Running News Daily

Brigid Kosgei returned to the top at the AJ Bell Great North Run on Sunday, September 13, delivering a commanding performance to win the women’s half marathon and lead Kenya to a memorable one-two finish.

The former marathon world-record holder crossed the line in 1:06:15, securing her second Great North Run title after previously winning the prestigious race in 2019.

Fellow Kenyan Sheila Chepkirui who was battling to defend the title finished second in 1:06:19, completing a memorable Kenyan one-two at one of the world’s most celebrated half-marathons.

Behind the leading Kenyan pair, Ethiopia’s Melknat Wudu produced an impressive run to claim third in 1:09:37. Wudu was the first athlete outside the Kenyan duo to reach the finish and comfortably secured a place on the podium, highlighting the strong international quality of the women’s field.

Japan’s Honami Maeda finished just six seconds behind Wudu to take fourth in 1:09:43, while Great Britain’s Amy-Eloise Neale was the leading home athlete in fifth with 1:10:27.

American Natosha Rogers followed in sixth in 1:11:44, with Britain’s Annabel Grummow seventh in 1:12:37 and Nancy Scott completing the top eight in 1:12:51.

For Kosgei, the victory adds another prestigious achievement to an already remarkable distance-running career. Returning to the Great North Run winner’s circle six years after her first triumph, she once again demonstrated her ability to deliver on one of the biggest stages in the half marathon.

Chepkirui’s runner-up finish made the occasion even more significant for Kenya, as the two athletes combined to secure the top two positions. Wudu’s third-place performance completed an international podium and ensured the race featured a strong representation from three of the sport’s leading distance-running nations.

Women’s Top 8 Finishers

1. Brigid Kosgei — Kenya — 1:06:15

2. Sheila Chepkirui — Kenya — 1:06:19

3. Melknat Wudu — Ethiopia — 1:09:37

4. Honami Maeda — Japan — 1:09:43

5. Amy-Eloise Neale — Great Britain — 1:10:27

6. Natosha Rogers — United States — 1:11:44

7. Annabel Grummow — Great Britain — 1:12:37

8. Nancy Scott — Great Britain — 1:12:51

The 2026 Great North Run therefore ended with Kosgei back on top, Chepkirui alongside her in second and Wudu completing a high-quality international podium. For Kosgei and Kenya, it was a particularly memorable day, combining individual success with a commanding one-two finish and reinforcing the country’s enduring strength in elite distance running.

Ethiopia's Tsige Gebreselama produced one of the standout road running performances of the season on Sunday, storming to victory at the prestigious Boilermaker Road Race 15K in Utica, New York, with a sensational course record of 47:29.

From the opening kilometers, Gebreselama controlled the race with remarkable composure and precision, maintaining a relentless pace that ultimately erased the previous course record and secured one of the fastest performances ever recorded on the historic course. Her commanding display further reinforced her reputation as one of the world's leading road and distance runners.

The Ethiopian celebration continued as Melknat Wudu crossed the finish line in second place in 47:44, completing a dominant one-two finish for her country. Kenya's Priscah Cherono claimed third in 48:14 after a determined effort, rounding out a world-class podium in a race featuring some of the finest distance runners on the international circuit.

The battle behind the podium remained fiercely competitive. Kenya's Everlyn Kemboi finished fourth in 48:28, narrowly ahead of compatriot Selah Busienei, who clocked 48:31 for fifth. Ethiopia's Netsanet Desta and Alem Nigus Tsadik followed in sixth and seventh respectively, while Kenya's Mercy Cherono secured eighth place.

American athletes also delivered encouraging performances on home roads. Veteran Stephanie Bruce finished ninth in 50:40, with Jackie Gaughan completing the top ten in 51:02 to cap a strong showing for the host nation.

Boilermaker Road Race 15K – Women's Top 10 Results

1. Tsige Gebreselama (Ethiopia) – 47:29 (Course Record)

2. Melknat Wudu (Ethiopia) – 47:44

3. Priscah Cherono (Kenya) – 48:14

4. Everlyn Kemboi (Kenya) – 48:28

5. Selah Busienei (Kenya) – 48:31

6. Netsanet Desta (Ethiopia) – 48:46

7. Alem Nigus Tsadik (Ethiopia) – 48:48

8. Mercy Cherono (Kenya) – 50:23

9. Stephanie Bruce (United States) – 50:40

10. Jackie Gaughan (United States) – 51:02

The women's race combined exceptional depth with remarkable speed, as several athletes broke the 49-minute barrier in a contest that showcased the global strength of elite road running. Gebreselama's record-breaking run now stands as a new benchmark in the rich history of the Boilermaker 15K, adding another memorable chapter to one of the United States' most celebrated road races.

Ethiopia's Tsigie Gebreselama produced a sensational finishing sprint to capture the women's title at the 57th Peachtree Road Race on Saturday, July 4, 2026, delivering one of the most dramatic finishes in the event's recent history.

Competing on the iconic streets of Atlanta during the United States' Independence Day celebrations, Gebreselama timed her decisive move to perfection, edging compatriot Melknat Wudu in the closing metres to secure victory in 31:02. Just one second separated the two Ethiopian stars, with Wudu crossing the line in 31:03 after an intense battle from start to finish.

Kenya's Irine Cheptai completed the podium with a strong run of 31:11, while fellow Kenyans Gladys Kwamboka Mong'are (31:36), Stacy Chepkemboi Ndiwa (31:55), Maurine Jepkoech Chebor (31:55), and Selah Jepleting Busienei (31:56) ensured a commanding East African presence among the leading finishers. Ethiopia's Gela Degefa placed eighth in 31:57, ahead of American Sydney Vaught (32:18) and South Africa's Glenrose Xaba (32:20), who rounded out the top ten.

The women's race lived up to its billing, featuring relentless pace, tactical positioning, and an electrifying sprint finish that had spectators on their feet. Gebreselama's composure in the final metres proved to be the difference, as she claimed one of the most prestigious road racing victories on the American calendar.

Held annually on Independence Day, the Peachtree Road Race once again transformed Atlanta into a celebration of endurance, community, and world-class athletics. Tens of thousands of runners took to the famous 10-kilometre course, while elite athletes battled for victory in front of enthusiastic crowds lining the streets from Buckhead to Piedmont Park.

Top 10 Women's Results

1. Tsigie Gebreselama (Ethiopia) – 31:02

2. Melknat Wudu (Ethiopia) – 31:03

3. Irine Cheptai (Kenya) – 31:11

4. Gladys Kwamboka Mong'are (Kenya) – 31:36

5. Stacy Chepkemboi Ndiwa (Kenya) – 31:55

6. Maurine Jepkoech Chebor (Kenya) – 31:55

7. Selah Jepleting Busienei (Kenya) – 31:56

8. Gela Degefa (Ethiopia) – 31:57

9. Sydney Vaught (United States) – 32:18

10. Glenrose Xaba (South Africa) – 32:20

Gebreselama's victory added another memorable chapter to the rich history of the Peachtree Road Race, capping off a spectacular Independence Day celebration with a performance defined by courage, patience, and a breathtaking finishing kick. It was a fitting finale to one of the world's most celebrated road races and a reminder of the exceptional depth of women's distance running on the global stage.

Several performances that had been celebrated as world junior records are now set to be removed from the official books after new age verification findings cast doubt on the eligibility of a number of athletes.

At the centre of the development is Ethiopian distance runner Medina Eisa. Newly revealed documentation indicates that her correct date of birth is 17 October 2002, rather than 3 January 2005, which had previously appeared in competition records.

The revised information carries significant implications. If the updated birth date is confirmed, Eisa would have exceeded the age limit for under-20 competition during both the 2022 and 2024 editions of the World Athletics U20 Championships. At those championships she won two women’s 5000-metre gold medals, achievements that had initially marked her as one of the standout junior athletes in global distance running.

The age discrepancy also affects one of the most remarkable performances of the 2024 track season. Eisa’s 14:21.89 run in the women’s 5000 metres, recorded at the Memorial Van Damme, had been celebrated as a world U20 record. However, because she would not have been eligible for the junior category at the time, the mark will not be ratified as an official world junior record.

The issue does not stop there. Fellow Ethiopian athletes Birke Haylom and Melknat Wudu have also seen potential world junior records denied recognition. According to the Athletics Integrity Unit, their dates of birth could not be verified to a level that satisfies the strict documentation standards required for record ratification.

As a result, several performances that were believed to be world junior records will not enter the official record books.

Age eligibility remains a fundamental pillar of youth athletics, with governing bodies placing increasing emphasis on accurate documentation and verification. The latest developments underline the importance of strict compliance with eligibility rules, ensuring that records achieved in junior categories truly belong to athletes competing within the correct age bracket.

Although the performances themselves remain impressive from a purely athletic standpoint, the case highlights how records in global athletics must meet both competitive and administrative standards before they can be formally recognised.

Geoffrey Kamworor proved once again that champions are defined not by setbacks, but by their response to them. Thirteen years after his breakthrough senior victory at the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the Kenyan legend returned to the same roads and delivered a masterclass performance, winning in 58:14—40 seconds faster than his winning time in 2013.

At 33, Kamworor was the oldest athlete in the elite field, yet he controlled the race with the authority of a runner in his prime. Neither the passage of time nor the devastating motorbike accident in 2020, which shattered his tibia and threatened his career, has diminished his competitive fire. Instead, his victory in Ras Al Khaimah confirmed that he remains one of the world’s most formidable distance runners.

From the gun, Kamworor executed a precise and disciplined strategy, running alongside his training partner and pacemaker Edwin Kipsaisak. The opening kilometer was covered in 2:44, followed by a relentless series of splits between 2:45 and 2:49. The sustained pace quickly discouraged any serious challenges from the younger contenders, who found themselves unable to disrupt Kamworor’s rhythm.

When Kipsaisak stepped aside after 8 kilometers, the decisive move had already been made. Kamworor passed 10K in 27:42, firmly in control. His surge between 16 and 17 kilometers, clocked in a punishing 2:42, broke the race open completely. From that point, victory was never in doubt.

“Actually, I knew I was going to win around 14K,” Kamworor said afterward. “I knew I had prepared well. I came here wanting to run a fast time, and Edwin did a great job pacing. It’s great to come back and win even faster.”

Behind him, Birhanu Balew of Bahrain ran strongly to secure second place in 58:23, while Kenya’s Gideon Rono impressed in his debut at the distance, finishing third in 58:38.

Kamworor’s journey back to the top has been anything but easy. Once the dominant force in global distance running—with three consecutive World Half Marathon titles, two World Cross Country championships, and two New York City Marathon victories—his career was nearly derailed in 2020 when he was struck by a motorbike during a solo training run. The injury required multiple surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation, keeping him away from peak form for nearly three years.

Now fully recovered, Kamworor has returned to elite competition with renewed purpose. He finished second at the London Marathon in 2023 and has his sights set firmly on the marathon once again.

“I’m satisfied that I’m fully recovered now,” he said. “It’s very satisfying to win here again. Now I will go home and prepare for London in April. It will be very tough competition, but that’s what I like. My personal best is 2:04, but I believe I can go faster.”

Looking further ahead, Kamworor has set his ultimate goal on the Olympic Marathon at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. If selected, he would be nearing 36—but history shows that experience can triumph. Portuguese legend Carlos Lopes famously won Olympic marathon gold at age 38.

Women’s Race: Anley Wins Impressive Debut

The women’s race unfolded without an official pacemaker, placing the burden of pace-setting on the athletes themselves. Tanzania’s Magdalena Shauri courageously led much of the race but paid the price in the closing kilometers.

With just two kilometers remaining, Ethiopia’s Asmarech Anley and Melknat Wudu surged past the fading leader. Anley, making her half marathon debut, showed remarkable composure to take the win in 67:22.

“I realized I could win with a kilometer to go,” Anley said. “The times would have been faster with a pacemaker, but it doesn’t matter because I won. 

Wudu finished just five seconds behind in 67:27, while Shauri held on bravely for third in 67:32. Anley, the former African Junior 3000m champion on the track in 2023, indicated she plans to gain more experience at the half marathon distance before moving up to the marathon.

Results

Men

1. Geoffrey Kamworor (KEN) – 58:14

2. Birhanu Balew (BRN) – 58:23

3. Gideon Rono (KEN) – 58:38

4. Jemal Mekonen (ETH) – 58:55

5. Samwel Masai (KEN) – 58:59

6. Benjamin Ratsim (TAN) – 59:56

7. Jirata Dinki (ETH) – 59:57

8. Yismaw Dillu (ETH) – 60:05

9. Brian Kibor (KEN) – 60:07

10. Mao Ako (TAN) – 60:20

Women

1. Asmarech Anley (ETH) – 67:22

2. Melknat Wudu (ETH) – 67:27

3. Magdalena Shauri (TAN) – 67:32

4. Jesca Chelangat (KEN) – 67:33

5. Cynthia Chepkwony (KEN) – 67:35

6. Aselef Kassie (ETH) – 67:47

7. Gete Alemayehu (ETH) – 68:43

8. Margret Chacha (KEN) – 68:57

9. Emebet Kebede (ETH) – 69:11

10. Addise Cheklu (ETH) – 70:01

Kamworor’s victory was more than just another win—it was a powerful reminder that resilience, experience, and belief remain the defining traits of greatness. His return to Ras Al Khaimah was not merely a comeback. It was a statement.

On the sun-splashed roads of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, experience met excellence as Geoffrey Kamworor delivered a masterclass in pacing, power and poise to seize victory at the season-opening spectacle.

Thirteen years after first announcing himself as a dominant force on the global stage, the Kenyan great returned to familiar territory with a performance that blended tactical intelligence and ruthless efficiency. Clocking 58:13, Kamworor stormed through the flat, lightning-quick course with splits that reflected both discipline and daring — measured early control evolving into relentless late aggression.

From the gun, the tempo signaled intent. The lead pack stretched swiftly, but it was Kamworor’s composure that stood out. He glided across the asphalt with the assurance of a man who understands championship racing at its deepest level. Every kilometer ticked by with metronomic precision, each surge calculated, each stride purposeful.

By the closing stages, the race had transformed from a contest into a coronation. Drawing on years of championship pedigree, Kamworor shifted gears decisively, breaking the resistance of his rivals and driving home alone. The finishing clock confirmed what the eye had already witnessed — a performance of authority and historical resonance.

Both men’s and Women's races at the RAK Half Marathon delivered a breathtaking exhibition of sustained velocity and competitive fire on the flat, record-friendly roads of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. It was an electrifying contest defined by depth, discipline, and world-class execution — a true celebration of global distance running excellence.

Men’s Results – Top 10

1. Geoffrey Kamworor (KEN) – 58:13

2. Birhanu Balew (BRN) – 58:21

3. Gideon Rono (KEN) – 58:36

4. Jemal Yimer (ETH) – 58:53

5. Samwel Masai (KEN) – 58:57

6. Jirata Dinki (ETH) – 59:55

7. Benjamin Ratsim (TAN) – 59:56

8. Yismaw Dillu (ETH) – 1:00:05

9. Brian Kibor (KEN) – 1:00:07

10. Mao Ako (TAN) – 1:00:20

Women’s Results – Top 10

1 Asmarech Anley (ETH) – 1:07:21

2. Melknat Wudu (ETH) – 1:07:26

3. Magdalena Shauri (TAN) – 1:07:30

4. Jesca Chelangat (KEN) – 1:07:32

5. Cynthia Chepkwony (KEN) – 1:07:34

6. Aselef Kassie (ETH) – 1:07:46

7. Gete Alemayehu (ETH) – 1:08:43

8. Margret Chacha (KEN) – 1:08:57

9. Emebet Kebede (ETH) – 1:09:11

10. Addise Cheklu (ETH) – 1:10:01

The RAK Half Marathon, long regarded as one of the fastest and most prestigious races on the global calendar, once again provided the perfect stage for brilliance. And once again, Kamworor etched his name into its rich narrative.

Elite racing. Impeccable execution. A champion reaffirmed.

As the 2026 road season gathers momentum, this victory does more than add another title to Kamworor’s résumé — it signals intent. The fire still burns, the stride still flows, and the legend continues to evolve.

Another golden chapter written. Another reminder that class, when paired with courage, is timeless.

Thirteen years after announcing himself to the world on the roads of Ras Al Khaimah, Geoffrey Kamworor returns to the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon this Saturday with renewed purpose, hard-earned resilience, and the belief that his best running may still lie ahead.

Few athletes in modern distance running have endured such dramatic highs and devastating setbacks. Kamworor’s victory here in 2013 marked his first major senior triumph and began a remarkable stretch of dominance. He went on to win three consecutive World Half Marathon titles and twice captured the World Cross Country Championships, establishing himself as one of the most versatile and formidable distance runners of his generation. His half marathon world record of 58:01, set in Copenhagen in 2019, remains one of the defining performances in road racing history. He also conquered the marathon stage, winning the New York City Marathon twice with commanding authority.

One of Kamworor’s most unforgettable moments came at the 2016 World Half Marathon Championships in Cardiff. After falling at the start and being trampled by competitors, he rose, regrouped, and delivered a stunning comeback victory.

“In Cardiff, it was wet and I slipped at the start,” Kamworor recalled. “Nobody tripped me. It was hard running through the crowd, but the fall made me more determined.”

That determination would be tested even further. In 2020, during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kamworor’s career was nearly derailed when he was struck from behind by a motorcycle while training in Eldoret.

“I fractured my tibia and couldn’t run for six months,” he said. “When I started running again, my body was still out of balance and I kept getting injured. It took me over three years to be able to run properly.”

His return has been gradual but encouraging. In 2023, Kamworor stunned observers by finishing second at the London Marathon in a personal best of 2:04:23, proving his resilience on the global stage. He followed that performance with a marathon victory in Rotterdam last year, finishing just ten seconds slower than his London breakthrough.

Now 33, Kamworor brings both experience and renewed confidence back to Ras Al Khaimah.

“I think I’m training as well as ever,” he said. “I remember this flat, fast course from when I won in 2013. I’m just grateful to be back running without problems.”

Age is no barrier for distance runners at the highest level. History offers powerful examples, including Portugal’s Carlos Lopes, who won Olympic marathon gold at 37, and Romania’s Constantina Dita, who claimed Olympic marathon victory at 38. Kamworor hopes to add his own chapter to that legacy.

Strong Rivals Await on a Fast Course

Kamworor will face formidable competition. Ethiopia’s Jemal Mekonen enters with a personal best of 58:33, while Kenya’s Brian Kibor has run 58:39. Ethiopia’s Amedework Walelegn (58:40) and several rising talents add further depth to a field built for speed.

The women’s race is equally compelling, led by Ethiopia’s Wede Kefale, who clocked 65:21 in Copenhagen last year. Kenya’s Gladys Chepkurui (65:46) and Jesca Chelangat (66:13) are among those capable of challenging for victory.

A Race Built on Speed and Records

Since its debut in 2007, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon has earned global respect as one of the fastest half marathons in the world. Sammy Wanjiru’s 58:53 in the inaugural race set the tone, and the women’s race has been particularly historic. Mary Keitany (65:50), Peres Jepchirchir (64:52), and Ababel Yeshaneh (64:31) all set world records here, cementing the race’s reputation.

The flat, fast roads around Al Marjan Island once again promise ideal conditions for world-class performances.

Men’s Elite Field (Personal Bests)

• Geoffrey Kamworor (KEN) – 58:01

• Jemal Mekonen (ETH) – 58:33

• Brian Kibor (KEN) – 58:39

• Amedework Walelegn (ETH) – 58:40

• Antenayeh Dagnachew (ETH) – 59:17

• Yismaw Dillu (ETH) – 59:23

• Birhanu Balew (BRN) – 59:41

• Enos Kales (KEN) – 60:17

• Bayelign Teshager (ETH) – 60:22

• Mao Ako (TAN) – 60:28

• Benson Kiplangat (KEN) – Debut

Women’s Elite Field (Personal Bests)

• Wede Kefale (ETH) – 65:21

• Gladys Chepkurui (KEN) – 65:46

• Jesca Chelangat (KEN) – 66:13

• Magdalena Shauri (TAN) – 66:37

• Gete Alemayehu (ETH) – 66:37

• Cynthia Chepkwony (KEN) – 67:20

• Bertha Gebreslasie (ETH) – 67:26

• Orba Chemurgor (KEN) – 67:56

• Wudinesh Alemu (ETH) – 68:08

• Debash Kelali (ETH) – 68:10

• Annet Chelangat (UGA) – 68:12

• Melknat Wudu (ETH) – 68:53

A Full-Circle Moment

For Kamworor, Saturday’s race represents more than competition—it is a return to the place where his journey toward greatness began. After years of adversity, injuries, and recovery, he now stands once again on familiar ground, ready to test himself against the world’s best.

Whether he wins or not, his presence alone is a powerful reminder of the resilience that defines champions—and of the unfinished chapters still waiting to be written.

Boston’s Emerald Necklace once again set the stage for one of the country’s most scenic and competitive half marathons on Sunday morning. Over 7,000 runners lined up at Franklin Park for the 2025 Boston Half Marathon, where Ethiopia’s Fantaye Belayneh successfully defended her women’s title and Kenya’s Isaia Lasoi powered to an impressive victory in the men’s race. Each champion earned $15,000 for their wins.

Men’s Race – Lasoi Dominates in 1:00:59

Kenya’s Isaia Lasoi delivered a commanding performance, clocking 1:00:59 to capture the men’s crown and the $15,000 winner’s prize. The race unfolded at a fast but controlled pace through the park-lined streets, with Lasoi making his decisive move in the final 5K. Uruguay’s Santiago Catrofefollowed in 1:01:23, while Kenya’s Andrea Kiptoo secured third in 1:01:30.

Lasoi’s sub-61 performance on Boston’s undulating course reinforced his growing status among Kenya’s new generation of road racing talent. His powerful stride and tactical patience over the final stretch left no doubt about his supremacy.

Women’s Race – Belayneh Holds Off Wudu in a Thrilling Finish

In the women’s division, Ethiopia’s Fantaye Belayneh out-kicked her compatriot Melknat Wudu in a dramatic finish, crossing the line in 1:08:51 — just two seconds ahead of Wudu (1:08:53). Kenya’s Evaline Chirchir completed the podium in 1:09:01. Belayneh’s repeat win also earned her $15,000, matching Lasoi’s prize.

Her victory made her the first woman since Joan Chelimo Melly (2017–2018) to win back-to-back Boston Half titles. With calm focus and a perfectly timed surge in the final meters, Belayneh turned a shoulder-to-shoulder battle into a defining moment of determination and poise.

Course and Conditions

Runners traversed Boston’s “Emerald Necklace,” a 13.1-mile loop of winding parkways and rolling roads connecting the city’s most picturesque green spaces. Conditions were ideal — cool temperatures and light winds — creating the perfect backdrop for fast times and fierce competition.

Race Legacy and Global Field

The Boston Half Marathon continues to attract elite international athletes alongside thousands of passionate runners from around the world. With its blend of competition, camaraderie, and New England charm, the event remains one of the premier fall half marathons in the United States.

Belayneh and Lasoi’s victories underscored the enduring global depth of distance running — and confirmed once again that Boston’s roads remain among the finest proving grounds for champions.

ATLANTA, Georgia – July 4, 2025

The world’s largest 10K race, the AJC Peachtree Road Race, once again delivered thrilling fireworks on the Fourth of July. With tens of thousands of runners crowding Atlanta’s iconic Peachtree Street and elite athletes going head-to-head for glory, the 55th edition of the race lived up to the hype—and then some.

Men’s Race: Kiprop Leads Kenyan Sweep

In a battle that came down to seconds, Patrick Kiprop of Kenya surged ahead to claim the men’s title in 27:35, holding off a tightly packed group of countrymen. Just four seconds separated the top four finishers.

Top 5 Men’s Results

1. Patrick Kiprop (KEN) – 27:35

2. Vincent Langat (KEN) – 27:39

3. Patrick Mosin (KEN) – 27:39

4. Hillary Kipkoech (KEN) – 27:39

5. Isaia Lasoi (KEN) – 27:43

The men’s race was electric from the start, with the lead pack pushing the pace through the rolling hills of Atlanta. Kiprop’s victory continues Kenya’s dominance on the global road racing circuit and solidifies him as one to watch this season.

Women’s Race: Obiri Adds Peachtree to Her Legacy

Olympian and World Champion Hellen Obiri added another major victory to her résumé, winning the women’s elite race in 31:29. She held off a strong Ethiopian challenge led by Senayet Getachew, who finished just one second behind.

Top 5 Women’s Results

1. Hellen Obiri (KEN) – 31:29

2. Senayet Getachew (ETH) – 31:30

3. Gela Hambese Degefa (ETH) – 31:38

4. Gladys Chepkurui (KEN) – 31:48

5. Melknat Wudu (ETH) – 32:12

Obiri’s win confirms her versatility and consistency across track, cross country, and road racing. Her ability to outkick some of the world’s fastest women under warm and humid conditions impressed fans and commentators alike.

More Than a Race – A Celebration of Running

From the elite fields to everyday runners, the Peachtree 10K continues to inspire. With over 60,000 participants and countless spectators lining the 6.2-mile route, it remains the heart and soul of American road racing on Independence Day.

The event also upheld its famous tradition of rewarding the top 1,000 finishers with the coveted Peachtree finisher’s mug—a collector’s item for many. Organizers made smart adjustments to combat the early July heat, including starting the race 10 minutes earlier than usual.

A Dream Race for Many

My Best Runs founder Bob Anderson reflected, “Today's race reminds me why Peachtree is one of the most iconic 10Ks in the world. I’m starting to feel the desire to race it myself one day. Congratulations to all. Happy Fourth!”

 Peachtree by the Numbers

• Founded: 1970

• Distance: 10K (6.2 miles)

• Location: Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia

• Participants: ~60,000 runners annually

• Organized by: Atlanta Track Club

From world-class racing to heartfelt celebrations, the 2025 AJC Peachtree 10K showed once again why it’s a must-run event for runners across the globe.

The New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, a World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting, is set to deliver thrilling track action in Boston on Sunday (Feb 2), with an elite lineup of global gold medalists ready to ignite the indoor season. The competition will serve as a crucial stepping stone towards the World Athletics Indoor Championships Nanjing 25 in March.

Sprints and Hurdles: Lyles and Alfred Lead the Charge

Olympic and world sprint sensation Noah Lyles returns to defend his 60m title, after setting a meeting record of 6.44 last year. Lyles, who claimed 100m gold and 200m bronze at the Olympics, kicked off his season with a 6.62 win in Gainesville last weekend. He will face Trayvon Bromell (USA), Zharnel Hughes (GBR), and 2022 world indoor champion Marcell Jacobs (ITA), who is making his North American indoor debut.

In the women’s 300m, Olympic 100m champion Julien Alfred steps up in distance for her New Balance Indoor Grand Prix debut. After winning world indoor 60m gold in Glasgow, Alfred took 100m gold and 200m silver at the Olympics and ended last season with a Diamond League Final victory. She faces a competitive field including 2019 world 200m champion Dina Asher-Smith (GBR) and USA’s Lynna Irby-Jackson.

The men’s 300m features Olympic 400m hurdles gold medalist Rai Benjamin. A past winner in Boston, Benjamin is set to battle 4x400m relay star Vernon Norwood and Matthew Boling.

The 60m hurdles events promise fireworks, with world record-holder Devynne Charlton (7.65) and Olympic champion Masai Russell renewing their rivalry. Russell edged Charlton in their recent clash in Lubbock, but the Bahamian sprinter leads their head-to-head series 8-2. Joining them are Olympic finalists Ackera Nugent, Grace Stark, and 2018 world indoor silver medallist Christina Clemons.

For the men, world record-holder Grant Holloway (7.27) looks to extend his 10-year unbeaten streak in the 60m hurdles. The Olympic and world champion headlines the field alongside Olympic finalist Freddie Crittenden and 2022 world silver medallist Trey Cunningham.

Middle and Long Distance Races: Olympic Medalists Face Off

The women’s 3000m sees Olympic 1500m silver medalist Jessica Hull (AUS) take on Great Britain’s Olympic bronze medalist Georgia Bell. Hull, the defending champion, set an Oceanian indoor record of 8:24.93 in this event last year. They are joined by USA’s Parker Valby, Emily Mackay, Elise Cranny, Ethiopia’s Melknat Wudu, Italy’s Sintayehu Vissa, and Olympic steeplechase medalist Emma Coburn.

In the men’s 1500m, USA’s Grant Fisher (Olympic 5000m and 10,000m bronze medalist) takes on 2022 world champion Jake Wightman (GBR), Oliver Hoare (AUS), and Josh Hoey, who recently broke the North American 1000m record.

Bryce Hoppel, the reigning world indoor 800m champion, leads the men’s 800m field, while Hobbs Kessler, Cameron Myers, Neil Gourley, and Andrew Coscoran battle in the 3000m.

Other Key Events

Women’s 60m: Mikiah Brisco (USA) and Zoe Hobbs (NZL) lead the field.

Men’s 400m: 2022 world indoor champion Jereem Richards (TTO) races USA’s Quincy Wilson.

Women’s 500m: Dutch 4x400m Olympic champion Lisanne de Witte takes on USA’s Olympic 800m medallist Raevyn Rogers.

Women’s Mile: Heather MacLean (2023 winner) faces Olympic finalist Susan Ejore, Maia Ramsden, and Sage Hurta-Klecker.

With an electrifying lineup of Olympic and world champions, the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix promises high-stakes racing and a preview of the talent heading to Nanjing 25.

Kenyan Beatrice Chebet will repeat her participation in the Cursa dels Nassos on December 31, which this year has reached an unprecedented number of 12,000 registered in its popular race, with the challenge of beating the women's world record in the 5km road that she herself set in the last edition with a time of 14:13.

During the presentation of the event, held this Wednesday at the Olympic and Sports Museum of Barcelona, the Councilor for Sports, David Escudé, recalled that the Cursa dels Nassos was chosen by World Athletics as the best international women's event in 2023.

"This recognition, which is like winning the Oscars of athletics, has driven us to continue working and improving. This year, in addition to being the most multitudinous edition, it will also be the most female edition in the history of the event, with a record participation of women of 35% (more than 4,000)," she said.

As in the last four years, the Cursa dels Nassos will consist of two events in its 26th edition: a five-kilometer race with international elite athletes that will start at 4:20 p.m. and a popular ten-kilometer race that will start at 5:15 p.m.

The possibility of breaking the women's world record in the 5K kilometer race – which will once again be mixed, unlike last year – will be the main incentive of a day in which the Kenyan Beatrice Chebet will start as the great favorite.

The 24-year-old African athlete is coming off two gold medals in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters at the Paris Olympics, and will try to lower the world record she set at the 2023 Cursa dels Nassos (14:13). The Ethiopians Medina Eisa and Melknat Wudu, and the Catalan Esther Guerrero stand out as her main adversaries.

Fentaye Belayneh of Ethiopia and Yemane Haileselassie of Eritrea won this morning’s 22nd Boston Half-Marathon on a sunny and near-freezing morning here.  Employing completely different tactics, Belayneh won in a pack-sprint to the finish in Franklin Park where the first three women finished in a span of just one second. Haileselassie won in a solo breakaway, dominating the final miles and winning by 15 seconds.  Both athletes won $12,000 in prize money.

The women’s race got out slowly, and the first mile was completed in just 5:41, a comfortable training pace for athletes at this level.  Britain’s Calli Hauger-Thackery was at the front.  She said that she felt good taking the lead and wanted to work on some of her racing skills.

“I felt good doing that,” Hauger-Thackery told Race Results Weekly.  “I was practicing not being set in a set pace.  I’ve got to practice surging… not be afraid to put in a five minute mile here and there.”

The first real move happened just before 5-K where Ethiopia’s Mestawut Fikir, who was fifth at this race last year, put in a surge.  The field responded immediately, and Kenyan’s Veronica Loleo and Daisy Jepkemei, and Ethiopians Melknat Wudu and Mebrat Gidey followed her single file.  They passed through 5-K in 17:17 and four miles in 21:45.  The downhill fourth mile was passed in a fast 5:05.

Fikir’s mini-surge only brought the lead pack down to 12.  Although the second, five-kilometer segment was faster (16:27) it wasn’t enough to dwindle the field further.  Fikir decided to go again just after the 10-K mark, and that move sent Hauger-Thackery and Australia’s Lauren Ryan several steps back.  Kenya’s Mercy Chelangat was also having trouble holding on.  Mile-8 went into the books at 5:10, and the serious racing had begun.

But after that, none of the women were keen to open up the race further, and the pace slowed enough that Chelangat managed to catch up.  Remarkably, eight women were still together as they ran back to Franklin Park for the finish.  Indeed, the race would not be decided until the final 200 meters when Belayneh, who had not led one step of the race, jumped the field and broke for the tape.  She was ready for that kind of move.

“I prepared very well and I knew Boston was a good course,” Belayneh said with the help of a translator.  “I prepared very well.”

Fikir and Senayet Getachew, another Ethiopian, were right on Belayneh’s heels as she bolted for the tape, but they just couldn’t catch their speedier rival.  She broke the tape, arms raised with a huge smile, in 1:10:26.  Fikir was given the same time, and Getachew was just one second back.  Loleo got fourth in 1:10:29, and Wudu was fifth in 1:10:30.  The first seven women finished in just a six-second span.

“At the end, I decided at the end,” Belayneh said when asked when she knew that the time was right for her final move.  “It was a rough race, but I knew I could hold on and push.  I had some little (energy) left over.  I used that.”

Farther behind, Chelangat finished eighth in 1:10:43 and Hauger-Thackery was ninth in 1:10:49.  The two women, both former NCAA stars who know each other from training in Flagstaff, embraced at the finish line.

“It was fun, it was good,” said Hauger-Thackery, who plans to run the California International Marathon in December with her husband, Nick.  She added: “This was a good race to go for it, get the blood flowing.”

Unlike Belayneh, Haileselassie did not want to wait for the final sprint.  In the ninth mile, he and Isaac Kipkemboi of Kenya and Haimro Alame of Israel pulled away from the field. Haileselassie was on the front, and kept pressing.

“Actually, when I lead in mile-nine I give them a little bit gap,” Haileselassie told Race Results Weekly.  “I looked over my back, I had little bit gap.  I know they can’t touch me.”

The Eritrean crossed to the finish line alone in 1:01:46.  Kipkemboi was a clear second in 1:02:01, but Alame faded in the final miles and only finished sixth in 1:02:12.  Taking the final podium position was Canadian miler Kieran Lumb, who was making his half-marathon debut.  Lumb, who made the Paris Olympic 1500m semi-finals, was timed in 1:02:03.  He was happy with his race, a good fitness test before the Canadian Cross Country Championships later this month, even if it hurt a little.

“It was hard,” said Lumb.  “Honestly, it was pretty hard early on.  I would say, like 20 minutes in, I didn’t feel amazing.  I did not sleep well last night, either.  I slept like four hours.”

Today’s event was the third and final race in the 2024 Boston Athletic Association’s Distance Medley which included the Boston 5-K on April 13 and the Boston 10-K on June 23.  About 6500 runners finished today’s race.

Thousands of athletes, including top contenders like Bernard Ngeno and Melknat Wudu, will compete in the Boston Half Marathon on November 10, with elites aiming for records and personal bests.

Thousands of athletes will be looking to make an impression at the Boston Half Marathon on Sunday, November 10.

The men’s race boasts four men who have clocked personal bests under one hour. Headlining the field will be Bernard Ngeno who has a personal best time of 59:07 minutes. Isaac Kipkemboi (Kenya, 59:17), Bravin Kiptoo (Kenya, 59:37) and American Leonard Korir are also some of the headliners of the field.

Bernard Ngeno is fresh from racing at the Principality Cardiff Half Marathon where he finished 15th. He is one of the most decorated road runners and has won eight international half-marathons. On his part, Leonard Korir has represented Team USA at two Olympic Games, including at the Paris Olympic Games.

Others confirmed for the event include Ben Flanagan of Canada and Yemane Haileselassie from Eritrea and they are both familiar with the roads. Flanagan finished second at the 2023 Boston 5K while Haileselassie was third at last year’s Boston Half Marathon.

Others confirmed for the race include Sam Chelanga who was third at the 2012 Boston Half Marathon and seventh last year. Daniel Mesfun finished 15th at the U.S. Olympic Trials Marathon.

The women’s race is headlined by Ethiopia’s Melknat Wudu who is fresh from winning the 10km title and she will be back to make her half marathon debut. Wudu ran 31:15 to win the race and is a two-time World Junior Championships silver medalist on the track.

She will be up against fellow Ethiopians including Mestawat Fikir and Bosena Mulatie, the duo who finished second and third at last month’s Berlin Marathon.

Uganda’s Sarah Chelangat, Ethiopians Fentaye Belayneh and Mebrat Gidey, and Britain’s Calli Hauger-Thackery will also be in the race. Chelangat placed 12th at the 2024 Olympic 10,000m, while Belayneh was runner-up at the Boston Half Marathon in 2023 and she will be out to go one place better.

Gidey placed 10th at the 2024 World Cross Country Championships while Hauger-Thackery set a lifetime best 2:21:24 at the Berlin Marathon this year, finishing seventh.

“Nearly 9,000 athletes will take part in this year’s Boston Half, and at the front of the field will be fan favorites striving for event records and personal bests,” said Jack Fleming, President and CEO of the B.A.A.

“We’re eager to welcome competitors from more than 40 countries to the roads of Boston, ranging from the world’s best to those looking to complete their first half marathon.”

Kenya’s John Korir flirted with the course record at the Falmouth Road Race on Sunday, dominating the men’s field to win by 51 seconds in 31 minutes, 15 seconds over the seven miles.

Korir took control early and never relented, opening a 23-second gap by the 5K mark. That lead stretched to over a minute through 10K, and the field closed ever so slightly as Korir missed the course record, set last year by Wesley Kiptoo, by just seven seconds. Korir ran the third-fastest winning time in the race’s 52-year history.

“I was confident. I knew I was going to win because I am in very good shape,” said Korir. “I was feeling good, so I decided to go and see how it went.”

It was an entirely different race on the women’s side, where Ethiopia’s Fentaye Azale needed every yard from Woods Hole to Falmouth Heights to put away the competition. In the end, Azale edged countrywoman Melknat Wudu by just a second with a winning 36:10. The two came flying down the final hill side by side, but Azale had an extra gear in the final steps.

Emma Bates, the top American woman at back-to-back Boston Marathons, was just six seconds behind the dueling Ethiopians. Another American, Emma Grace Hurley, led a trio across the line just behind Bates.

“It’s always so welcoming here,” said Bates. “People were shouting ‘Emma’ the entire way and I was running with Emma Grace Hurley, so both of us were just soaking up the energy from the crowd.”

Morgan Beadlescomb was the top American on the men’s side, finishing fifth, 66 seconds behind Korir. Three-time champion Ben Flanagan of Canada was seventh.

More than 11,000 runners participated in both races this year.

Prague Half Marathon champion Sabastian Sawe is setting his sights on the 42km race as he sets his target on next year's Boston Marathon on April 21.

This comes after the 29-year-old's impressive victory at the Boston 10K Road Race on Sunday, where he clocked 27:42.

Wesley Kiptoo (27:53) and World Half Marathon silver medallist Daniel Ebenyo (27:55) claimed second and third respectively.

In the women's elite race, Ethiopians swept the podium as Melknat Wudu (31:15), Bosena Mulatie (31:16) and Senayet Getachew (31:17) took the top three slots.

Kenya’s Irene Cheptai (31:19), Stacy Ndiwa (31:20), Sarah Chelagat (31:27), and Daisy Jepkemei (31:39) followed in that order. 

After stamping authority in his first race in the United States, Sawe stated he harbours ambitions of taking part in the Boston Marathon.

“My dream now is to take part in the Boston Marathon,” Sawe stated.

Sawe, primarily a half marathon and road race specialist, boasts an impressive resume including the Prague Half Marathon title which he won on April 6 in a time of 58:24.

He also holds a title from last year’s Berlin Half Marathon (59:00) as well as the 2022 Bahrain Half Marathon (58:58). 

Sawe also won the World Road Running Championships half marathon title in Riga, Latvia, where he clocked 59:10. Ebenyo (59:14) and Samwel Nyamai (59:19) finished second and third.

He secured gold at the Adizero Road to Records 10K last April with a time of 26:49 and has a silver medal from the 2022 edition, clocking 27:06 behind Nicholas Kipkorir (27:05).

His other accolades include victories at the 2022 Roma (58:02) and Seville Half Marathons (59:02), and gold at the Gold Gala Fernanda in the 10,000m (27:09.46).

Reflecting on his Boston performance, Sawe said the course was fair despite too much rain.

“The course was not tough. The weather, however, made it difficult but I was able to do my best and come out with the victory,” he stated.

After hitting the halfway mark in 13:52, Sawe broke away from the leading pack of five which included Ebenyo, Kiptoo, Ethiopia’s Yemane Haileselassie and Abel Kipchumba.

“This was my first time running the Boston 10km Road race. The race was amazing and I had prepared adequately for it,” Sawe commented.

In addition to the winner’s trophy, Sawe also took home Sh1.3 million in cash prize money.

The past two women’s NCAA 400m champions, Rhasidat Adeleke and Talitha Diggs, will line up for a 300m clash at the Millrose Games in New York on February 11.

Racing them at this season’s penultimate World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting will be Jamaica’s Leah Anderson and Candice McLeod.

Adeleke has already made a strong start to 2024 as she ran 7.15 for 60m and 22.49 for 200m to improve her own Irish indoor records in Albuquerque on 20 January.

The 21-year-old, who finished fourth in the world 400m final last year in Budapest, has raced 300m once before, in 2022 when she ran a national record of 36.87.

In New York she’ll go up against the athlete who preceded her as NCAA 400m champion, Diggs.

USA’s Diggs is set to make her season debut at this weekend’s World Indoor Tour Gold meeting in Boston, where she will also race the 300m.

New York offers a rematch as her PB of 36.37 was set when winning ahead of Adeleke in Clemson in 2022.

Anderson finished third in last year’s Millrose Games 300m in 36.68, while Olympic and world 4x400m medallist McLeod is set to race the distance for the first time.

Joining the already announced Alicia Monson in the two-mile race in New York will be North American mile record-holder Nikki Hiltz, who won the US 1500m title last year and started 2024 by running 2:34.09 for 1000m.

They will race against a field featuring USA’s Emily Infeld and Courtney Wayment, Japan’s Nozomi Tanaka, and Ethiopia’s Medina Eisa and Melknat Wudu.

In the high jump, the previously announced Yaroslava Mahuchikh will compete against 2016 world indoor champion Vashti Cunningham, NCAA champion Charity Griffith and Asian Games champion Safina Sadullayeva.

Kenya’s Agnes Tirop took 28 seconds off the long-standing women-only world record for 10km*, while Ethiopia’s Senbere Teferi set an outright world 5km record of 14:29* at the adizero Road To Records event in Herzogenaurach on Sunday (12).

Tirop, the world 10,000m bronze medallist, put in a decisive surge with little more than two kilometres to go in the 10km, breaking away from fellow Kenyan Sheila Chepkirui before eventually winning in 30:01.

Teferi, the 2015 world 5000m silver medallist, ran away from her opponents after the first kilometre with an incredible solo effort, winning the 5km in 14:29.

Tirop and Chepkirui were part of a five-woman lead pack during the early stages of the 10km and passed through 4km in 12:07. A couple of minutes later, Tirop and Chepkirui had broken away from the rest of their opponents, reaching the half-way point in 15:00 after coving the fifth kilometre in a swift 2:54.

Chepkirui then moved in front of her compatriot and tried to force the pace but was unsuccessful in making a break. The duo continued to run side by side for the best part of three kilometres, but Tirop started her long run for home with about six minutes to go.

Tirop, who won the senior world cross-country title as a teenager back in 2015, passed through 9km in 27:07 with a comfortable lead and was still comfortably inside world record pace. She didn’t ease back for the final kilometre, though, and covered it in another 2:54 to reach the finish line in 30:01.

Chepkirui finished second in 30:17, also inside the previous mark of 30:29 set by Morocco’s Asmae Leghzaoui back in 2002. Nancy Jelagat was third in 30:50.

“I’m so happy to have broken the world record,” said Tirop. “I felt the pace was good and Sheila assisted me a lot. The course was very good too.”

Teferi, contesting the final race of the day, ensured the event ended on a high as she smashed the world 5km record with 14:29, winning by 25 seconds from Ethiopian teenager Melknat Wudu.

Six weeks after her sixth-place finish over 5000m at the Olympic Games, Teferi ran with the pack for the first kilometre, covered just inside three minutes. Then, sensing that the pace wasn’t quite fast enough to challenge the world record, set off on her own and covered the second kilometre in 2:49.

By 3km, which she reached in about 8:43, Teferi had an eight-second lead over the chase pack. She continued to forge ahead, passing 4km in 12:07 and then ended with a 2:52 final kilometre to cross the finish line in 14:29.

Not only did it break the women-only world record of 14:44 set by Beatrice Chepkoech and the 14:43 outright world record set by Sifan Hassan in a mixed race, she also bettered the fastest 5km clocking in history of 14:32, set by Joyciline Jepkosgei before the distance became an official world record event.

“I'm so happy,” said Teferi. “After the Olympics, I knew I was ready to go after this world record. I'm so happy.”

Wudu, a double medallist at the World U20 Championships, took second place in 14:54, just ahead of compatriot Nigisti Haftu.

In the day’s other races, world record-holder Rhonex Kipruto won the men’s 10km in 26:43, the fourth-fastest time in history, while recently crowned world U20 champion Tadese Worku was second in 26:56, an Ethiopian U20 record.

Abel Kipchumba was a convincing winner of the men’s half marathon in 58:48 with fellow Kenyan Alexander Mutiso Munyao taking second in 59:20, and Brenda Jepleting added to the Kenyan success with a dominant 1:06:52 victory in the women’s race.

Jacob Krop won the men's 5km in 13:06, breaking away from two-time world 5000m champion Muktar Edris in the second half to finish three seconds ahead of the Ethiopian.

Leading results

WOMEN

5km

1 Senbere Teferi (ETH) 14:29

2 Melknat Wudu (ETH) 14:54

3 Nigisti Haftu (ETH) 14:54

4 Agnes Jebet Ngetich (KEN) 15:02

5 Dawit Seyaum (ETH) 15:10

10km

1 Agnes Tirop (KEN) 30:01

2 Sheila Chepkirui (KEN) 30:17

3 Nancy Jelagat (KEN) 30:50

4 Betty Chepkemoi (KEN) 31:09

5 Dorcas Kimeli (KEN) 31:22

Half marathon

1 Brenda Jepleting (KEN) 1:06:52

2 Besu Sado (ETH) 1:08:15

3 Brillian Jepkorir (KEN) 1:08:28

4 Tgise Haileselase (ETH) 1:08:30

5 Irene Jepchumba (KEN) 1:09:02

MEN

5km

1 Jacob Krop (KEN) 13:06

2 Muktar Edris (ETH) 13:09

3 Hosea Kiplangat (UGA) 13:13

4 Geoffrey Kimutai (KEN) 13:22

5 Daniel Kinyanjui (KEN) 13:27

10km

1 Rhonex Kipruto (KEN) 26:43

2 Tadese Worku (ETH) 26:56

3 Kennedy Kimutai (KEN) 27:09

4 Nicholas Kimeli (KEN) 27:22

5 Bayelign Teshager (ETH) 27:24

Half marathon

1 Abel Kipchumba (KEN) 58:48

2 Alexander Mutiso Munyao (KEN) 59:20

3 Amos Kurgat Kibiwot (KEN) 59:34

4 Raymond Magut (KEN) 1:00:00

5 Phenus Kipleting (KEN) 1:00:08