration alone cannot eliminate the risk. Training load, environmental conditions, individual susceptibility and overall physical health all play important roles in determining the body's response to strenuous exercise.

Anyone experiencing severe muscle pain, unusual weakness, swelling or dark-coloured urine following strenuous exercise should seek urgent medical assessment. Rhabdomyolysis is a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis. Doctors commonly use blood tests to measure creatine kinase levels, assess kidney function and identify potentially dangerous electrolyte disturbances.

Treatment often involves intravenous fluids to support kidney function and help prevent kidney injury, alongside careful monitoring of electrolytes, urine output and other complications. In severe cases, hospital admission and specialised medical intervention may be necessary. Early recognition and appropriate treatment significantly improve the chances of recovery.

The importance of understanding this condition has been brought into heartbreaking focus following the death of 24-year-old Rachel Apa, who collapsed approximately two miles from the finish line during her first New York City Marathon on November 1, 2026. She tragically died hours later, with rhabdomyolysis reported as the cause of her death.

Her story is a painful reminder that even the most anticipated sporting achievement can become overshadowed by a medical emergency. It also highlights why runners, coaches, race organisers and the wider athletics community must take exercise-related health risks seriously.

Every athlete dreams of crossing the finish line, achieving a personal best or completing a race they have spent months preparing for. But no medal, finishing time, training milestone or personal record is worth risking a life.

Running should challenge us, strengthen us and bring us together, but it should never come at the expense of our health and safety. Recovery is not a sign of weakness, and recognising when to stop is not a failure. Sometimes, the strongest decision an athlete can make is to listen to their body.

Train with discipline. Race with awareness. Recover with purpose. Above all, remember that getting home safely is more important than crossing any finish line.

The marathon is a distance that demands more than physical strength. It tests patience, resilience, mental toughness and the ability to keep fighting when the body begins to surrender. For Kenyan distance runner Patrick Kiprop, the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon provided a powerful introduction to just how unforgiving the 26.2-mile challenge can be.

Kiprop arrived in New York with an impressive half-marathon performance behind him, having already demonstrated his ability to compete at a high level over the roads. Earlier in 2026, he finished second at the Houston Half Marathon in an outstanding time of 59:14, underlining his credentials as one of Kenya's exciting emerging distance-running talents.

That performance offered a glimpse of his potential over longer distances and provided an encouraging foundation as he prepared to take on the marathon for the first time. However, the transition from the half marathon to the full 42.195 kilometres would present an entirely different challenge.

On November 1, 2026, Kiprop made his major marathon debut at the prestigious TCS New York City Marathon, stepping onto one of the world's most demanding and celebrated marathon courses. He immediately showed that he belonged among the competitive field, running near the front of the leading pack and looking comfortable during the early stages.

Reflecting on his first-ever marathon, Kiprop offered an honest account of a race that began with confidence and promise before turning into an extraordinary test of endurance.

For much of the opening 20 miles, everything appeared to be going according to plan. He felt exceptionally strong, remained comfortable within himself and genuinely believed he could stay alongside the leading group with approximately 10 kilometres remaining.

But the marathon is notorious for changing the script when runners least expect it.

As the race entered its decisive stages, Kiprop began experiencing the harsh reality of the distance. Around mile 23, his legs started giving way as he attempted to respond to a surge, marking the beginning of a difficult battle against exhaustion.

The final five kilometres became a fight for survival. The strength that had carried him confidently through the earlier stages was fading, and every remaining step demanded an enormous effort. With just 800 metres separating him from the finish line, he was forced to walk, a moment that demonstrated just how brutally demanding the marathon can become, even for an exceptionally talented athlete.

Yet, despite the physical struggle, Kiprop refused to surrender.

He gathered what remained of his strength, pushed through the final metres and eventually crossed the finish line in 2:10:01, completing his marathon debut with a respectable performance and an experience that will undoubtedly shape his future career over the distance.

Beyond the finishing time, the Kenyan walked away with something far more valuable: an education in the realities of marathon running. His experience was a reminder that success over shorter distances and the ability to maintain an impressive pace do not automatically translate into an easy transition to the marathon.

The distance has its own demands, and even the strongest runners can find themselves confronting unexpected challenges when the kilometres begin to accumulate.

For Kiprop, New York was not simply about recording a time or competing against the world's best. It was about discovering his limits, understanding the demands of the event and learning lessons that cannot always be acquired through training alone.

His debut may have ended with exhausted legs and a difficult final stretch, but it also marked the beginning of a new chapter in his distance-running journey. Having already demonstrated his capabilities with a 59:14 half marathon and a second-place finish in Houston, he now has his first full marathon behind him and a clearer understanding of what it takes to compete over 42.195 kilometres.

The marathon humbled him, tested his determination and reminded him that there is always more to learn.

His first 26.2 miles may have taught him a hard lesson, but the experience could be the foundation of something much greater. The next time he takes on the distance, he will arrive with more knowledge, greater understanding and unfinished business.

Because sometimes, the greatest victory in a first marathon is not how fast you finish, but what you learn along the way. 

The streets of New York have witnessed another extraordinary chapter in marathon history, with the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon becoming the first marathon ever to record more than 60,000 finishers.

A remarkable 61,146 runners successfully completed the iconic 26.2-mile journey on Sunday, November 1, setting a new global record for the highest number of finishers in a single marathon.

The New York Road Runners (NYRR), organisers of the prestigious event, confirmed the historic figures on Monday, November 2, officially restoring New York's position as the home of the world's largest marathon.

Of the 61,529 athletes who started the race on Staten Island, 61,146 made it across the finish line in Central Park. This means just 383 starters did not record a finish, representing an impressive completion rate of approximately 99.4 percent.

New York reclaimed the world record from the TCS London Marathon, which had established a new benchmark in April 2026 with 59,830 finishers. By surpassing that figure by 1,316 runners, the American race has once again raised the bar for participation in global distance running.

Even more remarkable is that this achievement represents the third consecutive year in which the New York City Marathon has established a new world record for the number of finishers, underlining the event's extraordinary growth and worldwide appeal.

Women have been at the heart of this remarkable expansion. Of the 1,920 additional finishers recorded compared with the previous year's edition, an impressive 1,786 were women, highlighting the growing participation of female athletes in long-distance running.

A record 28,942 women crossed the finish line, accounting for approximately 47.3 percent of the entire finishing field. Male finishers also reached an all-time high of 32,047, while 157 nonbinary runners completed the race, setting a new participation record in that category as well.

The international running community was equally well represented, with 15,745 international participants successfully completing the demanding course, further demonstrating the marathon's status as one of the most globally celebrated sporting events.

This historic achievement carries additional significance as the 2026 edition marked 50 years since the introduction of the famous five-borough course in 1976. What began as a relatively modest marathon largely confined to Central Park has evolved into an extraordinary celebration of endurance, determination and human achievement, taking runners through Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan.

Beyond the impressive statistics, the 2026 edition was a powerful reminder of what makes marathon running special: thousands of individual journeys, countless personal victories and a shared determination to reach the finish line.

With 61,146 finishers, New York has not simply broken a participation record; it has pushed the boundaries of what the world's biggest marathon can become.

A NEW WORLD RECORD, A HISTORIC MILESTONE AND 61,146 REASONS TO CELEBRATE. NEW YORK HAS MADE MARATHON HISTORY ONCE AGAIN! 

Jess McClain has completed one of the most remarkable comeback stories in American distance running, transforming years of injuries, uncertainty and time away from competition into a career-defining performance on the streets of New York.

The American distance-running star delivered an outstanding performance at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, finishing second in 2:24:42 after a thrilling battle for the women's podium.

Her achievement was about much more than securing a medal. It was a statement of resilience, determination and the extraordinary progress she has made since returning to competitive athletics.

McClain approached the race with remarkable composure, managing her effort intelligently throughout the demanding 42.195km distance. She reached the halfway point in 1:13:52 before producing an impressive second-half split of 1:11:10, demonstrating her strength and ability to finish strongly.

But the defining moment came in the closing metres.

As the runners approached the finish line in Central Park, McClain found another gear. In a dramatic final 100 metres, she launched a decisive surge, overtaking defending champion Hellen Obiri to snatch second place in one of the most exciting finishes of the women's race.

The margins were incredibly narrow. Kenya's Sheila Chepkirui successfully reclaimed the women's title in 2:24:36, while McClain crossed the line in 2:24:42, just one second ahead of Obiri, who finished third in 2:24:43.

That final burst of speed transformed an already outstanding performance into an unforgettable moment in American marathon history.

McClain became the first American woman since Shalane Flanagan in 2018 to reach the women's podium at the New York City Marathon, ending an eight-year wait for an American female podium finisher.

It was also the first World Marathon Major podium of her career, marking a significant breakthrough on the international stage. Her second-place finish also secured an automatic qualifying place for the United States at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Marathon, giving her Olympic ambitions a major boost as the road to LA28 begins.

What makes this achievement even more extraordinary is the difficult journey behind it.

Formerly known as Jessica Tonn, McClain stepped away from competitive running in early 2020 after struggling with persistent injuries. For nearly two years, she remained away from racing, with her professional future uncertain.

However, rather than allowing that difficult period to bring her ambitions to an end, she gradually found her way back. Her comeback began at the 2022 Mesa Marathon, where she immediately made an impression by winning in 2:33:34.

From there, her progress became increasingly impressive.

At the 2024 New York City Marathon, she finished eighth in 2:27:19 before taking seventh place at the 2025 Boston Marathon in 2:22:43.

She raised her level further in 2026, finishing fifth at the Boston Marathon in 2:20:49 and setting a new American women's course record, surpassing the previous mark held by Shalane Flanagan.

That performance established McClain as one of the strongest American marathoners, but her latest achievement in New York has taken her career to another level.

Her intelligent racing and remarkable finishing strength also earned admiration from defending champion Hellen Obiri, who praised McClain's tactical approach during the post-race press conference.

Recognition from an athlete of Obiri's calibre, a multiple world champion and one of the most accomplished distance runners of her generation, further underlined the quality of McClain's performance.

With the 2028 Olympic Games approaching, her latest result has added another compelling dimension to the American women's marathon scene. She is increasingly establishing herself as one of the country's leading contenders, with the confidence and experience to challenge the world's best.

From stepping away from the sport with an uncertain future to breaking records in Boston and reaching the podium in New York, McClain's resurgence has been extraordinary.

Her journey is a powerful reminder that an athlete's career is not always defined by uninterrupted progress. Sometimes, the greatest achievements come after the most difficult setbacks, when patience, determination and belief make a return possible.

In New York, Jess McClain did more than win a silver medal. She announced herself among the world's leading marathoners, made history for American distance running and gave her Olympic ambitions a remarkable start.

The road to Los Angeles 2028 has begun, and after everything she has overcome, McClain has every reason to believe that her greatest chapter may still lie ahead. 

What happens when one of the greatest marathon runners in history meets an Olympic sprint champion in a school cafeteria?

In New York City, it made for an unforgettable evening of athletics, laughter and community ahead of the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon.

On Friday, October 30, Nike Running transformed the cafeteria at Manhattan’s High School of Fashion Industries into “Cafeteria 26.2,” creating a classic American school-lunchroom atmosphere where runners could gather, enjoy a pre-race pasta meal and soak up the excitement building around one of the world’s most famous marathons.

But the food was not the only attraction.

Among the most memorable moments came when two of athletics’ biggest stars stepped away from the competition arena and behind the serving counter.

Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, widely regarded as one of the greatest marathoners of all time, joined American Olympic sprint champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden to serve pasta to runners preparing for Sunday’s race.

Wearing custom red Nike aprons emblazoned with the word “RUN,” the two champions embraced the unusual roles with plenty of energy, chatting with athletes, signing jackets and sharing smiles and photographs with members of the running community.

For the runners in attendance, it was a rare opportunity to interact with champions who represent two very different sides of the sport.

Kipchoge has built a legendary career around the marathon, winning the Olympic title twice and becoming the first person to complete the distance in under two hours in a specially staged event. Jefferson-Wooden, meanwhile, has established herself among the world’s leading sprinters, bringing explosive speed and Olympic success to the occasion.

Together, they created a striking picture: marathon endurance meeting sprinting speed, all in the most unexpected of places.

The evening also produced plenty of lighter moments. Social media users jokingly focused on Kipchoge’s seemingly careful pasta portions, turning a simple serving moment into another source of entertainment before race day.

But behind the jokes was something more meaningful.

“Cafeteria 26.2” captured the communal spirit that makes major road races so special. Before thousands of runners would take on the bridges, hills and streets of New York, they were given a chance to share a meal, meet fellow athletes and celebrate the sport away from the pressure of competition.

And with Kipchoge and Jefferson-Wooden on the other side of the serving counter, the night offered a reminder that athletics is not only about records, medals and finish lines.

Sometimes, it is simply about bringing people together.

From the explosive world of the 100 metres to the relentless demands of 26.2 miles, different disciplines may require different kinds of greatness—but they are united by the same passion to RUN.

Sweden’s Andreas Almgren has turned his marathon debut into a piece of history.

The 31-year-old produced a stunning performance at the 2026 New York City Marathon, winning in 2:06:01 and becoming the first Swedish man to conquer one of the world’s most prestigious marathons.

But Almgren’s breakthrough was about far more than a personal victory. His triumph marked the end of a remarkable era of African dominance in two of the sport’s biggest distance-running competitions.

Almgren became the first non-African-born male winner of the New York City Marathon since Brazil’s Marílson Gomes dos Santos claimed his second title in 2008. For 18 years, the race had remained without another non-African-born male champion.

His achievement also added another remarkable chapter to a career that has already produced a major global breakthrough. Almgren had previously become the first non-African man since Italy’s Stefano Baldini in 1996 to win the World Half Marathon title, ending a three-decade wait for another victory of that kind.

His New York triumph was even more unusual because it came on his marathon debut. Almgren became the first man since Ethiopia’s Gebre Gebremariam in 2010 to win the New York City Marathon in his first attempt at the distance.

For Sweden, the significance is even greater.

Almgren is now the first Swedish man to win the New York City Marathon and the first Swedish athlete to claim a men’s World Marathon Major title, placing his name alongside some of the greatest distance runners in history.

New York has long been a stage where experienced marathoners, Olympic medallists and established champions battle for glory. Almgren arrived without a marathon race on his résumé and left with one of the most remarkable debut victories the event has witnessed.

His 2:06:01 was not simply a winning time. It was the performance that transformed an ambitious first marathon into a landmark moment for Swedish athletics.

From the World Half Marathon title to the streets of New York, Almgren has now broken barriers that had stood for decades.

A new chapter in marathon history has begun — and Sweden has found its newest distance-running star.

The New York City Marathon is celebrated as a day of courage, endurance and achievement — a race where thousands of runners push their limits while families and friends wait eagerly to see them cross the finish line.

For one family, however, November 1, 2026, became a day of unimaginable heartbreak.

Twenty-four-year-old Rachel Apa, a former Division I field hockey athlete at Bucknell University, was running her first marathon when she collapsed in Central Park with roughly two miles remaining. She never made it to the finish line.

Rachel had entered the race with a deeply personal purpose. She was running in honour of her late grandfather, who had battled Parkinson’s disease, while raising money and awareness for Parkinson’s research and care.

Her family followed her journey closely as she made her way through the five boroughs.

Rachel exchanged messages with her father, Steve, during the race as he monitored her progress remotely. At Mile 18, she sent a brief message: “Ow.”

One mile later, another message arrived: “Ow ow.”

Then, at Mile 23, came her final message: “Final stretch.”

Those words would become heartbreaking in hindsight.

Rachel’s mother, Michelle, was waiting around Mile 25 in Central Park, expecting to see her daughter approaching the finish line. She was preparing for a moment of celebration — to watch Rachel complete the biggest running challenge of her life.

Instead, Rachel’s tracking-app location stopped moving around Mile 24.

At approximately 1:30 p.m., Rachel collapsed near 85th Street in Central Park. Spectators rushed to help, including medical professionals who began performing CPR. New York Road Runners’ medical team soon arrived with a defibrillator, and Rachel was taken to Mount Sinai Medical Center.

Doctors fought for more than six hours to save her life.

But at approximately 9:40 p.m., Rachel was pronounced dead.

According to her father, doctors attributed her death to rhabdomyolysis, a serious medical condition in which damaged muscle tissue breaks down rapidly and releases substances into the bloodstream that can cause severe complications.

The tragedy sent shockwaves through the running community.

New York Road Runners, organisers of the New York City Marathon, expressed deep sadness over Rachel’s death and extended their condolences to her family, friends and everyone affected by the loss.

Rachel’s marathon was never simply about completing 26.2 miles.

It was about family. It was about memory. It was about honouring her grandfather and helping others affected by Parkinson’s disease.

She had already pushed through more than 24 miles of one of the world’s toughest and most demanding marathon courses. She was so close to the finish line that her final message to her father was simply, “Final stretch.”

But the finish line she had spent months preparing for would remain out of reach.

For Rachel’s family, the New York City Marathon will forever be remembered not for the finish line, but for the devastating moment when a day of hope became a night of grief.

Her mother was waiting to celebrate her daughter’s achievement. Instead, she was left facing an unimaginable loss.

Rachel Apa was just 24 years old.

She came to New York chasing a dream, carrying the memory of someone she loved and running for a cause close to her heart. She never got to finish the race, but her story will remain with the people who knew her and with a running community that mourns her loss.

For Phily Bowden, the 2026 New York City Marathon was never going to be just another race.

At around 6 a.m. on Sunday, while travelling by bus toward the marathon start, the British marathoner received heartbreaking news that would change the meaning of the 26.2 miles ahead of her: her close friend and former training partner, Ciara Mageean, had died.

Mageean, the celebrated Irish middle-distance star and 2024 European 1500m champion, was just 34. She had been battling bowel cancer, and her death sent shockwaves through the athletics community.

For Bowden, the loss was deeply personal.

The two athletes shared years of memories, having trained together under coach Helen Clitheroe as part of the New Balance Manchester group. Their friendship extended far beyond running, and Bowden had only recently made a special journey to Ireland during the final stages of her marathon preparation so she could be present for Mageean’s wedding.

One week later, Bowden found herself standing on the start line in New York carrying a grief she could never have prepared for.

Yet despite the shock and heartbreak, she still ran.

It was Bowden’s first marathon since the 2025 London Marathon after an injury-interrupted period, and she admitted afterward that simply returning to the marathon itself felt like an important step forward.

The race, however, became an entirely different challenge from the one she had imagined.

Bowden spent around 14 miles running largely on her own, without the rhythm of a group to help pull her through the difficult stretches. Rather than allowing the isolation to break her, she gradually began to rebuild her momentum.

Over the final 10 kilometres, she started closing the gaps to the runners ahead, finding the strength to fight her way through the field and finish strongly.

She eventually crossed the line in 17th place in 2:30:45.

The result was well outside the 2:25:47 personal best she set in Berlin in 2024. But on a day when her mind was occupied by something infinitely bigger than a finishing time, Bowden knew the stopwatch could not tell the whole story.

She later admitted that parts of the race had become a blur.

There was an understandable struggle to care about seconds, places or performance when she had just lost someone so important to her. Bowden had tried to remain in “athlete mode” and concentrate on the process for 26.2 miles, but grief refused to be placed neatly to one side.

She was human, and the emotions followed her around every corner of New York.

And then came the thought of Mageean.

Bowden knew her friend would never have wanted her to surrender to the sadness. Mageean was a fighter in everything she pursued, both as an athlete and as a friend, and that memory became a source of strength during the race.

So Bowden fought for her.

She also paid tribute to the women in the professional field who helped her during the race, expressing her gratitude to those who were there to catch her when she needed support.

The marathon therefore became more than a comeback race. It became a deeply personal farewell and a celebration of a friendship that had meant so much.

Bowden also acknowledged the strange mixture of emotions that followed such an overwhelming day. Sadness, shock, happiness, pride, love and fear could somehow exist together, even when they seemed impossible to reconcile.

That, she realised, was part of the reality of living through grief.

And while carrying on without Mageean feels difficult, Bowden wants to honour her friend by embracing the things she believes Mageean would have wanted: finding moments of joy, making the most of life and laughing more than crying.

That may become Bowden’s way of keeping Mageean close.

For 26.2 miles, the streets of New York became more than a marathon course. They became a place of remembrance, resilience and love.

Bowden crossed the finish line in 17th, but the significance of her day went far beyond her position or 2:30:45.

She ran through grief. She fought when it would have been understandable to stop emotionally. And she carried the memory of an extraordinary friend from the starting line to the finish.

“This one was for you, Ciara,” Bowden wrote.

And in every difficult mile, every rally and every final push toward the finish, her friend was never far from her thoughts.

James Milner spent 24 years topping preseason fitness tests. On Sunday, the former Liverpool, Manchester City and England midfielder took that remarkable engine somewhere it could be measured over an entirely different distance — the streets of New York.

Milner completed the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon in 3:09:04, making an impressive marathon debut at the age of 40. He covered the 42.195-kilometre course at an average pace of approximately 4:28 per kilometre, taking on the bridges, rolling terrain and demanding late stages of one of the world's most iconic marathons.

The race was another demonstration of the endurance that became one of the defining features of Milner's extraordinary football career. For more than two decades, his work rate, professionalism and physical conditioning helped him compete at the highest level of English football.

He went out hard, as planned, reaching halfway in around 1:31 before paying some of the inevitable price during the second half. His closing half took approximately 1:38 — a familiar marathon story in which an ambitious early pace eventually begins collecting what was borrowed in the opening stages.

Still, Milner held on impressively to finish just over three hours, producing a performance that would have been remarkable for any first-time marathoner and particularly striking for an athlete who had only recently stepped away from professional football.

Milner retired at the end of last season after an extraordinary 658 Premier League appearances, the most in the history of the competition. Having turned 40 in January, he could easily have allowed retirement to become a quieter chapter of his life. Instead, he found another demanding sporting challenge and took it to one of the world's biggest stages.

This time, however, the motivation went beyond simply testing himself. Milner ran the New York City Marathon in support of his own foundation, adding a personal and charitable purpose to an already significant sporting challenge.

There is also an important part of Milner's story that can easily be overlooked: the injury setbacks he experienced late in his career. At one point, he endured a period when he was uncertain whether he would ever walk properly again. Yet he recovered, returned to professional football and continued competing at the highest level before eventually turning his attention to the marathon.

Before the race, Milner was careful not to become obsessed with the clock. He repeatedly emphasised that completing and enjoying his first marathon was more important than chasing a particular finishing time. But the competitive instincts that had driven him throughout his football career were never going to disappear completely.

And perhaps that is what makes his 3:09:04 even more interesting. Milner finished within ten minutes of the sub-three-hour marathon he once believed he could run — leaving him with something more valuable than simply a debut finishing time.

Most marathon debuts end with a finishing time.

This one ends with a target.

Motherhood didn't stop her. It simply became part of the journey. 

Just six months after giving birth, lifestyle influencer Allison Kuch took on one of the world's most iconic road races, completing the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon in a deeply personal debut that went far beyond the 26.2 miles.

For Kuch, the marathon was not simply about reaching the finish line. It was a demanding test of endurance, recovery and the realities of life as a new mother.

During the race, at around Mile 17, Kuch paused at an official lactation support station to breastfeed her six-month-old daughter before returning to the course and continuing her marathon journey.

The moment offered a remarkable glimpse into the reality of balancing motherhood with personal ambition. While many runners spend race day focused entirely on pacing, fueling and finishing times, Kuch had another responsibility waiting for her along the course — caring for her baby.

Her preparation for the marathon was far from straightforward. In the months leading up to her debut, Kuch openly documented the challenges of training while navigating life with a newborn, including severe sleep deprivation and a painful bout of mastitis.

Yet she continued to train, recover and prepare for the biggest running challenge of her life.

Running the New York City Marathon in partnership with Maybelline, Kuch also used the platform to support mental-health initiatives, turning her marathon experience into an opportunity to raise awareness around an issue that affects countless people.

Her support system was there to witness the achievement. Her husband, former NFL player Isaac Rochell, and her sister Emily were among those cheering her along the course.

Rochell later shared a video celebrating Kuch's extraordinary day, emphasizing that the world deserved to see what she had accomplished.

From pregnancy to postpartum recovery, breastfeeding and finally completing her first marathon, Kuch's journey represents a powerful story of resilience and determination.

She didn't simply run 26.2 miles through New York City.

She ran while embracing the demands of motherhood, proving that becoming a mother does not have to mean putting personal dreams on hold.

Sometimes, the journey simply looks different.

And for Allison Kuch, that journey carried her all the way to the finish line. 

Andreas Almgren didn’t just make history on the streets of New York — he also gave the running world an early glimpse of Nike’s next generation of marathon technology.

Making his marathon debut at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, the Swedish star produced a remarkable performance to win the men’s race in 2:06:01, becoming the first Swedish athlete to win the New York City Marathon. He pulled away from Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa in the closing stages to claim a sensational victory on one of the sport’s toughest marathon courses.

But there was another story unfolding beneath his feet.

Almgren raced in the Nike Apex, Nike’s newest elite marathon racing shoe — a model that has not even reached the market yet. His victory in New York marked the shoe’s first World Marathon Major victory, giving Nike an immediate headline moment for a product that runners will not be able to buy until January 2027.

The Apex is built around an aggressive 40 mm platform, right at the maximum stack height permitted under World Athletics competition regulations. It also features a rare zero-drop design, meaning the heel and forefoot sit at essentially the same height.

Its most distinctive feature is hidden inside the midsole: four Air Zoom units arranged in two stacked pairs beneath the forefoot. Nike has combined that system with ZoomX LT foam and a redesigned carbon-fibre Flyplate in an attempt to create a racing shoe capable of delivering exceptional propulsion while remaining remarkably light.

Nike says the Apex delivers up to 40% more energy return than the Alphafly 3 in its testing and weighs more than 10% less. Those are manufacturer claims, but Almgren’s New York victory has already given the shoe a spectacular introduction on the biggest stage.

And the timing makes the story even more intriguing.

The Nike Apex is scheduled to go on sale in January 2027, meaning Almgren won one of the world's biggest marathons in a shoe that most runners cannot yet purchase. Nike has positioned it as its top race-day option for athletes chasing every possible second.

While Nike celebrated a breakthrough, adidas continued its extraordinary run of success in the women’s marathon.

Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui captured her second New York City Marathon title in three years, winning in 2:24:36 after pulling away from defending champion Hellen Obiri in the closing stages. American Jessica McClain surged past Obiri to finish second in 2:24:42, while Obiri was third in 2:24:43.

Chepkirui raced in adidas’ Adizero Adios Pro 3, adding another major victory to a remarkably successful season for the shoe.

So, while Almgren’s breakthrough was the headline, New York also offered a fascinating snapshot of where elite marathon footwear is heading: Nike’s unreleased Apex has already won a Major, while adidas’ proven Adizero platform continues to dominate the biggest races.

The marathon super-shoe battle is clearly not slowing down.

And with the Nike Apex still waiting to hit store shelves, Almgren may have just shown the world a glimpse of the future — before the rest of us even get the chance to lace it up.

From enjoying roasted maize in Kenya to standing on the podium of one of the world’s most iconic marathons, Yemaneberhan Crippa’s 2026 season has become a remarkable story of preparation, perseverance and belief.

The Italian distance-running star spent part of his marathon preparation in Iten, Kenya, the legendary high-altitude town in the Rift Valley that has produced and attracted some of the world’s greatest distance runners.

But Crippa’s time in Kenya was about more than simply putting in the kilometres.

He immersed himself in the local running culture and embraced moments away from training, including a memorable encounter with roasted maize, one of Kenya’s popular street foods. It was a simple glimpse of the lighter side of life in a country where running is deeply woven into everyday culture.

Behind those relaxed moments, however, Crippa was engaged in demanding altitude training designed to develop the endurance and strength required to compete over 42.195 kilometres.

Training in Kenya gave him an opportunity to experience an environment where distance running is a way of life. Surrounded by athletes, coaches and runners pursuing similar ambitions, Crippa continued building the foundation for what would become a breakthrough marathon season.

The results soon began to speak for themselves.

In April, Crippa produced one of the biggest performances of his career by winning the Paris Marathon in a personal best of 2:05:18. The victory established him as a serious contender over the marathon distance and provided a major confidence boost for the challenges ahead.

But New York would offer an even greater test.

On November 1, Crippa lined up for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon alongside a world-class field, ready to measure his progress on one of the most demanding and prestigious marathon courses in the world.

He did not disappoint.

Crippa fought his way into a thrilling battle for victory and remained firmly in contention deep into the race. When the decisive moments arrived, Sweden’s Andreas Almgren produced a powerful late surge, pulling away from Crippa inside the final 400 metres.

Almgren crossed the finish line first in 2:06:01, while Crippa secured an impressive second place in 2:06:14.

For Crippa, the silver medal represented far more than another strong marathon result. It was the best performance by an Italian man at the New York City Marathon in 30 years and another significant step in his transformation into a world-class marathoner.

His New York performance also gave fresh meaning to the months he had spent preparing in Kenya.

From the high-altitude roads of Iten, where he trained alongside runners immersed in Kenya’s legendary distance-running culture, to the packed streets of Manhattan, Crippa carried the lessons of his preparation onto one of the biggest stages in the sport.

There was a time in Kenya for hard workouts, altitude adaptation and building endurance. There were also moments to experience the culture, enjoy the simple things and appreciate the environment around him.

Now, those memories are part of a season in which Crippa has firmly announced himself on the marathon scene.

And after achieving his New York breakthrough, Crippa struggled to put the magnitude of the moment into words.

Reflecting on his performance, the Italian shared an emotional message that captured the significance of the silver medal.

“Yesterday I spoke about a dream, today it is reality… New York,” Crippa wrote, celebrating his second-place finish in the city that had become the setting for one of the biggest moments of his career.

He added: “I gave it everything, until the end.”

The emotion of the experience was still fresh for the Italian, who admitted that he was not yet sure how to fully describe what he had lived through.

“I still don’t know how to describe what I experienced yesterday. I only know that it is an emotion I will carry with me for a long time.”

Those words perfectly capture what New York meant to Crippa. The result was not simply a number on the clock or another podium finish—it was the reward for months of preparation, sacrifice and belief.

From the training grounds of Kenya to the world stage in New York, Crippa has shown what can happen when ambition is matched with relentless work.

His message was simple but powerful: “There is nothing you cannot achieve.”

From enjoying Kenyan culture to conquering the streets of New York, Yemaneberhan Crippa’s journey has been extraordinary.

A dream became reality. A demanding season produced a major breakthrough. And a young man who embraced Kenya’s running culture returned to the world stage with a New York City Marathon silver medal around his neck.

Kenya builds champions, and the world comes to train.

There are few better examples of marathon longevity than Edna Kiplagat.

At 46, the Kenyan distance-running legend continues to compete with the world’s best, proving that age does not necessarily diminish an athlete’s ability to perform at the highest level when experience, discipline and an enduring passion for competition remain intact.

On Sunday, November 1, Kiplagat lined up for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon and produced another remarkable performance, finishing fourth in 2:25:42 against a world-class women’s field.

While the podium eluded her, the result once again underlined the extraordinary durability of a career that has spanned more than two decades at the elite level.

Kiplagat is a two-time World Athletics Championships marathon gold medallist, winning the world title in 2011 before successfully defending her crown in 2013. She has also built an extraordinary résumé on the world’s biggest marathon stages, claiming victories at the New York City Marathon in 2010, the London Marathon in 2014 and the Boston Marathon in both 2017 and 2021.

What makes Kiplagat’s latest performance even more striking is not simply the time on the clock, but the level of competition she continues to embrace. At an age when many athletes have long stepped away from elite racing, the Kenyan veteran is still willing to test herself on some of the sport’s biggest stages, sharing the starting line with runners from a much younger generation.

Born on November 15, 1979, Kiplagat is just days away from celebrating her 47th birthday. Yet rather than stepping away from elite competition, she continues to line up alongside athletes considerably younger than her, showing that experience can remain a formidable weapon over 42.195 kilometres.

Her fourth-place finish in New York was more than another result on a long list of achievements. It was another reminder of the consistency, resilience and professionalism required to remain competitive at the highest level of marathon running for so many years.

Kiplagat’s career has been defined by major victories, championship success and remarkable staying power. Now, well into her forties, she continues to add new chapters to a legacy that has already secured her place among Kenya’s most accomplished marathoners.

For Kiplagat, the marathon has become more than a collection of victories and medals; it is a story of extraordinary longevity. Every appearance adds another page to a career built on patience, toughness and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her presence in New York was another powerful reminder that while time moves forward, champions with the right mindset can continue to write their own rules.

At 46, she is still racing. Still competing. Still challenging the best.

And perhaps most importantly, Edna Kiplagat is still proving that greatness is not measured by the number on a birth certificate, but by the standards an athlete continues to uphold.

Ethiopian middle-distance runner Mosisa Siyoum has been handed an eight-year ban from athletics, ending his competitive career until 2034 after an investigation uncovered both an EPO violation and an attempt to mislead the anti-doping process.

The 27-year-old 1,500m runner tested positive for erythropoietin (EPO) from a sample collected in Toruń, Poland, in February 2026, during the weekend of the Copernicus Cup.

Siyoum initially provided a medical explanation for the presence of the prohibited substance. He told investigators that he had lost consciousness at home, was taken to a health facility, diagnosed with anaemia and subsequently given an EPO injection. To support his account, he submitted documents that he claimed came from the medical facility.

However, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) began examining the circumstances surrounding the alleged treatment and found serious inconsistencies in the paperwork.

According to the AIU's investigation, the name of the healthcare provider listed on the documents did not correspond with the signature appearing on them. The investigation went further, with the AIU conducting two in-person interviews with Siyoum and making direct inquiries with the health centre identified in the documents.

Those inquiries ultimately established that Siyoum had not attended the facility on the date stated in the medical records.

The discovery significantly escalated the case. While the EPO violation alone carried a four-year period of ineligibility, the additional finding of tampering with the doping-control process resulted in another four-year sanction.

Under World Athletics' anti-doping rules, the two periods do not run concurrently. The four-year tampering sanction therefore follows the four-year doping ban, producing a total suspension of eight years.

Siyoum did not contest the charges. His period of ineligibility began on May 5, 2026, meaning he will remain banned from athletics until May 2034.

The sanctions also carry a major retrospective consequence. All of Siyoum's results dating back to December 13, 2025, have been disqualified, with the associated titles, rankings, prizes and other consequences subject to the applicable rules.

Despite competing at a high level domestically, Siyoum never represented Ethiopia at an international championship. His case was among four AIU decisions published on Thursday, adding another significant anti-doping case to athletics' continuing efforts to protect the integrity of competition.

What began as an EPO positive has ultimately become a much more serious case, with the investigation into the medical explanation leading to a second violation and an eight-year exclusion from the sport.

Jess McClain saved her best for the moment when the New York City Marathon demanded everything.

With the finish line approaching in Central Park, the 34-year-old American was still chasing the two-time Olympic medalist and defending champion Hellen Obiri. Then came the decisive move.

McClain surged through the closing stages, overtaking Obiri in the final meters to seize second place in 2:24:42 at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon. Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui held on for victory in 2:24:36, while Obiri finished just one second behind McClain in 2:24:43.

The result ended an eight-year wait for an American woman on the New York City Marathon podium. The last was Shalane Flanagan, who finished third in 2018 after winning the race the previous year. McClain became the first American woman since Flanagan to break into the top three on one of the sport’s most iconic stages.

McClain’s race was built on patience and belief. The opening half was covered in a relatively controlled 1:13:52, leaving a large group of contenders still within striking distance. Rather than forcing the pace early, McClain stayed composed and positioned herself for the decisive stages of the race.

As the marathon moved toward Fifth Avenue and Central Park, the race finally began to fracture. Chepkirui and Obiri established themselves at the front, but McClain refused to let them disappear. She continued to close the gap while making the most of the Central Park curves, running the tangents efficiently and conserving precious distance.

By the final stretch, the opportunity was there.

McClain produced one last surge and caught Obiri just before the finish, turning what had looked like a battle for third into a stunning runner-up finish. World Athletics described her closing effort as superb, with McClain taking second by just one second.

The New York breakthrough comes during the strongest period of McClain’s marathon career. Earlier this year in Boston, she ran 2:20:49 to finish fifth and set the fastest marathon ever recorded by an American woman on the Boston course, breaking Shalane Flanagan’s previous mark of 2:22:02.

Her New York performance now adds another major milestone. McClain’s top-five finish qualifies her for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, scheduled for March 25, 2028, in St. Louis. Three American women will ultimately earn places on the U.S. Olympic team for the Los Angeles Games.

For McClain, the journey has been anything but straightforward. A former Stanford standout and seven-time NCAA All-American, she stepped away from elite competition for a period before returning to the marathon and gradually rebuilding herself into one of America’s leading distance runners. Her fourth-place finish at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials showed she belonged among the country’s best; her performances in Boston and New York have now taken that belief to another level.

At 34, McClain is proving that marathon success is not always about arriving early. Sometimes it is about staying patient, learning from every setback and being ready when the biggest opportunity finally arrives.

In New York, with the crowds roaring through Central Park and the podium within reach, Jess McClain did exactly that.

She waited.

She believed.

And when the moment came, she took it.

Zouhair Talbi did not approach the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon with the mindset of a runner simply hoping to survive the demanding streets of the Big Apple. The 31-year-old American attacked the race from the front, repeatedly testing a world-class field and ultimately leaving New York with a historic performance.

Talbi was one of the most aggressive runners during the opening half of the race, moving to the front and driving the pace through halfway in 1:04:01. Rather than retreat into the pack, he continued to show his ambition, making another move around the 25-kilometre mark and remaining firmly among the leaders deep into the race. World Athletics reported that he was still part of the leading battle approaching 40 kilometres.

The decisive moments came late. Kenya’s Benson Kipruto launched a powerful surge over the 23rd mile, helping break the race apart as Sweden’s Andreas Almgren, Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa and the defending champion Kipruto fought for victory. Talbi remained in contention deep into the closing stages, but eventually lost contact with the leaders.

Almgren then produced a remarkable final phase to claim victory in his marathon debut, becoming the first Swedish winner of the New York City Marathon in 2:06:01. Crippa finished second in 2:06:14, while Kamohelo Mofolo of Lesotho secured third in 2:06:26. Kipruto was fourth in 2:06:27 and Australia’s Haftu Strintzos fifth in 2:06:34.

Talbi crossed the line in sixth place in 2:06:43, just nine seconds outside the top five. On paper, sixth place might appear to tell only part of the story. In reality, his performance was one of the boldest American displays of the day.

His time rewrote the New York record books.

Talbi’s 2:06:43 is now the fastest time ever run by an American man on the New York City Marathon course, surpassing Conner Mantz’s 2:09:00 from 2024. New York Road Runners confirmed that the 2026 race produced the four fastest American men's performances ever recorded on the course.

The depth of the American performance made the achievement even more striking. Ahmed Muhumed, making his marathon debut, finished eighth in 2:07:09, while Ryan Ford placed 10th in 2:07:17. Conner Mantz, returning to marathon racing after an injury layoff, was 11th in 2:07:27.

For Talbi, the New York performance represents another major chapter in a remarkable rise. Born and raised in Morocco, he became a U.S. citizen in 2025 after joining the U.S. Army Reserve. He represented Morocco at the 2024 Paris Olympic Marathon, meaning he must wait until August 2027 before becoming eligible to represent the United States in international competition under World Athletics' transfer rules.

That future now looks increasingly intriguing.

Talbi already owns a personal best of 2:03:45, set at the 2026 Boston Marathon, and has established himself among the leading marathoners in the United States. Although the Boston performance is not eligible for official record purposes because of the course's downhill profile, it demonstrates the level of ability he possesses.

There is also a sense of unfinished business in New York. Talbi's previous appearance at the race came in 2023, when he did not finish. Three years later, he returned as an American citizen and transformed the same course into the stage for one of the most aggressive performances of his career.

With international eligibility approaching in 2027 and the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials on the horizon, Talbi is no longer simply a talented newcomer to the American marathon scene.

He is becoming one of the men the United States will have to reckon with.

And after the way he raced New York, the biggest question may no longer be whether Talbi belongs among America's best marathoners — but just how far he can take this new chapter of his career.

From an 800m junior to a world road-running champion — and now a New York City Marathon winner. Andreas Almgren’s remarkable transformation has reached another extraordinary level.

Sweden’s Andreas Almgren has produced a marathon debut for the history books, winning the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon in 2:06:01 and becoming the first man to win the iconic race on his debut over the 26.2-mile distance.

The 31-year-old Swede arrived in New York without a marathon on his résumé, yet he handled the demanding five-borough course with the confidence and composure of a seasoned marathoner. By the finish, he had established himself as the latest champion of one of the most prestigious races in world road running.

Almgren crossed the line 13 seconds clear of Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa, who finished second in 2:06:14. The victory completed a remarkable progression for an athlete whose career has taken him far beyond his original middle-distance roots.

Almgren’s historic victory came in an incredibly tight men’s race, with just 16 seconds separating the top 10 finishers. Yemaneberhan Crippa followed closely in second, while Kamohelo Mofolo secured an impressive third place, only 25 seconds behind the winner. Defending champion Benson Kipruto finished fourth, with Haftu Strintzos fifth and Zouhair Talbi sixth. Ryota Kondo, Ahmed Muhumed, Geoffrey Kamworor and Ryan Ford completed a remarkably competitive top 10, with several athletes separated by only seconds at the finish.

2026 TCS NEW YORK CITY MARATHON — MEN'S TOP 10

1. Andreas Almgren — Sweden — 2:06:01

2. Yemaneberhan Crippa — Italy — 2:06:14

3. Kamohelo Mofolo — Lesotho — 2:06:26

4. Benson Kipruto — Kenya — 2:06:27

5. Haftu Strintzos — Australia — 2:06:34

6. Zouhair Talbi — United States — 2:06:43

7. Ahmed Muhumed — United States — 2:07:08

8. Geoffrey Kamworor — Kenya — 2:07:09

9. Ryota Kondo — Japan — 2:07:09

10. Ryan Ford — United States — 2:07:17 

The New York triumph comes only weeks after Almgren became the World Road Running Championships half marathon champion in Copenhagen. There, he stormed to victory in 58:06, setting a new European record and underlining the endurance that would eventually carry him to marathon glory.

His 2026 season had already been extraordinary before he arrived in New York. In January, Almgren ran 26:45 for 10km in Valencia, continuing his rapid rise on the roads. He later captured the European 10,000m title, adding another major championship crown to an increasingly impressive résumé.

He also remains the European record-holder over 5,000m, highlighting the extraordinary range that has become a defining feature of his career.

But perhaps the most remarkable chapter of Almgren’s journey began much earlier.

As a junior, he was primarily an 800m runner, winning bronze at the 2014 World U20 Championships. Over the years, he gradually transformed himself from a middle-distance specialist into one of Europe’s leading long-distance athletes, moving successfully through the 5,000m and 10,000m, then onto the roads and eventually the marathon.

Twelve years after standing on the podium as an 800m junior, Almgren has now conquered one of the world’s most famous marathons.

And he did it on his very first attempt.

His performance in New York was more than a victory. It was the latest and perhaps most spectacular milestone in a career defined by reinvention, range and an extraordinary ability to keep raising the limits of what seemed possible.

Andreas Almgren came to New York for his first marathon. He left as a champion — and a piece of history.

Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui has conquered the streets of New York once again, claiming a second TCS New York City Marathon title after producing a perfectly timed late surge to win a thrilling women’s race in 2:24:36.

Chepkirui, who previously triumphed in New York in 2024, remained composed through a fiercely contested battle before making her decisive move in the closing stages. The Kenyan held off defending champion and compatriot Hellen Obiri to reclaim the title in one of the most dramatic finishes of the 2026 World Marathon Majors season.

But behind the winner, American Jess McClain delivered one of the biggest moments of the race.

McClain produced a sensational finishing kick, closing rapidly on Chepkirui and Obiri as the trio approached the finish. After trailing the leading pair late in the race, she timed her move brilliantly and powered past Obiri in the closing metres.

McClain stopped the clock at 2:24:42, just six seconds behind Chepkirui and one second ahead of Obiri, who finished third in 2:24:43.

Age proved to be nothing more than a number as 46-year-old Kenyan veteran Edna Kiplagat produced another remarkable performance on the streets of New York, finishing fourth in 2:25:42. Just over a minute behind winner Sheila Chepkirui, Kiplagat once again demonstrated her remarkable longevity and ability to compete at the highest level, mixing it with a new generation of elite marathoners in one of the world’s most prestigious races.

The depth of the women’s field was further underlined by the performances behind the podium. Kenya continued to dominate the leading group, with Mercy Chelangat fifth in 2:25:46, while the United States placed three athletes inside the top eight. Viola Cheptoo also secured ninth in 2:28:34, giving Kenya five runners among the top 10. The results reflected the extraordinary quality and competitiveness of the 2026 New York City Marathon women’s race, with the leading athletes separated by only a handful of minutes.

2026 TCS NEW YORK CITY MARATHON — WOMEN'S TOP 10

1. Sheila Chepkirui — Kenya — 2:24:36

2. Jessica McClain — United States — 2:24:42

3. Hellen Obiri — Kenya — 2:24:43

4. Edna Kiplagat — Kenya — 2:25:42

5. Mercy Chelangat — Kenya — 2:25:46

6. Carrie Ellwood — United States — 2:26:28

7. Weini Kelati — United States — 2:26:51

8. Paige Wood — United States — 2:27:29

9. Viola Cheptoo — Kenya — 2:28:34

10. Fabienne Königstein — Germany — 2:28:49

The American’s performance was historic. McClain became the first U.S. woman since Shalane Flanagan in 2018 to reach the New York City Marathon podium, ending an eight-year wait for an American woman to finish among the top three in the iconic race.

Her runner-up finish also puts McClain in a strong position on the road to the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, adding another significant milestone to an already remarkable day.

For Obiri, the result was a rare departure from the top step in New York. The defending champion and course-record holder fought throughout the closing stages, repeatedly challenging Chepkirui before ultimately finishing just seven seconds behind the winner.

The Kenyan battle remained intense deep into Central Park, with Chepkirui and Obiri exchanging surges before Chepkirui finally managed to create enough separation. McClain then produced her spectacular late charge, overtaking Obiri in the final stretch to steal second place by the narrowest of margins.

Chepkirui’s 2:24:36 secured another chapter in her growing New York legacy, while McClain’s 2:24:42 announced her arrival on one of marathon running’s biggest stages.

In a race decided by seconds, Chepkirui had the winning move, McClain had the biggest late surge, and Obiri was left to settle for third.

New York once again delivered a finish worthy of its reputation.

Irish athletics is mourning the devastating loss of Ciara Mageean, who has died at the age of 34 following a courageous battle with cancer.

Mageean, one of Ireland’s most accomplished middle-distance runners, passed away at 6:30 a.m. surrounded by her loved ones, according to a statement shared by her family on social media.

“At 6.30am this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer surrounded by her loved ones,” the statement read. “A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.”

The message concluded with the Irish blessing: “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”

Born in Portaferry, County Down, on 12 March 1992, Mageean built an exceptional career in the 1500m, combining remarkable talent with resilience through years of injuries and setbacks.

Her defining sporting moment came at the 2024 European Athletics Championships in Rome, where she finally claimed the major outdoor title that had eluded her. In a fiercely contested 1500m final, Mageean produced a powerful finish to win gold in 4:04.66, completing a remarkable European medal collection after bronze in 2016 and silver in 2022.

That victory was the culmination of years of perseverance. Mageean had already established herself among Ireland’s leading middle-distance athletes, representing her country at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. She was also selected for Paris 2024, but an Achilles injury prevented her from taking part in the 1500m.

Her achievements extended beyond the European Championships. Mageean won silver in the 1500m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and finished fourth at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest. She also collected European indoor bronze in 2019 and established herself as a record-holder across several distances.

Her personal best of 3:55.87 in the 1500m, set in 2023, remains an Irish national record, while she also held Irish records for 800m, 1000m and the mile.

But Mageean’s legacy reaches far beyond times, medals and championship results. Her career was defined by determination, openness and an ability to inspire people through the difficult moments as much as the triumphs.

In July 2025, Mageean publicly revealed that she had been diagnosed with stage-four bowel cancer. Even as she confronted an extraordinarily difficult chapter away from the track, she continued to demonstrate the courage and spirit that had defined her athletic career.

Her death brings an extraordinarily accomplished sporting life to a heartbreaking end at just 34.

From Portaferry to the Olympic Games and ultimately the top step of the European podium, Mageean left an indelible mark on Irish athletics. Her European title in Rome will remain one of the defining moments of her career, but so too will the resilience she showed throughout a journey marked by adversity.

Ciara Mageean leaves behind a legacy that extends well beyond the 1500m. She was an Olympian, a European champion, a national record-holder and, above all, an inspiration to countless people who followed her journey.

Ciara Mageean, 1992–2026. Her name will remain part of Irish athletics history.

Kenya’s Philimon Kiptoo Kipchumba produced a remarkable performance at the 48th Istanbul Marathon, winning the men’s race in a dramatic finish and smashing the course record in the process.

Kipchumba crossed the line in 2:08:44.9, holding off Ethiopia’s Sufaro Woliyi Kebeto, who finished just 10 seconds behind in 2:08:54.7. Kenya’s Vincent Kipyegon Ronoh completed the podium in 2:08:57.7, with all three athletes breaking 2:09 in a fiercely contested race.

The victory also saw Kipchumba erase the previous Istanbul Marathon course record of 2:09:44, set by fellow Kenyan Daniel Kibet in 2019. His performance improved the long-standing mark by almost one minute and added another significant achievement to Kenya’s rich marathon tradition.

The race remained closely fought deep into the closing stages, with Kipchumba, Kebeto and Ronoh separated by only seconds. Kipchumba ultimately produced the decisive finish to claim the title on one of the most distinctive marathon courses in the world.

The Istanbul Marathon, famous for connecting two continents, takes runners from the Asian side of the city across the Bosphorus and into European Istanbul before the finish near the historic Sultanahmet area. The unique setting once again provided the backdrop for a memorable day of elite marathon racing.

The women’s race delivered an equally dominant performance from Ethiopia, with Kasanesh Ayenew Baze leading an Ethiopian sweep of the podium.

Ayenew Baze won in 2:24:40.6, finishing seven seconds ahead of compatriot Azmera Abreha Gdey, who recorded 2:24:47.2. Diribe Hirko Alemu completed the podium in 2:25:00.6, giving Ethiopia all three medals.

Hirko’s performance was particularly notable as she was making her marathon debut, immediately announcing herself with a 2:25 clocking and a place among the leading finishers.

The 48th edition of the Istanbul Marathon thus belonged to two of East Africa’s great distance-running nations. Kenya took the men’s title and course record through Kipchumba, while Ethiopia delivered a commanding clean sweep in the women’s race.

In the end, Istanbul witnessed a day of fast racing, narrow margins and historic performances, with Kipchumba’s record-breaking victory providing the defining moment of the 2026 edition.

Ethiopia enjoyed a memorable double triumph at the 2026 Hangzhou Marathon, with Kemal Husen and Kuftu Tahir Dadiso claiming the men’s and women’s titles respectively after battling through challenging weather conditions on Sunday, November 1.

The 2026 edition of the Hangzhou Marathon proved to be as much a test of resilience as it was of speed. As the race progressed, rising temperatures, humidity and an increasingly difficult thermal sensation placed enormous demands on the elite field, particularly during the closing stages.

In the men’s race, Kemal Husen emerged as the strongest competitor, producing a determined performance to secure victory in 2:11:16.

The race gradually developed into a battle of attrition as the difficult conditions began to take their toll. Rather than allowing the heat and humidity to dictate the outcome, Husen remained composed through the decisive stages and found enough strength to establish himself at the front.

His 2:11:16 was enough to put the Ethiopian on top of the podium and crown him the 2026 Hangzhou Marathon men’s champion.

Morocco’s Mustapha Houdadi followed closely behind, delivering an impressive performance to claim the silver medal in 2:12:04. Houdadi showed considerable strength in the latter stages, holding his position despite the increasingly demanding conditions.

Kenya’s Nicholas Kirwa completed the men’s podium after another hard-fought performance. Kirwa battled through the final kilometres to finish third in 2:12:50, ensuring Kenya also had a representative among the leading finishers.

The women’s race produced another Ethiopian celebration.

Kuftu Tahir Dadiso captured the women’s title in commanding fashion, crossing the finish line in 2:26:03 after navigating the increasingly difficult conditions with patience and determination.

Dadiso’s victory was built on strong race management. As the temperature and thermal stress intensified, the leading group began to feel the effects of the weather, transforming the final kilometres into a demanding test of endurance.

While others struggled to maintain their rhythm, Dadiso remained composed and continued to press forward. Her ability to manage the conditions allowed her to pull clear and secure a convincing victory.

The result also gave Ethiopia a dominant one-two finish in the women’s race.

Fellow Ethiopian Amid Fozya Jemal produced a gritty performance to take second place in 2:29:04. Jemal fought through the sweltering conditions to maintain her position and ensure that the top two places belonged to Ethiopia.

Kenya’s Mercy Kwambai completed the women’s podium, fighting relentlessly through the closing kilometres to secure third place in 2:30:23.

Kwambai’s bronze medal was a testament to her resilience on a day when the weather presented an additional opponent. With the heat and humidity placing increasing strain on the athletes, she dug deep to maintain her position and finish among the leading international contenders.

Together, the two races produced an intriguing picture of endurance under pressure. Ethiopia swept both individual titles and added a women’s silver medal, while Kenya collected bronze medals in both the men’s and women’s races.

The results also underlined the importance of adapting to conditions in a marathon. On a day when the weather made fast running increasingly difficult, victory belonged not simply to the athletes with the greatest speed, but to those who could conserve their energy, remain mentally composed and produce their strongest running when the race became hardest.

For Kemal Husen and Kuftu Tahir Dadiso, that balance proved decisive.

Husen conquered the men’s race in 2:11:16, while Dadiso dominated the women’s contest in 2:26:03.

Two champions. Two demanding races. One unforgettable Ethiopian double in Hangzhou.

The heat tested them. The marathon challenged them. But Ethiopia conquered Hangzhou.

Sometimes, the most powerful marathon advice is simply to stop watching the clock and start living the race.

That was the message Eliud Kipchoge shared with Sweden’s Andreas Almgren in New York as the highly anticipated debutant prepares to take on his first marathon at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon.

With the biggest road race of Almgren’s career just hours away, the Swedish star had the opportunity to speak with one of the greatest marathoners the world has ever produced.

Almgren later shared a glimpse of their meeting on social media, writing: “Getting some last-minute advice from the man himself!”

Kipchoge’s advice was remarkably simple.

“Don’t see the watch, don’t see the kilometers. Just aim at going and going through the finishing line.”

For a marathon debutant, those words carry enormous weight.

Rather than becoming consumed by splits, pace targets or the distance still remaining, Kipchoge encouraged Almgren to focus on the fundamental task: keep moving forward and make it to the finish line.

It is a philosophy that perfectly reflects Kipchoge’s own approach to marathon running. Throughout his extraordinary career, the Kenyan legend has repeatedly emphasized patience, discipline, mental strength and the importance of enjoying the process.

Now, Almgren faces a completely different challenge.

The 29-year-old Swede has established himself as one of Europe’s leading distance runners on the track and road, producing standout performances over 5,000m, 10,000m and longer distances. But the marathon represents an entirely new test — one that demands not only speed, but patience, endurance and the ability to manage the physical and mental demands of 42.195 kilometers.

And there may be no better mentor for that transition than Kipchoge.

The marathon icon has built a career around mastering the very distance Almgren is about to discover for himself. From Olympic triumphs to world records and historic performances, Kipchoge has turned marathon running into an art form.

Yet his advice to Almgren was not complicated.

Forget the watch.

Forget the kilometers.

Keep going.

For Almgren, those words could become more valuable as the race unfolds through the streets of New York.

His marathon journey begins with a lesson from a legend — and perhaps the greatest lesson of all is that the marathon is not simply about chasing a number on a watch. It is about embracing the challenge, trusting the preparation and finding the strength to keep moving toward the finish.

Today, Almgren will finally discover what 42.195 kilometers feels like.

And he will do so carrying a little wisdom from the Marathon King.