Running News Daily

On Saturday, January 24, 2026, the streets of Buriram, Thailand hosted one of the most eye-catching marathon performances of the season. It wasn’t just about the winning time or the podium finish—it was about how the race was won.

Kenyan runner Barnabas Kiplimo once again rewrote the script, storming to victory at the Buriram Marathon in a remarkable time of 2:21:16. What made the performance truly unforgettable was not only the speed, but the footwear—or rather, the lack of conventional shoes. Kiplimo crossed the finish line wearing carbon-fiber plated racing sandals, produced by Thai brand Ving Thailand, the same model that carried him to victory the previous year.

This win marked yet another milestone in Kiplimo’s unconventional rise. In 2025, he had already turned heads by winning the Khon Kaen Marathon in Thailand with an even faster time of 2:18:55, becoming the first elite marathon winner to achieve such a feat using the brand’s original sandal model. That breakthrough sparked global curiosity—and now, history has repeated itself.

This time, Kiplimo raced in the Nirun model, Ving Thailand’s latest innovation. According to the brand, the philosophy behind Nirun is to “simplify the footwear industry” by creating what they describe as the world’s first super sandal—a minimalist design fused with modern performance technology, including a carbon-fiber plate usually reserved for elite racing shoes.

What made the Buriram Marathon even more compelling was the fact that Kiplimo was not alone in proving the concept. The third-place finisher, fellow Kenyan Julius Tarus, also competed in the performance sandals, reinforcing that this was no gimmick—it was a genuine shift in how marathon racing can be approached.

2026 Buriram Marathon – Men’s Podium

1. Barnabas Kiplimo (Kenya) – 2:21:16

2. Wendwesen Dante (Ethiopia) – 2:22:52

3. Julius Tarus (Kenya) – 2:27:34

As marathon running continues to evolve through innovation and bold experimentation, Barnabas Kiplimo’s success challenges long-held assumptions about performance footwear. In Buriram, tradition met innovation—and innovation prevailed.

From Kenya to Thailand, and from shoes to sandals, one thing is now clear: the future of marathon running may look very different from what we once imagined. 

Five-time Olympian and eight-time world champion Bernard Lagat has taken on a new mission—this time off the track—after being appointed General Manager of Youth Programs by USA Track & Field (USATF).

One of the most accomplished middle-distance runners in athletics history, the Kenyan-born American will now play a central role in shaping the future of the sport in the United States. In his new position, Lagat will oversee USATF’s wide-ranging youth structure, including flagship competitions such as the Junior Olympics, Youth National Championships, and U20 Championships.

Beyond managing existing programs, Lagat has been tasked with expanding opportunities for young athletes nationwide. His mandate includes the development of new initiatives such as training camps, mentorship pathways, and long-term athlete development programs, aimed at nurturing talent both on and off the track.

Lagat’s appointment comes with strong credentials beyond his legendary racing career. He previously served on the USATF Board of Directors, giving him valuable insight into the organization’s governance and strategic direction. His experience also extends into collegiate coaching, having worked as head cross country coach and assistant track and field coach at the University of Arizona, where he contributed to athlete development at the highest NCAA level.

Widely respected for his professionalism, longevity, and deep understanding of elite performance, Lagat now transitions into a leadership role that aligns with his passion for giving back to the sport. His influence is expected to help bridge the gap between grassroots athletics and the international stage, inspiring the next generation of American runners.

With Bernard Lagat at the helm of youth development, USATF signals a strong commitment to building a sustainable future—guided by one of the sport’s most enduring and respected figures.

Faith Kipyegon has spent years dazzling the world with her speed, breaking records, and redefining what it means to be a champion. Now, the Kenyan superstar is turning her focus to a different kind of finish line—one where the stakes are life itself.

The three-time Olympic 1500m champion has launched the Dare to Dream Maternity Ward in her hometown of Keringet, a project aimed at improving maternal and child healthcare in rural Kenya, where access to safe childbirth is still a challenge for many families.

Since becoming a mother, Kipyegon has been acutely aware of the struggles women face during pregnancy and childbirth. She recalls seeing expectant mothers full of hope, only to face preventable tragedies due to limited medical support. Those experiences inspired her to act.

“I’m looking forward to developing this project further with the support of Nike, the Order of Malta, the Franciscan Sisters of The Immaculate Conception and the local community,” Kipyegon shared on social media, underlining the collaborative nature of this life-changing initiative.

The Dare to Dream Maternity Ward is designed to be more than just a facility; it’s a safe haven where mothers can give birth with dignity and care, and children can start life under the protection and guidance they deserve. While the wing will carry Kipyegon’s name, the project is about the women and families who will benefit from it, not personal recognition.

Faith Kipyegon’s impact has already been felt on the track, but with this project, she is creating a legacy that reaches far beyond athletics. By tackling one of Kenya’s most pressing health challenges, she is showing that true champions don’t just break records—they also lift lives.

The 2026 Seville Half Marathon, held on Sunday, 25th January, delivered everything elite road racing promises — raw speed, fearless competition, and moments that will linger long after the finish tape was broken. On the fast streets of Seville, the world witnessed a men’s race decided in the final strides and a women’s performance that redefined the course itself.

From the opening kilometers, the men’s elite field set an uncompromising tempo, with a tightly packed lead group refusing to give an inch. As the kilometers clicked away, it became clear that victory would not be earned early, but fought for to the very end.

That prediction proved true in dramatic fashion. With just 300 meters remaining, France’s Emmanuel Roudolff-Levisse summoned a perfectly timed kick, surging clear in a furious sprint to snatch victory in 1:00:24. His move caught the field at full stretch, and although Kenya’s Owen Korir Kapkama responded instantly, the line arrived a fraction too soon. Kapkama finished second in 1:00:25, separated from gold by the narrowest of margins. Fellow Kenyan Jonathan Kipkoech Kamosong completed the podium in 1:00:33, capping a race defined by intensity and precision.

Behind the leaders, the international depth of the race was on full display. Eritrea’s Melkeneh Azize Abebe and Belgium’s Simon Debognies rounded out the top five, while the home crowd found its moment of celebration as Spain’s Roberto Alaiz emerged as the leading Spanish finisher in 1:03:55, drawing loud applause along the course.

As the echoes of the men’s sprint finish faded, the women’s race unfolded with a different but equally compelling narrative — one of control, confidence, and historic speed.

Ethiopia’s Zeineba Yimer Worku asserted her authority early, running with smooth efficiency and relentless rhythm. Kilometer by kilometer, she extended her advantage, turning the race into a personal exhibition of elite road-running excellence. When she crossed the finish line in 1:06:33, it was more than a victory — it was a statement. Her performance established a new Seville Half Marathon course record and stood out as one of the finest women’s road-running displays of the season.

In one unforgettable morning on 25 January, the Seville Half Marathon 2026 delivered drama measured in hundredths of a second and history written in bold new numbers — a true celebration of global road racing at its finest.

Boston, USA — Kenya’s middle-distance depth was on full display as Dorcus Ewoi delivered a commanding victory in the women’s 1500 metres at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, clocking a world-leading and personal-best 4:01.22.

The performance places Ewoi as the second-fastest Kenyan woman in history over the indoor 1500m, moving her within 0.05 seconds of the national record 4:01.17, set by Olympic and world champion Beatrice Chepkoech.

Running with confidence and control, Ewoi stayed composed through the early stages before asserting herself decisively in the latter laps. Her smooth acceleration and sustained pace proved decisive on the tight indoor track, where tactical awareness is as crucial as raw speed.

Ewoi’s time not only secured victory against a quality international field but also currently stands as the fastest indoor women’s 1500m time in the world this season, underlining her growing status on the global stage.

Indoor 1500m racing is widely regarded as one of the most demanding events on the circuit, requiring athletes to balance positioning, rhythm, and endurance within confined conditions. Ewoi handled the challenge with maturity, demonstrating both technical precision and competitive courage.

The result further strengthens Kenya’s dominance in middle-distance running and signals the emergence of another serious contender as the athletics calendar builds toward major outdoor championships later in the year.

While the national record narrowly remained intact, Ewoi’s breakthrough performance marks a significant milestone in her career and suggests that further history-making runs may be imminent.

For Dorcus Ewoi, Boston was more than a victory — it was a clear announcement of intent.

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) has unveiled the women’s professional field for the 130th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America, and the lineup signals one of the most competitive women’s races in event history. Athletes representing 18 countries will take the start, led by what may be the deepest American contingent ever assembled in Boston.

Thirteen U.S. women in the field have broken 2:26 for the marathon, setting the stage for aggressive racing on a course where experience and tactics often matter as much as raw speed.

“The 130th edition of the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America will feature unrivaled depth and head-to-head racing,” said Mary Kate Shea, Chief Operating Officer of the B.A.A. “The strength of the American field combined with the international experience sets the stage for a thrilling race on Boylston Street. 

Headlining the U.S. squad is the full 2024 Olympic Marathon team: Emily Sisson, Fiona O’Keeffe, and Dakotah Popehn. Sisson enters as the American record holder at 2:18:29, while O’Keeffe is coming off a strong fourth-place finish at the 2025 New York City Marathon. Popehn posted a lifetime best of 2:24:21 at Chicago last fall.

Joining them is the entire U.S. team from the World Championships Marathon in Tokyo: Susanna Sullivan, Jess McClain, and Erika Kemp. McClain was the top American at Boston last year, finishing seventh in 2:22:43, while Kemp owns a personal best of 2:22:56, the fastest marathon ever run by a U.S.-born Black woman.

Annie Frisbie, eighth in Boston last year, returns after a fifth-place finish in New York, and Keira D’Amato, the former American record holder, will make her third Boston appearance. Veteran Sara Hallalso returns after a runner-up finish at the Houston Marathon in January.

Several Americans will make their Boston debuts, including Megan Sailor, Natosha Rogers, and Amanda Vestri, underscoring the breadth of U.S. talent now entering the marathon ranks.

Internationally, the challenge remains formidable. Defending champion Sharon Lokedi returns after her course-record 2:17:22 victory last year, joined by fellow Kenyans Irine Cheptai and Vivian Cheruiyot. Ethiopia is represented by Workenesh Edesa and Bedatu Hirpa, both proven winners on the global circuit.

Experience on Boston’s unforgiving course will be key for Calli Hauger-Thackery, who enjoyed a breakout 2025 season, and Kenya’s Mary Ngugi-Cooper, a five-time Boston top-ten finisher with a personal best of 2:19:25.

In the women’s wheelchair division, defending champion Susannah Scaroni leads the field after a dominant 2025 season that included victories in Boston, Chicago, New York, and Sydney. Switzerland’s Catherine Debrunner and Manuela Schär return as top challengers, with Schär holding the course record.

With elite depth across disciplines and generations, the women’s race at the 130th Boston Marathon is shaping up as one of the most compelling editions in recent memory—where tactics, experience, and courage will once again decide who claims glory on Boylston Street.

The 21st edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, staged under the title sponsorship of the Tata Group, produced a compelling men’s race shaped by strategy, endurance, and mental resilience. Run over Mumbai’s iconic 42.195 km course — featuring long exposed stretches along Marine Drive and a demanding spiral climb in the closing kilometres — the race unfolded under rising January temperatures and increasing humidity, turning it into as much a test of judgment as raw strength.

A High-Stakes Duel in the Final Kilometres

The men’s contest ultimately narrowed to a gripping duel between Ethiopia’s Tadu Abate Deme and Kenya’s Leonard Lang’at, with Eritrea’s Merhawi Kesete Weldemaryam remaining in contention deep into the race. As the decisive kilometres approached, the tension was unmistakable. “Neither of them giving any quarter. They’re both absolutely exhausted here,” commentators observed, capturing the mental and physical toll exacted by the Mumbai course.

Abate, 28, arrived with an impressive résumé. His personal best of 2:05:55, set three years earlier in Tokyo, highlights his ability to combine speed with endurance. A frequent and consistent racer, Abate completed three marathons in 2025 alone — including one just six weeks before Mumbai — demonstrating exceptional recovery and conditioning. Inspired by Kenenisa Bekele, he blends track-like efficiency with road-racing instincts, conserving energy and striking precisely when it matters most.

Lang’at brought his own credentials to the battle. A seasoned marathoner known for strong finishes and tactical awareness, the Kenyan owns personal bests in the 2:08–2:09 range and has built a reputation as a relentless competitor in tightly contested races. As the leaders broke clear late, commentators noted, “It’s a mental battle between these two now, as much as a physical battle… Abate is moving smoothly. He can relax a little now; he’s got the race won.”

Weldemaryam, representing Eritrea, showcased steady progression on the international stage. Though unable to match Abate’s final acceleration, his endurance kept him among the leaders until the closing kilometres. “He’s been a good runner… getting better and better like a good wine,” the commentary reflected, underscoring his continued development.

Tactical Racing Takes Center Stage

By 40 km, the leaders had passed through 2:03:08, a clear signal that the race had shifted from time-chasing to a tactical contest of patience and resolve. Abate’s decisive move came after the final left-hand turn away from Marine Drive, where he surged with authority and opened a gap Lang’at could not close despite a determined pursuit.

The Mumbai course’s exposed roads, coastal winds, and late-race climb demanded precise energy management. Abate executed his race plan flawlessly — staying controlled through the middle stages, reading his rivals, and accelerating only when fatigue began to show in the field.

Lang’at, while ultimately second, demonstrated grit and composure throughout, while Weldemaryam and the chasing pack added depth to a men’s race in which every kilometre required concentration and discipline.

A Race Defined by Intelligence and Strength

The men’s race at the 21st Tata Mumbai Marathon will be remembered as a high-calibre strategic battle — one where Ethiopian excellence once again prevailed, but Kenyan and Eritrean challengers ensured a gripping international contest. Abate Deme’s well-timed surge earned him victory in 2:09:55, with Lang’at close behind and Weldemaryam rounding out the podium.

Once again, Mumbai proved that it rewards tactical intelligence, mental fortitude, and resilience as much as speed, reinforcing its reputation as one of Asia’s most demanding and strategically complex marathons.

Men’s International Elite Top 6 – 2026 Tata Mumbai Marathon

1. Tadu Abate Deme (ETH) – 2:09:55

2. Leonard Lang’at (KEN) – 2:10:10

3. Merhawi Kesete Weldemaryam (ERI) – 2:10:22

4. Gada Gemsisa Gudeta (ETH) – 2:10:49

5. Victor Kiplangat (UGA) – 2:11:02

6. Benjamin Kigen (KEN) – 2:15:28

Ethiopia’s Bizuneh Balachew and Bahrain’s Shitaye Eshete Habte claimed top honors at the 30th Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, delivering decisive performances on one of Asia’s most demanding urban courses along Victoria Harbour.

From the opening kilometers, the men’s race unfolded as a tactical chess match. A tightly packed lead group — including Kenyans Silas Too, Francis Kipkorir, and Douglass Kimeli — matched Balachew stride for stride through the first 25 kilometers. The pivotal moment came just past 30 km, when Balachew surged decisively, opening a small but crucial gap.

Despite an aggressive chase from the Kenyan trio, Balachew held his form and composure to cross the line in 2:09:39, finishing 17 seconds ahead of Too and 20 seconds clear of Kipkorir. The victory marked a significant international win for Balachew, who owns a personal best of 2:06 from Berlin in 2024.

The depth of the men’s field was evident throughout the top ten, with Kimeli (2:10:17), Edwin Koech (2:10:24), and Han Ii Ryong (2:10:39) all finishing within a minute of the winner.

The women’s race proved equally compelling. Eshete Habte ran patiently through the early stages, keeping Ethiopia’s Tesfay Haftu and Kenya’s Linet Masai within reach. In the final kilometers, Eshete injected a well-timed surge, creating just enough separation to secure victory in 2:29:03 — 10 seconds ahead of Haftu and 20 seconds in front of Masai.

The women’s top ten reflected the event’s international depth, featuring athletes from Bahrain, Ethiopia, Kenya, and North Korea, underscoring the global competitiveness of the Hong Kong Marathon.

Course conditions played a defining role throughout the day. The 42.195 km route — beginning on Nathan Road, winding through tunnels, crossing the Stonecutters and Ting Kau Bridges, and finishing in Victoria Park — tested athletes with rolling terrain, tight turns, and coastal winds. While not conducive to fast personal bests, the course rewarded tactical intelligence, resilience, and patience — qualities exemplified by both champions.

Local runners also delivered standout performances, with Hong Kong residents Wong Yin-chun and Law Ying-ting impressing in the marathon divisions. Across the half marathon and 10 km races, tens of thousands of recreational runners filled the streets, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere.

The 30th edition of the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon once again confirmed its reputation as a World Athletics Gold Label event — seamlessly blending elite competition, international representation, and mass participation into one of Asia’s most celebrated road races.

Elite Top 10 – Men

1. Bizuneh Balachew – 2:09:39

2. Silas Too  – 2:09:56

3. Francis Kipkorir – 2:09:59

4. Douglass Kimeli – 2:10:17

5. Edwin Koech – 2:10:24

6. Han Ii Ryong  – 2:10:39

7. Kiprono Kipkemoi  – 2:10:53

8. Irena Gemechu – 2:10:54

9. Gebre Ayenew – 2:11:07

10. Anderson Seroi – 2:11:46

Elite Top 10 – Women

1. Shitaye Eshete Habte  – 2:29:03

2. Tesfay Haftu  – 2:29:13

3. Linet Masai  – 2:29:23

4. Adilo Kesir  – 2:30:00

5. Caroline Kilel – 2:30:44

6. Geremew Workenesh – 2:31:08

7. Emily Chebet – 2:32:29

8. Jon Su Gyong  – 2:32:30

9. Pak Sol Gyong  – 2:35:33

10. Vivian Kosgei – 2:35:37 

The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon returns on Sunday, January 18, 2026, shaping up as one of the most intriguing early-season tests on the global marathon calendar. Established in 1997 and now a World Athletics Gold Label event, the race has built its reputation not on record-chasing, but on tactical nuance—where patience, positioning, and timing often trump raw speed.

That dynamic makes this year’s edition especially compelling, as a deep and accomplished elite field converges on a course known for demanding smart racing.

Leading the men’s start list is Ethiopia’s Gebre Mekuant Ayenew, whose personal best of 2:04:46 positions him as the clear favorite on paper. By global standards, Ayenew ranks among the sport’s upper tier—an athlete capable of world-class times if conditions allow.

But Hong Kong rarely rewards straight-line speed alone. The urban course, winding from Nathan Road to Victoria Park, features sharp turns, rolling sections, bridges, and the ever-present factor of subtropical winter humidity. These elements routinely transform the race into a chess match, where tactical awareness becomes as decisive as fitness.

Kenya’s contingent arrives with depth and experience, forming a formidable counterbalance. Victor Kipchirchir (2:05:43) stands out as the most immediate threat. Known for measured pacing and a strong finish, Kipchirchir is well-suited to a race that rewards restraint before aggression.

Backing him are Silas Kiprono Too (2:06:32), Kipkemoi Kiprono (2:06:45), Reuben Kiprop Kerio(2:07:00), and Simon Kipkosgei (2:07:07). Collectively, they offer tactical versatility and the ability to apply pressure during the critical middle stages—often where Hong Kong races are won or lost.

Ethiopia counters with its own depth. Abdi Fufa Nigassa (2:05:57), Gebru Nguse Redahgne(2:05:58), Yitayal Atnafu Zerihun (2:06:21), and Melaku Belachew Bizuneh (2:06:30) complete a formidable lineup. While their personal bests suggest the potential for fast running, Hong Kong history suggests that tactical surges and energy management often dictate the podium.

International intrigue comes courtesy of Yuki Kawauchi (JPN, 2:07:27), one of the sport’s most unpredictable racers. Renowned for his aggressive, fearless approach, Kawauchi has a habit of disrupting conventional pacing and forcing rivals into uncomfortable decisions. He is joined by Ghazouany Mohamed (MAR, 2:09:01) and Han Il Ryong (PRK, 2:09:42), underscoring the truly global character of the field.

Recent history provides useful perspective. In 2025, winning times hovered around 2:11–2:12, with Kenyan runners dominating the podium. The 2024 edition was similarly measured, reinforcing the course’s tactical reputation. Against that backdrop, the 2026 start list represents a notable shift: several contenders arrive with sub-2:06 credentials, raising the possibility of a quicker race—if the lead pack commits to pushing the tempo.

Still, the course demands respect. Early aggression has often been punished, while disciplined positioning and energy conservation through the mid-race sections have proven decisive. Misjudgment can lead to dramatic fade-outs over the final 10 kilometers; patience, on the other hand, often opens the door to late-race surges and podium-deciding moves.

That tension sets up a fascinating strategic question: will Ethiopia attempt to control the race through collective pacing, or will Kenya counter with tactical pressure and well-timed attacks? And could Kawauchi’s trademark aggression fracture the rhythm entirely?

With personal bests tightly clustered and tactical variables at play, Hong Kong once again promises a marathon where intelligence and restraint may outweigh even the fastest résumés.

As the 2026 marathon season gets underway, all eyes turn to January 18 when Hong Kong’s streets will host a contest shaped by history, strategy, and split-second decisions—another reminder that here, the smartest runner often wins.

Kenya’s love affair with cross country running gained a beautiful new chapter as the nation’s young stars delivered a performance that was as elegant as it was overwhelming. In the U20 Men’s 8-kilometer race, Kenya did not just win — it owned the course, sweeping gold, silver, and bronze in a breathtaking display of talent, unity, and promise.

Gliding over the grass with calm confidence, Frankline Kibet emerged as the heartbeat of the race. Patient in the early kilometers and fearless when it mattered most, Kibet surged away in the closing stretch to claim gold in 23:18. His finish was not rushed, but assured — the kind of victory that announces a champion in the making.

Close behind him, Emmanuel Kiprono turned the race into a thrilling duel, stopping the clock at 23:20. He chased every stride with determination, refusing to let go until the final meters. His silver medal effort was a powerful reminder that within Team Kenya, competition is fierce and excellence is shared.

Then came Andrew Kiptoo Alamisi, whose brave and beautifully controlled run secured bronze in 23:28. As he crossed the line, history followed — Kenya had completed a flawless podium sweep, the national colors shining proudly at the front of the world.

Yet the magic did not stop there. One after another, Kenyan athletes poured across the finish line, filling all ten top positions. It was depth without doubt, dominance without noise. Every stride echoed years of tradition, discipline, and the quiet dreams born on dusty village paths and rolling highland trails

1 .Frankline KIBET (Kenya) —  23:18

2. Emmanuel KIPRONO  (Kenya)  —  23:20

3.Andrew Kiptoo ALAMISI (Kenya)  —  23:28

4. Andrew KIPTOO  (Kenya)  —  23:42

5. Abraham CHEROTICH (Kenya)   —  23:47

6. Brian KIPTARUS  (Kenya)  —  23:49

7. Daniel Kiprotich CHELOGOI (Kenya)  —  23:51

8. Edwin ELKANA (Kenya)   —  24:00

9. Solomon ANDIEMA (Kenya)   —  24:01

 10. Dan KIPYEKO   (Kenya) —  24:02

This was more than a race result; it was a promise. A promise that the future of Kenyan distance running is safe, strong, and already sprinting toward greatness. On the grass, under open skies, the young lions roared — and the world listened.

From the first step to the final kick, Kenya ran with grace, power, and heart. And once again, the road ahead looks golden. 

Agnes Jebet Ngetich did not just win the women’s senior race at the World Cross Country Championships — she redefined dominance.

On a demanding 10km course, the Kenyan star delivered one of the most emphatic performances ever witnessed in championship history, storming to gold in a breathtaking 31:28. From the opening kilometers, Ngetich ran with supreme confidence and authority, stretching the field relentlessly until the contest became a solo exhibition of speed, strength, and tactical brilliance.

By the time she crossed the finish line, the damage was done. Ngetich claimed victory by an astonishing 42 seconds, the second-largest winning margin ever recorded in the history of the World Cross Country Championships. It was not merely a win — it was a statement.

Behind her, Uganda’s Joy Cheptoyek fought valiantly to secure silver in 32:10, while Ethiopia’s Senayet Getachew completed the podium in 32:13, as Africa once again asserted its unrivaled supremacy in distance running.

Women’s Senior 10km Medalists

Gold: Agnes Jebet Ngetich (Kenya) — 31:28

Silver: Joy Cheptoyek (Uganda) — 32:10

Bronze: Senayet Getachew (Ethiopia) — 32:13

The top-20 results showcased the depth and global reach of women’s distance running, with strong performances from Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, the United States, Australia, and Europe. Yet at the center of it all stood Ngetich — untouchable, unshaken, and in complete control.

This triumph further cements Agnes Jebet Ngetich’s status as one of the most formidable athletes of her generation. Known for her road racing excellence, she seamlessly transferred that brilliance to the cross-country stage, proving she is not only a queen of the roads but now a world champion on the grass and mud.

Her victory is a powerful celebration of women’s endurance, courage, and competitive fire — and another proud chapter in Kenya’s storied distance-running legacy.

As the dust settled and the cheers echoed, one truth remained unmistakable:

Agnes Jebet Ngetich did not chase history — she ran straight through it.

The final meters of the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race are designed to reward the relentless. On May 25, 2019, in Edo State, Nigeria, they became something else entirely.

Kenyan runner Simon Cheprot was still racing — lungs burning, legs heavy, eyes fixed on the finish — when he noticed movement on the road ahead. Another athlete had gone down. It was Kenneth Kipkemoi, a fellow Kenyan, his body finally overwhelmed by the strain of elite competition. He tried to rise. He couldn’t.

Around them, the race did what races always do. Runners streamed past. The clock kept ticking. The finish line waited.

Cheprot slowed. Then he stopped.

In a sport where hesitation costs careers, he turned back. He reached down, lifted Kipkemoi, and wrapped an arm around him. With every step, Cheprot dragged his exhausted compatriot forward, not toward victory, but toward safety. The sprint was gone. The podium was gone. So was the prize money that so often defines survival in professional road racing.

What remained was a choice.

Cheprot knew exactly what he was giving up. A top placing in a World Athletics–labelled road race carries more than prestige; it brings financial relief, future invitations, and validation. By stopping, he erased all of that in seconds. Yet there was no drama in his decision, no gesture for the cameras. Just urgency, effort, and care.

Spectators sensed it immediately. The noise shifted — from cheers for speed to applause for humanity. Officials and medical staff moved in as Cheprot ensured Kipkemoi was no longer alone on the road.

In those moments, the finish line lost its power.

The images traveled quickly, cutting through a sports world conditioned to celebrate only winners. Here was something rarer: an athlete refusing to step over another’s pain for personal gain.

Cheprot finished far back in the results, his name absent from headlines that usually list times and places. But the act itself became the story. Not because it was emotional, but because it was honest.

Athletics often speaks about respect, solidarity, and fair play. On that day in Okpekpe, Simon Cheprot lived those words. He reminded the world that behind every bib number is a human being, and that the true measure of sport is not how fiercely we compete — but how we respond when competition asks us to forget our humanity.

The clock kept running.

The race moved on.

But something far more important stopped — and was remembered.

 With no defending champion, no American record holder, and a reshuffled elite lineup, the January 11, 2026, Houston Half Marathon is shaping up as one of the most open and unpredictable men’s races the event has seen in years.

A Reset Year in Houston

When the gun goes off on Sunday, Houston will once again showcase one of the fastest half-marathon courses in the world—but without the familiar faces that dominated the podium last year. None of the top five finishers from 2025 return, creating a rare reset for a race long associated with records, breakthroughs, and Olympic-cycle statements.

What remains is depth, intrigue, and a compelling blend of proven performers and ambitious newcomers ready to write a new chapter. 

Vincent Ngetich: Speed Meets Staying Power

Kenya’s Vincent Ngetich enters as the fastest man in the field on paper, owning a 59:09 personal best from 2022. His half-marathon credentials are formidable, but his reputation soared after a stunning 2:03:13 runner-up finish at the 2023 Berlin Marathon, behind Eliud Kipchoge.

Houston offers Ngetich the opportunity to reassert himself over 21.1 km and test his speed against a deep American contingent on a course that rewards bold, aggressive racing.

Hillary Bor Leads the Returners

Kenyan-born American Hillary Bor is the top returner from last year’s race after finishing sixth in 1:00:20. His 59:55 personal best, set at the NYC Half Marathon, underscores his sub-60 capability—even if that performance came on a non-record-eligible course.

Bor arrives with consistency and experience on his side and will be keen to capitalize on a field without a clear dominant force.

Galen Rupp Back in the MiX 

Few names carry the weight of Galen Rupp in American distance running. The two-time Olympian owns a 59:47 personal best from 2018 and returns to Houston after finishing 12th in 1:02:37 in 2024.

While Rupp is no longer chasing records, his race intelligence, experience, and ability to manage fast early pace could prove influential in a race likely to unfold aggressively from the start.

Rising Americans and International Depth

The American contingent is deep, with several sub-61 runners including Sam Chelanga, Biya Simbassa, Andrew Colley, Alex Maier, and Reed Fischer, all bringing strong recent road or cross-country form into the season.

International depth adds further intrigue, with athletes such as Cam Levins, Alex Masai, Patrick Kiprop, and Mohamed El Yousfi all capable of factoring into a fast-moving lead pack.

The Debutant to Watch: Habtom Samuel

One of the most compelling storylines belongs to Habtom Samuel, the 2025 NCAA cross country champion, who is set to make his half-marathon and road-racing debut. Samuel recently clocked 13:05.2 for 5000 meters at Boston University, signaling sharp fitness as he transitions from the track and cross country to the roads.

Houston has a long history of rewarding fearless debutants, and the University of New Mexico standout fits that mold perfectly.

A Race Built for Breakthroughs

With no defending champion, no American record holder, and a deep field eager to make a statement, the 2026 Houston Half Marathon promises fast early splits, tactical uncertainty, and genuine breakthrough potential.

On one of the world’s most trusted fast courses, opportunity—not reputation—may prove to be the real favorite. 

2026 Houston Half Marathon – Men’s Elite Entrants (with Country)

1. Vincent Ngetich — Kenya (KEN)

2. Galen Rupp — United States (USA)

3. Hillary Bor — United States (USA)

4. Cam Levins — Canada (CAN)

5. Biya Simbassa — United States (USA)

6. Sam Chelanga — United States (USA)

7. Andrew Colley — United States (USA)

8. Alex Maier — United States (USA)

9. Marcelo Laguera — Mexico (MEX)

10. Reed Fischer — United States (USA)

11. Rory Linkletter — Canada (CAN)

12. Ryan Ford — United States (USA)

13. Alberto Mendez — Guatemala (GUA)

14. Alex Masai — Kenya (KEN)

15. Peter Lynch — Ireland (IRL)

16. Patrick Kiprop — Kenya (KEN)

17. Aaron Bienenfeld — Germany (GER)

18. Mohamed El Yousfi — Morocco (MAR)

19. Kengo Suzuki — Japan (JPN)

20. Haimro Alame — Israel (ISR)

21. William Amponsah — Ghana (GHA)

22. Daniel Michalski — United States (USA)

23. Bran Barraza — United States (USA)

24. Aaron Gruen — Austria (AUT)

25. Robert Warner-Judd — Great Britain (GBR)

26. Habtom Samuel — Eritrea (ERI) (half-marathon debut)

27. Casey Clinger — United States (USA) (debut)

28. Isai Rodriguez — United States (USA) (debut)

29. Graydon Morris — United States (USA) (debut)

30. Dylan Schubert — United States (USA) (debut)

31. Merga Gemeda — United States (USA) (debut)

32. Hunter Christopher — United States (USA) (debut)

Ethiopia’s Milkesa Mengesha delivered a commanding performance to claim the men’s title at the 2026 Zhuhai–Macao Bridge Half Marathon, stopping the clock at 1:01:27 as elite runners battled wind and exposure on one of the most extraordinary road courses in the world.

Staged on the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge, the longest sea-crossing bridge on the planet, the race offered a rare blend of speed, spectacle, and sustained mental challenge. Athletes surged onto wide, open tarmac suspended above the Pearl River Delta, facing long straightaways, gentle undulations, and uninterrupted views of open water stretching in every direction.

Mengesha remained patient through the early kilometres as a tightly packed lead group controlled the tempo. He broke clear late in the race, asserting his strength when conditions began to bite. Kenya’s Patrick Mosin stayed close throughout but settled for second in 1:01:30, just three seconds back, while fellow Ethiopian Haftu Teklu completed the podium in 1:02:54.

A Course That Tests Rhythm and Resolve

Unlike traditional city courses lined with spectators, the bridge route is defined by exposure. January brought cool temperatures and steady coastal winds—ideal for fast running but demanding precise pacing. With little shelter on the open deck, runners were forced to manage rhythm and energy as gusts disrupted stride patterns and pack dynamics.

The out-and-back layout added another tactical layer, allowing athletes to measure themselves directly against the field. The turnaround point became a revealing moment, separating those with reserves left for the return leg from those already on the edge.

Loibach Leads Kenyan Sweep in the Women’s Race

In the women’s contest, Kenya’s Grace Loibach Nawowuna underlined her rising status on the international road circuit, claiming victory in 1:07:56 after a fiercely contested race among a deep Kenyan contingent.

She was followed closely by Sheila Chelangat (1:08:06) and Viola Chepngeno (1:08:09), with the top four women finishing within half a minute of one another—a reflection of both tactical racing and the course’s unforgiving nature.

Loibach’s winning time marked an improvement on last year’s performance, highlighting both favourable conditions and the increasing depth of competition the race continues to attract.

A Step Forward From Last Year

In the previous edition, winning times were marginally slower, shaped by cautious early pacing. This year’s performances—particularly at the front—reflected a shift toward more assertive racing, aided by calm early conditions and strong international fields from East Africa and Asia.

The Zhuhai–Macao Bridge Half Marathon is rapidly establishing itself as a destination race for elite and sub-elite runners alike, offering genuine speed potential on a course unlike any other on the global road calendar.

For many competitors, it was more than a race for time or position—it was an experience of running between sea and sky, where concentration, patience, and strength mattered as much as raw speed.

RESULTS – ZHUHAI–MACAO BRIDGE HALF MARATHON

Men 

1. Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) — 1:01:27

2. Patrick Mosin (KEN) — 1:01:30

3. Haftu Teklu (ETH) — 1:02:54

4. Weldon Langat (KEN) — 1:02:57

5. Luke Kiprop (KEN) — 1:02:57

6. Negasa Dekeba (ETH) — 1:05:03

7. Yuki Kawauchi (JPN) — 1:07:52

8. Chong See Yeung (HKG) — 1:09:44

9. Man Ho (HKG) — 1:10:36

Women 

1. Grace Loibach Nawowuna (KEN) — 1:07:56

2. Sheila Chelangat (KEN) — 1:08:06

3. Viola Chepngeno (KEN) — 1:08:09

4. Gladys Chepkurui (KEN) — 1:08:23

5. Gotytom Gebreslase (ETH) — 1:08:54

6. Miriam Chebet (KEN) — 1:09:59

7. Daisy Jepkemei (KAZ) — 1:10:08

8. Megertu Mideksa (ETH) — 1:11:41

9. Ying Chu Lo (HKG) — 1:16:45

10. Shiu Yan Leanne Szeto (HKG) — 1:20:15

As 2025 draws to a close, year-end reflections in distance running often gravitate toward times, titles, and breakthrough performances. Yet some of the most compelling stories in Kenya this year unfolded far from finish lines—across high-altitude farms, disciplined training camps, and an unconventional road race that asked athletes to start twice in a single day.

In 2025, the Kenya Athletics Training Academy (KATA) quietly reshaped what athlete development looks like in practice. Across Kenya’s famed running regions—Iten, Kaptagat, Nyahururu, Keringet, Molo, Kericho, Bomet, and Elgeyo Marakwet—KATA, under the guidance of Chief Technical Officer Denis Musau, expanded its focus beyond mileage and workouts to include nutrition, recovery, sustainability, and innovative competition design. 

At the center of that shift was an initiative that seemed deceptively simple: potato farming.

Originally launched to support camp operators, the program quickly addressed two pressing challenges—nutrition and economic stability. For athletes living and training full-time at altitude, consistent access to energy-rich food proved as critical as any interval session.

“The potato farm has helped some of our camp operators and the entire athletics fraternity,” Musau said. “It is very nutritious, gives energy, and supports recovery for our athletes. Despite being cheap and easy to find in the market, potatoes play a big role in our training environment.”

The initiative aimed to ease food costs, improve diet quality, and reinforce camps running sustainably. It also fostered a sense of ownership within camps—reflecting KATA’s long-term goal of building resilient training ecosystems rather than dependence on outside support.

Kenya’s varied geography, however, quickly revealed that not every region was equally suited to potato farming. 

“Potato farming has been good across the nation where we have camps,” Musau explained, “but some parts of the country are not suitable because of climate factors such as rainfall and soil type.”

Rather than dilute the project, KATA responded with refinement. Future planting will be concentrated in regions that best support both agriculture and elite training, including Keringet in Nakuru County, Kapcherop in Elgeyo Marakwet, and Olkalou in Nyandarua County.

“Next season, we must carefully consider the best areas to plant potatoes,” Musau added.

Life inside KATA camps remains demanding. Athletes rise before dawn for long runs at altitude, balancing hill work, track sessions, and cross-country trails with careful attention to recovery, diet, and mental preparation. In such an environment, even modest improvements—better nutrition, improved recovery routines—can produce meaningful gains. 

While farming strengthened life off the track, competition remained central to KATA’s mission. Structured time trials across camps continued to provide performance benchmarks and exposure to international opportunities.

“Normally, we conduct time trials across our camps, which help expose and link our athletes to international opportunities,” Musau noted. 

Yet one event stood out as both a philosophical statement and a competitive crucible: the Double Road Race.

Conceived by Bob Anderson, veteran running journalist and founder of Runner’s World magazine and My Best Runs, the Double Road Race challenges athletes to race twice in a single day—testing endurance, recovery, pacing, and mental resilience. Designed to reward discipline and preparation over raw talent alone, the format has become a rare meeting point for athletes from different camps, regions, and backgrounds.

“Every year in September, we hold the Double Road Race, where athletes from across the country come together to compete,” Musau said. “This year, we had a successful race in Thika, Kiambu County.”

For many KATA athletes, the event served as a real-world stress test. Racing twice in one day exposed weaknesses in recovery, fueling, and mental focus—validating training systems built on consistency rather than shortcuts. Athletes returned to camp with lessons that extended beyond the road: how to manage energy, respect process, and embrace discipline.

By year’s end, the significance of 2025 lay not in a single headline result but in the quiet evolution of systems. From structured camps and practical nutrition initiatives to innovative competition formats, Kenya continued to offer a blueprint for athlete development that resonates far beyond its borders.

From potato fields at altitude to double starts on Kenyan roads, KATA’s 2025 reinforced a simple truth: performance is cultivated long before race day—and often, the most meaningful progress happens where few are watching, until the results speak for themselves.

Looking ahead to 2026, these lessons provide a clear roadmap for the next generation of athletes. The blend of practical support, strategic training, and innovative racing promises to keep Kenya at the forefront of global distance running—and ensures that transformation continues both on and off the track.

As dawn broke each morning over the rolling hills of Kigari in Embu County, Kenya’s cross-country runners surged into punishing training sessions, their collective focus fixed firmly on January 10, when the 46th World Cross Country Championships will unfold in Tallahassee, Florida.

The residential camp was never about mileage alone. It was a deliberate, finely calibrated response to a shifting global cross-country landscape—one in which Kenya’s long-held dominance now faces sustained and increasingly sophisticated challenges.

Since reporting to camp on November 23, athletes were immersed in a demanding but carefully structured five-week program designed to sharpen endurance, tactical awareness, and mental resilience.

“Since our arrival, everything went as planned,” said head coach Japheth Kemei. “The athletes responded very well to the training, and we used different venues depending on what each session required.”

Training for the Unknown

Preparation in Kigari extended far beyond altitude conditioning. The technical team deliberately exposed athletes to uncomfortable, varied environments to mirror the unpredictable demands of international cross-country racing.

“Some of the venues we used were at the foot of Mount Kenya, where the ground was almost wet all the time,” Kemei explained. “We also trained inside the forest, where it was darker and colder. By doing this, we felt we were giving the athletes exactly what they required.”

With Florida’s winter expected to present cooler, unfamiliar conditions, adaptability—not comfort—was the guiding principle.

“It was cold compared to Kenya,” Kemei said, “but the athletes were prepared.”

Defending More Than Medals

Kenya will travel to Tallahassee as the overall defending champion following a dominant showing at the previous championships in Belgrade, where the team collected 11 medals and swept all team titles except the senior men’s race.

During a visit to the camp, Barnaba Korir, Athletics Kenya’s Youth Development Director and First Vice President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, struck a balance between confidence and realism.

“Kenya will be defending the title we won in Belgrade,” Korir said. “The women won, the junior men and women did a splendid job, and this young team has the capacity to do it again.”

Yet the margins are tightening. Ethiopia and Uganda remain persistent threats, while European and American athletes continue to close the gap.

“The Ethiopians were beaten badly recently, so they are likely to come back with fire,” Korir noted. “But we are also ready.”

Youth, Belief, and the Senior Men’s Question

The Kigari squad was notably youthful, anchored by experienced figures such as Daniel Ebenyo and newly transitioned senior Ismail Kipkuri, but largely built around emerging athletes being groomed for the next competitive cycle.

“It was a young team, but we were not worried at all,” Kemei said. “The spirit among the athletes was very high, and we believed they would give Kenyans what they expected.”

The senior men’s 10km—a title Kenya has narrowly missed in recent editions—remained a central theme throughout the camp.

“We kept reminding them about the need to bring home that title,” Kemei revealed. “They assured us.”

Korir echoed that belief.

“Ebenyo and Ismail have a real chance to contest for the top positions. I am really excited to see what they can do.”

Ebenyo: Carrying Kenya on His Shoulders

As team captain and Kenya’s leading contender in the men’s 10km, Daniel Ebenyo framed the championships as both a sporting challenge and a national responsibility.

“In Tallahassee, it will not only be a race against the best athletes in the world,” Ebenyo said. “We will race with the spirit of Kenya on our shoulders.”

He described the Kigari camp as exhaustive but purposeful.

“Training went very well. Every obstacle that would be there, we were shown. The team is ready to compete with discipline, humility, and hard work.”

For Ebenyo, consistency has come through structure and accountability.

“My consistency came from discipline—being disciplined with my coach, my training partners, and my training,” he explained.

Returning to the national team after time away, Ebenyo embraced the moment with renewed hunger.

“I was happy to be back in Team Kenya. This time, I wanted to do my best, because I love cross-country medals.”

Fear, he said, had no place in camp.

“We were not scared. May the best win.”

Chepsaita Promise Fulfilled: Juniors Join Team Kenya

Beyond elite preparation, the Kigari camp reflected Kenya’s long-term investment in youth development. Two standout junior athletes—Kelvin Kariankei and Joan Chepkurui—earned places on Team Kenya after dominant victories at the 2025 Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run, a World Athletics Gold Label event.

Kariankei powered to victory in the men’s U20 8km in 25:20, while Chepkurui controlled the women’s U20 6km in 21:34 on a demanding course that tested both strength and tactical maturity.

Their selection fulfilled a promise by Farouk Kibet that the top junior male and female finishers at Chepsaita would earn a fully paid trip with Team Kenya to Florida—an initiative aimed at early international exposure, motivation, and long-term succession planning.

Sacrifice Over Comfort

One of the clearest indicators of intent came during the festive season, when athletes collectively chose to remain in camp rather than return home.

“The amazing thing was that the athletes decided not to go home for Christmas,” Korir said. “They chose to continue training so they could perform well.”

Support systems were firmly in place. Nike competition kits had been delivered, and athlete allowances approved.

“They had everything they needed,” Korir said. “They were protected and taken care of.”

Confidence in the Women and the Relay

Confidence extended strongly into the women’s race and the mixed relay, where continuity and form inspired belief.

“Agnes, who finished fifth last time, was back and in good shape,” Korir said. “The mixed relay team had raced together before. They had a big chance of winning.”

Kemei was equally assured.

“The women were good. We had new faces, but that was not something to worry about. Kenyans are Kenyans.”

Kigari’s Quiet Statement

As departure day approaches, Kigari has become more than a training base—it has become a statement. Kenya understands the rising pressure from Uganda’s momentum, Ethiopia’s resurgence, and the growing sophistication of European and American cross-country programs.

But forged in mud, forest shade, discipline, sacrifice, and renewed youth promise, the team leaves Embu with belief intact—ready once more to test its legacy against the world, carrying Kenya’s spirit firmly on its shoulders.

The 2023 Honolulu Marathon delivered a moment that perfectly captures what running—and life—is truly about.

In one frame stood the fastest and the last, the elite and the everyday hero.

Kenyan Paul Lonyangata stormed to victory in the men’s race, stopping the clock at 2:15:41.

Kenyan Cynthia Limo followed with an equally commanding performance, winning the women’s title in 2:33:01.

Fast. Elite. Impressive.

But the most unforgettable story of the day unfolded long after the champions had celebrated.

Nearly 17 hours after the starting gun, Andy Sloan crossed the same finish line in 16:56:39—exhausted, emotional, and triumphant in a way no stopwatch can define. It was his first marathon ever.

Step by step.

Mile by mile.

One very long, very brave day.

Andy finished last—but he did not lose.

He conquered 26.2 miles, years of self-doubt, and every voice that ever whispered, “You can’t.” On this day, he proved that he could—and he did. 

Andy’s journey began in 2017, when he weighed 463 pounds. Today, he is down to about 300 pounds, fueled by determination, grit, and an unbreakable support system of parents, family, and friends who refused to let him quit—especially on the moments he wanted to most.

At the Honolulu Marathon, where there is no cutoff, every runner is given the same gift: a chance to finish. And in doing so, every dream is honored.

This single photo tells three stories:

The pursuit of excellence

The reward of discipline

And the quiet courage of never giving up

Because the biggest victories aren’t measured by time—but by heart.

Barely days after asserting his authority on the rugged highland trails of Chepsaita in Turbo, 20-year-old Mathew Kipkoech arrived at Kinoru Stadium in Meru with momentum firmly on his side and clarity in his purpose. Chepsaita, deep in Kenya’s Rift Valley, is a high-altitude proving ground where thin air, rolling terrain, and unforgiving dirt paths reward strength and resilience. There, Kipkoech powered to victory at the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run 10km in 31:49, a World Athletics Gold Label race that underscored the quality of competition he overcame.

On Saturday at the Bingwafest 2025 Central Edition, he translated that cross-country form into a composed and intelligent victory in the men’s 10,000m, confirming his ability to dominate across terrains.

Powered by Betika, Bingwafest again showed its growing importance as a competitive platform for Kenyan athletics, bringing together established performers and emerging talent in a disciplined, high-quality racing environment.

Forged at Altitude, Focused on the Track

Before the gun fired at Kinoru Stadium, the tension was unmistakable. A deep, evenly matched field crowded the start line, spikes aligned, bodies angled forward in quiet concentration. Kipkoech stood among them calm and deliberate. While Chepsaita had tested his endurance over uneven ground, the track demanded patience and precision.

When the race began, he resisted the urge to dictate early, settling smoothly into the lead group as the pace found a controlled rhythm.

A Tactical Test of Patience

From the opening laps, it was clear this would be a race of restraint rather than bravado. The tempo remained competitive but measured, forming a compact lead pack that refused to break. Kipkoech stayed ever-present and unhurried, tracked closely by Justus Lelinton, Amos Langat, Rasini Lemeteri, and Victor Kimosop.

Through halfway, the leaders were separated by seconds rather than meters, with splits hovering in the low 2:50 range. The race had evolved into a tactical contest—a chess match run at speed.

Control Without Drama

What set Kipkoech apart was not flamboyance, but authority. As fatigue crept in, he subtly tightened the pace—no sudden surge, just a steady escalation. Lelinton stayed attached, while Langat and Lemeteri began to feel the strain.

Behind them, Julius Kipkwam and Benson Mashon fought to maintain contact as the quality of the field ensured every position had to be earned.

The Decisive Finish

When the bell rang, the outcome finally revealed itself. Kipkoech applied one final, sustained increase in pressure. Lelinton fought bravely but could not respond. Down the home straight, Kipkoech ran tall and composed, crossing the line in 28:44.22.

Lelinton followed in 28:44.73, with Langat third in 28:45.24. Lemeteri (28:45.85), Kimosop (28:46.56), and Kipkwam (28:47.07) completed a tightly packed top six—an emphatic illustration of the race’s depth.

“You Must Think on the Track”

“It was not an easy race, especially coming so soon after Chepsaita,” Kipkoech said afterward. “The field was very strong, so I had to use tactics and stay patient.”

He emphasized the contrast between disciplines. “At Chepsaita, you rely on strength because the terrain is tough. On the track, you must think. You cannot rush—you wait for the right moment.”

Built for the Global Stage

That composure has been shaped beyond Kenya’s domestic circuit. In January 2023, Kipkoech ran a personal best 13:18 at the Valencia 10km. Later that year, he competed at the Valencia Half Marathon, where four athletes dipped under 58 minutes, led by former world record-holder Kibiwott Kandie. Those experiences sharpened his pace judgment—qualities clearly evident in Meru.

This was Kipkoech’s first appearance at Bingwafest, and it delivered more than a win—it set a benchmark. Enjoying a season free from injury, he now looks ahead with confidence, with interval training anchoring his preparation.

Managed under ASICs alongside women’s standout Lucy Chemnung, Kipkoech’s performance highlighted the strength of structured athlete development on display at Kinoru Stadium.

From the high-altitude trails of Chepsaita to the precision lanes of Meru, Mathew Kipkoech did not simply win.

He controlled the race—and reaffirmed his readiness for the global stage.

The coastline of Bangsaen, Thailand, provided a fitting stage for season-ending statements as the Bangsaen21 Half Marathon unfolded in the cool pre-dawn hours. On a course that rewards discipline as much as speed, Kenya’s Samwel Nyamai Mailu and Dolphine Nyaboke Omare delivered controlled, authoritative victories—closing their 2025 campaigns with confidence and setting a clear tone for the road season ahead.

From the opening kilometres, the race signaled its intent. The pace was honest but restrained, shaped by exposed coastal stretches and rising humidity along the Gulf of Thailand. Rather than early fireworks, both elite fields settled into rhythm, waiting for the moment when patience would turn into purpose. 

Mailu Times It Perfectly

In the men’s race, a compact lead pack flowed smoothly through the early stages, with Kenyan and Ethiopian runners sharing the workload. Mailu ran economically and composed—never forcing the pace, never drifting from contention.

As the field passed halfway, the tempo tightened. Between 15 and 18 kilometres, Mailu applied sustained pressure, lifting the pace without a sharp surge. The move was subtle but decisive. Ethiopia’s Teresa Nyakola and Regasa Seyoum Beharu responded gamely, but the Kenyan’s rhythm proved relentless. By the closing kilometres, the gap had opened, and Mailu crossed the line in 1:02:59, a victory built on control and timing.

“This race was important for me to close the year well,” Mailu said. “I ran with patience and trusted my training. Now I’ll return to training and start preparing for next year’s road races.”

Nyakola secured second in 1:03:22, with Seyoum third in 1:03:36, completing a podium defined by tactical intelligence rather than early aggression.

Omare’s Authority in the Women’s Race

If the men’s contest was about timing, the women’s race was about command.

From the outset, Omare took responsibility at the front, dictating a steady, uncompromising tempo. Ethiopia’s Beriha Gebreslasie and Mehret Gemeda stayed close, forming a compact trio through the middle stages as the course flattened along the coast.

The separation came quietly. Between 12 and 16 kilometres, Omare increased the pace gradually, stretching the elastic until it finally snapped. Without drama, she edged clear, maintaining form and cadence as the humidity deepened. Omare crossed the line in 1:10:14—a performance marked by calm authority and fatigue resistance.

“I’m happy to finish the year with a win,” Omare said. “This race gives me confidence. I’ll focus on next year’s road season, building step by step for the big races ahead.” 

Gebreslasie finished second in 1:11:12, while Gemeda claimed third in 1:12:30, both producing resilient runs that kept the contest honest deep into the second half.

Discipline Rewarded on the Coast

Bangsaen21 once again proved to be a race that rewards restraint. The flat profile invites ambition, but the conditions punish excess. Those who conserved early and committed late emerged strongest.

For Mailu and Omare, the victories were about more than the clock—closing a demanding year with clarity, validating months of preparation, and turning the page with purpose. As the sun rose over the Gulf of Thailand and applause filled the finish area, the message was clear: the champions leave Bangsaen with momentum, eyes already fixed on 2026 and the global road calendar ahead. 

Bangsaen21 2025 Results

Men

Samwel Nyamai Mailu (KEN) — 1:02:59

Teresa Nyakola (ETH) — 1:03:22

Regasa Seyoum Beharu (ETH) — 1:03:36

Gelana Teshome (ETH) — 1:04:20

Eyob Faniel (ITA) — 1:05:54

Abdi Kebede (ETH) — 1:05:55

Nattawut Innum (THA) — 1:10:10

Arthit Soda (THA) — 1:10:50

Pongsakorn Suksawat (THA) — 1:11:32

Women 

Dolphine Nyaboke Omare (KEN) — 1:10:14

Beriha Gebreslasie (ETH) — 1:11:12

Mehret Gemeda (ETH) — 1:12:30

Lelise Bekele (ETH) — 1:13:49

Kalkidan Debeb (ETH) — 1:17:59

Pareeya Sonsem (THA) — 1:22:05

Ornanong Wongsorn (THA) — 1:22:14

Linda Chantachit (THA) — 1:24:13

Kawinthida Thadased (THA) — 1:25:35

Thanaporn Phatthanothai (THA) — 1:25:37

Held in Guangzhou, the 2025 Guangzhou International Marathon brought 26,000 runners to the streets of southern China on December 21, unfolding beneath a crisp Lingnan sunrise at Tianhe Sports Center. From elites hunting fast times to first-timers savoring the spectacle, the day delivered standout performances and a citywide celebration of running.

The race followed the classic “One River, Two Banks” course—an urban showcase linking riverside boulevards, gleaming skyscrapers and historic districts, with signature crossings such as Liede Bridge and Haixinsha Island Park before the final run-in.

Men: A Two-Second Duel

Ethiopia’s Afewerk Mesfin Woldetensae controlled the men’s race with poise, timing his effort perfectly through the middle stages and holding firm to the line for victory in 2:12:23. Kenya’s Felix Kirwa pressed relentlessly and finished just two seconds back in 2:12:25, a thrilling margin that kept spectators on edge to the finish.

The loudest cheers came for China’s Zhaxi Ciren, who surged to third overall in 2:14:06 to claim top domestic honors—an important podium for home athletes on one of the country’s biggest road-racing stages.

Chinese runners showed impressive depth throughout the top eight. Yang Chunlong clocked 2:17:57, Solang Cairen followed in 2:18:34, while Zhou Youfa (2:20:15) and Deng Guomin (2:20:22) rounded out strong performances that underscored a rising competitive standard.

Women: Record-Setting Authority

The women’s race belonged to Kenya’s Joyce Chepkemoi Tele, who produced a commanding, front-to-back run to win in 2:22:40 and break the course record. Her effort combined bold early pacing with measured control and sustained strength to the tape.

Ethiopia completed the podium sweep as Betelihem Afenigus Yemer (2:27:52) and Chaltu Chimdesa Kumsa (2:31:37) followed, highlighting the nation’s depth and tactical sharpness on fast, city courses.

Chinese women also had reason to celebrate. Ding Changqin led the domestic contingent with a fine 2:35:40 for fifth overall. She was followed by Tang Xiaofang (2:40:26), Song Jinting (2:41:41) and Li Yingcui (2:45:36), all finishing inside the top eight.

A Festival on the Run

Beyond the front of the race, Guangzhou embraced marathon day. Creative costumes—from Cantonese opera tributes to animated mascots—dotted the route, while spectators packed bridges, plazas and riverside promenades, turning the course into a moving festival.

Organizers matched the energy with careful planning. Cooling mist stations, clearly marked aid points and visible safety crews helped ensure the 42.195-kilometer journey was both competitive and runner-friendly.

By day’s end, the 2025 Guangzhou International Marathon had crowned champions, rewritten records and delivered personal victories for thousands. For elites, the results will resonate into the season ahead; for the wider field, it was a day of breakthroughs and shared joy—running through one of China’s most vibrant cities.

Top Results — 2025 Guangzhou Marathon

Men

1. Afewerk Mesfin Woldetensae (ETH) — 2:12:23

2. Felix Kirwa (KEN) — 2:12:25

3. Zhaxi Ciren (CHN) — 2:14:06

4. Yang Chunlong (CHN) — 2:17:57

5. Solang Cairen (CHN) — 2:18:34

6. Zhou Youfa (CHN) — 2:20:15

7. Deng Guomin (CHN) — 2:20:22

Women

1. Joyce Chepkemoi Tele (KEN) — 2:22:40

2. Betelihem Afenigus Yemer (ETH) — 2:27:52

3. Chaltu Chimdesa Kumsa (ETH) — 2:31:37

4. Pending official release

5. Ding Changqin (CHN) — 2:35:40

6. Tang Xiaofang (CHN) — 2:40:26

7. Song Jinting (CHN) — 2:41:41

8. Li Yingcui (CHN) — 2:45:36

The 51st KATA Monthly Time Trial was held today in Thika, Kenya, continuing a tradition that has become a cornerstone of athlete development at the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA).

With competitive fields in the 5K and 10K for both men and women, today’s time trial highlighted emerging junior talent alongside experienced runners, reinforcing KATA’s depth across age groups.

Men’s 10K: John Chege Powers to Solo Victory

The men’s 10K saw John Chege (21, Bib 042) take control early and push on alone for much of the race, stopping the clock at 29:49 for a convincing win. Chege said afterward that he felt ready to run under 29 minutes, but acknowledged how difficult it was to maintain pace without company. 

Stephen Ngigi (22, Bib 061) claimed second place in 30:04, followed by Raphael Karita (26, Bib 043) in 30:22.

Men’s 10K Results

1. John Chege (21, 042) – 29:49

2. Stephen Ngigi (22, 061) – 30:04

3. Raphael Karita (26, 043) – 30:22

4. Bernard Waweru (40, 041) – 30:38

5. Erick Mutuku (23, 040) – 30:39

6. Kristian Muthini (29, 074) – 31:57

7. Charles Ndirangu (24, 031) – 32:26

8. Erick Cheruiyot (30, 032) – 32:32

9. Fredrick Wambua (20, 073) – 32:56

10. Ismael Mburu (25, 036) – 33:31

11. Joseph Wanjiru (40, 064) – 34:12

12. John Wekesa (29, 045) – 34:27

13. Joseph Nyota (20, 035) – 35:05

14. Paul Ng’ang’a (43, 039) – 35:44

15. Joel Maina (40, 062) – 35:56

16. Kelvin Waiganjo (29, 065) – 43:23 

Women’s 10K: Susan Njuu Leads, Chepkemoi Sets PB

In the women’s 10K, Susan Njuu (40, Bib 058) took the win in 35:58, showing strength and consistency throughout the race.

She was followed closely by Caren Chepkemoi (24, Bib 059), who ran a personal best of 36:12, taking more than 30 seconds off her previous mark. Naomi Wambui (40, Bib 057) completed the podium in 36:44.

Women’s 10K Results

1. Susan Njuu (40, 058) – 35:58

2. Caren Chepkemoi (24, 059) – 36:12 (PB)

3. Naomi Wambui (40, 057) – 36:44

4. Ruth Maina (23, 055) – 38:46

5. Mary Wangari (34, 077) – 39:32

6. Regina Sandiki (19, 048) – 40:22

7. Faith Mutua (16, 052) – 44:38

Men’s 5K: Teenagers Set the Pace

The men’s 5K belonged to Robin Musa (17, Bib 072), who delivered an impressive performance to win in 15:46. Close behind was Justus Nyamai (18, Bib 037) in 15:51, with Kelvin Mutunga (19, Bib 053) taking third in 16:34.

Men’s 5K Results

1. Robin Musa (17, 072) – 15:46

2. Justus Nyamai (18, 037) – 15:51

3. Kelvin Mutunga (19, 053) – 16:34

4. James Wahome (16, 033) – 16:48

5. Timothy Juma (20, 046) – 17:25

6. Erick Mwaura (18, 038) – 17:33

7. Samuel Maingi (14, 045) – 17:39

8. John Nzioka (16, 071) – 20:40

9. Ryan Kiarie (17, 075) – 23:28

Women’s 5K: Macharia Returns Strong Despite Injury

Despite nursing an injury, Ruth Macharia (27, Bib 056) topped the women’s 5K field, winning in 20:44.

She was followed by Irene Kameme (12, Bib 050), who impressed with a 21:50 run, while Assumpta Mwende (17, Bib 051) placed third in 22:08.

Women’s 5K Results

1. Ruth Macharia (27, 056) – 20:44

2. Irene Kameme (12, 050) – 21:50

3. Assumpta Mwende (17, 051) – 22:08

4. Winfred Munini (17, 047) – 22:26

5. Agnes Kavuu (13, 049) – 23:27

6. Catherine Waithera (22, 063) – 23:21 

Consistency Builds Champions

Now 51 editions strong, the KATA Monthly Time Trial remains a vital proving ground for athletes across Kenya. Held today under competitive conditions, the event once again demonstrated how regular racing, honest competition, and a supportive training environment continue to produce measurable progress.

There may be no statistic in all of sports more astonishing than this one.

The Kalenjin, an ethnic group—often referred to as a tribe—in Kenya, make up about 13.4% of the country’s population, roughly 6.3 million people. On a global scale, they represent about one out of every 1,000 people worldwide.

Yet this small community has produced an overwhelming share of the world’s greatest distance runners.

Their dominance has been so complete, and so sustained, that it has been described as “the greatest geographical concentration of achievement in the annals of sport.” And it is hard to argue otherwise.

From the Rift Valley to the World Stage

Most elite Kalenjin runners come from Kenya’s Rift Valley region, particularly areas such as Nandi, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, and Baringo, where elevations range from 2,000 to 2,400 meters (6,500–8,000 feet) above sea level.

Here, running is not a hobby—it is part of daily life.

Children grow up walking and running long distances, often on dirt roads. Training at altitude is the norm, not a strategy. And success stories are local and visible, creating a powerful cycle of belief and opportunity.

Champions Across Eras

The Kalenjin impact on global athletics stretches back more than half a century.

Kipchoge Keino, one of the pioneers of Kenyan distance running, won Olympic gold in the 1500 meters at the 1968 Mexico City Games and the 3000-meter steeplechase in 1972, helping place Kenyan runners on the world map.

Since then, Kenyan athletes—many of them Kalenjin—have dominated:

• The 3000-meter steeplechase, winning Olympic gold in nearly every Games since 1968

• The 5,000 meters and 10,000 meters at World Championships

• The marathon, particularly at the World Marathon Majors

Masters of the Marathon

Perhaps nowhere is this dominance more visible than in the marathon.

Kalenjin runners have repeatedly won and controlled races such as:

• Berlin Marathon

• London Marathon

• Chicago Marathon

• Boston Marathon

• New York City Marathon

These victories are not isolated moments—they are part of a long, uninterrupted pattern.

At the center of it all stands Eliud Kipchoge, widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner in history. A member of the Kalenjin community, Kipchoge has:

• Won two Olympic marathon gold medals (2016, 2021)

• Set a world record of 2:01:09 at the Berlin Marathon

• Become the first human to run 26.2 miles in under two hours

He is not an exception. He is the most refined expression of a system that has been producing champions for generations.

Why This One Tribe?

No single explanation tells the whole story, but several factors come together in the Rift Valley:

• Geography: High altitude, rolling terrain, and ideal training conditions

• Physiology: Exceptional running economy and efficient biomechanics

• Culture: Running as a respected path to success and opportunity

• Environment: Group training, competition, and long-term development from a young age

Together, these elements have created something unmatched in sport.

 A Phenomenon Without Parallel

Great athletes come from everywhere. But nowhere else has such a small, specific populationproduced such sustained global dominance across events, generations, and decades.

Not sprinting.

Not swimming.

Not cycling.

Not soccer.

Only distance running.

From the highland paths of the Rift Valley to Olympic podiums and marathon finish lines around the world, the story of the Kalenjin remains one of the most extraordinary achievements in human performance.

And it is still being written.

Vitalis Kibiwott delivered the breakthrough performance of his career on Sunday, storming to victory at the Mersin Marathon and smashing the Turkish Allcomers’ record. The 27-year-old Kenyan clocked a stunning personal best of 2:07:14, improving both the national mark and the course record by nearly a minute.

In the women’s race, pre-race favorite Rebecca Tanui of Kenya lived up to expectations, winning convincingly in 2:25:35 under excellent weather conditions. The Mersin Marathon holds World Athletics Elite Label status.

Still relatively unknown on the international marathon calendar, the Mersin Marathon is held in the major port city of Mersin, located on Türkiye’s southeastern Mediterranean coast and home to just over one million people. The seventh edition of the race attracted just over 400 marathon runners, alongside approximately 2,000 participants in the non-elite 10K. Despite its modest field size, the event has steadily built a reputation for fast times on its flat, out-and-back course.

The headline name on the men’s start list was Ghirmay Gebreslassie, Eritrea’s 2015 world champion. However, the 30-year-old was forced to drop out at 18 kilometers after developing a hamstring problem. That opened the door for a surprise turn of events, as his 18-year-old brother Abraham Embaye boldly took control of the race, passing halfway in 63:52.

Embaye remained in front deep into the race, but with just over five kilometers to go, experience prevailed. Kibiwott steadily closed the gap before moving past the young Eritrean, followed shortly by fellow Kenyan Albert Kangogo. Embaye fought on gamely to secure third place in 2:08:29.

Kibiwott finished powerfully to claim the win in 2:07:14, slicing 59 seconds off the Turkish Allcomers’ record. A year earlier, Kenyan Bethwell Kipkemboi had won in 2:08:13. Coming into the race with a personal best of 2:11:08, Kibiwott had been ranked only 11th on the start list—making his near four-minute improvement all the more remarkable.

“My training was very good, so I was expecting to run sub-2:08 and fulfilled my expectations,” said Kibiwott. “The young Eritrean was far ahead early, but I didn’t hurry. I felt strong at the end and made my move. The Mersin Marathon has a completely flat and very fast course.”

Women’s Race

Rebecca Tanui took command of the women’s race early and reached halfway in 72:30, closely shadowed by Ethiopia’s Genet Robi. The two remained together until around the 30-kilometer mark, where Tanui gradually pulled clear to secure a decisive victory.

While the course record of 2:23:08 remained intact, Tanui’s 2:25:35 was the fastest women’s marathon time run in Türkiye this year. The 33-year-old continues to show impressive consistency at the distance, following her victory at the 2023 Košice Marathon (PB 2:21:08) and a runner-up finish at this spring’s Vienna City Marathon.

Results

Men

1. Vitalis Kibiwott (KEN) – 2:07:14

2. Albert Kangogo (KEN) – 2:07:26

3. Abraham Embaye (ERI) – 2:08:29

4. Samuel Naibei (KEN) – 2:08:59

5. Abebaw Desalew (ETH) – 2:09:14

6. Isaac Kibet (UGA) – 2:10:19

Women

1. Rebecca Tanui (KEN) – 2:25:35

2. Genet Robi (ETH) – 2:26:07

3. Peninah Jerop (KEN) – 2:30:52

4. Millicent Kibet (KEN) – 2:31:05

5. Letebrhan Gebreslasea (ETH) – 2:35:35

The streets of Valencia—long known as a launchpad for marathon breakthroughs—will welcome another major storyline this Sunday as Boston Marathon champion John Korir lines up for one of the fastest races in the world.

Korir, who claimed the 2024 Boston Marathon title, heads to Spain looking to reset his momentum after a disappointing DNF at the Chicago Marathon. Valencia, however, has a reputation for revitalizing careers and producing history-making performances. It was here that Kelvin Kiptumastonished the running world with his 2:01:53 debut, and where Sebastian Sawe delivered his own blazing introduction to the distance.

This year’s edition will test Korir against another powerhouse field.

A Clash With Sisay Lemma and a Deep Kenyan Contingent

Leading the opposition is Sisay Lemma, the Ethiopian star and one of the most consistent marathoners on the international circuit. Lemma, who has repeatedly delivered world-class marks, will be targeting a major statement run in Valencia.

The Kenyan challenge will be formidable as well, with a trio of established athletes joining Korir on the start line:

• Hillary Kipkoech – former track standout making waves on the roads

• Edward Cheserek – the 17-time NCAA champion continuing his marathon evolution

• Justus Kangongo – a proven performer capable of big breakthroughs

Each arrives with something to prove—and Valencia’s flat, rapid course has a way of rewarding ambition.

Why Valencia Matters

The Valencia Marathon has earned its reputation as the fastest marathon outside of the World Marathon Majors, regularly producing:

• Course records

• National records

• Top-10 all-time performances

• Breakout debuts for emerging stars

For Korir, the race presents the perfect environment to reestablish his position among the world’s elite and build momentum heading into the 2025 season.

What’s at Stake

A strong performance would reinforce Korir’s Boston victory as a sign of lasting form—not a one-off moment. With Olympic selections and global rankings in play, every second in Valencia matters.

As fans await Sunday’s race, one question stands out:

Will the City of Running deliver yet another defining chapter in marathon history?

My Best Runs will have full coverage and results as the race unfolds.

The 2025 Shanghai Marathon delivered the kind of fireworks organizers were hoping for on Sunday, November 30—fast times, dominant front-running, and a powerful statement that Shanghai is ready to join the World Marathon Majors.

More than 23,000 runners started at the Bund at 7 a.m., racing through one of the world’s most iconic skylines before finishing at Shanghai Stadium. Both the men’s and women’s races produced standout performances.

Kosgei Back on Top With a Historic Run

Former world record-holder Brigid Kosgei returned to the top of the podium in commanding style. The 31-year-old Kenyan surged early, hit halfway under 69 minutes, and never looked back, winning in 2:16:36—

• the fastest marathon ever run on Chinese soil,

• a new Shanghai course record, and

• the third-fastest performance of her career.

Only compatriot Irine Chepet Cheptai could stay close in the early miles, eventually taking second in 2:18:51. Ethiopia’s Tiruye Mesfin finished third in 2:20:38, followed closely by fellow Ethiopian Bekelech Gudeta at 2:20:59.

China’s top star Zhang Deshun placed fifth in 2:25:13, continuing her impressive streak of top domestic finishes.

Ethiopia Sweeps the Men’s Podium

The men’s race unfolded differently—a large, aggressive pack early on before Ethiopia dominated the final 10K. In a furious sprint to the line, Milkesa Mengesha broke the tape in 2:06:25, edging compatriot Dawit Wolde by two seconds. Deresa Geleta finished third in 2:06:36, completing an all-Ethiopian podium.

Five Ethiopians broke 2:07, underscoring the depth at the front.

China’s Feng Peiyou delivered the best domestic performance of the day, clocking 2:08:36, the fastest marathon ever run by a Chinese athlete in Shanghai. Countrymen Yang Kegu, Li Dalin, and Ma Rui also cracked the top ten.

Top 10 Results

Men

1. Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) – 2:06:25

2. Dawit Wolde (ETH) – 2:06:27

3. Deresa Geleta (ETH) – 2:06:36

4. Haftu Teklu (ETH) – 2:06:57

5. Challa Gossa (ETH) – 2:08:06

6. Feng Peiyou (CHN) – 2:08:36

7. Solomon Kirwa Yego (KEN) – 2:09:42

8. Yang Kegu (CHN) – 2:12:00

9. Li Dalin (CHN) – 2:13:11

10. Ma Rui (CHN) – 2:13:26

Women

1. Brigid Kosgei (KEN) – 2:16:36 (course & Chinese all-comers record)

2. Irine Chepet Cheptai (KEN) – 2:18:51

3. Tiruye Mesfin (ETH) – 2:20:38

4. Bekelech Gudeta (ETH) – 2:20:59

5. Zhang Deshun (CHN) – 2:25:13

6. Veronicah Njeri Maina (KEN) – 2:26:33

7. Wu Shuang (CHN) – 2:27:17

8. Yao Miao (CHN) – 2:31:13

9. Shen Jiayao (CHN) – 2:31:57

10. Ma Xuexian (CHN) – 2:34:51

Shanghai’s Road to Becoming a Major

For the second straight year, organizers staged the race under the “Run Beyond Borders” banner, showcasing deep elite fields, expanded medical and volunteer support, and international broadcast coverage. Shanghai is currently undergoing World Marathon Majors evaluation, with the earliest possible inclusion in 2027.

The 2025 Shanghai Marathon — a World Athletics Platinum Label event — is set for Sunday (30), and both the women’s and men’s races are shaping up as some of the strongest in the event’s history. Former world record-holder Brigid Kosgei and defending men’s champion Philimon Kiptoo Kipchumba headline a deep international lineup chasing fast times on one of Asia’s premier courses.

The mass start field in Shanghai will once again deliver the energy and depth that has become a signature of this Platinum Label event, with tens of thousands of runners pouring through the city streets behind one of the strongest elite line-ups of the season. Local club runners, age-group veterans, first-time marathoners, and international amateurs will all share the course with the world’s best, creating a fast, colorful, and highly competitive atmosphere from start to finish.

With ideal late-November conditions expected and Shanghai’s reputation for producing personal bests, the mass field is poised for another year of standout performances and unforgettable marathon moments.

Kosgei Targets First Win in Two Years — and a Course Record

Brigid Kosgei, whose 2:14:04 stood as the world record from 2019 to 2023, lines up for her third marathon of the year. The 31-year-old Kenyan has been consistently sharp in 2025—second in Hamburg (2:18:26) and again in Sydney (2:18:56).

A victory in Shanghai would be her first since Abu Dhabi 2023, but the stakes go beyond winning:

• The course record stands at 2:20:36 (Yebrgual Melese, 2018).

• Pacers have been asked to roll out at 2:17:50 pace, fast enough to challenge both the course mark and the Chinese all-comers’ record (2:18:09 by Ruti Aga, 2023).

Kosgei will not be alone. Two sub-2:20 performers stand in her way:

• Irine Cheptai (KEN) — PB 2:17:51, coming off strong runs in Chicago and Boston.

• Tiruye Mesfin (ETH) — PB 2:18:35, part of Ethiopia’s long history of dominance here.

Ethiopian women have won 10 of the last 14 editions, and Mesfin leads their charge again.

China brings a serious contender as well.

• Zhang Deshun, the No. 3 all-time Chinese marathoner (2:20:53 at Tokyo), returns just two weeks after winning the National Games.

Add in Bekelech Gudeta (ETH) — who won marathons in Seoul and Mexico City this year — and the women’s race becomes one of the most competitive in Shanghai’s history.

Four Sub-2:04 Ethiopians Lead Men’s Lineup

The men’s race may be even deeper. Ethiopia sends a quartet capable of pushing into all-time territory:

• Deresa Geleta (ETH) — 2:02:38, fastest in the field

• Birhanu Legese (ETH) — 2:02:48, two-time Tokyo champion

• Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) — 2024 Berlin winner

• Dawit Wolde (ETH) — former Xiamen champion

Geleta has been brilliant when healthy, clocking 2:02:38 in Valencia and 2:03:51 in Tokyo this year, though he dropped out of Wuxi and the World Championships. Legese tuned up with a 1:00:54 at the New Delhi Half.

But Ethiopia is far from guaranteed victory.

Kiptoo Kipchumba Returns to Defend His Title

Kenya’s Philimon Kiptoo Kipchumba, the 2023 champion, owns the Chinese all-comers’ record of 2:05:35 set in Shanghai. He hasn’t raced since placing 10th here last year, but he returns with unfinished business.

He is joined by a strong Kenyan contingent:

• Titus Kipruto — 2:04:54

• Solomon Kirwa Yego — 2:05:42

• Kenneth Keter — 2:05:53

• Edmond Kipngetich — 2:06:47

China’s biggest hope is Feng Peiyou, the second-fastest Chinese marathoner ever (2:07:06). A small improvement would break the national record of 2:06:57.

Pacers will target 2:58/km (≈2:05:00) — fast enough to threaten Kiptoo’s all-comers’ record.

 Leading Entries

Women

• Brigid Kosgei (KEN) – 2:14:04

• Irine Chepet Cheptai (KEN) – 2:17:51

• Tiruye Mesfin (ETH) – 2:18:35

• Selly Chepyego Kaptich (KEN) – 2:20:03

• Zhang Deshun (CHN) – 2:20:53

• Bekelech Gudeta (ETH) – 2:21:36

• Veronicah Njeri Maina (KEN) – 2:24:46

• Xia Yuyu (CHN) – 2:25:45

• Wu Bing (CHN) – 2:26:01

• Li Meizhen (CHN) – 2:27:51

• Shen Ni (CHN) – 2:28:47

• Huang Xuemei (CHN) – 2:29:51

Men

• Deresa Geleta (ETH) – 2:02:38

• Birhanu Legese (ETH) – 2:02:48

• Dawit Wolde (ETH) – 2:03:48

• Haftu Teklu (ETH) – 2:04:42

• Titus Kipruto (KEN) – 2:04:54

• Philimon Kiptoo Kipchumba (KEN) – 2:05:35

• Solomon Kirwa Yego (KEN) – 2:05:42

• Kenneth Keter (KEN) – 2:05:53

• Edmond Kipngetich (KEN) – 2:06:47

• Feng Peiyou (CHN) – 2:07:06

• Challa Gossa (ETH) – 2:07:32

• Wu Xiangdong (CHN) – 2:08:04

MANCHESTER, Connecticut — Edwin Kurgat and Weini Kelati delivered commanding performances on Thursday morning, claiming victory at the 89th edition of the storied Manchester Road Race. Clear, cool weather set the stage as the two Flagstaff-based athletes dominated the 4.737-mile loop through downtown Manchester—a Thanksgiving tradition that blends elite competition with a festive community atmosphere.

Kurgat stormed to the men’s title in a record-breaking 20:54, eclipsing the previous mark of 21:04 set by Conner Mantz in 2022. In the women’s race, Kelati secured an extraordinary five-peat, crossing the line in 23:18. While short of her own course record of 22:55 from 2021, her consistency and dominance reaffirmed her status as one of America’s top road runners.

This year’s race attracted 12,386 registrants, continuing the event’s strong post-COVID resurgence. The “massive field,” as race officials described it, featured defending men’s champion Andrew Colley, 2023 champion Morgan Beadlescomb, Kelati, and world-class Kenyan standout Dorcus Ewoi—further cementing Manchester’s reputation as one of the premier road races in the United States.

In the tranquil dawn surrounding Indonesia’s ancient Borobudur Temple, Kenya’s Edwin Soi—once one of the world’s deadliest final-lap specialists—returned to the global stage with a performance defined by grit, maturity, and renewed purpose. His 2:20:21 fourth-place finish may have placed him just outside the podium, but it became one of the most compelling stories of this year’s Borobudur Marathon.

On a redesigned course rich in culture and punishing in terrain, Soi showed the poise of an athlete embracing the complexities of his second act—a transition from mid-distance brilliance to marathon resilience.

Speaking with My Best Runs after the race, Soi described the deep transformation required to evolve from track icon to marathon contender.

“My career on the track—my Olympic bronze in the 5,000m—was built on the fast finish,” he said. “But the marathon is completely different in the final 5km. You can’t just turn your legs over like on the track; the fuel is nearly gone. The biggest adjustment is shifting from raw speed to relentless endurance.”

A Course That Demands Respect

The Borobudur route, winding through rice terraces, traditional villages, and the rolling Menoreh highlands, offered no shortcuts—and no mercy. It rewarded steady pacing, intelligent energy management, and deep aerobic strength, qualities Soi has been sharpening as he shifts to longer distances.

“The tropical heat and especially the humidity were the biggest challenges,” he said. “Even with the early start, the air felt heavy and thick as the sun rose. For us, training in the altitude and cooler air of Kenya, it required immense discipline with hydration from the first kilometer.”

The constant undulation of the course forced him into a measured rhythm:

“I had to run more conservatively in the first half to save energy for the inevitable struggle after 25km. But the scenery, the villages, the people cheering… it is one of the most beautiful races I’ve experienced.”

From Track Legend to Builder of Future Champions

Though he remains globally known for his devastating last-lap kick, Soi’s greatest work today may be happening far from stadium lights. In Kuresoi, through Bob Anderson’s KATA programme, he now mentors a rising generation of disciplined young runners.

“This has been a year of deepening purpose,” he said. “My reflection is less about my personal stopwatch and more about the impact I can have on the future of Kenyan running.”

He still trains at a high level, balancing heavy marathon mileage with the demands of leadership.

“Running competitively keeps me sharp and helps me understand the sacrifices my young athletes are making. Every morning, I run alongside them—I’m not just a coach shouting instructions; I am a competitor in the pain cave with them.”

On the misty loops of Kuresoi, he passes down the two things that shaped him: the speed of the track and the patience of the marathon.

Kenyan Depth on Full Display

Despite missing the podium, Soi helped anchor a dominant Kenyan performance in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia, where the marathon began and finished inside the historic Lumbini Park complex at Borobudur Temple.

The top four in the elite men’s marathon—all representing Kenya—were:

1. Ezra Kipchumba Kering (Kenya) — 2:17:33

2. Alex Oloitiptip Korio (Kenya) — 2:17:43

3. Kiprop Tonui (Kenya) — 2:18:01

4. Edwin Cheruiyot Soi (Kenya) — 2:20:21

A Cultural and Competitive Showcase

The 2025 Borobudur Marathon, elevated to World Athletics Elite Label status, attracted more than 11,500 runners from 38 countries. Its scenery, cultural performances, and enthusiastic supporter crowds generated more than Rp 73 billion in economic impact, cementing its place as one of Asia’s rising marathon gems.

A Legacy in Motion

For Soi, Borobudur was more than a race—it was a declaration. A reminder that champions don’t fade; they evolve.

His footsteps now tell two intertwined stories: a veteran still capable of racing among the world’s best, and a mentor shaping futures in the hills of Kuresoi.

As Kenyan runners painted the leaderboard red, green, and black, Soi’s fourth-place finish stood out not for what it lacked, but for what it symbolized: a champion transforming—and lighting the path for those who follow.

For young runners in Kenya, the dream has always extended far beyond the finish line. It is about opportunity, education, and building a future through running. On November 22, sixty alumni of Townhall Athletics will stand on the starting line at the Gans Creek Cross Country Course in Columbia, Missouri—not only as competitors, but as student-athletes whose journeys blend world-class talent with academic ambition.

Their road to the NCAA National Cross Country Championships was forged through nine regional qualifiers, where Townhall athletes earned advancement both individually and through team berths. Each qualifier represents a story that began on rugged high-altitude trails in Kenya and continued in American classrooms—balancing mileage with lectures, workouts with research projects.

A Pipeline for Talent and Learning

Many of these athletes grew up with limited access to formal training facilities—sometimes even without proper running shoes. Through Townhall Athletics, runners such as Brian Musau, Dennis Kipngetich, and Laban Kipkemboi at Oklahoma State University received structured coaching and the mentorship needed to secure life-changing scholarships.

In Florida, Kelvin Cheruiyot, Desma Chepkoech, and Judy Chepkoech have combined tactical racing with strong academic records, while Debora Cherono at Texas A&M has emerged as a respected leader both on campus and on the track.

In the Mountain West Conference, New Mexico’s Evans Kiplagat and Vincent Chirchir continue to show how academic and athletic development go hand in hand. At Iowa State, Joash Rutto and Mercylin Kirwa have built reputations for consistency and endurance, exemplifying the discipline long associated with Kenyan distance running.

Other Townhall standouts, including Meshack Kuiyo at Boise State and Gilbert Rono at Tulane, carry the hopes of their programs while pursuing degrees and competing at the top level of collegiate sport.

Gans Creek: Where Experience Meets Ambition

Gans Creek is known for its rolling hills, long grass straights, and technical curves—terrain that demands smart pacing and a strong finish. For Kenyan athletes who grew up training at altitude, the course offers a blend of familiarity and challenge, providing a perfect stage to showcase endurance, resilience, and race intelligence.

Lining up against top collegiate athletes from across the United States and around the world, Townhall runners bring not only speed but also the mental fortitude and tactical awareness refined through years of structured training back home.

Voices of Support

Kenyan sports leaders continue to stress that athletic success must be paired with education to secure a long-term future.

Barnaba Korir, AK Youth Development Director and NOC-K First Vice President, emphasizes:

“These scholarships are more than athletic opportunities—they are life-changing. Education ensures our youth can thrive long after the final lap.”

Ibrahim Hussein Kipkemboi, Director of the Africa Athletics Development Centre, adds:

“Blending study with sport protects athletes from early burnout and equips them for the future.”

Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei reinforces the message:

“The goal is not just fast runners, but well-rounded individuals. Education and athletics go hand in hand for global success.”

Impact Beyond the Course

These sixty qualifiers demonstrate how structured development and academic pathways can open doors for rural youth across Kenya. Their progress validates youth programs, inspires younger athletes, and shows how scholarships allow talent to flourish both on the track and in the classroom.

The Journey and the Finish Line

On race day, athletes such as Rosemary Longisa and Caroline Jepkorir of Washington State University, Evans Tanui of Arizona, and Diana Cherotich of Oregon will carry far more than personal ambition. They will carry the dreams of families, coaches, and communities who believed in them from the start.

Every stride over Missouri’s rolling terrain reflects years of discipline, sacrifice, and the pursuit of excellence—both academic and athletic.

When the final lap is run, results will matter. But so will the journey that brought them here. From dusty Kenyan tracks to the championship stage at Gans Creek, Townhall athletes have shown that with vision, support, and resilience, success in running and life can grow together.

As they race for NCAA glory, they continue to inspire a generation to see that the finish line is not an end—it is, in fact, the beginning.

After a competitive season across Nakuru, Siaya, and Machakos, Nairobi is set to host the Season 2 BingwaFest Nairobi Edition on November 22 at Kasarani Stadium. For KATA athletes spread across Kenya, this meet is far more than another race on the calendar—it’s a chance to shine on home soil, compete for substantial prize money, and demonstrate the strength of regionally developed talent. Powered by Betika, the Nairobi edition underscores the resurgence of Kenyan athletics and the rising impact of local competitions.

The season opened in Nakuru, where Maurine Jepkoech Chebor stamped her authority by sweeping both the women’s 5,000m and 10,000m. In the men’s events, Richard Etir and Daniel Kimaiyo delivered standout performances that set an early standard. Their efforts framed a season defined not just by speed and endurance, but by smart racing and tactical maturity.

Siaya continued the trend, with Miriam Chebet taking double gold in the 5,000m and 10,000m. “Winning both races is a big confidence boost,” she said after her victories. “I hope to perform even better.” Titus Kiprotich provided a masterclass in patience and pacing to secure the men’s 10,000m. In Machakos, veterans Glorious Chepkurui and Francis Langat showcased consistency and experience, winning their respective 5,000m and 10,000m races with measured execution.

KATA athletes have been prominent across the domestic circuit, bolstered by strong results at major recent events such as the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon 2025. Under the guidance of Coach Philemon Kiptoo of KATA001 Kapcherop, athletes have not only raced well—they have emerged as crowd favorites, blending disciplined training with tactical sharpness. Their appearance in Nairobi reinforces the rising credibility of Kenya’s regional training hubs and shows that structured local programs can produce athletes capable of competing at international levels.

A distinctive factor behind the KATA program’s momentum is the community-driven economic engine supporting its athletes. Bob Anderson’s potato farming initiative—spread across the highland regions where KATA camps operate—has become a vital funding source. Revenue from these farms helps cover training expenses, travel costs, and essential equipment, allowing athletes to focus fully on performance. This model of local empowerment gives athletes the stability to build careers at home rather than chasing uncertain opportunities abroad.

This year’s event also marks the reopening of Kasarani Stadium following CHAN football upgrades, offering athletes a world-class track and a renewed sense of pride. For many, racing at Kasarani is deeply personal. As Timothy Cheruiyot has said of past editions, competing at home brings a sense of belonging and motivation unmatched by international travel. KATA athletes will look to create similar moments across the full program of events—from the 100m to 400m sprints, 800m and 1,500m middle distances, 5,000m and 10,000m long-distance races, and both the 4×100m and 4×400m relays.

The incentives are significant. Individual winners will earn 250,000 shillings, with 150,000 for second place and 100,000 for third. Relay teams will compete for up to 300,000 shillings. These rewards highlight a growing truth: Kenyan athletes can build sustainable careers through domestic competitions.

For KATA athletes, the return to Nairobi is a moment where disciplined training, homegrown support, and community-driven funding intersect. It’s proof that local competitions can create real opportunities—and that economic empowerment initiatives, like the KATA potato program, can directly fuel athletic success. As Kasarani opens its gates on November 22, the stage is set for Kenya’s rising stars to make their mark and keep the momentum of a nationwide athletics revival firmly in motion.

The third edition of the KATA Sachangwan Running Camp K 07 Time Trial on the scenic yet demanding Salgaa–Rongai route was held under bright, sunny skies with temperatures at 64°F (18°C), 67% humidity, light winds of 2 mph, and a moderate UV index of 4.5. Despite the tough weather and rolling terrain, athletes displayed tremendous resilience and speed, once again proving why the KATA Time Trials are a breeding ground for Kenyan endurance talent.

In the men’s 10km, Weldon Langat (19 years, Bib 025) extended his dominance on this course, unleashing a powerful finishing kick to win in 30:49. Langat has made the Salgaa–Rongai route his own, demonstrating both tactical awareness and strength through the hills. Ronald Cheruiyot (25 yrs, Bib 015) followed in 34:24, while Sammy Sang (35 yrs, Bib 022) took third in 37:50, rounding out a solid men’s podium.

The men’s 5km saw rising star Benard Kitum (20 yrs, Bib 040) clock a personal best of 16:35, continuing his steady improvement within the KATA Running Camp system. His confidence and form signal a bright future ahead.

In the women’s 5km, Elizabeth Wambui (20 yrs, Bib 036) impressed once again, winning in 18:08with her trademark consistency and drive. Sandra Cheptoo (13 yrs, Bib 018) showed great promise in second, running 21:00, while Faith Chebet (16 yrs, Bib 033) was third in 23:12. Miriam Chebet (18 yrs, Bib 035) followed closely in 23:17, with Rahab Chemutai (13 yrs, Bib 019) finishing fifth in 25:27.

These performances highlight the diversity of talent within KATA’s growing satellite network — from seasoned runners to young emerging athletes.

The next KATA Time Trial will take place on December 17 across most of KATA’s satellite running camps, including the main academy in Thika, continuing the momentum of KATA’s “Fuel of Champions” program that blends training, racing, and development across Kenya.

The Salgaa–Rongai KATA Running Camp, one of KATA’s newest and most promising satellite locations, continues to build its reputation as a key hub for athlete development. Its consistent time trial events are helping to identify and prepare the next generation of Kenyan champions — runners who are fast proving that talent, dedication, and the right support can overcome even the toughest conditions.

KATA Time Trial – Salgaa–Rongai (3rd Edition) Official Results

10km Men

1. Weldon Langat – 19 yrs – Bib 025 – 30:49

2. Ronald Cheruiyot – 25 yrs – Bib 015 – 34:24

3. Sammy Sang – 35 yrs – Bib 022 – 37:50

5km Men

1. Benard Kitum – 20 yrs – Bib 040 – 16:35 (PB)

5km Women

1. Elizabeth Wambui – 20 yrs – Bib 036 – 18:08

2. Sandra Cheptoo – 13 yrs – Bib 018 – 21:00

3. Faith Chebet – 16 yrs – Bib 033 – 23:12

4. Miriam Chebet – 18 yrs – Bib 035 – 23:17

5. Rahab Chemutai – 13 yrs – Bib 019 – 25:27

THIKA, Kenya — November 12, 2025 — The 50th edition of the KATA Time Trial was held today at the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) in Thika, marking a major milestone for the event that continues to nurture and test athletes under challenging conditions. Despite the warm, humid air and gusty winds, runners delivered impressive performances across both the 5km and 10km distances.

In the men’s 5km race, Charles Ndirangu, still recovering from injury, displayed determination and class to cross the finish line first in 15:32. Sixteen-year-old James Lawrence followed with a strong run of 18:01, showing promise as one of KATA’s rising young athletes. Eric Mwaura, 18, clocked 18:07to round out the top three.

The women’s 5km race saw Agnes Wanjiru take to the course solo, clocking 19:21. Having recently battled illness, her performance reflected admirable resilience and commitment to the KATA program.

The men’s 10km was one of the most competitive fields of the day. John Chege, 21, took command early and maintained his lead to win in 29:49. He was followed by Bernard Waweru (40) in 30:29, with Stephen Ngigi, 22, close behind in 30:36 to complete the podium.

The women’s 10km produced another standout performance, with Loise Kiarie, 24, setting a new personal best of 33:49, improving her previous time by 30 seconds despite the less-than-ideal weather. Jacinta Kamau, also 24, claimed second in 34:48, while Kellen Waithira (38) finished third in 36:11.

The KATA Time Trials, founded by Bob Anderson, continue to provide a world-class platform for Kenyan athletes to measure progress and stay race-ready between competitions. Today’s edition celebrated not only endurance and improvement but also the spirit of consistency that has defined the KATA community since its inception.

The next KATA Time Trial will take place on December 17, both in Thika and at most of KATA’s satellite running camps across Kenya, as the program continues to expand its reach and provide competitive opportunities to athletes nationwide.

KATA Time Trial #50 – Official Results

5km Men

1. Charles Ndirangu – 24 yrs – Bib 74 – 15:32
2. James Lawrence – 16 yrs – Bib 73 – 18:01
3. Eric Mwaura – 18 yrs – Bib 35 – 18:07
4. Tobias Kosgei – 16 yrs – Bib 73 – 18:50

5km Women

1. Agnes Wanjiru – 20 yrs – Bib 33 – 19:21

10km Men

1. John Chege – 21 yrs – Bib 76 – 29:49
2. Bernard Waweru – 40 yrs – Bib 31 – 30:29
3. Stephen Ngigi – 22 yrs – Bib 71 – 30:36
4. Boniface Mungai – 30 yrs – Bib 77 – 30:53
5. Dan Lolngojine – 19 yrs – Bib 49 – 31:01
6. John Kuria – 30 yrs – Bib 40 – 31:33
7. Joel Maina – 43 yrs – Bib 41 – 32:15
8. Justus Nyamai – 18 yrs – Bib 48 – 33:25
9. Ismael Mburu – 25 yrs – Bib 50 – 33:44
10. Eric Cheruiyot – 30 yrs – Bib 46 – 33:55
11. Joseph Nyota – 20 yrs – Bib 32 – 34:05
12. Peter Mukundi – 27 yrs – Bib 37 – 36:46
13. Charles Ndirangu – 65 yrs – Bib 53 – 38:02

10km Women

1. Loise Kiarie – 24 yrs – Bib 39 – 33:49 (PB)
2. Jacinta Kamau – 24 yrs – Bib 38 – 34:48
3. Kellen Waithira – 38 yrs – Bib 54 – 36:11
4. Susan Njuu – 40 yrs – Bib 52 – 36:34
5. Lilian Nyamai – 25 yrs – Bib 47 – 37:04
6. Karen Cheokemoi – 24 yrs – Bib 51 – 37:29
7. Ruth Maina – 23 yrs – Bib 72 – 37:36
8. Felistas Maina – 37 yrs – Bib 34 – 40:04
9. Mary Wangari – 35 yrs – Bib 36 – 40:04

Beatrice Chebet has been voted Kenya’s Female Long-Distance Athlete of the Year, receiving an overwhelming 67% of total fan votes in a nationwide poll conducted by Kenya Sports and Athletics Kenya.

Chebet’s 2025 season has been nothing short of historic. The 25-year-old claimed both the 5000mand 10,000m world titles, showcasing her dominance across the long-distance spectrum. She also shattered the 5000m world record, clocking a breathtaking 13:58.06, and became the first woman in history to break the 14-minute barrier.

Her remarkable achievements placed her far ahead of fellow Kenyan legends Hellen Obiri (12%) and Peres Jepchirchir (6%) in the fan voting.

Chebet’s versatility, strength, and consistency have redefined what’s possible for women’s distance running. Known for her calm confidence and powerful finishing kick, she has proven equally unstoppable on the track and the roads, inspiring a new generation of athletes around the world.

With a season marked by brilliance and history-making performances, Beatrice Chebet has firmly established herself among the all-time greats in athletics.

2025 Season Highlights

✅ 5000m World Champion

✅ 10,000m World Champion

✅ 5000m World Record – 13:58.06

Congratulations to Beatrice Chebet — a true champion of champions. 

Eliud Kipchoge, the greatest marathoner of all time, took on the challenging streets of New York City for the first time — and finished strong in 2:14:36. Known for his smooth efficiency and calm composure, Kipchoge tackled the hilly and tactical course with trademark focus, staying consistent through the early stages before the pace slowed slightly in the latter half.

His early splits showed controlled aggression: 15:12 at 5K, 30:25 at 10K, and 1:05:20 at halfway. Through 30K, he was still moving well in 1:33:02, but the final 10 kilometers through Central Park tested even the marathon master, bringing him home in 2:14:36.

Though not among his fastest times, this was a run filled with purpose and legacy. For Kipchoge, New York was never about breaking records — it was about embracing one of the sport’s most iconic stages and completing his journey across all six World Marathon Majors.

At 40 years old, the Kenyan legend has now conquered every major marathon city, further solidifying his place as the face of modern distance running.  "Many at age 40 have run much faster but this is still very respectable," says KATA founder Bob Anderson.  

The streets of New York witnessed one of the most dramatic finishes in recent marathon history as Benson Kipruto of Kenya edged compatriot Alexander Mutiso by fractions of a second to win the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon. Both men were clocked at 2:08:09, with Kipruto leaning ahead in the final meters of Central Park to claim the title.

The victory marked a triumphant return to the top for Kipruto, who has previously won the Boston and Chicago Marathons. On a day when tactics mattered as much as fitness, he delivered a perfectly timed surge to secure the crown.

Alexander Mutiso finished a close second in 2:08:09, just 0.16 seconds behind, while 2021 New York champion Albert Korir completed the Kenyan sweep in third with a time of 2:08:57. Great Britain’s Patrick Dever ran a superb debut marathon to finish fourth in 2:08:58, and Swiss athlete Matthias Kyburz crossed the line fifth in 2:09:55.

All eyes were on Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic champion and marathon world record holder, making his long-awaited debut in New York. The legendary Kenyan started conservatively and remained in the lead pack through halfway, but the relentless climbs and bridges of the course eventually took their toll. Kipchoge finished 17th in 2:14:36, smiling as he crossed the line, suggesting this could be his final appearance at a World Marathon Major.

Ethiopian great Kenenisa Bekele also started among the favorites but faded after the 30-kilometer mark and did not finish the race. His withdrawal, along with Kipchoge’s struggles, highlighted the unique difficulty of New York’s course—one that tests strategy and strength more than sheer speed.

Despite the absence of a record-breaking time, the 2025 edition of the TCS New York City Marathon delivered unforgettable drama. The Kenyan trio’s podium sweep reaffirmed the country’s dominance in distance running, while thousands of runners from across the globe once again turned the streets of the five boroughs into a festival of endurance and inspiration.

Top 10 Men’s Results – 2025 TCS New York City Marathon:

1. Benson Kipruto (Kenya) – 2:08:09

2. Alexander Mutiso (Kenya) – 2:08:09

3. Albert Korir (Kenya) – 2:08:57

4. Patrick Dever (Great Britain) – 2:08:58

5. Matthias Kyburz (Switzerland) – 2:09:55

6. Joel Reichow (United States) – 2:09:56

7. Charles Hicks (United States) – 2:09:59

8. Sondre Moen (Norway) – 2:10:15

9. Tsegay Weldlibanos (Eritrea) – 2:10:36

10. Joe Klecker (United States) – 2:10:37

Eliud Kipchoge finished 17th in 2:14:36.

Kenenisa Bekele did not finish (DNF).

When the sun rises over Staten Island this Sunday, the world will witness something special — Eliud Kipchoge, the greatest marathoner of all time, running the TCS New York City Marathon for the first time. At 40, the Kenyan legend isn’t chasing records. He’s chasing completeness — the final chapter of a career that redefined endurance and possibility.

With two Olympic golds, 11 major marathon victories, and the historic sub-two-hour run, Kipchoge already stands alone. Yet New York remains the one missing jewel in his Abbott World Marathon Majors crown. “If I don’t complete all of them,” he says, “I feel like I am halfway. My legacy will be complete when I have a sixth star.”

But New York is no Berlin. Its hills and bridges test rhythm and resolve. Kipchoge faces a tough field, led by his former training partner and defending champion Abdi Nageeye, along with Benson Kipruto, Alexander Mutiso, and Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta. Nageeye, coming off a 2:04:20 in London, aims to defend his title and disrupt the legend’s farewell.

Still, for Kipchoge, this race is about purpose, not podiums. “My happiness is to see people getting interested in what I’m selling,” he says. “I’m selling the sport as a profession.” His mission now is to inspire — through running, mentorship, and his wellness platform Kotcha, which blends training, nutrition, and education. “We’re bringing knowledge to people’s fingertips,” he explains.

To him, running is a universal language. “All human beings are beautiful,” Kipchoge says. “The problem is ourselves — not using our knowledge.”

As 50,000 runners take on the five boroughs, Kipchoge’s presence turns the marathon into something larger — a meditation on effort, purpose, and legacy. His calm smile and relentless discipline remind the world that greatness isn’t about medals, but meaning.

On Sunday, as he strides through Central Park, Kipchoge won’t just be chasing a finish line. He’ll be closing a circle — running not for glory, but for the joy of fulfillment.

Athletes at the KATA Kerenget Running Camp (ID K03), operated by Sammy Dismas, showcased their determination and talent during a 10K time trial held today under tough weather conditions. Despite the challenge, the event was a success, demonstrating the resilience and dedication that define the KATA spirit.

In the men’s 10K, Amos Kirui (Bib 076) claimed victory with an impressive time of 29:56, edging out Jackson Koech (Bib 069), who finished close behind in 30:01. Cosmas Mutai (Bib 070) secured third place in 30:20, while Benard Kibilo (Bib 071) and camp operator Sammy Dismas (Bib 077) followed in 30:32 and 30:51, respectively. Simon Toli (Bib 070) rounded out the top six with a strong 31:00 finish.

In the women’s 10K, Daphine Kiptoo (Bib 072) led from the front to take the win in 35:00, followed by Sharon Ndanu (Bib 074) in 35:40 and Mercy Chepngeno (Bib 073) in 36:15.

“Even though the weather was not favorable, we did our best to ensure everything went on well,” reported the Kerenget Camp team. Their commitment ensured another smooth and competitive trial for the KATA athletes.

The KATA Kerenget Running Camp is one of 31 KATA Running Camps, mostly located in Kenya’s Rift Valley, that help athletes reach their potential under the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA)program. With regular time trials like this, runners continue to refine their form and fitness as they prepare for upcoming races both locally and internationally.

The 47th Türkiye İş Bankası Istanbul Marathon takes place this Sunday, November 2, 2025, drawing top international athletes to one of the world’s most scenic and competitive races. A World Athletics Gold Label event, the marathon is famous for its cross-continental course that starts in Asia, crosses the Bosphorus Bridge, and finishes in Europe.

Elite Headliners

Defending champion Dejene Debela and fellow Ethiopian Tigst Getnet lead this year’s elite fields. Debela’s personal best is 2:05:46, while Getnet’s stands at 2:23:17. Both are eager to add another title to Ethiopia’s long tradition of marathon dominance.

The men’s and women’s races are deep with talent. Half a dozen men have run between 2:05:30 and 2:09:00, and six women enter with times under 2:26:00. Around 6,000 marathoners will race the full distance, joined by tens of thousands more in shorter events — totaling over 42,000 runners.

“Since Istanbul is a candidate for the 2036 Olympic Games, our marathon has an important role to play,” said Race Director Bilge Donuk.

The Men’s Race

Dejene Debela returns to defend his title after winning in windy conditions last year. “It was very windy last year, so this time I hope for a much faster time,” he said. The 30-year-old Ethiopian, who trains in Addis Ababa, set his PB of 2:05:46 in Chicago (2019) and has since overcome injuries that slowed his progress.

Organizers expect pacemakers to target 63:30–63:45 at halfway — a pace Debela says fits his goal. He has raced sparingly this year, dropping out of the Wuxi Marathon in March as a precaution but now says he feels “ready to defend my title.”

Among his challengers are Rhonzas Kilimo (KEN, 2:06:09) and Ethiopia’s Sufaro Woliyi, just 22, who impressed with a 2:07:19 debut in Xiamen. Kenya’s Benard Kipkorir, fourth here last year, recently clocked 2:08:12 in Chongqing and could also contend.

Kenya’s Denis Chirchir was forced to withdraw with a stress fracture, while New Zealand’s Jake Robertson is sidelined by injury.

The Women’s Race

Two Ethiopian training partners — Tigst Getnet and Sofia Assefa — headline the women’s field. Both train under Kirubel Damtew in Addis Ababa. Getnet’s best is 2:23:17, while Assefa’s stands at 2:23:33.

Sofia Assefa, 37, is a former world-class steeplechaser who won Olympic silver in 2012 and World Championship bronze in 2013. After a promising marathon debut in Amsterdam, she placed second in Copenhagen this May with 2:26:21 and says she’s now in even better form.

Her training partner Tigst Getnet, 15 years younger, has already completed six marathons. Her debut in Dubai (2023) remains her best, and she’ll look to return to that level in Istanbul.

Other notable contenders include Yenenesh Tilahun Dinkesa (2:24:09), Letebrhan Gebreslasea (2:24:47), and Roman Gidey (2:25:22), who ran two strong marathons within two weeks in Guangzhou last year. Kenya’s rising 21-year-old Joan Kilimo (2:25:32 debut in Milan) leads the Kenyan challenge.

Defending champion Ruth Jebet has withdrawn to compete in the Islamic Solidarity Games next week in Riyadh.

Top Elite Runners and Personal Bests

Men

Dejene Debela (ETH) – 2:05:46

Rhonzas Kilimo (KEN) – 2:06:09

Sufaro Woliyi (ETH) – 2:07:19

Benard Kipkorir (KEN) – 2:08:12

Isaac Too (KEN) – 2:08:45

Charles Mneria (KEN) – 2:08:54

Hillary Kipchumba (KEN) – 2:09:53

Women

Tigst Getnet (ETH) – 2:23:17

Sofia Assefa (ETH) – 2:23:33

Yenenesh Tilahun Dinkesa (ETH) – 2:24:09

Letebrhan Gebreslasea (ETH) – 2:24:47

Roman Gidey (ETH) – 2:25:22

Joan Kilimo (KEN) – 2:25:32

Expanding its spirit of competition from the track to the fields, KATA rewards excellence in both running and farming.

KATA is taking its competitive spirit from the track to the fields with the new KATA Potato Farmer Half-Million Bonus Prize Package. This program will reward five KATA farmers with 50,000 Kenyan Shillings each, recognizing those who achieve the best yield per acre.

The first payout will be made on December 31, followed by a second on June 30. Each cycle, five farmers with the top single-acre harvests will receive the bonus, totaling half a million shillings annually.

Yields will be measured in 50 kg bags and must be sold to verified buyers. Results will be confirmed by CTO Dennis, Sales Directors Gideon and John, and Accounts Manager Fridah. The one bag each farmer keeps for home use will not count, and only bags sold and confirmed as paid to KATAwill qualify.

“We offer prize money for races, and with all the hard work it takes to grow KATA potatoes, I thought—why not turn this into a competition as well?” says Bob Anderson, KATA Founder and Director.

A farmer can win twice a year if they achieve the best results in both seasons. The initiative mirrors KATA’s philosophy—rewarding effort, precision, and perseverance whether it’s on the course or in the soil.

From Running to Farming Excellence

The Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA), founded by Bob Anderson, the creator of Runner’s World and My Best Runs, began as a world-class training center for runners in Thika, Kenya. Today, it has grown into a dynamic network that includes over 30 KATA Running Camps and 60+ KATA Potato Farms across Kenya, and an international headquarters at Anderson Manor in Portugal.

Each KATA farm operates under a system that combines athletics and agriculture, offering farmers interest-free loans and ongoing support to grow certified Shangi potatoes. The harvests are marketed through KATA’s coordinated sales network, ensuring fair prices and dependable returns for each farmer.

Many KATA farmers are also runners—or closely connected to the athletic community—bringing the same discipline, teamwork, and endurance to farming that they apply to training.

Empowering Champions in Every Field

From the start, KATA’s mission has been to help people reach their potential through endurance, consistency, and community. The new Half-Million Bonus Prize Package celebrates that mission—recognizing those who deliver exceptional results through focus and commitment.

As Anderson explains, “Whether it’s crossing a finish line or bringing in a record harvest, both take focus, endurance, and belief in yourself. That’s what KATA is all about.”

The first group of winners for the KATA Potato Farmer Half-Million Bonus Prize will be announced on December 31, 2025.

Additional KATA Running Camps and KATA Potatoe farms are going to be confirmed starting in December.  Confirm your interest by contacting Bob Anderson on WhatsApp.  

The Uasin Gishu Half Marathon, that is held annually in August in the heart of Kenya’s running country, once again showcased the nation’s unrivaled distance-running talent and spirit.

 Thousands of athletes took to the scenic, high-altitude roads of Eldoret, cheered on by local fans who lined the streets from start to finish. The race, sponsored by Betika, continues to grow in stature each year, combining elite performances with strong community participation.

In the men’s race, Robert Kiprop stormed to victory with an impressive time of 1:00:56, pulling away in the final kilometers to secure the crown. On the women’s side, Gladys Chepkurui was dominant, finishing in 68:56, ahead of Vivian Cherotich, who clocked 70:02. Both races reflected the incredible depth of talent that defines Kenyan running—where even regional competitions produce world-class results.  The champions each earned KSh. 300,000, with the runners-up taking home KSh. 200,000—a reflection of the event’s growing professional stature.

Beyond the competition, the Uasin Gishu Half Marathon offered an unforgettable racing experience. The rolling terrain, high altitude, and enthusiastic crowds create a course that challenges every runner while celebrating Kenya’s proud running heritage.

 As one of the country’s most exciting half marathons, Uasin Gishu has become a proving ground for rising stars and a celebration for local and visiting runners alike. It’s a reminder that in Kenya, running is more than a sport—it’s a way of life.

The 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon delivered a thrilling showcase of endurance on October 26, as top athletes battled it out on the streets of Nairobi under ideal racing conditions. This year’s event, one of the premier marathons on the African continent, once again attracted a deep field of elite talent.

Among the day’s standout performances was Donald Kimaru, a KATA athlete training out of the Kapcherop KATA Running Camp, who finished a remarkable 4th place in a highly competitive men’s race.

Donald Kimaru: Fuelled by KATA, Ready for the Global Stage

Clocking a time of 2:12:02, Kimaru finished just over a minute behind the winner, Benard Chepkowny (2:11:01), and less than 30 seconds from the podium. It was a huge breakthrough for the rising long-distance runner, who trains under the high-altitude guidance of Coach Philemon Kipruto at the KATA facility in Kapcherop.

“Donald is showing the power of patience and consistency,” Coach Kipruto noted. “We’ve known he had the potential, and now he’s proving it in one of Kenya’s most important races.”

 Chepkwony, returning to major competition, wasted no time asserting his intent. He set a strong pace from the start, joined by Silas Chesang, Donald Kimaru, Ezekiel Kemboi, Bethwel Chemuno, and Wilfred Kiplagat, all determined to stay in contention.

As the race progressed past the 30km mark, Chepkwony maintained the lead despite Chesang mounting a late push after struggling on the uphill sections.

Chepkwony’s endurance and composure carried him through to the finish line, clocking an impressive 2:11:01 to seal his comeback victory.

Kimaru trains in an environment designed to create champions, where runners combine disciplined training with the nutritional strength of KATA Potatoes – The Fuel of Champions. His performance in Nairobi is a testament to this holistic approach. Donald had placed second at the KATA Double Road Race 15k held September 20 in Thika.  

Top 10 Elite Men – 2025 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon

1. Benard Chepkowny – KEN – 2:11:01 (first photo)

2. Alex Chepkwik Saekwo – KEN – 2:11:26

3. Ezekiel Kemboi Omullo – KEN – 2:11:40

4. Donald Kimaru – KEN – 2:12:02

5. Wilfred Kiplagat – UGA – 2:13:42

6. Charles Kimeli – KEN – 2:14:08

7. Nehemiah Kiprono Sang – KEN – 2:14:38

8. Solomon Yego – KEN – 2:14:50

9. Dennis Kipkemboi Koech – KEN – 2:15:39

10. Silas Chesang Keitany – KEN – 2:15:51

Women’s Race Highlight

In the women’s marathon, Hellen Chepkorir dominated with a powerful performance, finishing in 2:27:17 at an average pace of 3:30/km.

KATA’s Impact Growing

Donald Kimaru’s top finish adds to the growing list of success stories emerging from the KATA Running Camp ecosystem. Founded by Bob Anderson, KATA is reshaping the Kenyan distance running scene with over 30 camps across the country, combining elite training with a sustainable agricultural model. Runners like Donald are not only developing as athletes but also helping uplift their communities.

Next for Donald? A potential international marathon debut in 2026, where he’ll look to break the 2:10 barrier and cement his name among Kenya’s top marathoners.

In the highland village of Sachang’wan in Molo, Nakuru County, the land rises boldly toward the sky. The area sits on the edge of the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment, overlooking the vast Menengai Crater — Africa’s second-largest volcanic caldera — its silent ridges brooding in the morning mist.

Behind it, the rolling hills of Molo stretch endlessly, stitched with neat rows of potato farms that define the region’s identity. To the south lies Salgaa, a town better known for its flower farms, where long greenhouse tunnels shimmer like silver ribbons across the plains. Beyond this agricultural heartland, winding dirt roads climb toward Sachang’wan — where another kind of farming is taking root: the farming of athletic talent.

Here, where the air is thin and crisp, mornings begin before sunrise. Frost melts from the grass as a small group of determined athletes powers up a steep incline, their breath visible in the cold air. Leading them is 27-year-old Amos Kibet Chirchir, stopwatch in hand, eyes sharp with focus.

To an outsider, he might look like any other coach on a country road. But to his athletes — and to the growing Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) movement — Amos represents something much bigger: a new generation of homegrown leaders cultivating both champions and sustainability.

The Making of a Leader

Amos, the fifth-born in a family of eight, grew up in the cold, fertile highlands of Molo, raised by farming parents who taught him the value of hard work. Athletics runs deep in his family — his father was a 400m hurdler in the 1970s, competing when Kenyan track was just finding its rhythm.

“I didn’t just choose running,” Amos says with a smile. “Running found me.”

After excelling in local school competitions, Amos nearly saw his running dream fade — until June 2022, when he earned a place at KATA Thika, founded by American running innovator Bob Anderson, the visionary behind Runner’s World magazine.

“That changed everything,” he recalls. “For the first time, I could train without worrying about daily survival. KATA didn’t just build me as an athlete — it prepared me to lead.”

Building a High-Altitude Training Hub

When Anderson announced plans to expand KATA through athlete-led satellite camps, Amos seized the opportunity. He returned home and launched KATA Sachang’wan Camp with just five athletes — three men and two women. Today, the camp has grown to eight committed runners, with more young talents eager to join.

The camp sits at an altitude of 2,400 meters, ideal for endurance training. For faster sessions, they descend to 1,800 meters, creating a natural high-low altitude system similar to what world-class runners use in Iten, Kaptagat, and Eldoret.

Already, results are emerging:

• Weldon Kibet Lang’at clocked 30:36 (10K) and 14:55 (5K) at the Double Road Race before improving to 30:16 in the October 15 time trials.

• Elizabeth Wambui, who joined just two months ago, cut her 5K time from 19:00 to 17:35 at the same event.

Amos himself remains in strong competitive shape, with personal bests of 30:51 (10K) and 14:32 (5K).

“I want to build champions — not just athletes who run fast, but athletes who think beyond medals,” he says.

Farming Hope: The KATA Potato Project

 Alongside athletics, the Sachang’wan camp thrives on another discipline — agricultural sustainability. Inspired by Bob Anderson’s belief in empowering athletes for life beyond competition, Amos integrated potato farming into his training model.

He began with two acres of KATA potatoes, a move that initially drew laughter from locals.

“At first, people thought I was crazy,” he recalls. “They said farming was a step backward for an athlete. Now they’re copying me.”

Today, the farm helps feed the athletes, generates income for camp operations, and inspires local farmers — many now shifting from maize to potatoes after seeing his success.

“Athletes must think about life after running,” Amos says. “This program lets us build something real, not just chase medals.”

Training Champions, Growing Futures

With schools now closed, Amos plans to recruit junior athletes from nearby villages — guiding them early and keeping them away from idleness and drugs.

“Talent is going to waste in villages like ours because nobody guides young runners. I want to change that,” he says.

His long-term dream is to build dormitories, expand training facilities, and turn KATA Sachang’wan into a full-fledged center of excellence — powered by athletics and farming.

“Bob Anderson’s Vision Is Working”

Amos believes that KATA is redefining the future of Kenyan athletics.

“This is more than running,” he says. “Bob Anderson’s program teaches us responsibility, teamwork, leadership, and self-reliance. We’re not waiting for sponsors — we’re building ourselves.”

From the cold ridges of Sachang’wan overlooking Menengai Crater, a quiet revolution is growing — one built on sweat, soil, and belief. Here, potatoes fuel champions, and running fuels dreams.

And at the heart of it all stands a young leader — stopwatch in one hand, hoe in the other — cultivating both athletes and a future for Kenya.

Ethiopia’s Shure Demise made history Sunday by winning her third TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, pulling away just after halfway and never looking back. Despite warm, windy, and humid conditions, she crossed the line in 2:21:03, the second-fastest time of her career—just 19 seconds shy of the course record set last year by compatriot Waganesh Mekasha.

Demise’s performance marks a full-circle moment. Ten years ago, at just 19, she ran her lifetime best of 2:20:59 in Dubai. Since then, she has earned podium finishes at the Tokyo (2019) and Chicago (2018) marathons, placed 5th at the 2017 World Championships, and captured back-to-back Toronto wins in 2015 and 2016. Sunday’s victory signals a strong comeback after giving birth to her daughter two years ago.

“I am very happy—it is more than what I expected,” said Demise. “I trained well and was confident I would do well and win. From 20 km I was running by myself.”

Earlier this year, Demise also won the Milan Marathon in 2:23:31, reinforcing her return to world-class form. Betty Chepkorir of Kenya finished second in 2:23:45, while Almaz Kebebe of Ethiopia took third in 2:26:40.

The women’s race was briefly disrupted when three Ethiopian runners mistakenly followed the half-marathon course, but Demise was far ahead and unaffected.

Kenyan Men Sweep the Podium

In the men’s race, Kenya scored a clean sweep. Leonard Langat broke away from a lead pack with 4 km remaining to win in 2:08:15. Noah Kipkemboi, third last year, improved to second in 2:08:24, while Sila Kiptoo finished third in 2:08:44.

“At 38 km I was ready to push, and I went,” said Langat. “It was hot, but I felt good and confident.”

Canadian Titles for Hannah and Flanagan

The Canadian Marathon Championships, held concurrently, saw Rachel Hannah, 39, win her first national title in 2:33:47. “It’s been a dream of mine to win these championships,” she said.

Ben Flanagan captured the men’s Canadian crown in his marathon debut, finishing in 2:15:39 ahead of Philippe Parrot-Migas (2:17:15) and Andrew Alexander (2:18:15).

 “The last 7 km were brutal, but I finished strong,” said Flanagan, a 2024 Olympian over 5,000 m. “This is a new chapter for me. Now it’s time to catch up with the big dogs.”

Every November, the streets of New York City transform. Five boroughs become a stage. Dreams meet asphalt.

The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon is fast approaching — and for runners, coaches, and fans alike, it remains one of the most electric events on the global running calendar.

The Big Picture

• Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025

• Field size: More than 55,000 runners representing over 130 nations will take on the 26.2-mile journey from Staten Island to Central Park.

• Defending champions: Abdi Nageeye (Netherlands) and Sheila Chepkirui (Kenya) return to defend their crowns.

• Debut stars: Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge and Olympic champion Sifan Hassan will make their long-awaited New York debuts — a storyline that has the running world buzzing.

• Classic route: The course again threads through all five boroughs, starting at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island, crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and finishing in Central Park.

• Sustainability focus: Organizers at New York Road Runners (NYRR) continue to expand environmental initiatives, including recyclable aluminum water bottles and reduced single-use plastics.

Course Records

• Men’s Record: 2:04:58 – Tamirat Tola (2023)

• Women’s Record: 2:22:31 – Margaret Okayo (2003)

Both marks remain tough to challenge on New York’s rolling, bridge-laden course — but with Kipchoge, Chebet, and Nageeye in the men’s field, and Hassan, Obiri, and Lokedi among the women, the potential for history is very real.

Men’s Elite Highlights

• Eliud Kipchoge (Kenya) – two-time Olympic champion, 2:01:09 PB, running NYC for the first time.

• Abdi Nageeye (Netherlands) – defending champion and Olympic silver medalist.

• Evans Chebet (Kenya) – two-time Boston Marathon champion.

• Benson Kipruto (Kenya) – Chicago 2022 winner.

• Albert Korir (Kenya) – former NYC champion.

• Joe Klecker (USA) – U.S. Olympian making his marathon debut.

• Hillary Bor (USA) – U.S. steeplechase champion transitioning to the roads.

• Charles Hicks (USA) – NCAA cross-country champion now turning professional.

Women’s Elite Highlights

• Sifan Hassan (Netherlands) – Olympic champion, winner in London (2023) and Chicago (2024).

• Hellen Obiri (Kenya) – Boston 2023 and NYC 2023 champion.

• Sharon Lokedi (Kenya) – NYC 2022 winner, still a local favorite.

• Sheila Chepkirui (Kenya) – defending NYC champion.

• Emily Sisson (USA) – current American marathon record holder (2:18:29).

• Molly Seidel (USA) – Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist.

• Fiona O’Keeffe (USA) – 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials marathon champion.

• Susanna Sullivan (USA) – Top-10 finisher at Boston 2023, consistent national contender.

This year’s field features 49 Olympians and Paralympians, nine past major marathon winners, and 16 medalists from Olympic or World Championship events — arguably the deepest lineup in New York history.

What Makes New York Unique (and Brutal)

• Rolling terrain and bridges: The Verrazzano, Pulaski, Queensboro, and Willis bridges each sap rhythm and energy.

• Crowd power: Two million spectators line the course, creating unmatched atmosphere — and volume.

• Late-season unpredictability: Weather can swing from cold drizzle to crisp fall perfection.

• Tactical racing: With its uneven pacing demands, NYC rewards strategy over pure speed.

Storylines to Watch

• Kipchoge’s debut: The marathon GOAT takes on the sport’s loudest stage. Can he master New York’s relentless hills and twists?

• Hassan’s bold quest: Coming off London and Chicago wins, can she complete the trifecta in her first NYC appearance?

• Lokedi vs. Obiri: The Kenyan duo continue their fierce rivalry on familiar ground.

• Nageeye’s defense: Last year’s champion faces his toughest test yet with Chebet and Kipruto in pursuit.

• American charge: Sisson, Seidel, O’Keeffe, and Sullivan lead the most complete U.S. women’s team in years — while Klecker and Bor look to ignite the next chapter for American men’s marathoning.

• Record watch: Tola’s 2:04:58 may finally be tested, and Okayo’s 22-year-old mark could fall if conditions align.

For Runners and Coaches

• Train the bridges. Practice long tempo runs that mimic New York’s undulating rhythm.

• Respect the pace. The roar of Brooklyn can trick even the best into going out too fast.

• Fuel flexibly. NYRR’s eco-station setup may differ from other majors — plan accordingly.

• Stay mentally sharp. The final 10 K through Central Park can break anyone unprepared for its hills.

• Layer smartly. Start slightly chilled; the crowds and effort will warm you fast.

The Bottom Line

The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon blends star power, unpredictability, and history like no other race. From Kipchoge’s long-awaited debut to the fiercest women’s field ever assembled in New York, every mile promises drama.

For runners chasing personal bests, and for millions of spectators lining the streets or watching from afar, November 2 will again remind us why this marathon is more than a race — it’s a celebration of endurance, spirit, and the human story that unfolds across 26.2 miles of the world’s greatest city.

Abhishek Pal and Seema Yadav lead Indian runners

New Delhi, October 12, 2025 — Kenya’s Alex Nzioka Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk delivered commanding performances to sweep the men’s and women’s crowns at the 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label event. It marked only the second Kenyan double in race history, the first coming in 2006.

Matata, runner-up in 2024, dominated from midway, running solo to victory in 59:50, his fifth half-marathon win of the year. The RAK Half Marathon champion, who boasts a 59:20 personal best, led through 10K in 28:43 alongside compatriot Reuben Rono before breaking clear. Ethiopia’s Bayelign Teshager (1:00:22) and Kenyan James Kipkogei (1:00:25) completed the podium.

“Last year I was number two, so my goal was to do better,” Matata said. “The weather was good, I knew the course, and I ran without pressure—just to win.”

In the women’s race, Rengeruk used her experience to outkick Ethiopia’s 19-year-old Melal Biratu in a thrilling sprint, clocking 1:07:20 to win by one second. Fellow Ethiopian Mulat Tekle took third in 1:07:28. The 2023 champion Alemaddis Eyayu finished seventh (1:10:51).

“It was tough, but I felt strong and told myself to stay patient and fight to the finish,” said Rengeruk, who recently returned from injury.

Biratu, pleased with her debut effort, added: “The humidity was higher than expected, but I’m happy with my personal best.”

Both winners earned US$27,000 from a total prize purse of US$260,000.

It’s been exactly one year since Kelvin Kiptum did what many believed was impossible — he shattered the marathon world record in Chicago, stopping the clock at 2:00:35.

On October 8, 2023, the 23-year-old Kenyan didn’t just win a race — he redefined the limits of human endurance.

As the world prepares for this year’s Chicago Marathon, it’s impossible not to feel the silence he left behind.

That crisp Sunday morning, Kiptum delivered a performance that stunned the running world. Gliding through Chicago’s streets with unrelenting rhythm, he dropped the field, surged mile after mile, and erased Eliud Kipchoge’s seemingly untouchable world record of 2:01:09 by 34 seconds.

It was only his third marathon. He had never lost one.

Chicago had seen greatness before — but never like this.

And then, just months later, he was gone.

In February 2024, Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, were killed in a car crash on a quiet road in Kenya. The sport lost more than a record-breaker; it lost a phenomenon — a man who seemed destined to become the first human to run under two hours in an official race.

That dream — carried in Kiptum’s quiet confidence and thunderous stride — vanished that night. His record, ratified only days before his death, stands as both a triumph and a tombstone.

But legends don’t end with tragedy — they echo.

As the 2025 Chicago Marathon approaches, the course remembers. Every stretch of asphalt, every cheer from the crowd, every runner chasing a personal best this weekend — they all run in the shadow of Kiptum’s greatness.  

Because Kelvin Kiptum didn’t just run a race.

He ran into history — and never returned.

His Legacy Lives On

Across Kenya and beyond, his story continues to inspire a new generation of runners — from the dirt roads of the Rift Valley to the streets of Chicago, Boston, and Berlin. Athletes like Benson Kipruto, Evans Chebet, and countless others now carry his fire forward, chasing their own dreams with the same fearless rhythm that once shook the marathon world.

Kelvin Kiptum’s stride may have stopped, but his impact will keep moving — every time someone dares to believe that impossible is only a pace away.

Toronto, Canada — October 19, 2025. The stage is set for another East African showdown at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, a World Athletics Elite Label Race. Two top Kenyan runners, Beatrice Cheserek and Cynthia Chemweno, have been confirmed to take on Ethiopia’s rising stars Almaz Kebebe and Adane Anmaw, in what promises to be one of the most competitive women’s races in the event’s history.

Beatrice Cheserek’s Confident Marathon Debut

At 26, Beatrice Cheserek will make her marathon debut in Toronto, bringing impressive credentials to the start line. She owns a half marathon personal best of 1:06:48, recorded while winning the 2022 Cardiff Half Marathon, and has already experienced the pressure of major marathons.

In 2023, she paced compatriot Rosemary Wanjiru through 30 kilometers of the Tokyo Marathon, a World Marathon Major that Wanjiru went on to win in 2:16:28. Cheserek’s performance that day proved her strength over the distance — and she’s ready to test herself as a full competitor.

“This is my first marathon, and I hope to do my best,” Cheserek said. “I paced in Tokyo for Rosemary Wanjiru, and she ran 2:16, so I know I am strong. I want to run 2:20 or 2:19 in Toronto. It’s a fast course.”

After taking maternity leave to give birth to her son Fabian Kiprop, now 15 months old, Cheserek has made a steady comeback. Earlier this year, she placed sixth at Spain’s Santa Pola Half Marathon, running 1:10:25. Her confidence has grown with each training cycle.

“My training now is going well,” she added. “Last week I did 40 kilometers and finished strong. I know Toronto is not a hard course — a little bit faster — and I’m ready.”

 Cynthia Chemweno Targets Another Breakthrough

 Her teammate Cynthia Chemweno, 28, also arrives in Toronto with growing momentum. In her marathon debut at Hamburg in April, she finished fifth in 2:23:39, a time that gave her valuable confidence heading into the fall season.

“Hamburg was my first marathon, and I managed a good time,” Chemweno said. “The course was great, and I really enjoyed it. I’m excited to improve in Toronto.”

Chemweno and Cheserek are both part of the ASICS Mezzo Sports Management group. The two trained together frequently before Chemweno relocated to Chojo Camp in Kaptagat — a name derived from the Japanese word meaning “striving for the peak.” The camp is home to several top Kenyan male athletes and coaches. 

Cheserek continues to train from her hometown of Chepkorio, 40 kilometers from Iten, supported by her husband Cyrus Kiplagat, himself a competitive runner.

“He is the one who helps me with pacing,” she explained. “When I train, my sister-in-law looks after Fabian. It’s not always easy, especially during the rainy season when the dirt roads are impassable, but I keep working hard.”

Course Record in Sight

The Toronto Waterfront Marathon course record of 2:20:44, set by Ethiopia’s Waganesh Mekasha, could be under threat. Mekasha is a training partner of Kebebe and Anmaw — both part of the emerging Ethiopian generation now challenging Kenyan dominance.

With Cheserek targeting a 2:19 and Chemweno already proven in the 2:23 range, organizers and fans alike are anticipating a fast, tactical race through downtown Toronto.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is shaping up as a clash of ambition, resilience, and national pride. Both Kenya and Ethiopia will field athletes capable of rewriting the record books on one of North America’s premier marathon stages.

Whether it’s Cheserek’s inspired debut or Chemweno’s drive to improve on her Hamburg performance, Toronto could once again deliver the kind of breakthrough that defines a career — and keeps East Africa at the center of the global marathon conversation.

The 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, set for Sunday, October 12, promises to once again showcase one of the deepest elite fields in marathon history. Known for its fast, flat course and ideal racing conditions, Chicago has become a global stage for record-setting performances — and this year’s edition may be one of the most competitive yet.

Men’s Elite Race: Korir Returns to Defend His Title

Leading the men’s lineup is John Korir of Kenya, the 2024 champion, who ran an impressive 2:02:44 personal best last year. He’ll face a formidable field featuring Timothy Kiplagat (2:02:55), Amos Kipruto (2:03:13), CyBrian Kotut, and Olympic bronze medalist Bashir Abdi.

The men’s race includes a deep roster of sub-2:05 performers, joined by rising Kenyan and Ethiopian talent and top Americans Conner Mantz and Galen Rupp, who will be aiming to challenge the American record. Mantz, who continues to build momentum on the global stage, has called Chicago “the perfect course for fast running.”

Other top contenders include Jacob Kiplimo, Philemon Kipkemo, and Geoffrey Kamworor, all proven half-marathon specialists stepping into the marathon distance with high expectations.

Women’s Elite Race: Ethiopia’s Depth on Display

 The women’s field is equally world-class. Megertu Alemu (2:16:34) leads the entries, followed by Hawi Feysa (2:17:00) and Irine Cheptai (2:17:51). Ethiopia’s strength in depth continues with Bedatu Hirpa (2:18:27) and Haven Hailu Desse (2:19:17).

 Kenya’s Mary Ngugi-Cooper, who has been consistently among the top finishers in major marathons, brings experience and resilience to the field with her 2:20:22 personal best.

 Among the notable international names are Calli Hauger-Thackery of Great Britain (2:21:24), Lindsay Flanagan (2:23:31), Florencia Borelli (2:24:18), and Dakotah Popehn (2:24:40). The debut of Kenya’s Loice Chemnung and Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye, both stepping up from world-class track careers, adds further intrigue.

 Records and Legacy

Chicago’s reputation as one of the fastest courses in the world continues to draw elite fields. The men’s course record of 2:00:35, set by the late Kelvin Kiptum in 2023, remains one of the most remarkable performances in marathon history. On the women’s side, Sifan Hassan’s 2:13:44, also from 2023, stands as the course record.

Both records were set in near-perfect conditions — something runners and fans alike will be hoping for again this October.

 An Event with Global Reach

 The Chicago Marathon remains a cornerstone of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, drawing more than 50,000 runners from over 100 countries. In 2025, organizers anticipate record participation and strong community engagement across the city’s 29 neighborhoods.

Since its founding in 1977, the race has evolved from a local road event into a global showcase for endurance and diversity. Beyond the elite races, the marathon generates millions for local charities and stands as one of the city’s largest annual sporting celebrations.

 Looking Ahead

As the elite men and women prepare for the start line, the question is not whether Chicago will be fast — but how fast.

 With Korir defending his title, Alemu chasing sub-2:16 territory, and several debutants looking to make their mark, the 2025 Chicago Marathon could once again deliver performances that shape the global marathon conversation.

The 47th edition of this iconic race will begin at 7:30 a.m. (CT) from Grant Park, with live coverage expected worldwide.

Chicago’s streets are ready. The world will be watching.

KATA founder Bob Anderson has a bold vision — one that unites athletes, coaches, and farmers under a single purpose: to make KATA the powerhouse of athletics in Kenya and a model for the world.

 As of today, KATA operates 31 running camps and 65 potato farms across Kenya. Of these, 31 farms are directly connected to KATA camps, while the remaining farms are independent partners within the broader KATA network. Together, they form a growing agricultural foundation that supports both athletics and community development.

 KATA farms currently range in size from one acre to 8.5 acres, combining traditional farming expertise with innovative support for athlete nutrition and sustainability. By the end of 2026, KATA’s goal is to expand to 100 Running Camps and 200 Potato Farms — half directly linked to camps — spanning more than 400 acres of productive farmland.

 Another key initiative is the creation of the first KATA Ranch, scheduled for development by early 2026. The ranch will raise 100 or more sheep and goats, providing food, training nutrition, and economic value to the community. A KATA Running Camp will be connected to the ranch, integrating agriculture and athletics into one sustainable ecosystem. The long-term goal is for the ranch to become self-sustaining through the sale of meat and byproducts, ensuring continuous support for KATA programs and local families. Once the first ranch is fully operational, additional ranches are planned for future expansion.

 KATA is also preparing to launch a KATA Sports Shop featuring running shoes and gear, and a KATA Market offering healthy, locally sourced food and essentials.

Coming soon and at the heart of KATA’s growth is its flagship product — branded KATA Potatoes, sold at a premium price and marketed as “The Fuel of Champions.” Complementing this is KATA Potato Flakes, an innovative product that reflects KATA’s values of energy, endurance, and excellence.

 The KATA Potato Flakes will be sold worldwide as the go-to carbo-loading choice for marathonerspreparing for race day. Just add water from the tap, and in moments, you’re carbo-loading on KATA Potatoes — The Fuel of Champions.

 Meanwhile, KATA Thika serves as the local office for Kenya and continues to thrive as the organization’s flagship Running Retreat, offering training stays for athletes from around the world who want to experience the Kenyan way of training — whether for a few days or a few months. The retreat provides access to world-class coaching, structured training, and cultural exchange with Kenya’s elite running community.

 At the global level, KATA International is headquartered at the Anderson Manor in Monforte de Beira, Portugal — a 20,000-square-foot historic estate where the last King of Portugal stayed during his hunting trips in the early 1900s. The manor serves as the base for KATA’s international operations, housing both KATA Portugal and the Anderson Manor Retreat, which welcome athletes, artists, and guests from around the world.

 Behind the scenes but very much involved is Bob’s wife, Catherine. (First photo with Bob).  Her creative talent adds a great deal to the program. Bob and Catherine have known Coach Dennis since 2021. He has completed two three-month stays at KATA headquarters in Portugal, working alongside Bob. Coach Dennis  (4th photo with Bob in Portugsl) was recently promoted to Chief Technical Officer (CTO) and will oversee operations in Kenya.

Development of KATA Portugal began in February 2024, and the project continues to progress strongly. The retreat in Portugal will serve as the European counterpart to KATA Thika, offering athletes a place to train, rest, and connect with KATA’s global mission in a peaceful, historic setting.

 KATA’s vision goes far beyond producing great runners. The mission is to develop world-class athletes, Olympic champions, and future world record holders — combining top-tier coaching, discipline, and holistic training. Already, previous Olympic medalists such as Edwin Soi and Paul Koech are part of the KATA family, operating their own KATA Camps and helping guide the next generation of Kenyan champions.

 Anderson also envisions a thriving athletic network of 650 elite runners, 150 youth athletes, and 40+ masters runners, supported by an expanding media presence through My Best Runs and KATA’s social platforms.

 “I want to do something truly special for athletics,” Anderson says. “And it’s the passion and dedication of our athletes, coaches, and farmers that will make this dream a reality.”

“Our KATA family is as strong as its members,” Anderson adds. “As a team, we can make anything happen. In just a short amount of time, we’ve pulled off some amazing things. But our KATA family has only just gotten started. Watch us grow — and join us in helping make a difference.”

 Anderson’s connection to Kenya runs deep. He first visited the country in 1987 and immediately fell in love with its people, culture, and running spirit. Just three years earlier, he had sold the magazine he founded and published for 18 years — Runner’s World, which had grown to a circulation of 2.5 million monthly readers. Runner’s World played a defining role in launching the modern running movement, inspiring millions of runners worldwide.

 Although KATA Thika began in 2019, the KATA Running Camps officially launched in May 2025, building upon KATA’s strong foundation in Kenya. Both KATA Thika and KATA Portugal continue to grow as vital pillars in this global vision.

 Anderson’s mission is clear: to strengthen the foundation of athletics in Kenya — and after 2026, expand to South Africa, Uganda, Ethiopia, and beyond.

Go KATA — The Fuel of Champions!

KIAMBU, Kenya - On a crisp morning in Kamiti, Kiambu County, 16 miles northeast of Nairobi, the dirt track at Kamiti Maximum Prison comes alive with the rhythm of pounding feet, shrill whistles, and sharp instructions. At the center of the action stands Coach Julius Migwi, eyes locked on the group of young sprinters wearing red shirts with the Kenya Athletics Training Academy (KATA) Sprint Camp logo. Stopwatch in hand, Migwi scans every drill and explosive burst over 100 meters.

A Coach’s Mission

A former sprinter whose career was cut short by a tendon injury in 1998, Migwi recalls the lack of resources in his day. “We had no smart shoes, and sometimes we ran barefoot. There was no science,” he says. His personal best of 11.00 seconds in the 100m left him hungry for more—but instead of walking away, he turned that hunger into a mission: raising sprinters who could go beyond what he achieved.

“This is where we train,” Migwi says, pointing to the uneven murram track. “I focus on athletes between 16 and 20 years old because they have the greatest room to grow. My dream is for them to achieve what I could not.”

That dream has faced hurdles of its own. Their makeshift equipment includes hurdles fashioned from plastic pipes, an old tractor tire for sled work, and just one shared starting block. Inside the camp’s small kit box lie two massage guns, shared by everyone. When rain turns the dirt track unusable, the group must travel to Nyayo Stadium, Ulinzi, or Kasarani.

Yet, passion outweighs the obstacles. “If Kenya supported sprinters the way it supports distance runners, athletes like Doreen Waka, Clinton Aluvi, Omanyala, and so many youngsters would thrive,” Migwi says. “With proper facilities, Kiambu could become the home of Kenyan sprinting.”

Building Athletes from Scratch

Migwi has already unearthed promising talent. Among those he scouted are Fresha Mwangi, Peris Wairimu Chege, hurdler Gladys Ngure, and his current star pupil, Doreen Waka—Kenya’s fastest female sprinter over 100m in 2025.

Waka’s determination is unwavering. “Missing the team for the World Championships in Tokyo was disappointing, but I keep my eyes on the Commonwealth Games,” she says. “With the right support, I know I can break 11 seconds.”

Behind the scenes, KATA founder Bob Anderson has played a critical role. Known globally as the American running visionary behind My Best Runs, Anderson covers the camp’s rent, helps provide meals, and funds side projects like potato farming to ensure sustainability. “Rent and daily meals are the biggest setbacks for sprinters,” Migwi explains. “Bob’s support allows the athletes to focus fully on training.”

The impact is clear. Moses Solonka, 20, from the pastoral Maasai community of Kajiado, says: “Without this camp, I’d probably be herding livestock, especially during droughts. Here, we don’t have to worry about food—we can concentrate on training. I see myself representing Kenya soon.”

Voices of the Next Generation

The camp is filled with similar stories of transformation.

• Peterson Matu Miano, 20, once devoted to soccer, now says, “With KATA’s system, I’ve improved so much. The discipline and coordination here are amazing. I now want to dedicate myself fully to sprinting.”

• John Kinoo Munguti, 19, discovered his sprinting talent in high school after playing rugby and soccer. “I look up to Zablon Ekwam. My goal is to hit 10.30 in the 100m and make Team Kenya.”

Migwi beams with pride recalling Waka’s appearance at the Kip Keino Classic: “Seeing her on the line with international stars showed me this stage is possible for our athletes.”

A Community Effort

Among the sprinters is Antony Owino, who also serves as an assistant coach. Having endured similar struggles, Owino knows the value of mentorship. “It’s not just about speed. These youngsters need guidance in discipline and mindset,” he says. “We’re shaping athletes both on and off the track.”

The Bigger Picture

Migwi believes Kenya’s sprinting potential has long been overlooked. “We’re celebrated for distance running, but sprinting has the same promise,” he insists. The unfinished Kirigiti Stadium nearby is a constant reminder of what’s lacking. “If county governments completed facilities like this, we’d not only produce champions but also engage more youth positively.”

For now, the KATA Sprint Camp relies on resourcefulness and shared dreams—plastic hurdles, a dusty track, and two massage guns. But Migwi’s vision stretches beyond medals.

“I want to push these youngsters to achieve what I couldn’t,” he says, watching Peterson, John, Moses, and Doreen laugh between sprints. “This is more than training. It’s giving them a future.”