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Doreen Cherop delivered a superb performance to win the women's race at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Durban 10K, crossing the finish line in an impressive 30:43 to lead a Kenyan 1-2-3 finish in one of the day's standout performances.

Cherop maintained a strong and consistent pace throughout the race before pulling away in the closing stages to secure victory. She was followed closely by Brenda Jepchirchir, who finished second in 30:52, while Beatrice Chepkoech completed the podium with a time of 31:25, capping an outstanding day for the Kenyan contingent.

The women's race was contested at a fast pace from the opening kilometres, producing an exciting battle among some of the region's top distance runners. Behind the leading trio, Tayla Kavanagh emerged as the highest-placed South African, finishing fourth in 31:28, while Neheng Khatala of Lesotho claimed fifth place in 32:04 after another impressive outing.

The race also highlighted the depth and quality of women's road running, with athletes from across the continent producing strong performances on Durban's fast course. Although Cherop ultimately proved to be the strongest over the 10-kilometre distance, the closely fought contest behind her ensured an entertaining race from start to finish, reflecting the growing competitiveness of elite road racing in Africa.

Cherop's victory adds another significant achievement to her career and further enhances the prestige of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Durban 10K, an event that continues to attract some of the continent's finest distance runners. Her composed display and decisive finish made the difference on the day, bringing the women's race to a memorable conclusion and providing another thrilling chapter in one of Africa's premier road-running events.

KATA Time Trial No. 55, part of the ongoing monthly series at KATA Thika, produced a number of strong performances and personal breakthroughs—clear signs that the program continues to move athletes forward.

Breakthrough Run from Francis Maina

In the men’s 5km, Francis Maina (20) delivered a standout performance, winning in 16:04, a personal best. He improved by 42 seconds from his previous mark of 16:46 set just last month—an impressive jump that reflects consistency and growing confidence.

Harrison Mathenge (18) followed in second place with 16:41, continuing his steady progression.

On the women’s side, Doreen Mutua (17) took the win in 18:17, holding off Lucy Njeri (18), who finished close behind in 18:24.

Sub-30 Performance Leads Men’s 10K

In the men’s 10km, Peter Wanyoike (30) led the field with a winning time of 29:46, with John Kuria (30) finishing second in 30:02.

One of the most encouraging performances came from Erick Cheruiyot (30), who finished fourth in 30:43, setting a new personal best and improving by 17 seconds. His progress continues to reflect the purpose behind the KATA program.

Kiteta Leads Women’s 10K

In the women’s 10km race, Nympha Kiteta (20) claimed victory in 34:04, followed by Jane Wanja (38) in 35:44 and Ruth Maina (23) in 36:42.

Full Results

5KM MEN

1. Francis Maina (20 / 084) – 16:04

2. Harrison Mathenge (18 / 019) – 16:41

3. Kelvin Muko (18 / 006) – 16:59

4. John Mutuku (15 / 090) – 17:06

5. Eric Mwaura (19 / 043) – 17:21

6. Samuel Maingi (15 / 026) – 17:28

7. Joseph Mulwa (17 / 091) – 18:17

8. John Mwangi (42 / 050) – 18:24

9. Dennis Musau (43 / 089) – 18:51

10. Benjamin Ndaro (14 / 097) – 20:03

11. Elam Okato (38 / 014) – 20:07

12. Raphael Masese (15 / 095) – 22:07

5KM WOMEN

1. Doreen Mutua (17 / 020) – 18:17

2. Lucy Njeri (18 / 023) – 18:24

3. Faith Kitonga (18 / 018) – 18:26

4. Felister Mbatha (19 / 099) – 22:10

5. Rachel Njeri (15 / 093) – 22:14

6. Ann Monthe (15 / 011) – 23:20

7. Cynthia Ndanu (15 / 017) – 23:21

10KM MEN

1. Peter Wanyoike (30 / 092) – 29:46

2. John Kuria (30 / 100) – 30:02

3. Charles Wanjora (24 / 005) – 30:37

4. Erick Cheruiyot (30 / 010) – 30:43 (PB)

5. Bernard Waweru (40 / 073) – 31:16

6. Justus Nyamai (18 / 028) – 31:21

7. Robin Musa (17 / 033) – 32:07

8. Frederick Wambua (20 / 054) – 32:24

9. Vincent Kiprotich (24 / 079) – 32:28

10. Ismael Mburu (24 / 025) – 32:48

11. Joel Maina (42 / 030) – 33:04

12. David Muriuki (40 / 001) – 33:17

13. Bernard Gicheha (35 / 085) – 33:27

14. Joseph Nyota (20 / 022) – 33:46

15. Brian Mwangi (22 / 048) – 34:02

16. Paul Ng’ang’a (43 / 082) – 35:29

17. Charles Ndirangu (65 / 070) – 38:29

10KM WOMEN

1. Nympha Kiteta (20 / 047) – 34:04

2. Jane Wanja (38 / 098) – 35:44

3. Ruth Maina (23 / 077) – 36:42

4. Regina Sandiki (19 / 096) – 37:42

5. Felister Maina (37 / 094) – 38:01 

Final Word

Now at Time Trial No. 55, this monthly KATA series continues to do exactly what it was designed to do—create opportunities for athletes to test themselves, improve, and move forward.

At KATA, progress matters—and today showed plenty of it.

The Vienna City Marathon returns on April 19 with a deep elite field and the promise of fast racing on one of Europe’s most scenic courses. Now in its 43rd edition, the race continues to grow in stature, drawing top international talent alongside strong national contenders.

Organizers have recorded a record 49,000 entries, with 13,000 runners set to tackle the classic marathon distance—further cementing Vienna’s place as a major destination on the global running calendar.

Women’s Race: Record in Sight

The women’s race could be historic. If conditions cooperate, the field may challenge both the course record and potentially break 2:20:00 for the first time on Austrian soil.

Four years ago, Kenya’s Vibian Chepkirui set the current course record of 2:20:59. This year, a trio of standout contenders could push the pace even further.

Ethiopia’s Haftamnesh Tesfaye leads the field with a personal best of 2:20:13. She is joined by compatriot Tigist Gezahagn (2:21:14), making Ethiopia a strong force at the front. Tesfaye also brings added intrigue as the sister of rising star Fotyen Tesfay.

Defending champion Betty Chepkemoi returns after a gritty win last year in difficult conditions, where she clocked a personal best of 2:24:14. Should the weather turn cold again, it could once more play to her strengths.

American Lindsay Flanagan adds further depth to the field. With a personal best of 2:23:31, she begins her comeback following injury and will be one to watch.

Men’s Race: Depth and Local Ambition

The men’s race features exceptional depth, with four athletes holding personal bests under 2:08:00.

Eritrea’s Oqbe Kibrom leads the field with a standout best of 2:05:37 and enters as the clear favorite. He will face strong competition from Ethiopia’s Tafese Delegen (2:06:11), along with Kenya’s Stanley Kurgat (2:07:05) and Albert Kangogo (2:07:26).

Beyond the front group, the race includes several sub-2:10 performers, ensuring a competitive and tactical contest.

A major storyline for the host nation centers on Austrian record holder Aaron Gruen. He surprised many last year by setting a national record of 2:09:53 and will now compete in Vienna for the first time, aiming to improve further on home soil.

Elite Fields – Personal Bests

MEN

Oqbe Kibrom (ERI) – 2:05:37

Tafese Delegen (ETH) – 2:06:11

Stanley Kurgat (KEN) – 2:07:05

Albert Kangogo (KEN) – 2:07:26

Charles Mneria (KEN) – 2:08:54

Mica Cheserek (KEN) – 2:09:26

Samwel Kiptoo (KEN) – 2:09:45

Aaron Gruen (AUT) – 2:09:53

Paul Tiongik (KEN) – 2:10:25

Abel Sikowo (UGA) – 2:10:33

Mogos Tuemay (ETH) – 2:10:33

Fanny Kiprotich (KEN) – 2:11:21

Andreas Vojta (AUT) – 2:13:43

WOMEN

Haftamnesh Tesfaye (ETH) – 2:20:13

Tigist Gezahagn (ETH) – 2:21:14

Lindsay Flanagan (USA) – 2:23:31

Betty Chepkemoi (KEN) – 2:24:14

Mary Granja (ECU) – 2:26:34

Faith Chepkoech (KEN) – 2:26:22

Hellen Chepkorir (KEN) – 2:27:17

Tegest Ymer (ETH) – 2:29:11

Caroline Korir (KEN) – 2:29:46

Abigail Jepkemboi (KEN) – 2:29:56

Eva Wutti (AUT) – 2:30:43

Aiwa Sakaguchi (JPN) – 2:31:50

Hanne Maridal (NOR) – 2:32:14

Vaida Zusinaite (LTU) – 2:32:50

Susanna Saapunki (FIN) – Debut

Italian star returns to the top with commanding senior women’s victory 

A Golden Return to Form: Nadia Battocletti of Italy added another chapter to her growing legacy on Sunday in Lagoa, Portugal, powering to victory in the senior women’s race at the European Cross Country Championships. On a demanding, technical course that rewarded strength and patience, Battocletti stopped the clock at 24:52, delivering a performance that combined tactical intelligence with championship composure.

From the opening strides, the pace was honest and the intent clear. The rolling hills, slick footing, and tight turns quickly tested the field. Great Britain’s Megan Keith stayed close to the front, her determination evident with every surge, while Yasemin Can of Turkey—born in Kenya—ran with quiet confidence, conserving energy as the race unfolded. Battocletti remained calm and controlled, matching moves without overreacting as she waited for the right moment.

The Making of a Champion

Battocletti’s win in Lagoa was the product of years of steady progression and resilience. She first announced herself on the European stage as a junior, capturing back-to-back U20 cross country titles—Tilburg 2018 (4.3 km in 13:46) and Lisbon 2019 (13:58). Even then, her sense of rhythm, race awareness, and ability to perform under pressure set her apart.

Her transition to the senior ranks has been seamless. At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Battocletti claimed silver in the 10,000 meters in 30:43.35, finishing just behind Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet. One year later, at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, she again pushed Chebet to the limit, earning another silver in 30:38.23 and confirming her status as one of the world’s most consistent distance runners. 

In Lagoa, she drew on all that experience. Battocletti controlled the tempo throughout and made her decisive move in the penultimate lap, a gradual acceleration that stretched the field and left her rivals struggling to respond.

Profiles of the Podium Finishers

Megan Keith took silver in 25:07, further cementing her reputation as one of Europe’s rising distance talents. The Scottish runner showed excellent judgment on the technical course, managing her effort and responding to changes in pace with maturity beyond her years. Her performance suggests bigger podiums may not be far away.

Yasemin Can finished third in 25:13, adding another medal to an already distinguished career. A multiple European champion on track and cross country, Can’s experience and strength were evident as she stayed in contention through the final lap before securing bronze.

Just off the podium, Belgium showcased impressive depth with Jana Van Lent in fourth (25:24), Lisa Rooms fifth (25:34), and Chloé Herbiet seventh (25:43). The Netherlands’ Amina Maatoug placed sixth (25:36), while Germany’s Elena Burkard (8th), Sweden’s Sarah Lahti (9th), and Ireland’s Fiona Everard (10th) completed a highly competitive top ten.

Tactical Brilliance on a Demanding Course

The Lagoa course added a dramatic dimension to the race. Its undulating terrain and narrow turns demanded constant focus and adaptability. Battocletti’s tactical sense stood out as she gradually increased the pressure, forcing her rivals into difficult decisions before unleashing a finishing push that settled the race.

By the final straight, her victory was beyond doubt. Battocletti crossed the line with a composed smile, while Keith and Can battled fiercely behind her, delivering a thrilling conclusion for spectators lining the course.

Looking Ahead

Battocletti’s victory in Lagoa reinforces her position as one of Europe’s premier long-distance athletes. With Olympic and world silver medals already to her name, this European cross country gold completes a remarkable arc from junior standout to senior champion.

Keith and Can also made powerful statements, and their performances hint at compelling rivalries in the seasons ahead. As winter training continues and the global calendar turns toward major championships, the senior women’s distance scene in Europe looks stronger—and more exciting—than ever.

European Cross Country Championships 2025

Senior Women – Top 10

1. Nadia Battocletti (Italy) – 24:52

2. Megan Keith (Great Britain) – 25:07

3. Yasemin Can (Türkiye) – 25:13

4. Jana Van Lent (Belgium) – 25:24

5. Lisa Rooms (Belgium) – 25:34

6. Amina Maatoug (Netherlands) – 25:36

7. Chloé Herbiet (Belgium) – 25:43

8. Elena Burkard (Germany) – 25:45

9. Sarah Lahti (Sweden) – 25:48

10. Fiona Everard (Ireland) – 25:54

On August 15, 2025, KATA Running Camp 18 in Moiben hosted its latest 10km time trial, delivering fast performances and exciting competition. Rodgers Kipkoech emerged as the standout of the day, dominating the race from start to finish.

Kipkoech claimed victory in a swift 29:57, breaking the 30-minute barrier and setting the pace for the field. Elliud Kipkosgei secured second place in 30:43, while Mike Komen took third with a strong 31:28.

10km Results – Men

1. Rodgers Kipkoech – 29:57

2. Elliud Kipkosgei – 30:43

3. Mike Komen – 31:28

KATA Running Camp 18 is part of the growing KATA network, which now includes 30 running camps across Kenya. These time trials give athletes the chance to test their fitness, sharpen racing skills, and prepare for future success on national and international stages.

With performances like these, Moiben’s athletes are clearly building toward even faster times — and keeping the competitive spirit of KATA alive.

Coach: Paul Kipsiele Koech Dates: 7th & 8th August 2025

Coach Paul Kipsiele Koech’s athletes at KATA Running Camp 11 (Njerian) and KATA Running Camp 06 (Sotik) produced two days of thrilling 10km and category races, showing both raw talent and seasoned experience.

KATA 11 – Njerian Athletics Camp (7th August 2025)

Senior Men – 10km

1. 041 – Brian Kipyegon – 29:09.55

2. 015 – Hillary Kibet – 29:19.81

3. 017 – Charles Rono – 29:22.42

4. 037 – Cosmas Kemboi – 29:32.54

5. 023 – Nathan Koech – 29:35.76

6. 019 – Benard Sigilai – 30:30.98

7. 016 – Gilbert Sang – 30:53.54

8. 034 – Nathan Ngeno – 30:56.33

9. 017 – Emmanuel Kiplangat – 31:11.24

10. 014 – Abraham Saningo – 31:13.44

11. 026 – Denis Cheruiyot – 32:01.17

12. 012 – Stenly Kirui – 32:11.21

13. 020 – Amoi Kipkemoi – 32:13.29

14. 028 – Gideon Kiprotich – 32:38.24

15. 010 – Dominic Sang – 32:53.25

16. 029 – Kevin Kiplangat – 32:58.35

17. 040 – Elijah Selel – 32:59.75

18. 027 – Emmanuel Rono – 33:20.82

19. 018 – Evans Yegon – 33:37.69

20. 020 – Vincent Mutai – 33:40.58

21. 022 – Linox Koech – 33:58.12

22. 035 – Duncan Cheruiyot – 34:21.91

KATA 06 – Sotik Time Trials (8th August 2025)

Men – 10km

1. Benard Ngeno – 30:58

2. Kelvin Kemboi – 31:11

3. Gilbert Korir – 31:31

Masters Men – 10km

1. 013 – Jacob Mutai – 30:12.46 – Year 1986

2. 002 – Daniel Ngeno – 30:24.89 – Year 1981

3. 039 – Benard Korir – 30:32.37 – Year 1987

4. 001 – Peter Bii – 30:38.87 – Year 1973

5. 007 – Philip Kirui – 30:43.47 – Year 1987

6. 004 – Joseah Kosgei – 32:12.76 – Year 1982

7. Daniel Businnenei – 32:53.12 – Year 1981

8. 003 – Christopher – 34:32.44 – Year 1983

9. 006 – Robert Kimutai Koech – 37:32.99 – Year 1962

10. 008 – Simion Towet – 39:52.75 – Year 1971

Masters Women – 10km

1. 005 – Zeddy Chepkoech – 39:59.06 – Year 1978

Senior Women – 10km

1. 021 – Zeddy Chelangat – 32:11.17

2. 023 – Faith Chelangat – 32:44.96

3. 038 – Daisy Chemutai – 33:58.01

4. 033 – Fancy Chepkoech – 34:07.26

5. 010 – Stella Cheruiyot – 34:55.05

6. 030 – Mercy Cherono – 35:18.42

7. 036 – Dorcas Chepkorir – 35:32.87

8. 031 – Salome Chebet – 40:52.65

Coach’s Note:

“Both camps showed remarkable form. The back-to-back format gave me a rare opportunity to compare performance levels across Njerian and Sotik, and both are right on track for the competitive season ahead.” – Paul Kipsiele Koech

Double Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet is set to bring her fierce form to the 42nd Italica International Cross Country meeting on November 17, a highlight event on the World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold circuit.

Chebet stunned the world in Paris in August with her dual gold-winning performances in the 5,000m and 10,000m.

She secured the 10,000m gong in a time of 30:43.25 leading Italy’s Nadia Battocletti ( 30:43.35 ) and Olympic marathon champion Sifan Hassan of Netherlands ( 30:44.12 ).

Chebet went on to add the 5,000m title, finishing in 14:28.56 outpacing three-time Olympic 1,500m champion Faith Kipyegon ( 14:29.60 ) and Hassan ( 14:30.61 ).

Chebet is no stranger to cross-country success.

She captured the World U20 Cross Country title in Denmark in 2019 in 20:50.

In 2021, Chebet placed second at the Atapuerca 8km Cross Country event in 25:04 behind Eritrea’s Rahel Ghebreneyohannes ( 25:03 ).

That same year, she clocked 24:35 for a third-place finish at the Seville 7km cross-country meeting.

In 2022, she returned to Atapuerca, this time claiming the title in 25:39.

Last year, she claimed the World Cross Country Championships title in Bathurst, Australia clocking 33:48 with Ethiopia’s Tsigie Gebreselama ( 33:56 ) in second and Agnes Ngetich ( 34:00 ) completing the podium.

She defended her title this year in Belgrade, Serbia, finishing in 31:05 ahead of compatriots Lilian Kasait ( 31:08 ) and Margaret Chelimo ( 31:09 ).

Her illustrious track career boasts silver and bronze medals in the 5,000m during the 2022 (Eugene) and 2023 (Budapest) World Championships.

She boasts gold from the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games as well as the Saint Pierre African Games, both in the 5,000m.

Chebet is the 2018 World Junior 5,000m champion as well as the 2019 African 5,000m junior champion.

In Italy, Chebet will be in the company of 2024 World U20 3,000m steeplechase bronze medallist Diana Chepkemoi as well as the 2018 World 3,000m steeplechase champion Daisy Jepkemei.

The trio will face off against European 3,000m steeplechase record holder Alice Finot of France as well as the World U20 5,000m bronze medallist Charity Cherop of Uganda.

Sweden’s Sarah Lahti, Portugal’s Mariana Machado and Spain’s Carolina Robles will add depth to the field.

In the men’s field, Olympic 10,000m silver medallist Berihu Aregawi from Ethiopia will lead the charge.

His main rivals will be the 2024 Rome Half Marathon champion Yemaneberhan Crippa of Italy as well as Ugandan’s Dan Kibet, Hosea Kiplangat and Kenneth Kiprop.

Portugal’s Etson Barros, Uruguay’s Santiago Catrofe and Spain’s adel Mechaal add depth to the field. 

Ruth Chepngetich heads to the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on the hunt for a hat trick, while Birhanu Legese is the fastest in the men’s field for the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on Sunday (13).

The women’s race features a clash between Chepngetich, her Kenyan compatriot Joyciline Jepkosgei and Ethiopia’s Sutume Kebede – three sub-2:17 runners who form part of a field that includes another six women to have dipped under 2:20.

Chepngetich, the 2019 world marathon champion, won in Chicago in 2021 and 2022, and followed that with a runner-up finish to Sifan Hassan last year. She clocked 2:14:18 on that occasion, while her PB of 2:14:18 set in Chicago in 2022 makes her the fourth fastest women’s marathon runner in history.

She ran 2:24:36 for her most recent marathon, in London in April, and placed ninth, but then clocked 1:05:58 to win the 21k Buenos Aires half marathon in August.

Jepkosgei, who won the London Marathon in 2021 and New York City Marathon in 2019, finished fourth in Chicago last year in 2:17:23. 

She improved by one place when returning to marathon action in London in April, setting a PB of 2:16:24.

It’s Kebede who leads this season’s top list, thanks to the PB of 2:15:55 she set to win the Tokyo Marathon in March. That puts her at No.8 all time and she will be hoping to make the most of the fast course in Chicago.

“After seeing what my teammate Kelvin Kiptum did last year, I want to come to Chicago to do something great,” said Kebede, who finished 15th in last year’s race.

Kiptum, who was part of Kebede’s training group, died in a road traffic accident in February, just four months after he set his world marathon record of 2:00:35 in Chicago. This year, the event will honour Kiptum’s legacy with a moment of silence at the start line.

Joining Chepngetich, Jepkosgei and Kebede on that start line will be three more women with PBs under 2:18 – Ethiopia’s Degitu Azimeraw, Ashete Bekere and Hiwot Gebrekidan – plus Kenya’s Irine Cheptai, who ran 2:18:22 in Hamburg in April.

The field also features the second and third fastest ever US women’s marathon runners, Keira D’Amato and Betsy Saina, who have also dipped under 2:20. They are joined in this competitive field by their compatriots Sara Hall and Emma Bates.

Ethiopia’s Legese leads the men’s field with the PB of 2:02:48 he ran in Berlin in 2019. That performance puts him sixth on the men’s world marathon all-time list but since then his highest marathon finish has been a third place, achieved in Rotterdam with a 2:05:16 run in April.

The two-time Tokyo Marathon champion will want to return to winning ways when he heads back to Chicago, where he placed 10th when making his World Marathon Majors debut in 2018, but he faces tough opposition.

Six other men in the field have PBs faster than 2:06, including Kenya’s Amos Kipruto, Vincent Ngetich and John Korir, and Ethiopia’s Dawit Wolde, Amedework Walelegn and Mohamed Esa.

Kipruto, the 2019 world bronze medallist, and Ngetich have matching PBs of 2:03:13. Kipruto won the London Marathon in 2022 and trains with Benson Kipruto, who won that year’s Chicago Marathon, while Ngetich was second in the Berlin Marathon last year, five places ahead of Kipruto. He was also third at this year’s Tokyo Marathon.

Korir ran his PB of 2:05:01 when finishing third in Chicago in 2022, while Wolde ran 2:03:48 in Valencia last year, Esa has a best of 2:05:05 from Amsterdam in 2022 and Walelegn clocked 2:04:50 in Rotterdam in April, finishing runner-up – one place ahead of Legese.

Looking to join them at the front of the field will be Kenya’s Daniel Ebenyo, the world 10,000m and half marathon silver medallist who makes his marathon debut. The 29-year-old ran a 59:30 half marathon in Berlin in April, 26 seconds off his PB set in Manama in 2022.

Ethiopia’s Jemal Yimer Mekonnen, who finished fourth in the half marathon at last year’s World Road Running Championships behind runner-up Ebenyo, is back in marathon action after his win in Seoul in March.

Among the athletes racing on home soil are USA’s Zach Panning, CJ Albertson and Brian Shrader.

Elite fields

WomenRuth Chepngetich (KEN) 2:14:18Sutume Kebede (ETH) 2:15:55Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN) 2:16:24Degitu Azimeraw (ETH) 2:17:58Ashete Bekere (ETH) 2:17:58Hiwot Gebrekidan (ETH) 2:17:59Irine Cheptai (KEN) 2:18:22Keira D'Amato (USA) 2:19:12Betsy Saina (USA) 2:19:17Sara Hall (USA) 2:20:32Emma Bates (USA) 2:22:10Buze Diriba (ETH) 2:23:11Sara Vaughn (USA) 2:23:24Susanna Sullivan (USA) 2:24:27Gabi Rooker (USA) 2:24:35Lindsay Flanagan (USA) 2:24:43Stacey Ndiwa (KEN) 2:25:29  Lauren Hagans (USA) 2:25:56Annie Frisbie (USA) 2:26:18Jackie Gaughan (USA) 2:27:08Dominique Scott (RSA) 2:27:31Diane Nukuri (USA) 2:27:50Makena Morley (USA) 2:30:25Anne Marie Blaney (USA) 2:30:43Amy Davis-Green (USA) 2:33:09Aubrey Frentheway (USA) debut

MenBirhanu Legese (ETH) 2:02:48Amos Kipruto (KEN) 2:03:13Vincent Ngetich (KEN) 2:03:13Dawit Wolde (ETH) 2:03:48Amedework Walelegn (ETH) 2:04:50John Korir (KEN) 2:05:01Mohamed Esa (ETH) 2:05:05Jemal Yimer (ETH) 2:06:08Kyohei Hosoya (JPN) 2:06:35Toshiki Sadakata (JPN) 2:07:05Tatsuya Maruyama (JPN) 2:07:50Yuichi Yasui (JPN) 2:08:48Jorge Castelblanco (PAN) 2:09:24Zach Panning (USA) 2:09:28Brian Shrader (USA) 2:09:46CJ Albertson (USA) 2:09:53Tomoki Yoshioka (JPN) 2:10:03Reed Fischer (USA) 2:10:34Nathan Martin (USA) 2:10:45Colin Mickow (USA) 2:11:22Kevin Salvano (USA) 2:11:26Jacob Thomson (USA) 2:11:40Turner Wiley (USA) 2:11:59Shadrack Kipchirchir (USA) 2:13:02JP Flavin (USA) 2:13:27Charlie Sweeney (USA) 2:13:41Ben Kendell (USA) 2:15:49Phil Parrot-Migas (CAN) 2:15:53Aaron Gruen (USA) 2:15:56Daniel Ebenyo (KEN) debutPeter Lynch (IRL) debutAlex Maier (USA) debutAlex Masai (USA) debut

Chebet is the first Kenyan athlete to win two Olympic gold medals in a single Games.

After winning the women’s 5,000m gold earlier in the week, Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet made history on Friday in the women’s 10,000m, taking gold to compete the Olympic distance double. Italy’s Nadia Battocletti set a national record to win silver in 30:43.35, and fan favourite Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands won her bronze of the Games in 30:44.12.

It’s the first time a Kenyan athlete has won two gold medals on the track in a single Olympics, and the first time a Kenyan has won gold in the women’s 10,000m since its addition to the Olympic program in Seoul 1988.

Chebet, the current world record holder in the 10,000m (28:54.15, set earlier this year) positioned herself near the front of the pack during the first few laps and remained there throughout, with Battocletti in the middle and Hassan running near the back, where she stayed until the final two laps. Chebet is also the 2024 world cross-country champion, a title she also won in 2023.

The group stayed tightly bunched through most of the race, with around a dozen women running closely together into the final laps. Chebet began to pick up the pace at the bell, followed by Battocletti, who finished fourth in the 5,000m final earlier in the week. Battocletti ran a tactically smart race, putting herself in an ideal position to strike in the final stretch.

With 200m to go, Hassan, the defending Olympic champion, who had only begun moving up from the rear in the final two laps of the race, began a push toward the front of the lead group, eventually clinching third place and her second bronze medal of the Paris Olympics. (She won bronze in the 5,000 also.)

Hassan is attempting an ambitious triple, competing in the 5,000m, 10,000m and the marathon at these Olympics. She will have one day of rest on Saturday before tackling the women’s marathon on Sunday, the final day of the Games.

Kenya’s Olympic 5000m champion Beatrice Chebet accomplished her double golden glory by winning the 10,000m at the Paris 2024 Games on Friday (9).

Just four days after striking gold in the 5000m final, Olympic debutant Chebet emerged victorious in the women’s 10,000m in 30:43.25 at the Stade de France.

Italy’s Nadia Battocletti, who was fourth in the 5000m, finished strong in a national record of 30:43.35 to secure the silver as Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands ran 30:44.12 for bronze – her second medal of that colour in Paris after her third-place finish in the 5000m. 

The feat makes Chebet the first Kenyan woman to win Olympic 10,000m gold and only the third woman after Tirunesh Dibaba and Hassan to win the 5000m and 10,000m double at the Olympic Games.

The 24-year-old also became the first to win 5000m and 10,000m Olympic titles in addition to the world cross country title and the 10,000m world record. 

Chebet, who shattered the world 10,000m record in May’s Prefontaine Classic, was no doubt the centre of focus in the final. She did the sign of a cross before taking off as part of a field that featured defending champion Hassan, 5000m world record-holder Gudaf Tsegay and Battocletti.

The rain had stopped and the sun was shining bright when the women took off in the 10,000m on a somewhat wet track.

Rahel Daniel of Eritrea had an early leading role with Battocletti behind her, taking the field through 1000m in 3:12. The main cast included Chebet and Tsegay tucked in the middle of the pack, while Hassan stayed behind.

The race was tactical and Daniel was in the lead until she dropped out of the competition and Rino Goshima of Japan took over, leading the pack through 3000m in 9:26.94 and 4000m in 12:38.12. Chebet had moved up to third position, and throughout the whole race she had no interest in going in front. 

Thirteen athletes were still bunched together with eight laps remaining. This time it was Ethiopian Tsigie Gebreselama’s turn to lead, taking them through 7000m in 21:15.65. The pack had Chebet, Margaret Kipkemboi, Lilian Kasait Rengeruk, Fotyen Tesfay, Tsegay, Sarah Chelangat and Battocletti. 

With two laps to go, Kenya’s Kipkemboi pushed the pace and just before the bell it was an East Africa contest. Kipkemboi stepped on the gas again after the bell, with Rengeruk on her shoulder. Their intention – to drop the rest, a move that made Chebet and Battocletti immediately respond. Hassan also covered the move.

With 200 metres to go, Chebet – who had run a very tactical race – overtook Kipkemboi, with Battocletti hot on her heels. But Chebet’s strong kick was enough to earn the 10,000m gold medal in 30:43.25, the slowest winning time since the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.

Battocletti crossed the line a tenth of a second after Chebet, taking home a silver medal and a national record of 30:43.35. 

Hassan's triple quest in Paris amounted to a second podium finish, as she came home third in 30:44.12. She will next compete in the marathon on Sunday. 

“I’m so happy," said Chebet. "To do the 5000m and 10,000m is not something easy. But just focus, and know that you can achieve. Just believe in yourself.

"I believed that I could do it. I just wanted to win the 10,000m for my country. My country has never won a gold medal (in the women’s 10,000m). So I said I wanted to be the first."

A total of 27 athletes registered for the 34rd meeting monthly KATA (Kenyan Athletic Training Academy) Time Trial series this morning (May 8) in Thika Kenya. . Raphael karita won the Men 5km race in a personal best time of 14:26 which is also the meet record. His time was indeed impressive considering the wet, humid conditions.

He was followed by Charles ndirangu in second place who posted a personal best of 15:40. Ismael mburu finished in the 3rd spot and also posted a personal best of 15:42.

Virginia wanjiru took the crown in the women's 5km race in a personal best time of 17:59. Virginia impressively lowered her previous time by 29 seconds. Emmily wanjiru a junior finished in 2nd place in time of 22:47. 

Peter mwaniki took the victory in the 10km Men in a time of 29:10. Zachary kirika finished in 2nd place in a personal best of 29:39. The day really belongs to Kelvin ragui who finished in 5th position in a personal best time of 30:42. Kelvin's improvement was indeed astonishing lowering his previous time of 31:17 by 35 seconds. 

Jacinta kamau topped the podium in women's 10km race in a personal best time of 35:06, taking 5 seconds off her previous time.

In general our athletes have portrayed a courageous and mesmerizing character irrespective of the weather conditions. The performance told it all. As a team, we can confidently express and validate that training is a language, only understood through performance. The next KATA time trial will be June 12, 2024.  

5km Men 

1 Raphael karita 24 417  14:26

2 Charles ndirangu 23 319 15:40

3 Ismael mburu 23 318 15:42

4 John mutiso 19 253 16:15

5 Geoffrey ngama 50 146 16:47

6 Collins maina 20 140 14:04

7 Jeremiah obura 20 249 17:05

8 peter Mukundi 25 488 18:18

9 Lukas pytel 34 74 19:49

10 Alex kamau 22 317 21:28

5km women 

1 Virginia wanjiru 22 419 17:59

2 Emily wanjiru 17 313 22:47

10km Men 

1 peter mwaniki 26 325 29:10

2 Zachary kirika 22 246 29:39

3 Job kamande 24 442 29:51

4 Brian wekesa 26 191 30:40

5 Kelvin ragui 21 315 30:42

6 Joseph mwangi 22 326 30:43

7 Titus kemboi 19 199 31:05

8 Anthony Mukundi 35 444 32:04

9 Stephen ngigi 20 418 33:07

10 Boniface mungai 26 247 33:25

11 Joseph makeli 32 455 35:04

12 Charles ndirangu 64 414 37:46

10km women 

1 Jacinta kamau 22 320 35:06

2 Karen chepkemoi 22 248 36:48

3 Lucy muritu 39 322 48:27

In an unexpected turn of events during the AJC Peachtree Road Race 10K on Independence Day, Ethiopia’s Senbere Teferi, the reigning champion, was poised to claim victory and the USD $10,000 prize. However, a wrong turn in the final 200m foiled her plans, resulting in a third-place finish and causing her to miss out on a large sum of money.

Teferi was closely following a leading police motorcycle as it suddenly veered off the course with 200m to go. Without hesitation, Teferi followed suit, mistakenly believing that the race course took an unconventional right turn.

Despite having a nearly 10-second lead over her compatriot, Fotyen Tesfay, Teferi’s confusion led to her sprinting back to the course and finishing third, with a time of 30:47. She was only two seconds short of second place, which went to Kenya’s Jesca Chelangat in 30:45. Tesfay seized the opportunity and claimed victory, finishing four seconds ahead of Teferi in 30:43.

Tesfay also briefly followed Teferi’s detour before swiftly correcting herself and surging ahead to win the 10K title and the USD $10,000 prize.

While it’s not uncommon for runners to take wrong turns near the finish line, it is surprising that it happened to someone who won the race just last year. This a reminder that even professional runners make mistakes.

The AJC Peachtree Road Race is held annually in Atlanta on Independence Day. It is currently recognized as the world’s largest 10K race, with over 60,000 participants. Canada’s own Rory Linkletter finished 17th overall in this year’s race, posting a time of 29:12.

Senbere Teferi outsprinted Hellen Obiri to win the New York Mini 10K in a PB and event record of 30:12 on Saturday (10).

Ethiopia’s 2015 world 5000m silver medallist Teferi beat Kenya’s two-time world 5000m gold medallist Obiri by seven seconds to retain her title in New York.

Teferi and Obiri broke away from the rest of the field in the first half of the race, leaving a chase group of Emily Sisson, Laura Galvan, Cynthia Limo, Keira D’Amato and Emily Durgin behind.

The leaders reached the 5km mark in 15:28, 10 seconds inside the half way split recorded by Teferi en route to her win in 30:43 in 2022.

Galvan and Sisson were seven seconds behind them at half way, with Limo and D’Amato another couple of seconds back.

Just before the clock showed 27 minutes, Teferi put in a surge and moved a stride ahead, but Obiri – who won the Boston Marathon in April and the NYC Half in March – was quick to cover it. A minute and a half later, it was Obiri’s turn to push the pace as they hit another hill, but again, Teferi – runner-up behind Obiri at the NYC Half – matched it and they continued to run shoulder to shoulder.

The six-mile marker sent a signal to Teferi and, clearly still feeling good, she kicked again. This time Obiri couldn’t respond and the 28-year-old sprinted away over the final 200m to a successful title defence.

“It was tough,” said Teferi, speaking through an interpreter. “From the beginning, we were running together. It was extremely competitive. On the uphills I could tell she (Obiri) was tiring a bit, so I could pull away then. I also know the course well, so that helped me.”

Although the fastest women’s 10km ever recorded on US soil, Teferi’s performance does not improve the US all-comers’ record as the undulating course is slightly downhill overall, and is therefore not record-eligible.

Mexico’s Galvan finished third in 31:14, while Sisson finished fourth (31:16) and D’Amato fifth (31:23).

Leading results

1 Senbere Teferi (ETH) 30:122 Hellen Obiri (KEN) 30:193 Laura Galvan (MEX) 31:144 Emily Sisson (USA) 31:165 Keira D’Amato (USA) 31:236 Cynthia Limo (KEN) 31:277 Emily Durgin (USA) 31:358 Kellyn Taylor (USA) 32:159 Edna Kiplagat (KEN) 32:1710 Emma Grace Hurley (USA) 32:32

In the absence of KATA's Peter Mwaniki and Peter Wanyoike (both competing in Italy) another Peter took over the driver's seat during the 14th edition of Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) on Saturday.

Peter Mburu is the new champion of the 10Km Trial that saw half of KATA Athletes improving their Personal Records.

Mburu, who has been struggling with an injury since May, timed 29:38.2, bettering his previous 30:13.8 with the ever-green Zachariah Kirika finishing second in a new Personal Best of 29:44.5, chopping off 10 seconds from his April’s 29:54.4 Personal Best.  

The monthly time-trial that took place near Thika on a 5Km loop with 22 participants, saw half of KATA Athletes register their personal best times as they step up their training for Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon at the end of the month where most of them will compete in 21km and 10Km respectively.

KATA's 60-year-old Charles Ndirang’u clocked 39:50 which is 83.8% age-graded.   

The next time-trial will take place on the track November 19 at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology Track, and will include the 5,000m as well as 10,000m.  

            Full Results:

name, bib, age, time

1. Peter Mburu            98     26   29:38.2

2. Zachariah Kirika      210    20    29:44.5

3. Erick Mutuku           66      20   29:55.6

4. John Kuria                72      26  30:06.6          

5. Raphael Gacheru    81      22   30:43.2

6. Evans Kiguru            85      27   31:12.9

7. Eston Mugo             70      29   31:37.6

8. Fredrick Kiprotich   500    23   32:36.0

9. Anthony Mukundi  80      36    33:23.4

10. Paul Ng’ang’a         443     44  34:18.2

11. John Mutiso           127     18    35:45.1

12. Simpson Njoroge   217    38     36:03.6

13. Joseph Wanjiru        -       36     37:05.8

14. Susan Njeri             20      36     38:01.1

15. Caren Chepkemoi  94     19     39:43.0

16. Charles Ndirang’u  82     60    39:50.0

17. Kellen Waithera   100     35     39:50.5

18. Peter Mukundi    78        27     43:41.1

19. Hannah Njeri        95       23     52:29.0

After a three-year break, the Salzburg Marathon is returning. The “Running Festival in Mozart’s Hometown” takes place in the spirit of togetherness and peace this Sunday, May 15. 

Runners from 60 nations join the wide range of running events over the weekend. Austrian national marathon championships are the main sporting focus.

Known as a worldwide center for classical music, the running event takes place under the name of “Running Festival of Mozart’s City”. A diverse and colorful programme with ten different competitions and the motivating atmosphere of peaceful togetherness inspire several thousand participants.

From a sporting point of view, the Austrian National Marathon Championships take center stage. National record holder Eva Wutti hopes to qualify for the European Championships in Munich. She needs to beat the time of 2:32:00 hours. In the men’s race, Mario Bauernfeind, Isaac Kosgei and Georg Schrank are among the contenders for victory and the championship title. While the elite field consists of Austrian runners, the event as a whole is a huge international get-together.

The attractive marathon and the tourist appeal of Salzburg bring runners from 60 countries to the start.

The comeback of the Salzburg Marathon for its 19th edition has special significance for race director Johannes Langer: “Running brings people together. Finally we can garnish the desire to run with the special experience factor again – and all this at an atmospheric, international running event.”

Salzburg Marathon course records stand at 2:14:16, set by Eliud Kiplagat in 2013, and 2:35:05 by Risper Kimayo in 2011. While the men’s record looks safe this year, the women’s record could come under threat, as Austrian favorite Eva Wutti has a personal best of 2:30:43 from 2020.

The Marathon starts on Sunday, 15 May, 9.00 am. Last minute entry will be available on site.

The route leads through Salzburg‘s historic old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for 25 years, and touches the green surroundings outside of town. It is a flat and AIMS certified course that is officially recognized as a qualification event for international championships. Austrian Athletics Federation holds the national marathon championships there for the seventh time since 2007. Finish area is located in front of the world-famous Grosses Festspielhaus (Large Festival Hall) with a breathtaking view of Fortress Hohensalzburg.

Shorter distances at the Salzburg Marathon weekend motivate many people to participate and lead an active lifestyle. On Sunday, in addition to the marathon, the Sparkasse Half Marathon, the Hervis-10K Salzburg CityRun and the Hyundai Relay Marathon will take place. Among the participants in the relay is Olympic athlete Peter Herzog. The Austrian marathon record holder (2:10:06) is preparing for a start at the 10,000 m European Cup at the end of May.

Peter Wanyoike edged out 42-year-old Peterson Wachira from Nyahururu during the 10k time trial held in Thika Kenya on Wednesday morning (March 16) on the newly upgraded Bob Harris Road. He completed the course in 29:57.8 after covering the first 5Km in a slow 15:40.5 while Peterson finished in 30:06.0 which is a 95.79% age-graded.  

The monthly time-trial, the 7th since Kenyan Athletics Training Academy was officially opened in September last year, saw most KATA athletes post their Personal Bests with third-place finisher Zakariah Kirika and women champion Catherine Nikihia maintaining remarkable consistency.

Zakariah clocked 30:25.7, bettering his previous 30:41.9 while Catherine, the winner of the women category clocking 35:35.2. Her December time on the same course was 36:54.1.

Others with positive results included Peter Mburuwho clocking 30:43.5 from December’s 31:28.2, Paul Ng’ang’a 34:01.7, improving his 34:31.9 and Alfred Kamande who timed 34:41.4. Alfred did 35:16.5 in December.

60-year-old KATA athlete Charles Ndirangu clocked 38:08 which is 87.54% age-graded. 

With Athletics Kenya lining up a lot of activities in April, the KATA 10k Time Trial 8th edition is slated for 20th.

"We welcome runners to our next event in Thika, Kenya,"  says director Bob Anderson.  "We do not charge an entry fee and there is no prize money.  What we offer is an official 10k time. Times are published on our sponsor My Best Runs website."

Place, name, time, bib number and age.

1.Peter Wanyoike M 29:57.8 (210) Age 262. Peterson Wachira M 30:06.0 (216) Age 423. Zakariah Kirika M 30:25.7 (213) 214. Peter Mburu M 30:43.5 (211) 265. Peter King’ori M 31:38.7 (218) 256. Eston Mugo M 31:45.3 (220) 297. Erick Cheruiyot M 32:10.5 (214) 278. Raphael Gacheru M 32:48.3 (225) 239. Christian Muthini M 33:00.4 (234) 2910. Paul Ng’ang’a M 34:01.7 (224) age 4211. Alfred Kamande M 34:41.4 (217) age 2412. Samuel Chege M 34:59.4 (236) age 2513. Nicholas Kitundu M 35:19.6 (233) age 2214. Catherine Njihia F 35:35.2 (68) age 2315. Levis Kuria M 35:38.8 (231) age 2116. John Mwangi M 36:24.0 (235) age 4017. Solomon Njenga M 37:04.6 (232) age 3818. Lamech Cheleket M 37:32.1 (228) age 2319. Samuel Kamau M 38:01.7 (73) age 2720. Charles Ndirangu M 38:08.6 (237) age 60

Karren Chepkemoi F 20:37.9 (5KM) 69 age 21

Erick Mutuku M 15:05.8 (5KM) 229 age 20

The 56th edition of the San Silvestre Vallecana will be held, as is tradition, on New Year’s Eve in Madrid, but this year there have been some significant changes to the World Athletics Gold Label road race.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, organisers have been forced to design a new circuit and so the race won’t start alongside Real Madrid’s famous Santiago Bernabeu stadium, nor will it finish in the stadium of another Spanish first division football club, Rayo Vallecano. Instead, competitors will have to cover four laps of a flat 2.5km circuit, meaning – unlike previous years when the race was held on a slightly downhill course – performances will be record-eligible.

The mass race, which often attracts about 40,000 runners, has been cancelled and only the elite contests will be held with separate starts for men and women.

The showdown between Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw and Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich in the women’s race promises to be one of the highlights of the evening.

Yehualaw is in the form of her life. After taking bronze at the World Athletics Half Marathon Championships Gdynia 2020, the 21-year-old Ethiopian stormed to a 1:04:46 victory over the same distance in New Delhi in late November, beating Chepngetich in the process. Yehualaw now sits second on the world all-time list behind compatriot Ababel Yeshaneh, while Chepngetich, the world marathon champion, emerged from New Delhi with a lifetime best of 1:05:06.

Yehualaw’s fastest clocking in a standalone 10km race is 31:55, recorded more than a year ago at altitude in Addis Ababa. It’s worth noting, however, that she recorded 30:49 and 30:43 for the two 10km sections in New Delhi.

Chepngetich, meanwhile, has an official PB of 31:12 and she recorded 30:57 on Madrid’s downhill course last year. She, too, passed through the first 10km in New Delhi in 30:49.

Ethiopia’s Likina Amebaw, a 32:55 performer over 10km, is expected to battle with top Spaniards Lucía Rodríguez and Irene Sánchez-Escribano in the hunt for a place on the podium.

The men’s race features Olympic 5000m silver medallist Paul Chelimo. Having finished fourth and second at the World Athletics Cross Country Permit meetings in Elgoibar and Seville respectively in January, the 30-year-old US distance runner will compete in Spain for the third time this year.

His most recent outing was a cross-country race in November in Terre Haute where he finished second. His last completed race before that was the 3000m at the US Indoor Championships, which he won. Chelimo’s main aim in Madrid will be to break the US 10km record of 27:48, co-held by Bernard Lagat and Mark Nenow. The continental record of 27:41, held by Mexico’s Arturo Barrios, could also be within his sights.

Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo appears to be the most in-form athlete heading into the race. The 25-year-old set a big 10km PB of 27:18 in Berlin in September to move to fourth on this season’s list.

Burundi’s Thierry Ndikumwenayo, who finished ninth at the 2019 World Cross in Aarhus, is also one to watch. He has recently enjoyed a one-month training stint in Tenerife in the company of Italian 3000m and 5000m record-holder Yemaneberhan Crippa.

Many of the top Spaniards will be in Madrid, headed by Ouassim Oumaiz, Toni Abadía, Javier Guerra, Fernando Carro, Ayad Lamdassem and Yago Rojo. Oumaiz improved to 13:13.14 over 5000m this summer, Abadía holds the national 10km record at 27:48, Guerra is fresh from a 1:01:21 PB at the Valencia Half Marathon, European steeplechase silver medallist Carro clocked 27:46 last month at a downhill event in Alcobendas, 39-year-old Lamdassem is the newly-minted Spanish marathon record-holder with a 2:06:35 clocking in Valencia, and Rojo is a newcomer to the elite, having run under 2:10 on his marathon debut earlier this month.

Charles Yosei, who is a former Africa cross country bronze medalist  and Chelangat, a former  Youth Commonwealth Games 3,000m champion said this after winning the second leg of Athletics Kenya Cross country meeting at the Koileel Samoe University

However, junior winners in Nandi, Agnes Jebet (women's 6km) and newcomer Felix Korir (men's 8km), said they have their eyes fixed on the World Under-20 Championships set for August next year at the Moi International Sports Center (MISC), Kasarani.

Yosei won the senior men's 10km title in 30:38.3 ahead of Phenus Kipleting (30:40.3) and Nicholas Kimeli (30:43.2), who completed the podium. 

The race, which attracted over 300 athletes, saw Family Bank Half Marathon champion Daniel Simiu fail to impress despite winning the opening leg in Machakos a fortnight ago.

He placed fourth in 30:44.6 as Robert Kiprop (30:57.5) and Michael Bett (31:01.9) closed the top six positions in the race. 

“I am in good shape and hopefully, I will make the team to the World Cross Country Championships in Bathurst, Australia on March 11 next year. I want to use cross country to prepare for the 2021 Olympic Games,” said Yose.

Kericho-based Chelang’at won the senior women’s 10km race in 34:25.6 while Joyce Jepleting (34:28.8) and Gladys Chepkirui (34:42.2) placed second and third respectively.

Former Africa junior 5,000m silver medallist Edina Jebitok (34:54.5), Mercy Jeptarus (34:55.7) and Eva Cherono (35:01.7) followed in that order for the top six places.

“The race was not easy. Beating 301 athletes was tough and I want to build on this as I focus on the Olympic Games,” he said.

Ethiopia’s Senbere Teferi and world indoor 3000m champion Yomif Kejelcha were victorious at the Medio Maratón Valencia Trinidad Alfonso EDP on Sunday (27), winning in 1:05:32 and 59:05 respectively at the IAAF Gold Label road race.

At yesterday’s technical meeting, pre-race favourite Sifan Hassan was cautious on her chances of breaking the world record. “I don’t know how my body has recovered from the Doha efforts,” said Hassan, who won the 1500m and 10,000m at the recent World Championships.

But right from the start, perfectly paced by compatriot Roy Hoornweg and Morocco’s Yakoub Labquira, Hassan seemed determined to chase the record as she went through the opening 5km in 15:19 with only Teferi and Kenya’s Joan Chelimo for company as the women-only record holder and world half marathon champion Netsanet Gudeta ran eight seconds in arrears.

With exactly 22:15 on the clock, Hassan tripped and fell hard, losing ground on the leaders. Even though the pacemakers didn’t seem to notice her fall, the European record-holder soon re-joined the lead group.

The lead trio reached 10km in 30:43 – still inside world record pace – with Teferi and Chelimo heading the race while Hassan trailed by four seconds, likely hampered by her fall.

Although Hoornweg remained pacing Hassan throughout, Teferi and Chelimo’s leading margin increased to 16 seconds by the 15km checkpoint, which the lead duo reached in 46:16.

Chelimo began to fade shortly afterwards and Teferi went on to win by a clear margin. The 24-year-old reached the finish in 1:05:32, taking 13 seconds off the Ethiopian record she had set in Ras Al Khaimah earlier this year. Hassan, who overtook Chelimo just before 20km, finished second in 1:05:53 with Chelimo finishing third in 1:06:09.

“I’m really satisfied with my performance,” said Teferi, the 2015 world 5000m silver medallist. “In addition to winning the race, I managed to improve my PB so I can’t ask for more.”

On a perfect day for road running (a slight wind and 12C), the men’s race opened according to plan with the main pack passing the opening 5km in 13:55. By the 10th kilometre, the pace had dropped slightly as the leading pack went through that checkpoint in 27:56. By then, only the Ethiopian duo of Jemal Yimer and Kejelcha plus the Kenyan quartet of Benard Ngeno, Albert Kangogo, Leonard Barsoton and Geoffrey Koech remained with winning chances.

Once the pacemakers had dropped out, the leading quintet of Ngeno, Kejelcha, Yimer, Barsoton and Koech passed 15km in 42:09, indicating the course record of 58:18 would remain intact.

Once Koech lost ground, Kejelcha, Yimer, Ngeno and Barsoton fought hard for the victory in the closing stages after passing 20km in 56:15. Kejelcha unleashed a significant change of pace with about 700 metres to go and went on to cross the finish line in 59:05.

Ngeno was runner-up in a lifetime best of 59:07 while Yimer completed the podium after a thrilling sprint finish with Barsoton, both being credited in 59:09, a PB for the Kenyan.

This year’s Dam tot Damloop, could be one of the few races in the long history of the IAAF Silver Label road race in which a woman crosses the finish line first.

As has been tradition at this 10-mile race between Amsterdam and Zaandam, the women’s field sets off 6:04 – the difference between the men's and women's course records – ahead of the men’s field. The first athlete to finish, man or woman, will receive a €5000 bonus.

Following her 1:06:22 PB at the Copenhagen Half Marathon last week, Evaline Chirchir will start as the favorite. The Kenyan has also clocked some impressive times at 10km this year, including 30:43 in Valencia and 31:17 in Brunssum, and will be keen to improve on her fifth-place finish from last year.

Irene Cheptai, the 2017 world cross-country champion, recently clocked a season’s best of 31:27 over 10km, while Jip Vastenburg carries the Dutch hopes.

The women’s race record of 50:31 has been held by Ingrid Kristiansen since 1987, but last year’s winner Lonah Salpeter came close to it with 50:45.

Former 1500m specialist Chala Regasa of Ethiopia set a 10km PB of 27:23 earlier this year and will be making his Dam tot Damloop debut. Compatriot Solomon Berihu, aged 19, is another strong contender and has set PBs of 13:02.08 for 5000m and 27:02.26 for 10,000m this year.

Ethiopian Olympian Ayele Abshero, a 2:04:23 marathon runner, finished third in this race back in 2010 in a PB of 45:33, but doesn’t seem to be in that same kind of form this year. Kenya’s John Langat also returns to Amsterdam in a bid to do better than his 12th-place finish last year.

The weather forecast for Sunday morning seems ideal with temperatures between 16-18C and the wind on the runners’ backs.