Running News Daily

The global athletics community is mourning the passing of one of its most influential and respected coaching minds. Stephen "Franno" Francis, the celebrated co-founder and technical director of Jamaica's MVP Track & Field Club, has died at the age of 64 following a period of illness.

Francis passed away late Saturday, just one day after celebrating his 64th birthday, bringing to an end a remarkable career that transformed Jamaican athletics and left an enduring mark on the world stage.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest sprint coaches in history, Francis shaped the careers of some of track and field's most iconic champions. His extraordinary coaching résumé includes Olympic and world champions such as Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Shericka Jackson, Asafa Powell, Kishane Thompson, Melaine Walker, Brigitte Foster-Hylton, Tajay Gayle, Sada Williams, Tina and Tia Clayton, along with countless other international stars. Under his guidance, Asafa Powell rewrote history by breaking the men's 100-metre world record twice, while generations of athletes flourished under his meticulous and innovative approach to coaching.

Before dedicating his life to athletics, Francis built a successful career in finance. However, his passion for developing athletes led him to make a life-changing decision. In 1999, alongside his brother Paul Francis, he founded the MVP Track & Field Club with a bold vision—that Jamaican athletes, coached by Jamaican coaches and training on home soil, could dominate the world. That vision became one of the greatest success stories in modern athletics, producing Olympic champions, world record holders and global medalists who elevated Jamaica's reputation as a sprinting powerhouse.

His outstanding contribution to sport earned him Jamaica's prestigious Order of Jamaica in 2017, recognizing decades of excellence and national service through athletics.

Tributes have poured in from across the sporting world. Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness described Francis as "a remarkable son of Jamaica" whose influence would continue to inspire generations, while World Athletics hailed him as a true giant of the sport. For many of the athletes whose lives he helped shape, he was far more than a coach—he was a mentor, a father figure and a guiding force whose wisdom extended well beyond the track.

Stephen "Franno" Francis leaves behind a legacy measured not only in medals, records and championships, but also in the lives he transformed and the coaching philosophy that redefined what was possible for Jamaican athletics. His impact will continue to resonate across tracks around the world for generations to come.

The countdown to the 2026 Cape Town City Marathon has intensified after organisers unveiled a powerful elite field headlined by marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge, setting the stage for one of the most anticipated road races on the African calendar.

Scheduled for Sunday, May 24, the race is expected to draw global attention as some of the world’s finest long-distance athletes converge in South Africa’s Mother City for a high-stakes battle over 42.195 kilometres.

Kipchoge, widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner in history, arrives in Cape Town carrying an unmatched legacy that includes multiple Olympic titles and the fastest marathon performances ever recorded. The Kenyan superstar’s presence alone elevates the status of the event, adding further momentum to Cape Town’s ambition of becoming Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major.

But the race is far from a one-man affair.

A deep and competitive field promises fierce competition from start to finish, with fellow Kenyan Stephen Kiprop among the leading challengers. Ethiopia will also bring significant firepower through athletes such as Mulugeta Uma, Yihunilign Adane, Boki Asefa, Jemal Mekonen and Adane Kebede — creating a strong East African rivalry that could produce a fast and tactical contest.

With several athletes in the field boasting personal bests close to the 2:05 barrier, expectations are growing for a relentless pace on Cape Town’s scenic course. The combination of elite depth, international attention and the city’s vibrant atmosphere has positioned this year’s edition as potentially the most competitive in the event’s history.

Beyond the race itself, the marathon represents another major moment for African road running. Cape Town has increasingly emerged as a global destination for distance racing, and attracting names of Kipchoge’s calibre signals the event’s growing influence on the world stage.

As anticipation builds ahead of Sunday’s showdown, fans across the continent and the world will be watching closely to see whether the marathon legend can add another memorable chapter to his remarkable career — or whether a new challenger will rise in one of Africa’s biggest marathon battles.

The 2026 Rimi Riga Marathon produced a thrilling showcase of endurance, dominance, and elite distance running as Ethiopia’s Ayantu Kumela and Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptoo Kororia emerged victorious with commanding performances in the Latvian capital.

Kumela successfully defended her women’s crown in breathtaking fashion, delivering an even stronger display than last year to cement her growing legacy in Riga. The Ethiopian star crossed the finish line in an impressive 2:26:40, nearly two minutes faster than her previous winning performance, underlining both her consistency and remarkable progression on the marathon stage.

Running with confidence and control from the opening kilometers, Kumela gradually distanced herself from the chasing pack before powering home to a memorable back-to-back triumph. Her composed race execution and devastating late surge once again proved too strong for the elite field assembled in Riga.

Fellow Ethiopian Obse Abdeta Deme secured second place in 2:27:50, while Sadura Adawork Aberta completed an all-Ethiopian podium after clocking 2:29:05 for third.

In the men’s race, Kelvin Kiptoo Kororia produced a stunning performance of his own, delivering a masterclass that left no doubt about his superiority on the day. The Kenyan runner stormed to victory in 2:08:58, finishing with authority after an electrifying run through the streets of Riga.

Kororia looked in complete command throughout the race, maintaining a relentless rhythm before unleashing a powerful finishing stretch that thrilled spectators at the finish line. His victory was not only decisive but also symbolic of a runner operating at the peak of confidence and strength.

Ethiopia’s Getachew Kene Tufa claimed second place in 2:11:29, while Kenya’s Stephen Kipkemoi Kibor completed the podium in third after clocking 2:12:27.

With both races delivering fast times and unforgettable moments, the 2026 Rimi Riga Marathon once again lived up to its growing reputation as one of Europe’s premier road racing events. Yet above all, the spotlight belonged to Kumela and Kororia — two champions whose dominant performances transformed Riga into a stage of marathon excellence.

The 2026 Cape Town Sanlam Marathon is already shaping up to be one of the most compelling road races of the year, after organizers officially unveiled a formidable elite field for the May 24 showdown in South Africa’s iconic coastal city. With global attention fixed firmly on the event, the presence of marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge elevates this year’s race into a spectacle of rare magnitude.

Widely regarded as the greatest marathoner in history, Kipchoge returns to African soil with a résumé that continues to redefine the boundaries of human endurance. The two-time Olympic champion and the first man to break the two-hour barrier for the marathon distance brings not only unmatched pedigree but also a magnetic presence that instantly transforms the race into a global attraction.

Yet, this will be no ceremonial run. The Kenyan icon will face a deep and dangerous field hungry for victory and, potentially, a course record. Among the leading contenders is Stephen Kiprop, a proven sub-2:08 performer whose consistency makes him a genuine threat over the classic distance. Israel’s Maru Teferi, a seasoned Olympian, arrives with tactical sharpness and championship experience, while Ethiopia’s Boki Kebede brings serious credentials, including a blistering 2:05:55 personal best that signals his intent to challenge for top honors.

The Ethiopian contingent runs even deeper. Jemal Yimer Mekonen is renowned for his devastating finishing speed, capable of turning races in the closing kilometers, while Yihunilign Adane offers remarkable consistency, having built a reputation through sheer durability and experience across numerous marathon appearances. Adding further intrigue is Adane Gebre Kebede, the 2023 champion and 2024 runner-up, whose familiarity with the course could prove decisive. Meanwhile, Mulugeta Astra Uma enters as a dark horse with the raw speed to disrupt even the most carefully calculated race plans.

Beyond the individual names, the 2026 edition introduces a refined race structure, with a multi-wave start designed to ease congestion and enhance performance conditions for elite and mass participants alike. The elite men’s race is scheduled to begin at 08:00 local time in Cape Town, ensuring strong viewership across the world.

The Cape Town Marathon continues to push toward its ambition of becoming Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major, and this year’s elite line-up reinforces that vision. With a blend of legendary status, emerging firepower, and tactical brilliance, the race promises not just competition, but a narrative rich with possibility.

If the depth of the field is any indication, Cape Town may well witness something extraordinary—a race where history is not just chased, but potentially rewritten.

The streets of Daegu are set for another spectacle of endurance and speed this Sunday, February 22, as the 2026 Daegu Marathon assembles a field rich in pedigree and ambition. At the center of it all stands Tanzania’s premier long-distance force, Gabriel Geay, who returns with one clear objective — to defend the crown he claimed in emphatic fashion last year.

Armed with a staggering personal best of 2:03:00, Geay enters the race not merely as the reigning champion, but as the benchmark. His résumé places him among the fastest marathoners of his generation, and his efficiency over 42.195 kilometers has consistently demonstrated a rare blend of tactical intelligence and sustained aggression. Daegu’s flat and historically quick course appears tailor-made for his rhythm, yet defending a title is often a sterner challenge than winning it the first time.

Standing in his path are two formidable East African rivals eager to disrupt his reign.

Kenya’s Stephen Kiprop arrives with a personal best of 2:07:04. Though numerically slower on paper, Kiprop represents the relentless depth of Kenyan distance running — disciplined, strategic, and capable of surging when the race begins to fracture in its decisive stages. Championships are rarely won on statistics alone, and Kiprop’s competitive maturity could transform him into a serious threat if the contest becomes tactical.

Equally dangerous is Ethiopia’s Chimdesa Debele Gudeta, whose 2:04:44 lifetime best signals genuine world-class credentials. Gudeta possesses the kind of speed endurance that can destabilize even the strongest frontrunner. Should the pace escalate early, he has the credentials to match it — and perhaps exceed it — in the unforgiving final kilometers.

The narrative unfolding in Daegu is therefore more than a title defense. It is a clash of contrasting strengths: Geay’s proven dominance, Kiprop’s calculated resilience, and Gudeta’s formidable pace capacity. With three athletes boasting elite credentials, the 2026 edition promises a contest that could be dictated by courage as much as conditioning.

As dawn breaks over South Korea on race day, one certainty prevails — the margins will be razor thin, the pace uncompromising, and the battle for supremacy fiercely contested. Whether Gabriel Geay consolidates his authority or a new champion rises, the 2026 Daegu Marathon is poised to deliver a performance worthy of the global stage.

The Haspa Marathon Hamburg in Germany returns on April 26 for its 40th edition and once again the race has assembled a powerful international field. Two time champion Bernard Koech (Kenya) headlines the event and will attempt to remain unbeaten on the streets of Hamburg.

Over the past few years Hamburg has quietly become one of Europe’s fastest and most consistent marathon stages. In 2025 it surprisingly produced the strongest overall performances among Germany’s major marathons, reflecting the event’s continued rise. Organizers expect approximately 20,000 runners for this milestone edition.

Chief organizer Frank Thaleiser said he is confident the 40th running will continue that momentum and produce another high quality race.

Bernard Koech Kenya

At 38 Koech returns to a course that has brought out his very best. He won here in 2023 in 2:04:09 which equals his personal best and followed that victory with another title in 2024 in 2:04:24. Hamburg clearly suits his rhythm and strength.

Last spring he placed third at the Seoul Marathon in 2:05:50 confirming he remains a serious contender on the global stage. A third consecutive victory in Hamburg would further cement his legacy at this race.

Stephen Kissa Uganda

Stephen Kissa (Uganda) returns to the site of his breakthrough marathon performance. In 2022 he finished second by just one second in his debut clocking 2:04:48 which at the time was a Ugandan national record and remains his personal best.

Hamburg’s flat profile and supportive crowds clearly fit Kissa’s style and he will arrive with confidence.

Abdisa Tola Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s Abdisa Tola (Ethiopia) adds further depth. The 25 year old won his marathon debut in Dubai in 2:05:42 in 2023 and ran 2:05:52 for third in Osaka last year. The younger brother of Olympic marathon champion Tamirat Tola he has both pedigree and proven speed to challenge for victory.

Samuel Fitwi Germany

Germany’s leading hope is Samuel Fitwi (Germany). He finished 15th at the Olympic Games and later broke the German national record in Valencia with 2:04:56. Although that record has since changed hands it remains his personal best and confirms his ability to compete at the highest level.

Fitwi said he is looking forward to racing the jubilee edition in Hamburg where strong local support could provide an extra lift.

Also on the elite start list are Sebastian Hendel (Germany) who improved his personal best to 2:07:33 after first breaking 2:10 in Hamburg and Aaron Bienenfeld (Germany) who will make his marathon debut after running 61:15 at the Houston Half Marathon earlier this year.

With a flat layout ideal spring conditions and a deep international field the 40th Haspa Marathon Hamburg Germany is positioned to deliver another memorable performance on April 26. A proven champion returns experienced challengers are back and emerging talent is ready to test itself on one of Europe’s fastest marathon stages.

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, the streets of Daegu, South Korea, will host one of the richest marathons in the world. The Daegu Marathon, staged in one of Asia’s most established athletics cities, offers $200,000 USD to each of the men’s and women’s champions, placing it among the most lucrative payouts in global road racing.

The elite prize structure extends ten deep in both divisions, creating a combined international prize purse of $842,000 USD — $421,000 per gender. Prize money descends from $200,000 for first place to $7,000 for tenth, with additional domestic awards and performance bonuses further enhancing the overall package.

With nearly one million dollars in elite prize money on the line, Daegu has assembled a field worthy of the stakes.

Elite Women: Sub-2:19 Firepower

The women’s race features three Ethiopians with personal bests under 2:19, immediately signaling record-level intent.

Defending champion Meseret Belete returns with a lifetime best of 2:18:21 and the confidence of past success on this course. Ruti Aga, the 2024 winner, owns the fastest PB in the field at 2:18:09 and brings extensive championship experience. Dera Dida Yami, the 2023 Dubai Marathon champion (2:18:32), strengthens Ethiopia’s tactical options on a flat, rhythm-friendly layout.

Kenya’s Lilian Kasait Rengeruk introduces intrigue. Known globally for her half-marathon speed, she presents a potential late-race threat if she manages the marathon distance conservatively through 30 kilometers. Should she remain within contact entering the final stretch, her finishing speed could prove decisive.

South Korea’s Choi Jung-yoon (PB 2:32:20) carries the hopes of the home crowd inside Daegu Stadium, where the race both begins and concludes. Her performance will be closely watched as a measure of domestic progress against the dominant East African contingent.

Men’s Elite: Proven Champions and Record Credentials

The men’s race features equal depth and experience.

Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay, defending champion and former course record holder, arrives with a 2:03:00 personal best. His strength lies in sustained high tempo, making him especially dangerous if the early pace remains controlled but honest.

Ethiopia’s Chimdesa Debele Gudeta (2:04:44) and Kenya’s Stephen Kiprop (2:07:04) round out a field capable of maintaining sub-2:05 rhythm deep into the race. Tactical discipline will likely determine whether the contest becomes a time trial or a strategic battle over the final 10 kilometers.

Domestic favorite Jeon Su-hwan (2:17:00) will seek to elevate his performance on home soil, testing himself against one of the strongest international lineups of the season.

Course, Conditions, and Championship Stakes

Daegu’s late-February climate typically delivers cool, stable conditions ideal for distance racing. The circular course, starting and finishing at Daegu Stadium, features extended straightaways and minimal elevation change — characteristics that reward even pacing and negative splits.

With $200,000 awaiting each winner and $842,000 distributed across the elite fields, the 2026 Daegu Marathon represents more than a standard tour stop. It is a high-stakes confrontation in South Korea where world-class credentials, tactical precision, and endurance will determine who leaves Daegu not only victorious — but significantly rewarded.

KATA Time Trial No. 52 unfolded quietly on the familiar tarmac roads of Thika, but the morning (Jan 21) delivered a series of determined solo efforts and encouraging performances across the distances. With athletes often running alone against the clock, the session tested discipline, pacing, and mental toughness—hallmarks of the KATA training philosophy.

In the men’s 5km, 17-year-old Robin Musa delivered the standout performance of the morning, stopping the clock at 15:37. Running entirely on his own, Musa showed maturity beyond his years, holding his rhythm without the benefit of a pack. His effort drew appreciation from coaches and observers, underscoring his growing potential.

Finishing second was Yedi Kohen, KATA’s paid guest from Israel, who continues his preparation for an upcoming race. Kohen clocked 24:14, running barefoot on the tarmac. Beyond the footwear choice, his relaxed stride and controlled execution reflected steady progress within his training block.

The women’s 5km featured a single competitor, but Regina Sandiki made the most of the opportunity, posting an impressive 19:18. A 400-metre specialist transitioning to longer distances, Sandiki continues to adapt well to endurance training, with her development suggesting a promising future.

The men’s 10km saw Stephen Kangethe take control early and maintain his lead throughout, crossing the line in 28:45. Running much of the race alone, Kangethe demonstrated strength and composure, particularly over the final kilometres. He later noted the challenge of pushing the pace without competition, having opened nearly a one-minute gap on the field.

Second place went to Raphael Karita in 29:43, followed by Peter Njeru, who rounded out the podium with 30:02.

In the women’s 10km, Loise Kiaríe claimed victory with a strong and consistent run, stopping the clock at 33:53. Jacinta Kamau followed in 34:41, while Susan Njuu secured third in 35:37, highlighting solid depth among KATA’s women over the longer distance.

Time Trial No. 52 may have been modest in size, but it reinforced a central truth of KATA’s program: progress is forged through honest effort, whether running in a pack or alone against the clock.

A previous guest from France, Marie Barin donated 30 pairs of running shoes to KATA.  The fourth photo shows some of those shoes being handed out as prizes and the next photos shows some being handed out at KATA,  The next photo is Dennis picking up the shoes.  "This was so nice of Marie and Arthur, her mate, to make such a kind donation," says KATA director Bob Anderson.  

Race Results

MEN 5km

1. Robin Musa (17) — Bib 08 — 15:37

2. Yedi Kohen (28) — Bib 80 — 24:14

WOMEN 5km

Out 1. Regina Sandiki (19) — Bib 81 — 19:18

MEN 10km

1. Stephen Kangethe (22) — Bib 07 — 28:45

2. Raphael Karita (27) — Bib 85 — 29:43

3. Peter Njeru (28) — Bib 46 — 30:02

4. James Murithi (29) — Bib 100 — 30:41

5. Bernard Waweru (40) — Bib 39 — 31:26

6. Joel Maina (40) — Bib 32 — 31:42

7. Boniface Mungai (30) — Bib 05 — 32:13

8. Charles Ndirangu (24) — Bib 79 — 32:31

9. Erick Cheruiyot (30) — Bib 40 — 32:35

10. Joseph Nyota (20) — Bib 31 — 33:31

11. Paul Nganga (45) — Bib 30 — 34:14

12. David Muriuki (40) — Bib 44 — 34:25

13. Bernard Gicheha (35) — Bib 76 — 35:37

14. Charles Ndirangu (64) — Bib 82 — 37:32

WOMEN 10km

1. Loise Kiaríe (24) — Bib 33 — 33:53

2. Jacinta Kamau (24) — Bib 36 — 34:41

3. Susan Njuu (40) — Bib 43 — 35:37

4. Jane Wanja (35) — Bib 83 — 36:52

5. Caren Chepkemoi (24) — Bib 70 — 38:22

6. Ruth Macharia (27) — Bib 68 — 43:39

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.

South African marathon legend Stephen Mokoka continues to prove that age is no barrier to excellence. On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the 40-year-old star shattered the South African veterans (40+) marathon record at the Big Hole Marathon in Kimberley, finishing second overall in a brilliant 2:15:31. 

The previous record — 2:17:40, set by Paulus Masilela in 1988 — had stood untouched for 37 years. Mokoka didn’t just dip under it; he demolished it.

Adding to the historic moment, fellow veteran Lucky Mohale also broke the old mark with his fourth-place finish in 2:17:19. Two over-40 athletes surpassing a decades-old national record on the same day is a rare and remarkable achievement in distance running.

Top Veterans Results

• Stephen Mokoka — 2:15:31

• Lucky Mohale — 2:17:19

A Masterclass in Longevity

Mokoka, one of South Africa’s most decorated distance runners, has been a model of consistency for nearly two decades. His record-breaking run in Kimberley underscores not only his exceptional endurance but also his continued drive to compete at the highest level well into his 40s. 

With performances like this, Mokoka solidifies his place as one of the most durable marathoners of his era.

What’s Ahead?

With the veterans record now rewritten, fans are already asking:

Can Mokoka target even more age-group records in 2026?

Given the shape he showed in Kimberley, nothing seems out of reach.

A historic day for South African distance running — and a powerful reminder of what is possible when talent, experience, and longevity come together.

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

For decades, the men’s 3000m steeplechase was as Kenyan as tea fields in Kericho or herds grazing the Rift Valley floor. Since Amos Biwott (first photo) struck Olympic gold in 1968, generations of Kenyan athletes turned the event into a national pig treasure, piling up Olympic and World titles with almost mechanical consistency. But the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo told a different story—one of fading dominance, foreign breakthroughs, and a teenager fighting to keep the flame alive.

A Race That Shook Tradition

On a humid evening inside Tokyo’s National Stadium, 17-year-old Edmund Serem—younger brother of 2021 World U20 champion Amos Serem—lined up against the world’s best: Olympic champion Soufiane El Bakkali, Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma, New Zealand’s rising star Geordie Beamish, and a host of challengers from Europe, North America, and Asia.

For Serem, the mission was clear: keep Kenya’s flag on a podium that has become increasingly elusive.

From the gun, he ran bravely, shadowing Germany’s Karl Ruppert in the early laps, exchanging leads and refusing to yield. Ethiopia’s Samuel Firewu, Canada’s Jean-Simon Desgagnés, Poland’s Krzysztof Michalski, and Japan’s Ryuji Miura all joined the fight, turning the race into a tactical chess match.

With five laps to go, Serem was still in contention. But as the tempo shifted, the global pack pressed harder. Girma and El Bakkali moved menacingly forward, Desgagnés surged, and Michalski stunned the field by briefly taking the lead.

Then came the bell lap. In a race once synonymous with Kenyan processions, the battle had become a global dogfight. Beamish timed his kick to perfection, flying past Girma and fending off El Bakkali to seize a historic gold in 8:33.88. El Bakkali took silver in 8:33.95, while Serem, showing maturity beyond his years, held his ground to claim bronze in 8:34.56.

A Bittersweet Podium

For Kenya, the bronze carried mixed emotions. Serem’s medal, won by a teenager not yet old enough to vote, proved the country’s future is bright. Yet it also underscored a sobering reality: the days of near-total dominance are gone.

Speaking after the race, Serem was humble but defiant:

“It was tough out there, but I told myself Kenya must be on that podium. I am only 17, and I know this is just the beginning. One day, I will bring the gold back home.”

The Crumbling Fortress

The numbers tell the story. Since Conseslus Kipruto’s World title in 2019, Kenya has not won a global steeplechase gold. Instead, El Bakkali, Girma, and now Beamish have rewritten the script, dismantling the aura of invincibility once carried by legends like Ezekiel Kemboi, Brimin Kipruto, and Stephen Cherono.

Even with Abraham Kibiwot also in Tokyo, Kenya could not tilt the balance back. What was once fortress Kenya is now open territory.

Lessons and a Call to Action

Beamish’s victory offered a warning. New Zealand has no steeplechase tradition, yet through structured NCAA development and consistent Diamond League racing, Beamish matured into a world champion. Kenya, by contrast, must adapt: better coaching, tactical planning, and holistic athlete support are now non-negotiable.

Serem’s bronze provides a flicker of hope. His resilience against seasoned opponents shows promise, but it also highlights the urgent need for reinvestment. Athletics Kenya’s famed pipeline of school and military talent remains deep, but without evolution, history and reputation alone will not win medals.

The Future

As Edmund Serem stood on the Tokyo podium, the Kenyan flag draped over his shoulders, pride and resolve mixed in his eyes. Behind the applause lay a challenge: reclaim what has been lost.

If the steeplechase is to remain the beating heart of Kenya’s athletics heritage, Tokyo 2025 must not mark the continuation of decline, but the beginning of a fightback. And perhaps—just perhaps—it will be Serem, the teenager who dared to dream, who leads the revival.

Kangundo, Kenya – August 2025 – The KATA Running Camp 17, operated by legendary marathoner Jimmy Muindi, hosted a competitive 10km time trial that highlighted both established runners and emerging young talent.

The event saw Thomas Mutua take command of the race, finishing first in a sharp 30:35, closely followed by Francis Kioko, who crossed the line just ten seconds later in 30:45. The battle for third was claimed by Joshua Maingi in 31:40, holding off Daniel Kilonzo (32:30).

Further down the field, Charles Ndunda clocked 35:25, while the standout performance of the day came from 14-year-old Stephen Kioko, who impressed the camp with a determined 37:20 over the challenging 10km distance. Maingi Mutisya rounded out the results with 37:40.

Results – KATA Kangundo Camp 17, 10km

1. Thomas Mutua – 30:35

2. Francis Kioko – 30:45

3. Joshua Maingi – 31:40

4. Daniel Kilonzo – 32:30

5. Charles Ndunda – 35:25

6. Stephen Kioko (14 yrs) – 37:20

7. Maingi Mutisya – 37:40

Camp 17 continues to build momentum under the guidance of Muindi, a six-time Honolulu Marathon champion and one of Kenya’s most respected road runners. The Kangundo group is part of the expanding KATA program, founded by Bob Anderson, which has now established 30 KATA Running Camps across Kenya. Each camp pairs elite-level training with a sustainable farming model, creating opportunities for athletes to chase their running dreams while supporting local communities.

Thika, Kenya, July 16, 2025 — The KATA Time Trial series continues to thrive as the 47th edition unfolded Wednesday morning at KATA’s flagship training center in Thika. A total of 37 athletes—28 men and 9 women—lined up to test their fitness over the 5km and 10km distances. The event showcased rising stars, personal breakthroughs, and a glimpse of what’s coming as KATA prepares to expand its time trial series across all 22 of its Kenyan locations.

Zachary Kirika, 24, headlined the men’s 5km with a dominant performance from the gun. He clocked a personal best of 14:04, lowering his previous time by over 35 seconds while running smooth and composed throughout. He now ranks among the top KATA 5km performers in 2025.

Also making headlines was Justus Nyamai, a 17-year-old with enormous potential. He finished 3rd in 15:40, also a personal best, signaling his steady rise through the KATA ranks.

In the women’s 5km, 15-year-old Ann Wanjiku led from the front and took the win in 19:44, pacing herself smartly to secure another strong finish for the young talent.

The men’s 10km produced a competitive front pack, but it was Peter Mwaniki, 27, who came out on top with an impressive 29:15 finish. He was closely followed by Stephen Ngigi in 29:39, as both athletes pushed each other through the final kilometers.

The women’s 10km brought an emotional highlight. Lois Wambui, 25, returned to racing after battling injuries for months. She clocked a personal best of 34:16, trimming more than 30 seconds off her previous best. Her performance signaled that she is back and ready to chase podiums again.

Full Results – 47th KATA Time Trial (July 16, 2025)

5km – Men

1. Zachary Kirika (24) – Bib 399 – 14:04

2. Kelvin Lagui (23) – Bib 167 – 15:33

3. Justus Nyamai (17) – Bib 431 – 15:40

4. Godfrey Kahora (19) – Bib 149 – 15:41

5. Ishmael Mburu (29) – Bib 003 – 15:54

6. Christopher Kimani (20) – Bib 021 – 16:07

7. Collins Mutungi (18) – Bib 022 – 17:07

8. Eric Mwaura (18) – Bib 223 – 17:14

9. Brandon Mutungi (17) – Bib 409 – 18:11

10. Kelvin Muchiri (18) – Bib 018 – 18:45

11. Frederick Maina (17) – Bib 060 – 20:21

5km – Women

1. Ann Wanjiku (15) – Bib 433 – 19:44

2. Tabitha Wanjiru (15) – Bib 386 – 23:18

10km – Men

1. Peter Mwaniki (27) – Bib 055 – 29:15

2. Stephen Ngigi (22) – Bib 374 – 29:39

3. Kelvin Kemoi (23) – Bib 261 – 30:11

4. Boniface Mungai (29) – Bib 029 – 30:17

5. John Njuguna (29) – Bib 046 – 30:25

6. Charles Ndirangu (24) – Bib 044 – 30:46

7. Peter Wanyoike (29) – Bib 039 – 30:50

8. John Chege (19) – Bib 257 – 30:51

9. Joel Maina (40) – Bib 057 – 31:24

10. James Muriithi (31) – Bib 256 – 31:34

11. Joseph Karanja (44) – Bib 206 – 32:29

12. Joseph Wanjiru (39) – Bib 464 – 32:44

13. Johnson Kaberia (28) – Bib 066 – 33:09

14. Vincent Kiprotich (23) – Bib 419 – 33:46

15. Joseph Nyota (20) – Bib 001 – 34:40

16. Simon Ngeresa (26) – Bib 049 – 34:46

17. Charles Ndirangu (64) – Bib 020 – 38:24

10km – Women

1. Lois Wambui (25) – Bib 056 – 34:16

2. Susan Njuu (37) – Bib 027 – 34:29

3. Virginia Wanjiru (24) – Bib 032 – 34:47

4. Karen Chepkemoi (23) – Bib 437 – 37:11

5. Ruth Maina (22) – Bib 397 – 37:20

6. Jane Wanjiru (43) – Bib 013 – 38:29

7. Lucy Muritu (41) – Bib 053 – 44:16

What’s Next for KATA Time Trials

The next KATA Time Trial is scheduled for August 13, 2025, in Thika, and it will mark the official launch of a nationwide expansion. Beginning in August, all 21 other KATA Running Camps and Potato Farms across Kenya will start hosting official KATA Time Trials.

• The Thika location will continue to host trials monthly.

• The other 21 locations will host a time trial every other month, giving their athletes a chance to race at Thika in between.

This expansion brings the total to 22 official KATA Time Trial venues, offering over 300 athletesregular, structured opportunities to race. Importantly, KATA Time Trials are open to all athletes, not just Kenyans. 

5th Annual Kenya Double Road Race – September 20

Another marquee event is on the horizon: the 5th Annual Kenya Double Road Race, scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, in Thika.

This unique Double Racing  format includes a 10K leg, followed by a break, and then a 5K leg. The combined time determines the final standings.

• Entry fee: 600 KES

• Optional t-shirt: 600 KES additional 

• Prize purse: At least 100,000 KES

At last year’s event, Shadrack Kenduiywa set a world record for the Double format, clocking 42:34 combined. He ran 28:33 for the 10K, then came back 1 hour and 45 minutes later to run 14:01 for the 5K.

On a misty Saturday morning in the high-altitude woodlands of Simotwo, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Gideon Kiprop Rotich and Catherine Reline embraced the mud, mist, and mayhem to win the 2025 Kaptagat Forest Half Marathon. Battling a soaked red clay course shared by Kenya’s finest—including marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge—the two champions rose above the chaos to claim hard-fought victories in the men’s and women’s 21km races.

MEN’S 21KM — Rotich Edges Rivals in Thrilling Sprint Finish

The men’s race quickly became a tactical chess match, played out on unpredictable terrain. Rotich, showing remarkable composure through the slippery climbs and sharp descents, surged in the final kilometer to win in 1:07:02.

From the outset, he was closely shadowed by Wisley Kipkemoi Yego (Keringet) and Alfred Kipkemoi Cheruiyot, with the trio passing 5K in 14:19, 10K in 32:47, and 15K in 47:21. As the fog thickened and footing worsened, Rotich found a decisive gear on the final descent. Yego finished just two seconds back in 1:07:04, with Cheruiyot another heartbeat behind in 1:07:05.

“You couldn’t push the way you normally would,” said Rotich, his shoes caked with thick mud. “The ground was soft; the air was heavy. But that’s Kaptagat—it doesn’t reward the fastest, it rewards the smartest and toughest.”

Only 16 seconds separated the top five finishers, marking one of the most dramatic conclusions in the event’s recent history.

WOMEN’S 21KM — Reline Dominates with Precision and Power

In the women’s race, Catherine Reline executed a masterclass in pacing and poise. She broke away after 10K and never looked back, claiming victory in 1:14:23.

Her 5K split of 16:22 gave early notice of her form, with 10K and 15K reached in 37:33 and 53:39, respectively. Confident and sure-footed through the muddiest stretches, she ran unchallenged to the finish.

“The forest was unforgiving,” Reline said. “But I trusted my rhythm and focused on staying upright through the muddy patches. Once I found my footing, I just kept pressing.”

Vivian Cherotich (1:15:09) and Catherine Peiyoy (1:15:44) rounded out the podium after a gritty chase through the fog-shrouded ridgelines and pine forest trails.

Mud, Mist, and the Magic of Kaptagat

Despite a relentless drizzle and pre-race downpour, the race drew hundreds of spirited spectators. From Simotwo High School to the inner loops of the Kaptagat forest, locals wrapped in shawls, ponchos, and even barefoot stood cheering along the soaked 2,600-meter elevation trail.

Organizers praised the resilience of the athletes and hinted at possible drainage improvements for future editions. But for many, the mud and mist are part of Kaptagat’s mystique.

“This course defines toughness,” said third-place finisher Cheruiyot. “And the crowd’s energy—despite the rain—kept us going.”

As sunlight finally pierced the cloud cover, the 2025 Kaptagat Forest Half Marathon cemented its reputation once again: raw, real, and one of Kenya’s toughest tests of endurance.

Top 10 Results – Men’s 21km

1. Gideon Kiprop Rotich – 1:07:02

2. Wisley Kipkemoi Yego – 1:07:04

3. Alfred Kipkemoi Cheruiyot – 1:07:05

4. Kalipus Lomwai – 1:07:12

5. Stephen Kimutai Kibet – 1:07:18

6. Philemon Kiprotich Konor – 1:07:35

7. Timothy Kiptoo – 1:07:56

8. Patrick Mosin – 1:08:01

9. Noah Kipkemboi – 1:08:18

10. Jonah Belio – 1:08:21

Top 6 Results – Women’s 21km

1. Catherine Reline – 1:14:23

2. Vivian Cherotich – 1:15:09

3. Catherine Peiyoy – 1:15:44

4. Gladys Longari – 1:15:48

5. Beatrice Cheserek – 1:16:49

6. Gladys Jeptepkeny – 1:17:33

Multiple global champion Joshua Cheptegei is set to take on the TCS World 10K Bengaluru this Sunday, April 27, aiming to capture the title at the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Race.

Cheptegei, Uganda’s double Olympic and World Champion, made his international debut at this very race back in 2014, finishing second. Now 28 years old, he reflected on his journey during a pre-race media conference:

“Back in 2014, I won silver, and it was my first international race. I went on to win many international titles. India will always be the place that launched me.”

Looking ahead to this weekend, Cheptegei acknowledged the strength of the field and the race’s quick course but remained focused on the bigger goal:

“It’s going to be a strong race, but I try not to put too much pressure on myself. Winning would be fantastic. As for the record, it’s harder now with marathon training in my legs, but the focus is on the win.”

The TCS World 10K boasts a total prize purse of USD 210,000, along with additional bonuses for course record performances.

Prize Money and Bonuses

Top Overall Finishers (Men & Women):

• 1st Place: USD 26,000

• 2nd Place: USD 17,000

• 3rd Place: USD 10,000

• 4th to 10th Places: Prizes ranging from USD 5,000 to USD 1,000

Top Indian Finishers (Men & Women):

• 1st Place: INR 3,00,000 (approximately USD 3,600)

• 2nd Place: INR 2,25,000 (approximately USD 2,700)

• 3rd Place: INR 1,50,000 (approximately USD 1,800)

• 4th to 10th Places: Prizes from INR 1,00,000 (USD 1,200) down to INR 30,000 (USD 360)

Bonus Incentives:

• Overall Course Record Bonus: USD 8,000 for breaking the men’s (27:38) or women’s (30:35) course records

• Indian Event Record Bonus: INR 1,00,000 (approx. USD 1,200) for setting a new Indian event record

• Indian Event Record Jackpot: INR 1,00,000 shared among top Indian finishers hitting key time standards (Men: sub-29:49; Women: sub-33:38)

Gabriel Geay Eyes Big Finish

Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay, a seventh-place finisher in the World Championship Marathon, also shared his excitement about racing in Bengaluru for the first time.

“It’s been a dream of mine to race here,” said the 28-year-old. “If the pace is quick, I believe a record is possible. My training hasn’t changed much from my marathon build-up, just a few adjustments for the 10K distance.”

Strong Women’s Field Led by Cintia Chepngeno

On the women’s side, Kenya’s Cintia Chepngeno headlines a deep field. Chepngeno, whose name is coincidentally similar to Cheptegei’s, is one of eight women in the field with personal bests faster than the course record of 30:35, set by Irene Cheptai in 2022.

Chepngeno, who placed ninth here last year, aims to move up the standings:

“I am keen on a good race with my colleagues on Sunday. My aim is to make the podium.”

She’ll face tough competition from Eritrea’s Rahel Daniel, who finished fifth in the 10,000m at the 2022 World Championships with an impressive 30:12.15, along with a host of other Kenyan contenders, including reigning African 10,000m champion Gladys Kwamboka Mong’are.

Men’s Title Wide Open

Along with Cheptegei, strong contenders in the men’s field include Uganda’s Stephen Kissa (third in Bengaluru in 2017), Kenya’s Vincent Langat, and Norway’s Awet Nftalem Kibrab.

With top runners from around the world competing and major prize incentives on the line, Sunday’s TCS World 10K Bengaluru promises thrilling competition — and possibly record-breaking performances.

The latest KATA Time Trial No 44 was held this morning (April 16)  at the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) in Thika, Kenya, with 27 athletes lining up across 10K and 5K distances. The event showcased elite-level efforts and exciting breakthroughs from developing runners—including multiple personal bests and promising performances from junior athletes.

Men’s 10K: Kelvin Lagui Holds Off Ngigi in Close Finish

Kelvin Lagui (age 22, bib #49) led the men’s field with a time of 30:37, just five seconds ahead of Stephen Ngigi (age 20, bib #11), who clocked 30:42.

KATA’s rising star Charles Ndirangu (age 24, bib #3) finished 4th in 31:20, slicing 20 seconds off his previous personal best set last month. Having transitioned from sprinting, Ndirangu continues to impress.

“Charles is developing exactly how we hoped,” said Coach John. “He came in with sprinting form and raw power—now he’s learning how to pace, hold rhythm, and finish strong over distance. We really believe in him.”

Top 10 Men’s 10K Results

1. Kelvin Lagui – 22 yrs – Bib 49 – 30:37

2. Stephen Ngigi – 20 yrs – Bib 11 – 30:42

3. Robert Ndegwa – 20 yrs – Bib 32 – 31:19

4. Charles Ndirangu – 24 yrs – Bib 3 – 31:20 (PB)

5. Zachariah Kirika – 24 yrs – Bib 34 – 32:27

6. Joseph Wanjiru – 39 yrs – Bib 2 – 32:36

7. Joseph Karanja – 42 yrs – Bib 19 – 33:04

8. Ali Rashid – 22 yrs – Bib 223 – 33:16

9. Ishmael Mburu – 26 yrs – Bib 27 – 33:30

10. David Muriuki – 39 yrs – Bib 77 – 34:03

Other finisher:

11. Bernard Gicheha – 34 yrs – Bib 18 – 34:28

12. Charles Ndirangu – 67 yrs – Bib 55 – 37:32

Women’s 10K: Kiteta Cruises to Victory

Nymph Kiteta (age 20, bib #22) set the pace in the women’s 10K, finishing in 34:02. Lois Karie (age 24, bib #26) followed in 35:55, with consistent performances by KATA athletes throughout the field.

Top Women’s 10K Results

1. Nymph Kiteta – 20 yrs – Bib 22 – 34:02

2. Lois Karie – 24 yrs – Bib 26 – 35:55

3. Jacinta Kamau – 24 yrs – Bib 27 – 37:02

4. Karen Chepkoech – 24 yrs – Bib 53 – 37:59

5. Ruth Maina – 22 yrs – Bib 4 – 40:29

6. Lilian Nyamai – 24 yrs – Bib 5 – 45:46

7. Lucy Muritu – 39 yrs – Bib 13 – 48:03

Men’s 5K: Frendric Wambua Leads Juniors with PB

Former sprinter Frendric Wambua (age 20, bib #1) broke new ground with a 15:42 finish in the men’s 5K. His performance highlighted the depth and promise of KATA’s junior ranks.

“Frendric is hitting a new level,” said Coach John. “He leads a group of juniors who are serious, consistent, and motivated. These young athletes are the future.”

Men’s 5K Results

1. Frendric Wambua – 20 yrs – Bib 1 – 15:42

2. Godfrey Kahura – 17 yrs – Bib 66 – 16:07

3. Peter Waititu – 17 yrs – Bib 51 – 17:03

4. Justus Nyamai – 17 yrs – Bib 42 – 17:13

5. Branton Mutungi – 17 yrs – Bib 28 – 17:47

6. Collins Mutungi – 18 yrs – Bib 10 – 17:53

7. Eric Mwaura – 18 yrs – Bib 39 – 18:39

Women’s 5K: Ruth Wambua Sets the Bar

In the women’s 5K, Ruth Wambua (age 17, bib #40) ran a confident race to claim the win in 18:39—a strong marker of her growing talent in the sport.

Women’s 5K Result

1. Ruth Wambua – 17 yrs – Bib 40 – 18:39

Looking Ahead: May 14th Time Trial

The next KATA Time Trial is proposed for May 14th, with continued 10K and 5K events expected. The April time trial affirmed that the depth of talent at KATA continues to grow, with performance breakthroughs coming from both veteran athletes and rising stars.

Stephen Kiprotich’s journey from a small village in Uganda to Olympic and World Championship marathon victories is a testament to his dedication and perseverance.

Early Life

Born on February 27, 1989, in Cheptiyal, Kapchorwa District, Uganda, Kiprotich was the youngest of seven children in a farming family. During his childhood, he faced health challenges that kept him out of school for three years. Despite these setbacks, he developed a passion for running, inspired by Uganda’s strong tradition in cross-country events.

Transition to Competitive Running

At 17, Kiprotich made a pivotal decision to pursue running seriously. He moved to the Eldoret region of Kenya, renowned for producing elite long-distance runners, to train alongside athletes like Eliud Kipchoge. This move allowed him to refine his skills and gain valuable experience in competitive running.  

Marathon Success

Kiprotich’s marathon debut came in 2011 at the Enschede Marathon in the Netherlands, where he set a new Ugandan record with a time of 2:07:20. He continued to improve, finishing third at the 2012 Tokyo Marathon with a time of 2:07:50.  

Olympic Gold in 2012

The pinnacle of Kiprotich’s career came at the 2012 London Olympics. In the marathon event, he faced strong competition from Kenyan athletes but managed to break away in the final stages, winning gold with a time of 2:08:01. This victory marked Uganda’s first Olympic gold medal since 1972 and elevated Kiprotich to national hero status.

World Championship Victory

In 2013, Kiprotich solidified his status as one of the world’s top marathon runners by winning gold at the World Championships in Moscow with a time of 2:09:51. He became only the second person to win both the Olympic and World Championship marathons consecutively.

Continued Dedication

Beyond his athletic achievements, Kiprotich serves as an assistant superintendent in the Uganda Prisons Service, reflecting his commitment to public service. His journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim continues to inspire many in Uganda and around the world.

Stephen Kiprotich’s story exemplifies the impact of determination and hard work, showcasing how one individual’s dedication can bring pride to a nation.

The KATA (Kenyan Athletics Training Academy) Monthly Time Trial took place in Thika, Kenya this morning March 12, with dedicated athletes braving challenging weather conditions to test their fitness and racing form. The event, which featured a 10K race for both men and women, was held under chilly and humid conditions making fast times difficult to achieve.

The past three days of heavy rain left the course damp and the air thick with moisture, posing an extra challenge for competitors. Despite this, the athletes pushed through, showcasing their resilience and determination in the demanding conditions.

In the men’s 10K, Stephen Ngigi (second photo) emerged victorious, crossing the line in 30:04, holding off John Kuria, who finished just 11 seconds behind in 30:15. John Chege completed the podium with a time of 30:58.

Other notable performances included Gabriel Kahura (31:03) and Elijah Mwangi (31:08), both staying competitive despite the humid conditions. 

In the women’s race, Jacinta Kamau (first photo) delivered a commanding performance, winning in 34:45. Lois Karie (35:28) and Lilian Nyamai (36:34) rounded out the podium, both delivering strong runs in the difficult conditions.

Men’s 10K Results

1. Stephen Ngigi (20) – 30:04 

2. John Kuria (30) – 30:15

3. John Chege (19) – 30:58

4. Gabriel Kahura (42) – 31:03

5. Elijah Mwangi (31) – 31:08

6. Charles Ndirangu (24) – 31:40

7. Joseph Kuria (21) – 32:05

8. Elvis Oyweri (21) – 32:41

9. Kariuki Wangari (25) – 32:59

10. Ali Rashid (22) – 33:01

11. Daniel Muriuki (39) – 33:30

12. John Wekesa (28) – 33:45

13. John Ndung’u (21) – 35:36

14. Harrison Mwangi (21) – 36:21

15. Charles Ndirangu (65) – 37:43

16. Peter Waititu (17) – 38:07

Women’s 10K Results

1. Jacinta Kamau (24) – 34:45

2. Lois Karie (24) – 35:28

3. Lilian Nyamai (24) – 36:34

4. Susan Njuu (37) – 38:09

5. Pauline Wanjiku (17) – 38:46

6. Evarylin Wanjiku (27) – 40:04

7. Lucy Muritu (39) – 49:09

Looking Ahead

With this month’s time trial in the books, KATA athletes now turn their focus to the next edition, scheduled for April 16th. As always, the event will serve as a valuable opportunity for runners to gauge their fitness, fine-tune race strategies, and prepare for upcoming competitions.

While this month’s humid and rainy conditions presented a test of endurance and mental strength, the determination of KATA’s athletes remained unwavering. With clearer conditions ahead, the next time trial promises to deliver even faster performances and exciting competition.

It was a beautiful day at the Kenya Athletics Training Academy (KATA) in Thika as athletes lined up for the monthly February edition of the KATA Time Trial. With 31 registered participants, the event showcased remarkable performances, personal bests, and promising young talents.

In the men’s 10K, Peter Mwaniki (second photo) dominated the race, crossing the finish line in an impressive 28:59. He was followed closely by Peter Mburu in 29:27, with Raphael Karita securing third place in 29:28. However, the standout performance of the day belonged to Stephen Ngigi, who finished fourth with a personal best of 29:30. Ngigi’s dedication to improvement has been evident, shaving off more than 30 seconds from his previous mark and lowering his personal best by over 70 seconds in just three months.

On the women’s side, Kellen Waithira took the 10K crown, stopping the clock at a stellar 34:56. She was followed by Lois Karie, who finished strong in 35:31.

The junior athletes also put on a show, with Justus Nyamai, 17 years old, posting 16:13 and Peter Waititu, also 17, finishing in 16:58 in their respective events. Their efforts signal a bright future for Kenyan distance running.

KATA’s women sprinters stepped up for the 5K race, showing their versatility. Kenya’s 100m icon, Doreen Waka, finished second, using the race as preparation for her first track meeting of 2025, set to take place in just two days.

The February time trial at KATA once again proved to be a stage for elite performances, breakthrough moments, and the emergence of new talent. With dedication and hard work, these athletes continue to push the boundaries, making KATA a hub for world-class distance running.

Official Results

10km MEN

1. Peter Mwaniki, 27, Bib 55 – 28:59

2. Peter Mburu, 26, Bib 27 – 29:27

3. Raphael Karita, 24, Bib 26 – 29:28

4. Stephen Ngigi, 20, Bib 1 – 29:30

5. John Kuria, 30, Bib 43 – 30:07

6. James Maina, 27, Bib 2 – 30:27

7. John Chege, 19, Bib 7 – 30:38

8. Boniface Mungai, 29, Bib 14 – 31:54

9. Julius Mwangi, 41, Bib 34 – 32:57

10. Charles Ndirangu, 24, Bib 4 – 33:33

11. Ali Rashid, 22, Bib 3 – 34:50

12. David Muriuki, 39, Bib 23 – 34:57

13. Charles Ndirangu, 64, Bib 40 – 38:13

10km WOMEN

1. Kellen Waithira, 37, Bib 44 – 34:56

2. Lois Karie, 24, Bib 42 – 35:31

3. Pauline Wanjiku, 17, Bib 49 – 35:55

4. Karen Chepkemoi, 23, Bib 223 – 36:09

5. Susan Njuu, 37, Bib 48 – 36:23

6. Naomi Wambui, 40, Bib 53 – 37:15

7. Everlyn Wanjiku, 27, Bib 29 – 39:18

8. Lucy Muritu, 39, Bib 47 – 46:05

5km MEN

1. Kariuki Wangari, 25, Bib 22 – 16:05

2. Ismael Mburu, 23, Bib 13 – 16:07

3. Frederick Wambua, 20, Bib 66 – 16:11

4. Justus Nyamai, 17, Bib 39 – 16:13

5. Peter Waititu, 17, Bib 46 – 16:58

5km WOMEN

1. Pauline Muhavi, 22, Bib 50 – 19:00

2. Doreen Waka, 29, Bib 63 – 23:36

3. Sheila Makungu, 21, Bib 51 – 23:39

4. Peris Chege, 36, Bib 52 – 24:47

5. Teresa Wangui, 23, Bib 20 – 24:51

The 43rd KATA Time Trial will be held on March 12. All runners of all abilities are invited to join us. For more info, contact our KATA manager, Chris.

Sutume Kebede and Benson Kipruto will defend their titles when they form part of strong fields announced for the Tokyo Marathon – a World Athletics Platinum Label road race – on 2 March.

Ethiopia’s Kebede, who set a Japanese all-comers' record of 2:15:55 when winning in Tokyo last year, is set to be joined by five other women to have dipped under 2:18 in a field that features a total of 11 sub-2:20 runners.

Two of them are also formers winners, with Brigid Kosgei and Rosemary Wanjiru returning after their respective victories in 2022 and 2023.

Kenya’s former world record-holder Kosgei is the fastest in the field with her PB of 2:14:04 set in Chicago in 2019, while her compatriot Wanjiru ran 2:16:14 when finishing runner-up to Kebede in Tokyo last year.

Among those joining them are Ethiopia’s Tigist Ketema, who ran 2:16:07 on her debut in Dubai just over a year ago, and multiple global gold medallist Tirunesh Dibaba.

Their compatriots Hawi Feysa, who won in Frankfurt in October in 2:17:25, 2022 world champion Gotytom Gebreslase and 2021 London Marathon runner-up Degitu Azimeraw have also been announced, along with Japan’s Ai Hosoda and Yuka Ando.

Kenya’s Kipruto, who also set a Japanese all-comers' record when winning in Tokyo last year in 2:02:16, will be joined in the men’s race by Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei, the world 5000m and 10,000m record-holder who returns to the roads to contest his second marathon after his 2:08:59 debut in Valencia in 2023.

The field features six sub-2:04 athletes, with Kipruto joined by Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta, the Olympic fifth-place finisher and Valencia Marathon runner-up who has a best of 2:02:38, plus two-time Tokyo Marathon winner Birhanu Legese, Tadese Takele and Dawit Wolde, as well as Kenya’s Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich, who was third last year.

The line-up also includes Ethiopia’s world bronze medallist Leul Gebresilase, Uganda’s Stephen Kissa, Japan’s Yohei Ikeda and Akira Akasaki, and Kenya’s Benard Koech, who makes his marathon debut.

Elite fields

WomenBrigid Kosgei (KEN) 2:14:04Sutume Kebede (ETH) 2:15:55Tigist Ketema (ETH) 2:16:07Rosemary Wanjiru (KEN) 2:16:14Hawi Feysa (ETH) 2:17:25Tirunesh Dibaba (ETH) 2:17:56Degitu Azimeraw (ETH) 2:17:58Gotytom Gebreslase (ETH) 2:18:11Winfridah Moraa Moseti (KEN) 2:18:25Mestawut Fikir (ETH) 2:18:48Magdalyne Masai (KEN) 2:18:58Ai Hosoda (JPN) 2:20:31Desi Jisa Mokonin (BRN) 2:20:47Yuka Ando (JPN) 2:21:18Jessica Stenson (AUS) 2:24:01Zhang Deshun (CHN) 2:24:05Rie Kawauchi (JPN) 2:25:35Kaori Morita (JPN) 2:26:31Khishigsaikhan Galbadrakh (MGL) 2:26:32Shiho Kaneshige (JPN) 2:28:51

MenBenson Kipruto (KEN) 2:02:16Deresa Geleta (ETH) 2:02:38Birhanu Legese (ETH) 2:02:48Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich (KEN) 2:03:13Tadese Takele (ETH) 2:03:24Dawit Wolde (ETH) 2:03:48Leul Gebresilase (ETH) 2:04:02Stephen Kissa (UGA) 2:04:48Tsegaye Getachew (ETH) 2:04:49Amedework Walelegn (ETH) 2:04:50Titus Kipruto (KEN) 2:04:54Yohei Ikeda (JPN) 2:05:12Suguru Osako (JPN) 2:05:29Mulugeta Asefa Uma (ETH) 2:05:33Ichitaka Yamashita (JPN) 2:05:51Kenya Sonota (JPN) 2:05:59Hiroto Inoue (JPN) 2:06:47He Jie (CHN) 2:06:57Vincent Raimoi (KEN) 2:07:01Hendrik Pfeiffer (GER) 2:07:14Akira Akasaki (JPN) 2:07:32Suldan Hassan (SWE) 2:07:36Joshua Cheptegei (UGA) 2:08:59Benard Koech (KEN) debutGeoffrey Toroitich (KEN) debut

In the men’s race, Zachary Kirika, one of KATA’s top athletes, dominated the event with a commanding solo performance, finishing in an impressive time of 29:28. Reflecting on his run, Zachary acknowledged the challenge of maintaining a strong pace without competition to push him.

Emerging talent Stephen Ngigi delivered a remarkable performance, finishing second with a personal best of 30:12, improving his previous time by 11 seconds. The highlight of the day belonged to John Chege, who placed fourth but achieved a massive personal best of 30:18, shaving over 30 seconds off his previous record.

In the women’s race, Kellen Waithira secured victory with a time of 35:23, while Virginia Wanjiru finished second in 36:50, showcasing strong performances in the absence of more seasoned competitors.

The KATA Time Trial continues to be a critical platform for developing and showcasing talent, building a solid foundation for future successes.

MEN 10km 

1 Zachary kirika 22 32 29:28

2 Stephen ngigi 20 29 30:12

3 peter mburu 22 26 30:17

4 John chege 19 30 30:18

5 Boniface mungai 29 7 31:14

6 Gabriel kahura 42 12 31:56

7 kariuki wangari 25 5 33:25

8 Joseph wanjiru 38 45 33:47

9 Ali Rashid 22 14 33:53

10 Jeremiah obura 20 21 35:15

11 Charles ndirangu 64 53 37:07

WOMEN 10km 

1 Kellen waithira 36 4 35:23

2 Virginia wanjiru 22 41 36:50

3 Naomi wambui 40 34 27:08

4 Karen chepkemoi 23 38 38:29

5 Lucy muritu 39 19 44:59

MEN 5km 

1 Charles ndirangu 24 10 15:46

2 Justus nyamai 17 206 16:57

3 Collins mutugi 16 50 20:37

WOMEN 5km 

1 Lilian nyamai 24 2 18:20

If you haven’t been glued to the 2025 PDC Darts World Championships over the holidays, you’re missing out. When it comes to niche sports, professional darts has truly hit the bullseye with its audience. Known for its bar-inspired, rowdy atmosphere, the sport has successfully brought the same energy to live events, drawing millions of viewers for each match. While track and field and darts may seem worlds apart—aside from their niche appeal—track could take a few lessons from darts to keep fans engaged and coming back for more.Last year’s Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) world championship final between young British phenom Luke “The Nuke” Littler and world #1 Luke Humphries attracted a staggering five million viewers (a single-match record for the sport.) This year’s final between Littler and Dutch darts legend Michael van Gerwen is expected to smash that record. In comparison, the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Ore., attracted 18.7 million viewers on NBC Sports platforms (across the 10 days of competition), which also set records for the highest viewership at a World Athletics Championships since 1988.

Despite the success of each niche sport, I can’t help but notice that track and field still struggles to match the passionate fan engagement seen in darts, and, alcohol aside, there are a few ways it can borrow some inspiration.Showcase more personalities

If you haven’t heard of British darts sensation Luke Littler, he’s been making waves both on and off the dartboard. At just 17, Littler already boasts more social media followers than Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles, and has quickly become a fan favourite at this year’s championships. Why? Because the PDC knows how to market its stars.

The PDC players are frequently featured in viral TikTok trends or behind-the-scenes content that highlights their personalities, not just their talent or 180s. Littler recently celebrated a semi-final win with a subtle soccer-inspired celebration, which the PDC instantly shared via a collaboration with the Instagram account @433 (75 million followers), going viral in less than eight hours. This kind of creative, personality-driven marketing expands the reach of Littler (and darts), bringing in audiences from bigger sports that might not usually watch With so many interesting athletes from around the world, track and field could easily take a page from this playbook, highlighting athletes’ off-track personas—whether through social media, playful interviews or viral cross-sport content.

Walk-out music

I’ll admit one of the most electrifying aspects of darts is the personalized walk-out music for every player. England’s Nathan Aspinall hyped up the crowd with Mr. Brightside by The Killers, while Stephen Bunting led a spirited singalong to his walk-out anthem, Titanium by Sia. The energy was palpable, and the crowd was instantly engaged.Track and field already introduces its athletes before races—so why not take it a step further with walk-out music? A brief five-to-10-second clip as athletes approach the blocks could effortlessly amplify the atmosphere at Diamond League, Grand Slam Track or World Athletics Championships events.Maximize fan engagement

Let’s address the obvious: no, thousands of drunk fans probably wouldn’t mix well with track meets. But that doesn’t mean the sport should shy away from sponsorship activations. One of the best parts of darts is the endless “180” signs handed out to fans to cheer whenever a player scores triple 20. These signs, sponsored by companies, keep the crowd engaged, and you honestly feel like you’re a part of the action.

A Diamond League or Continental Tour track and field meet generally knows which big-name athletes are competing ahead of time and could distribute cheer swag or signs for personal bests, meet records or even world records. These are small touches that can easily build excitement and create a more interactive experience for athletes and fans.Of course, professional darts thrive on its bar-like atmosphere, but the magic isn’t just in the beer—it’s in the engagement that transforms a simple game into a wildly entertaining spectacle. Despite their differences, the goal for every niche sport is the same: to create an unforgettable experience for athletes and fans alike.

Win a marathon on your first time running the distance? That’s exactly what Travis Dowd did Sunday morning at the 2024 BMW Dallas Marathon.

The current UT Southwestern medical student and Rice alumnus broke the tape in a time of 2:26:08, beating second-place finisher Al Maeder by just over four minutes.

“I’m just so blessed, I ran in college and never had a race with this much support. Every single time I felt like I was about to die, I went by a crowd [gesturing for crowd support] and they’re all screaming for me,” Dowd said.

A rain-soaked Dowd soaked in the crowd as he crossed the finish line at Dallas City Hall Plaza. He fell to the ground shortly after finishing due to exhaustion, before making his way to the side, out of the oncoming traffic from runners finishing the half-marathon.

It was 57 degrees at the start of both the half and full marathons, rising to 65 by the time the winners crossed the finish line. However, the over 80% humidity and light rain throughout created some adverse conditions for runners.

After a standout prep running career in Austin at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Dowd was a key member of Rice’s track and cross-country teams. He said he drew upon his experience training in the Houston heat during his marathon debut Sunday.

“I know the weather wasn’t ideal for a marathon, but I loved it. I came from Houston, nice and humid and hot. I felt good right away and felt like I was walking the first 10 miles,” Dowd said.

Woodward wins women’s marathon

Almost exactly 20 minutes after Dowd crossed the line, Arkansas physical therapist and elite runner Erin Woodward won the women’s marathon in 2:46:51.

“I’m very grateful. It was my second-ever marathon. My first one was about 11 months ago and I’ve changed a lot of things with life and training. It’s an affirmation that I’m going in the right direction,” Woodward said.

Woodward saw the course visibility and conditions as advantageous.

“I love the fog. I felt like I was in a movie. It helped me also to not focus too much on the people in front of me because you couldn’t see them and just focusing on running my race,” Woodward said.

Sutume Kebede secured a second successive Tata Steel Kolkata World 25K crown, while Stephen Kissa beat defending champion Daniel Ebenyo to the men’s title in the World Athletics Gold Label road race on Sunday (15).

Ethiopia’s Kebede recovered from a stomach issue just in time to defend her title. She set a stand-alone world 25km best of 1:18:47 to win last year’s race and this time clocked 1:19:21 to triumph ahead of Kenya’s Viola Chepngeno and Bahrain’s Desi Jisa.

Kebede was challenged by 2022 winner Jisa and Chpengeno, but after Chpengeno started to fade over the final couple of kilometres, Kebede became a clear leader after 23km.

Chepngeno finished second in 1:19:48, while Jisa finished a distant third in 1:21:33.

“I am very happy to win (here) again,” said Kebede. “I wanted to break the course record but was a little tired of travelling. I am training for the next year and will participate in marathons.”

In the men’s race, Uganda’s Kissa rebounded to log his first win in an international competition in five years.

The lead group of Ebenyo, Benson Kipruto, Kissa and Haymanot Alew reached 10km in 28:42. Last year’s winner Ebenyo – who also set a stand-alone world best for 25km (1:11:13) when winning last year's race – looked strong, remaining at the helm or alongside Kissa for much of the race.

They reached 15km in 42:56, with Ebenyo and Kissa still leading the pack as the pace picked up along the tram tracks of South Kolkata. Kipruto dropped off as Kissa took the lead at the 20km mark, clocking 57:50, with Ebenyo close behind.

Ebenyo tried to move away from Kissa but the Ugandan athlete held off the challenge to sprint to the tape and win in 1:12:33.

Ebenyo finished runner-up four seconds later, while Anthony Kipchirchir came through for third place in 1:12:55.

“I realised that I ran well today,” said Kissa. “I thought this could be my day. At the last kilometre I was comfortable, and I knew I could do it.”

Ebenyo, who finished fifth on his marathon debut in Chicago in October, said: “Every day, a champion is born in sports. Last year, it was me. This year, it was Kissa. That is the fun of sports. I am very happy. He has flown the flag of Uganda and congratulations. I was a little tired this year as I did not recover from the Chicago Marathon. I will take a break for the festive season and spend time with my family. I felt some fatigue today, but it is sports.”

The Kenya Athletics Training Academy (KATA) hosted its 40th monthly time trial on December 11, 2024 in Thika Kenya, marking the end-of-year event with exceptional performances from the academy’s athletes. A total of 38 runners participated, including 21 men in the highly competitive 10-kilometer race.

Leading the pack was KATA’s own Zachary Kirika, who crossed the finish line in an outstanding personal best time of 29:17, claiming victory. He was closely followed by his training partner Raphael Karita, who clocked in at 29:36, just shy of his personal best of 29:07.

The third-place finisher, Levis Kuria, delivered an inspiring performance, achieving a personal best time of 29:57, shaving over 30 seconds off his previous record. Stephen Ngigi rounded out the top four with another personal best, finishing in 30:23.

“Our team has shown remarkable improvement,” said KATA coach John. “The athletes are consistently delivering incredible times, even in training. This success is a result of strong teamwork, commitment, and the support of our reading team.”

The athletes themselves were thrilled with the day’s results, celebrating their hard work and progress throughout the year. The KATA monthly time trials, held without an entry fee, offer a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and gain exposure to international race opportunities.

The next time trial is set for January 15, 2025, continuing KATA’s mission to foster excellence in athletics. With 5,000 KES in prize money awarded each month and stories and results posted on My Best Runs, the time trials have become a valuable stepping stone for runners aiming to compete globally.

Stay tuned to My Best Runs for full results and updates as KATA athletes continue their journey to the top!

5km MEN 

1 Fred wambua 20 34 17:23

2 Jeremiah obura 20 36 17:47

3 Jackson wambua 15 63 17:59

4 John mutuku 14 32 18:28

5 Julius njoroge 12 1 19:40

6 Samuel kangangi 20 53 19:52

7 Haris mwangi 20 38 20:04

5km WOMEN 

1 Susan njuu 38 49 19:12

2 Regina zadiki 17 5 22:54

3 Leachel mutheu 16 66 23:44

10km MEN 

1 Zachary kirika 22 29 29:17

2 Raphael karita 24 19 29:36

3 Levis kuria 23 4 29:57

4 Stephen ngigi 20 8 30:23

5 Peter wanyoike 28 30 31:21

6 Michael chege 18 10 31:32

7 Boniface mungai 29 7 31:40

8 Alfred wanjiru 25 37 32:21

9 Paul musau 44 27 32:24

10 Charles ndirangu 24 3 32:41

11 Joseph wanjiru 36 55 33:04

12 Benerd giceha 35 28 33:31

13 kariuki wangari 24 14 33:40

14 Amos chirchir 24 26 33:51

15 crinton otieno 21 35 34:27

16 Ali Rashid 22 42 34:41

17 Ishmile mburu 22 13 34:43

18 peter mukundi 25 21 36.07

19 peter kilonzo 17 22 36:12

20 Charles ndirangu 64 2 37:04

21 William mbugua 21 25 38:10

10km WOMEN 

1 carem waithira 37 18 35:20

2 Lilian nyamai 24 11 36:43

3 Karen chepkemoi 23 31 37:18

4 Virginia wanjiru 22 50 37.47

5 Veronica Betty 24 43 41:27

6 Lucy muritu 39 20 44:29

7 Vivian njeri 52 52 49.1

The ninth edition of the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, the world's first World Athletics Gold Label 25K race, is set to take place on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

With a prize pool of USD 142,214 and equal rewards for men and women, the event will see elite athletes competing for top honors on the fast and scenic streets of Kolkata.

Daniel Ebenyo (Kenya) and Sutume Kebede (Ethiopia), defending champions and current event record holders, will lead the star-studded lineup. Ebenyo set the men's record at 1:11:13 last year, while Kebede clocked 1:18:47 to dominate the women's race. Both are determined to better their timings and defend their titles.

Ebenyo aims to surpass his personal best and challenge the unofficial world record of 1:11:08, set by Eliud Kipchoge during a marathon split. "The Kolkata roads are fast, and conditions are ideal; it's a perfect opportunity to defend my title and better my timing," Ebenyo said.

Women's Race

The women's field is packed with talent. Kebede, the reigning champion, has shown remarkable improvement this year with personal bests in the half marathon (1:04:37) and marathon (2:15:55). Her competition includes:

Desi Jisa (Bahrain), the 2022 champion, known for her strong performances in marathons and cross-country events.

Degitu Azimeraw (Ethiopia), 2017 Kolkata champion, fresh off a sixth-place finish at the Chicago Marathon following a comeback post-maternity break. Alemaddis Eyayu (Ethiopia), winner of the 2024 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, making her 25K debut.Viola Chepngeno (Kenya), a consistent top-three finisher in international races. Sintayehu Lewetegn (Ethiopia), a World Cross-country bronze medalist. Men's Race Along with the current champion Daniel Ebenyo, there will be some other tough competitors as well.Benson Kipruto (Kenya), Tokyo Marathon 2024 champion and Paris Olympics bronze medalist, who was officially timed at 1:11:39 for 25K this year. Stephen Kissa (Uganda), fifth in the 2023 World Championships Marathon and a half marathon PB of 58:56.Haymanot Alew (Ethiopia), a top performer from last year's race, eager to make it to the podium. Diriba Girma (Ethiopia), making his debut and aiming to follow in the footsteps of his world-champion brother, Lamecha Girma. With runners motivated by an Event Record Bonus of USD 5,000, the competition promises excitement and potentially record-breaking performances.

Race organizers for the Valencia Marathon have announced the elite fields for the 2024 edition of the race on Dec. 1.

The field is headlined by 2024 Boston Marathon champion Sisay Lemma returning from injury after withdrawing from the Paris Olympics. He will be challenged by his compatriot and all-time great Kenenisa Bekele, who finished second in April’s London Marathon and 39th at the Paris Olympics at 42 years old.

Kenya’s Sebastian Sawe, who boasts a half marathon personal best of 58:05, and Daniel Mateiko, who has also run 58:17 for the half, are the most intriguing debutants.

On the women’s side, 2023 World champion Amane Beriso headlines the field with her 2:14:58 personal best from the 2022 Valencia Marathon, which puts her at No. 6 on the all-time list. Her fellow countrywomen Megertu Alemu (2:16:34) and Hiwot Gebrekidan (2:17:59) are the only two other women under 2:18.

American Sara Hall will be running her fourth marathon of the year. Biya Simbassa, who has a personal best of 2:10:34 and was 11th at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in February, is heading to Spain for his third career marathon.

Here’s a list of the notable men who are running…

Men’s Elite Field

 Kenenisa Bekele – 2:01:41

 Sisay Lemma – 2:01:48

 Birhanu Legese – 2:02:48

 Deresa Geleta – 2:03:27

 Guye Adola – 2:03:46

 Gashau Ayale – 2:04:53

 Tadesse Abraham – 2:05:01

 Alphonce Simbu – 2:05:39

 Sondre Moen – 2:05:48

 Samwel Fitwi – 2:06:27

 Andamlak Belihu – 2:06:40

 Maru Teferi – 2:06:43

 Shokhrukh Davlyatov – 2:07:02

 Richard Ringer – 2:07:05

 Zerei Kbrom – 2:07:10

 Iliass Aouani – 2:07:16

 Samuel Barata – 2:07:35

 Héctor Garibay – 2:07:44

 Ibrahim Chakir – 2:07:48

 Mohamed El Talhaoui – 2:08:03

 Peiyou Feng – 2:08:07

 Dani Mateo – 2:08:22

 Lahsene Bouchikhi – 2:08:36

 Abderrazak Charik – 2:08:37

 Andy Buchanan – 2:08:58

 Weldu Negash Gebretsadik – 2:09:14

 Therence Bizoza – 2:09:18

 Yohan Durand – 2:09:21

 Mohamed Chaaboud – 2:09:21

 Simon Boch – 2:09:25

 Yimer Getahun – 2:09:27

 Bukayawe Malede – 2:09:28

 Emmanuel Roudolff – 2:09:34

 Yohanes Chiappinelli – 2:09:46

 Stephen Scullion – 2:09:49

 Paulo Paula – 2:09:50

 Peter Herzog – 2:10:06

 Bart van Nunen – 2:10:16

 Felicien Muhitira – 2:10:17

 Dieter Kersten – 2:10:22

 Arkadiusz Gardielewski – 2:10:31

 Bjorn Koreman – 2:10:32

 Abbabiya Simbassa – 2:10:34

 Hicham Sigueni – 2:10:37

 Johannes Motschmann – 2:10:39

 Patricio Castillo – 2:10:40

 Jorge Blanco Alvarez – 2:10:49

 Archie Casteel – 2:10:49

 Yongzheng Huang – 2:10:49

 Jakoub Labquira – 2:10:50

 Alejandro Jiménez – 2:10:54

 Juan Luis Barrios – 2:10:55

 Thijs Nijhuis – 2:10:57

 Iraitz Arrospide – 2:10:59

 Christian Zamora – 2:11:02

 Nicolás Cuestas – 2:11:03

 Edward Cheserek – 2:11:07

 Kamil Jastrzebski – 2:11:09

 Necho Tayachew – 2:11:21

 Richard Douma – 2:11:21

 Linus Rosdahl – 2:11:30

 Mohamed El Ghazouany – 2:11:48

 Thomas do Canto – 2:11:51

 Hesiquio Flores – 2:11:57

 Ahmed Elhassouni – 2:12:12

 René Cunéaz – 2:12:48

 Mario Bauernfeind – 2:12:49

 Patrik Wageli – 2:12:58

 Jason Pointeau – 2:13:00

 Adam Lipschitz – 2:13:01

 Joris Keppens – 2:13:18

 Alexis Godefroy – 2:13:32

 Pierre Denays – 2:13:34

 Sebastian Sawe – Debut

 Daniel Mateiko – Debut

 Matthew Kimeli – Debut

 Dillon Maggard – Debut

Here’s a list of the notable women who are running…

 Amane Beriso – 2:14:58

 Megertu Alemu – 2:16:34

 Hiwot Gebrekidan – 2:17:59

 Tiruye Mesfin – 2:18:47

 Stella Chesang – 2:20:23

 Sara Hall – 2:20:32

 Majida Maayouf – 2:21:27

 Evaline Chirchir – 2:22:11

 Chimdesa Kumsa – 2:22:13

 Isobel Batt-Doyle – 2:23:27

 Malindi Elmore – 2:23:30

 Sofia Assefa – 2:23:33

 Fionnuala McCormack – 2:23:58

 Jessica Stenson – 2:24:01

 Gerda Steyn – 2:24:03

 Laura Hottenrott – 2:24:32

 Camilla Richardsson – 2:24:38

 Kaoutar Boulaid – 2:25:03

 Clara Evans – 2:25:04

 Fatima Azzaharaa Ouhaddou – 2:25:30

 Laura Luengo – 2:25:35

 Susana Santos – 2:25:35

 Moira Stewartova – 2:25:36

 Marie Perrier – 2:26:19

 Tereza Hrochová – 2:26:38

 Zhanna Mamazhanova – 2:26:42

 Aleksandra Brzezinska – 2:27:20

 Solange Jesus – 2:27:30

 Paola Bonilla – 2:27:38

 Nora Szabo – 2:28:25

 Jane Bareikis – 2:29:00

 Becky Briggs – 2:29:06

 Alice Wright – 2:29:08

 Roberta Groner – 2:29:09

 Molly Gravill – 2:29:45

 Monika Jackiewicz – 2:29:51

Event organizers announced the race will move forward as scheduled despite severe flooding and more than 200 deaths in the Valencia province. In a statement, organizers announced fundraising plans to aid the city and those affected by the recent storms and flooding.

On Thursday, Rosseau, Ont., native Gracelyn Larkin announced her contract with Under Armour’s pro running club, Dark Sky Distance, which is based in Flagstaff, Ariz. The 5,000m Canadian outdoor champion from 2022 is a recent graduate of Northern Arizona University (NAU), and formerly competed for the University of New Mexico (UNM) from 2019-2023.

Already located in Flagstaff following her graduation, Larkin will continue training at altitude under coaches Shayla Houlihan and Stephen Haas. The Canadian will be among former UNM teammate and Olympian Weini Kelati and 2022 New York City Marathon champion Sharon Lokedi, who also represent Under Armour.

The 23-year-old boasts personal bests of 15:23.63 in the 5,000m and 32:32.61 in the 10,000m. A successful collegiate career saw Larkin earn All-American status seven times, before she went on to represent Canada in the 5,000m at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene, Ore.

Over the summer, Larkin chased a spot on the Canadian Olympic team. At the Harry Jerome Classic 5,000m in Burnaby, B.C., in June, she clocked 15:25.83 to claim fifth place in a quick race; the time was just two seconds off her personal best. Later that month, Larkin competed at the Canadian Olympic Track and Field Trials in Montreal, placing fourth in the women’s 5,000m final with a time of 15:36.41. The UNM graduate was less than three seconds behind the winner, Gabriela Debues-Stafford. Despite strong efforts, Larkin fell short of qualifying for Paris 2024.

“I’m very grateful to be joining such an amazing group of hard-working individuals,” Larkin said in the announcement post on Instagram. “Working with Under Armour is an amazing opportunity and I can’t wait to represent them over the upcoming years. I look forward to learning from my teammates and coaches while I develop as a professional athlete!”

There was delight for South Africa as Glenrose Xaba shattered the National and Sanlam Cape Town Marathon records, on marathon debut; on Sunday, 20 October. The current South African 5 000 and 10 000 meter, as well as the 10 kilometer road record holder, clocked an impressive time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 22 seconds, to shave 1 minute and 40 seconds off the course record (2 hours, 24 minutes, and 2 seconds) as well as a further second off Gerda Steyn’s previous best marathon time for a South African (2 hours, 24 minutes, and 3 seconds).

The 2024 men’s champion, Abdisa Tola also broke the course record – though his impressive feat was somewhat overshadowed by the South African Air Force Gripen fly over which Xaba’s performance received.

Xaba was joined on the start line by 16 800 fellow starters as well as the deepest ever field assembled for a marathon on African soil. Sadly, the Cape Doctor, as the Mother City’s prevailing summer south easterly wind is known, did not get the memo. The rest of the city pulled together though and the crowds countered the winds with raucous cheers along the route. Their applause, the support of the City of Cape Town local government, and the new record times will all aid the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon’s cause in its bid to become an Abbott World Marathon Majors event in the coming years.

The goal of Abbott World Marathon Majors status, in 2026, may still be on the horizon but Xaba’s dreams came true on the blue carpet in the shadow of the DHL Stadium. She and her fellow elite women had started fast, with the pace setters maintaining a tempo better than the record pace. Fellow South African pre-race favorite, Cian Oldknow, opted not to go with the pace makers and was out of contention for a podium place early in the piece.

One by one the women dropped from the group, but Xaba and Mare Dibaba Hurssa, in particular, ensured the pace never eased off. It was a surprise when the defending champion, Tsige Haileslase, was distanced near the 30 kilometre mark. This was the first sure sign that records would tumble.

Coming into the final 10 kilometers only Kenyna’s Pascalia Chepkogei remained in contention with the South African and the 2015 World Marathon Champion. After stretching their legs on the downwind gallop through Sea Point the top three turned for home with 4 kilometers to go. This U-turn meant they would run the closing kilometers into a headwind, which suited the powerful style of Xaba. She distanced Chepkogei and finally Dibaba Hurssa, to enter the finishing straight alone.

Soaking up the applause, Xaba crossed the line with both the South African and Sanlam Cape Town Marathon records comfortably secured. “I didn’t want to say before the race, but my goal had been the course record,” Xaba smiled. “I didn’t want to put extra pressure on myself. Even if I had finished in 2:26 I would have been happy, because this was my first marathon. But I’m honestly shocked to have broken the course and national record. I’m humbled to have taken Gerda [Steyn]’s South African record.”

Reflecting not only upon her rival’s stellar debut but also on Ruth Chepngetich’s World Record breaking run in Chicago, the week before, Dibaba Hurssa said: “The women’s marathon is getting really, really, fast. I hope that this generation will keep setting faster times and that the generation to come are inspired by them to run even quicker.”

“I was feeling really strong and my training had made me very relaxed coming into the race,” Xaba noted. “From kilometers 5 to 25 I felt good, the first 21 kilometers were basically a tempo run for me. Then for a bit until the 33 kilometer mark I had to stay strong, focused, and brave because I dropped off the front group slightly. Once I worked my way back, I felt good again and was able to push to the finish.”

“I want to thank my manager, my coaches, and my team at Caster Semenya Training Group!” the 2024 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon champion concluded.

Xaba’s margin of victory was 15 seconds over Dibaba Hurssa. Chepkogei was third, 28 seconds off Xaba’s winning time. Viola Chepngeno and Emmah Cheruto Ndiwa, both of Kenya, completed the top five places. Oldknow finished thirteenth, 20 minutes down.

In the men’s race the battle for victory went into the final kilometers too. It had seemed from early in race that the battle for victory would be fierce, but only a fast second half ensured that the course record was broken. Having set the previous best men’s time in 2018 Stephen Mokaka was the chief pace maker for the 2024 race.

He took a strong lead group through the first 25 kilometers in 1:16:47 before the attacks splintered the field. South African favorite, Melikhaya Frans was the first to surge as they passed through Observatory. His move pulled five Ethiopians clear, these included the eventual winner as well as Gaddisa Tafa Dekeba, Mitku Tafa Dekeba, Adeladlew Mamo Gebreyohannes, and Adane Kebede Gebre.

Over the next 5 kilometers the men from the mountainous nation worked Frans out of the lead group and then whittled it down to just Mitku Tafa Dekeba, the defending champion Kebede Gebre, and Tola. “Once we passed the 33 kilometer mark I knew the three of us would be battling for victory,” Mitku Tafa Dekeba reflected. “At that point I was happy it would be an Ethiopian 1, 2, and 3.”

Mitku Tafa Dekeba was the first of the three to suffer as they rounded the final bend and began the headwind slog along Beach Road in Sea Point towards the Green Point finish line. This left Kebede Gebre and Tola in a two-way tussle for the title. Striding into the wind the younger Tola brother, whose elder brother Tamirat Tola was crowned Olympic Marathon Champion in Paris, was able to dig deep and surge clear.

With the win secured Tola was able to enjoy the finish line and celebrate his new course record. Crossing the line in 2 hours, 8 minutes and 16 seconds the 24 year old did enough to shave 15 seconds off Mokaka’s six year old benchmark. Kebede Gebre had to be content with second, 16 seconds back. Mitku Tafa Dekeba completed the all-Ethiopian podium ahead of Edward Konana Koonyo, of Kenya. Frans was the first South African home in fifth.

“I earned what I trained really hard for today,” Tola acknowledged. “A lot of hard work went into this run. It was a beautiful race and I’ll certainly be back to defend my title.”

The Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA) monthly time trial took place today October 16th. We had 37 total registered athletes, 10 women and 27 men. Stephen ngigi opened the day with victory in the 5km MEN posting 14:28. This was his first time in the distance.

He was followed closely by Levis kuria who finished two seconds later stopping the clock at 14:31, a new personal best. Levis lowered his previous time of 14:49 by 18 seconds. Kelvin ragui finished third place and stopped the clock at 14:58, 8 seconds slower than his previous time. Kellen waithira took the victory in 5km Women in time of 17:01 followed by Lois wambui who stopped the clock at 17:22.

Athanas kioko (first photo) who is coming back from an injury won the men 10km race in a time of 29:16. He was followed by Peter mwaniki who is also nursing an injury clocked 29:47. Michael chege finished in third place posting a scintillating time of 29:59, a new personal best. Chege took off more than 40 seconds from his previous time.

KATA Kenya and KATA Portugal

5km WOMEN 

1 Kellen waithira 36 30 17:01

2 Lois wambui 23 5 17:22

3 Jacinta kamau 22 3 17:35

4 Lilian nyamai 23 4 17:59

5 Karen chepkwony 22 40 18:34

5km MEN 

1 Stephen ngigi 20 18 14:28

2 Levis kuria 23 2 14:31

3 Kelvin ragui 23 13 14:58

4 Peter maina 33 34 15:02

5 John njuguna 29 36 15:03

6 Charles ndirangu 23 10  15:18

7 kappua Anthony 23 25 15:22

8 David muriuki 28 16 15:51

9 Amos chirchir 23 39 16:02

10 Peter mulua 24 14 16:42

11 Fredrick mwenda 18 11 17:47

12 William mbugua 21 12 17:55

13 Geoffrey mwangi 44 28 18:19

14 Michael oriko 24 24 20:38

15 Benjamin oriko 24 20 20:40

10km WOMEN 

1 Monica wanjiku 22 29 33:34

2 Rachael ndungu 32 19 34:06

3 Virginia wanjiru 22 6 35:43

4 Karen chepkemoi 22 27 35:55

5 Vyonne nyawira 24 20 36:22

10km MEN 

1 Athanas kioko 29 35 29:16

2 Peter mwaniki 27 31 29:47

3 Michael chege 17 15 29:59

4 Peter wanyoike 28 33 30:01

5 Bernard Baruka 30 23 30:42

6 Kenneth gichoya 27 32 30:49

7 Fredrick kiprotich 23 1 31:34

8 Bernard giceha 33 35 32:24

9 Joseph muniu 21 38 33:21

10 Paul kariuki 25 22 33:43

11 John ndungu 22 21 35:14

12 Charles ndirangu 64 37 37:57

Milkesa Mengesha and Tigist Ketema achieved an Ethiopian double at the BMW Berlin Marathon, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, on Sunday (29).

Racing at the 50th edition of the event, held on a sunny morning in Germany’s capital, Mengesha kicked away from Cybrian Kotut in the closing stages to win the men’s title in a PB of 2:03:17, while Ketema solo ran her way to a 2:16:42 triumph in the women’s race.

Kenya’s Kotut finished five seconds behind Mengesha, securing second place in 2:03:22, with Ethiopia’s Haymanot Alew third in 2:03:31. Ketema led an Ethiopian top four in the women’s race, winning by more than two minutes ahead of her compatriots Mestawut Fikir (2:18:48), Bosena Mulatie (2:19:00) and Aberu Ayana (2:20:20).

After a fast start Mengesha, who finished sixth in the World Championships marathon last year, was part of a lead group of 11 that followed the pacemakers through the halfway mark still on sub-2:02 pace, in 1:00:57.

Kenya’s former world half marathon record-holder Kibiwott Kandie was to the fore as the pacemakers stepped aside just after 25km. The group had reduced to eight and was bunched together by the time 30km was reached in 1:27:21, and seven were still in contention – including Ethiopia’s Tadese Takele, the fastest man in the field – as they passed the 35km mark in 1:42:14.

Kandie, Takele and Ethiopia’s Dejene Megersa couldn’t hold on and the race was down to Mengesha, Kotut, Kenya’s Stephen Kiprop and Alew with around 5km to go. They reached the 40km mark in 1:56:59 before Mengesha and Kotut strode ahead.

Mengesha dropped his rival with the Brandenburg Gate finish line in sight, crossing it to win in 2:03:17, the third fastest time in the world so far this year and a PB that improves the previous best he set in Valencia in 2022 by more than two minutes.

He dropped to his knees and was followed over the finish line by Kotut in 2:03:22, also a PB by more than a minute.

Ketema was a dominant winner of the women’s race. The 26-year-old, who ran 2:16:07 when making her marathon debut in Dubai in January, is a training partner of Tigist Assefa, who set a world record of 2:11:53 when winning in Berlin last year.

This time Ketema was in control and she was joined by her compatriot Azmera Gebru and a group of men’s race runners as 5km was reached in 16:06 and 10km in 32:14.

Ketema was 12 seconds ahead at halfway, which she hit in 1:07:53, and she only increased her advantage from there. She reached 30km in 1:36:59, by which point Gebru had been overtaken, with Ketema’s closest challengers being Mulatie, Fikir and Ayana who were running together 1 minute and 53 seconds back.

Ketema continued to forge ahead and she reached 40km in 2:09:24, with a gap of 2 minutes and 20 seconds. While Fikir closed slightly, Ketema was well clear and she won in 2:16:42, the third fastest time in the women’s race at the Berlin Marathon.

Fikir was second in 2:18:48, a PB by almost two minutes, while Mulatie was third in 2:19:00, taking almost eight minutes off her previous best set on her debut in Houston in January.

With Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars well underway, we’re seeing Olympic athletes like Team USA rugby star Ilona Maher and gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik (aka “pommel horse guy”) tear up the stage in a new way. Eight-time NBA All-Star Dwight Howard and two-time Super Bowl champion Danny Amendola are also surprising the audience with their stellar footwork in a very different type of competition. It makes us wonder—which track athletes would dominate the dance floor?

In Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) history, 12 elite athletes have been crowned champion and taken home the Mirrorball Trophy—but the only track and field athletes who have participated in the show are former U.S. 100m world record holder Maurice Greene and American sprint hurdler (and bobsledder) Lolo Jones. Considering how much track and field athletes enjoy their celebratory dances (sometimes walking the fine line between celebrating and showboating), we think these five personalities would thrive in the ballroom.

Usain Bolt

We all know our favourite world-class sprinter’s signature victory pose became iconic for a reason–Usain Bolt knows how to make a statement. He became the 100m and 200m world record holder after coming from a 400m background, proving that he can be good at everything he tries. The confidence and vibrant energy Bolt brought to every track event throughout his career makes us certain he’d bring that same spirit to the dance floor.

If knowing Bolt’s captivating and charismatic personality when performing in front of a crowd isn’t already enough, here’s a video of him samba dancing after a press conference at Rio 2016. Clearly, he’s already a pro.

Alysha Newman

Canada’s Alysha Newman went viral for her celebratory dance after winning the bronze medal in the women’s pole vault at Paris 2024. The Canadian record holder cleared the bar, faked an injury–and started twerking. That’s exactly the energy they’re looking for when screening world-class athletes for potential dance skills. The technical expertise required in pole vaulting also gives Newman an edge when it comes to executing lifts or more challenging moves.

Newman got both positive and negative attention on social media from the victory twerk, but stayed confident and was true to herself–once again demonstrating that she is a qualified candidate for the show.

Noah Lyles

We’re sure the first person that came to mind when thinking of an athlete with a television personality was Team USA’s Noah Lyles. The 27-year-old, already a star on Netflix’s docuseries Sprint, exudes confidence and drive in each and every race he appears in. To say that Lyles is a competitive athlete might be an understatement–the 100m and 200m sprinter has quickly become popular for his bold moves even before races, in an attempt to rile up the crowd.

We’ve also seen this Olympic champion and six-time world champion dancing on TikTok. A character like Lyles could win over the audience on DWTS, and with those kinds of moves, he might even be a contender for the trophy.

Sha’Carri Richardson

Another major sprint personality we simply cannot leave out is Sha’Carri Richardson of the U.S. As you may know, the cast on DWTS gets dressed up glamorously for each show, and Richardson is the definition of glam. With her hair, nails, and lashes on race day, we know the 24-year-old would fully embrace the sparkly, embellished outfits worn during DWTS performances. Look good, feel good—right? Not to mention, like Lyles, this 100m world champion exudes confidence in every performance, a quality that would take her far in the ballroom.

Aaron Brown

Canada’s four-time Olympian Aaron Brown is not only a newly-minted Olympic gold medallist, but also an influencer. The 100m and 200m sprinter posts a mix of inspirational and humorous videos on his YouTube channels–showing off his fun and driven personality. With the current DWTS cast using TikTok and Instagram as a platform to build a fan base and earn more votes, Brown earns extra points as a potential candidate for already being experienced in that domain. We’ve yet to see his dancing abilities put to the test, but if put up against a rival like Lyles, we’re sure we can expect nothing but sensational moves from the four-time Canadian Olympian.

Honourable mention: Jakob Ingebrigsten

If he can bring these moves back, you can expect a nomination from us to get Ingebrigtsen on the next season.

Ethiopia’s Tigist Ketema and Tadese Takele start as the fastest in the fields and will be hoping to lead the way when they line up for the BMW Berlin Marathon, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, on Sunday (29).

Ketema, previously better known as an 800m and 1500m specialist, made her mark in the marathon in Dubai in January as she ran 2:16:07, a time that places her ninth on the women’s world marathon all-time list. She then ran 2:23:21 to place seventh in London in April and Berlin will be her first race since then.

“I have prepared for a personal best and plan to run the first half on Sunday in around 68 minutes,” she said. “I hope it won't be too cold because I prefer to run in slightly warmer weather.”

Ketema is one of three women with sub-2:20 PBs on the entry list, as her competition includes her compatriots Genzebe Dibaba and Yebrugal Melese, who have respective PBs of 2:18:05 and 2:19:36.

Dibaba ran that PB on her debut in Amsterdam in 2022 and she clocked 2:21:47 in Chicago a year later. “I saw Haile Gebrselassie run two world records in Berlin on TV and since then I've always wanted to run in Berlin,” she said. “Now the time has come. It would be a success for me if I ran a personal best.”

Another eight women on the entry list have dipped under 2:22 for the marathon in their careers so far, including Mestawot Fikir (2:20:45), Azmera Gebru (2:20:48), Sisay Gola (2:20:50), Fikrte Wereta (2:21:32) and Aberu Ayana (2:21:54), as well as Japan’s Mizuki Matsuda (2:20:52) and Ai Hosoda (2:21:42). 

Germany’s Melat Kejeta is also part of that group, having clocked 2:21:47 in Dubai in January. She placed sixth at the Tokyo Olympics but was unable to finish the Olympic marathon in Paris due to stomach problems. 

A total of 13 world records have so far been set in the Berlin Marathon, the most recent being the 2:11:53 by Tigist Assefa – a training partner of Ketema – in last year’s women’s race.

The men’s title on that occasion was won by Eliud Kipchoge, as he claimed a record fifth victory.

Kipchoge does not return this year but Takele does, following his third-place finish in last year’s race in a PB of 2:03:24. That was his most recent race due to injury, but he says he is now fit and ready to run. “I’ve trained very well,” he said, “and expect to run a strong race.”

Another four men to have dipped under 2:05 feature on the entry list, including Kenya’s Cybrian Kotut, who ran his PB of 2:04:34 when finishing second in Amsterdam last year, and Ethiopia’s Hailemaryam Kiros and Bazezew Asmare, who respectively clocked 2:04:41 in Paris in 2021 and 2:04:57 in Amsterdam in 2022.

Kenya’s former world half marathon record-holder Kibiwott Kandie races the marathon for the third time and will be looking to build on the PB of 2:04:48 he set in Valencia last year as he hunts for a first win over the distance.

They will be joined by athletes including Kenya’s Samwel Mailu, the world half marathon bronze medallist who set a course record of 2:05:08 to win the Vienna City Marathon last year and continues his comeback after injury, and Ethiopia’s Milkesa Mengesha, who finished sixth at the World Championships last year and has a best of 2:05:29.

Elite fields

Women

Tigist Ketema (ETH) 2:16:07

Genzebe Dibaba (ETH) 2:18:05

Yebrugal Melese (ETH) 2:19:36

Mestawot Fikir (ETH) 2:20:45

Azmera Gebru (ETH) 2:20:48

Sisay Gola (ETH) 2:20:50

Mizuki Matsuda (JPN) 2:20:52

Fikrte Wereta (ETH) 2:21:32

Ai Hosoda (JPN) 2:21:42

Melat Kejeta (GER) 2:21:47

Aberu Ayana (ETH) 2:21:54

Calli Hauger-Thackery (GBR) 2:22:17

Bekelech Gudeta (ETH) 2:22:54

Lisa Weightman (AUS) 2:23:15

Betelihem Afenigus (ETH) 2:23:20

Veronica Maina (KEN) 2:24:46

Bosena Mulatie (ETH) 2:26:59

Alisa Vainio (FIN) 2:27:26

Sonia Samuels (GBR) 2:28:04

Nora Szabo (HUN) 2:28:25

Philippa Bowden (USA) 2:29:14

Pauline Esikon (KEN) debut

Men

Tadese Takele (ETH) 2:03:24

Cybrian Kotut (KEN) 2:04:34

Hailemaryam Kiros (ETH) 2:04:41

Kibiwott Kandie (KEN) 2:04:48

Bazezew Asmare (ETH) 2:04:57

Samwel Mailu (KEN) 2:05:08

Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) 2:05:29

Haymanot Alew (ETH) 2:05:30

Philimon Kipchumba (KEN) 2:05:35

Josphat Boit (KEN) 2:05:42 

Dejene Megersa (ETH) 2:05:42

Enock Onchari (KEN) 2:05:47 

Oqbe Ruesom (ERI) 2:05:51

Justus Kangogo (KEN) 2:05:57

Haimro Alame (ISR) 2:06:04

Ashenafi Moges (ETH) 2:06:12

Asbel Rutto (KEN) 2:07:04

Samuel Tsegay (SWE) 2:06:53

Yohei Ikeda (JPN) 2:06:53

Stephen Kiprop (KEN) 2:07:04

Hendrik Pfeiffer (GER) 2:07:14

Kento Kikutani (JPN) 2:07:26

Melaku Belachew (ETH) 2:07:28

Godadaw Belachew (ISR) 2:07:45Y

uhei Urano (JPN) 2:07:52

Guojian Dong (CHN) 2:08:12

Filimon Abraham (GER) 2:08:22

Haftom Welday (GER) 2:08:24

Sebastian Hendel (GER) 2:08:51

Olonbayar Jamsran (MGL) 2:08:58

Haftamu Gebresilase (ETH) debut

The 50th edition of the BMW Berlin Marathon promises fast and exciting elite races. Deep fields will be assembled with 14 men who have already run sub 2:06:00. While there is no strong favourite among them it is different with the women: Ethiopia’s Tigist Ketema heads the list with her stunning 2:16:07 debut time, which makes her the ninth-fastest marathon runner ever.

Ten more women have personal bests of sub 2:22:00. Thirteen world records were broken in the history of the BMW Berlin Marathon, many more than in any other marathon. The jubilee edition of Germany’s most spectacular road race will have a record number of around 50,000 participants. 

Men’s field

Without Kenya’s superstar Eliud Kipchoge, the winner of the past two editions, the fastest on paper is Tadese Takele. The Ethiopian was third in Berlin a year ago when he improved to 2:03:24. Since another fast race is expected Takele will probably have to run quicker to be in contention for the prestigious marathon victory at the Brandenburg Gate.

Fellow Kenyan Kibiwott Kandie could well challenge for his first triumph over the classic distance. The Kenyan is the former world half marathon record holder (57:32) with great potential. Germany’s Hendrik Pfeiffer leads a group of strong domestic runners. He improved to 2:07:14 early this year in Houston.

Women’s field

Tigist Ketema stormed to a sensational victory in Dubai at the beginning of the year, clocking an unofficial world debut record of 2:16:07. Coming to another very fast course now the training partner of Tigst Assefa, who smashed the world record here with 2:11:53 a year ago, might look to improve her personal best.

The women’s field includes a former world record holder as well, but at a much shorter distance: Genzebe Dibaba ran 3:50.07 in the 1,500m in 2015. When she switched to the marathon she ran a fast debut with 2:18:05 in Amsterdam two years ago.

Unfortunately, Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru had to cancel her start due to injury. But Germany’s Melat Kejeta is a late addition to the field. She dropped out of the Olympic Marathon early because of stomach problems and now hopes to bounce back in Berlin with a personal best. Kejeta might well try to become the second German woman after Irina Mikitenko (2:19:19 in Berlin in 2008) to break 2:20:00.

MEN

Tadese Takele ETH 2:03:24

Cybrian Kotut KEN 2:04:34

Hailemaryam Kiros ETH 2:04:41

Kibiwott Kandie  KEN 2:04:48

Bazezew Asmare ETH 2:04:57

Samwel Mailu KEN 2:05:08

Milkesa Mengesha ETH 2:05:29

Haymanot Alew ETH 2:05:30

Philimon Kipchumba KEN 2:05:35

Josphat Boit  KEN  2:05:42 

Dejene Megersa  ETH  2:05:42

Enock Onchari  KEN  2:05:47 

Oqbe Ruesom  ERI  2:05:51

Justus Kangogo  KEN  2:05:57

Haimro Alame  ISR  2:06:04

Ashenafi Moges  ETH  2:06:12

Asbel Rutto  KEN  2:07:04

Samuel Tsegay  SWE  2:06:53

Yohei Ikeda  JPN  2:06:53

Stephen Kiprop KEN  2:07:04

Hendrik Pfeiffer  GER 2:07:14

Kento Kikutani JPN 2:07:26

Melaku Belachew ETH 2:07:28

Godadaw Belachew  ISR 2:07:45

Yuhei Urano  JPN 2:07:52

Guojian Dong CHN 2:08:12

Filimon Abraham GER 2:08:22

Haftom Welday GER 2:08:24

Sebastian Hendel GER 2:08:51

Olonbayar Jamsran  MGL 2:08:58

Haftamu Gebresilase ETH Debut

WOMEN

Tigist Ketema ETH 2:16:07

Genzebe Dibaba ETH 2:18:05

Yebrugal Melese ETH 2:19:36

Mestawot Fikir ETH 2:20:45

Azmera Gebru ETH 2:20:48

Sisay Gola ETH 2:20:50

Mizuki Matsuda JPN 2:20:52

Fikrte Wereta  ETH 2:21:32

Ai Hosoda  JPN  2:21:42

Melat Kejeta GER 2:21:47

Aberu Ayana  ETH  2:21:54

Calli Hauger-Thackery GBR 2:22:17

Bekelech Gudeta  ETH  2:22:54

Lisa Weightman  AUS  2:23:15

Betelihem Afenigus  ETH  2:23:20

Veronica Maina   KEN  2:24:46

Bosena Mulatie ETH 2:26:59

Alisa Vainio FIN 2:27:26

Sonia Samuels  GBR 2:28:04

Nora Szabo  HUN 2:28:25

Philippa Bowden USA 2:29:14

Pauline Esikon KEN Debut

Former World Marathon record holder Dennis Kimetto will spearhead an attempt on the Cape Town Marathon course record when he lines up on October 20.

The current course record in the men’s race is 2:08:32 set by 2016 Africa  10,000m silver medallist, Stephen Mokoka during his triumph in 2018.

This year’s edition has drawn a massive 21,000 participants, with race director Barry Van Blerk highlighting the impressive elite field assembled for the men's race.

“This year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon boasts the strongest elite line-up ever seen on African soil. With a substantial prize pool, we anticipate fierce competition and if conditions allow, course records will likely fall,” Van Blerk remarked.

Kimetto set a world record during the 2014 Berlin Marathon after clocking 2:02:57, to become the first man to crack the 2:03 barrier.

His record stood for four years before two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge shattered it during the 2018 Berlin race when he clocked 2:01:39.

Kimetto brings a wealth of experience to the field including triumph from the 2013 Chicago Marathon (2:03:45), ahead of compatriots Emmanuel Kipchirchir (2:03:52) and Sammy Kitwara (2:05:16).

He also holds wins from the 2012 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon (1:00:40), 2012 Berlin Half Marathon (59:14) and 2013 Tokyo Marathon (2:06:50).

Kimetto is a runner-up from the 2012 Berlin Marathon, where he clocked 2:04:16, behind Geoffrey Mutai (2:04:15). However, he will face tough competition from defending champion Adane Kebede of Ethiopia.

Kebede clocked 2:11:28 to win last year’s race, edging out Mokoka (2:11:33) and Bernard Kipkorir (2:11:51).

The Ethiopian finished third at last year’s Rabat Marathon clocking 2:09:44, behind Yassine El Allami (2:09:27) and Mustapha Houdadi (2:09:34).

Also in the race is 2019 world champion Lelisa Desisa. The Ethiopian claimed the 2019 world title in a time of 2:10:40, edging out Mosinet Geremew (2:10:44) and Amos Kipruto (2:10:51).

He is also a silver medallist from the 2013 edition in Moscow (2:10:12) behind Uganda’s Stephen Kiprotich (2:09:51).

His resume also includes triumphs from the 2018 New York Marathon (2:05:59) as well as two Boston Marathon titles 2013 (2:10:22) and 2015 (2:09:17).

Desisa is also a runner-up twice at the Boston Marathon thus —2019 (2:07:59) and 2016 (2:13:32) as well as the 2014 New York Marathon (2:11:06).

A prize pool of Sh6.5 million ($50,000) has been set for the podium finishers with the champions bagging Sh3.3 million ($25,000). Second and third-place finishers will receive Sh1.9 million ($15,000) and Sh1.3 million ($10,000) respectively.

The winner of the 2022 Dublin Marathon, Taoufik Allam of Morocco, has tested positive for the banned performance-enhancing drug EPO.

Allam, 35, has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), which runs the sport’s anti-doping system, his case included on the AIU’s list of pending cases, with his violation dated 16 August and stating: “Presence/Use of a Prohibited Substance (EPO)”.

Synthetic erythropoietin is a banned drug that increases the body’s production of red blood cells, thereby improving its oxygen-carrying capacity. Allam can contest the charge and request to have his B sample tested to confirm the finding.

It marks the second time in recent years that the winner of the Dublin Marathon has been engulfed in a doping controversy, with Morocco’s Othmane El Goumri winning in 2019 after returning from a two-year ban for irregularities in his biological passport, a tool used by anti-doping authorities to track changes in athletes’ blood profiles for signs of doping.

The organisers of the Dublin Marathon have a policy not to invite athletes who have served doping bans, but only became aware of El Goumri’s past after the invitation had been sent out and his flights booked for the 2019 race. Longtime race director Jim Aughney said at the time: “He slipped through the net with regards to us accepting his entry in the first place, but it will be part of the contracts from now on, for any athlete.”

In 2019, a little over a year after returning from his doping ban, El Goumri set a personal best of 2:08:06 to win the first prize of €12,000 in Dublin, demoting Ireland’s Stephen Scullion to second.

“Arguably I might have won the thing if he wasn’t here,” said Scullion. “I feel like a winner inside, that’s a victory for me. I’ve always taken a stance that drug cheats can do whatever they want, I can’t control it.

"I want to enjoy my moment, and in six or nine months’ time if he gets done for another doping violation, then I’m the champ. If the crowd want to believe I’m the champ, let them say. And when the room goes dark at night, I go to bed content knowing I’m clean.”

Allam is represented by the same management company as El Goumri. In the 2022 edition, Allam routed the field to win the men’s title, clocking a PB of 2:11:30 to come home almost two and a half minutes clear of the Ethiopian runner-up, Ashenafi Boja. The leading Irish finisher that year was Martin Hoare of Celbridge AC, who was seventh in 2:20:22.

Allam had no doping history before lining up in Dublin but faces a four-year ban if his positive test is confirmed in follow-up testing. Given the timing of the case, it would still not affect the outcome of the 2022 race, where Allam pocketed a €12,000 first prize. He has since gone on to take victories at the 2023 Rome Marathon in 2:07:43 and the 2024 Enschede Marathon in 2:08:53.

Yalemzerf Yehualaw returns to the Antrim Coast Half Marathon a year after seemingly breaking the women's world record only to learn weeks later that the course had been 54 metres short.

Race director James McIlroy is guaranteeing there will be no repeat of last year's hiccup which meant the Ethiopian's time could not be ratified.

"You don't want to blame Covid but it certainly was a factor," says McIlroy.

"The protocol is to measure the course twice but we were unable to do that."

"We couldn't get anyone to fly here before the race to do the measurement [because of the Covid situation] so we had to do it post the race.

"The frustration is that with 50 metres short, if you add 10 seconds on, 65% of the elite race would still have run a personal best and Yalemzerf would still have been the first woman to run under 64 minutes.

"But she's back again in good shape and the course is ratified and measured correctly."

Course even faster this year - McIlroy

Indeed, McIlroy believes course tweaks this year could lead to Yalemzerf going even faster than the 63 minutes and 44 seconds she clocked last year - although the 23-year-old will have to go some to break the world mark of 62:52 set by compatriot Letesenbet Gidey in Valencia last October.

Yalemzerf's own time of 63:51 set as she finished runner-up that day remains the second fastest time in history but the 59 seconds to Gidey's world mark is a huge amount - even in half marathon terms.

McIlroy admits the UK all-comers half marathon record of 65:52 set by Kenyan Edith Chelimo in Cardiff five years ago will be a more realistic target for Yalemzerf and several of other leading ladies.

"We think we've made the course even faster," added former Great Britain Olympic 800m athlete McIlroy.

"We've taken out the section in the harbour so we've taken out one tight turn and going around the roundabout clockwise instead of anti-clockwise should also help the athletes."

While Yalemzerf, 23, will be a strong favourite, the presence of her compatriots and training partners Tsehay Gemechu [PB 65:08] and Gete Alemayehu [PB 66:37] should ensure that she has competitive company in the early stages as opposed to merely her male pacemakers.

Last year, Yehualaw finished more than six minutes ahead of Kenyan runner-up Vane Nyanamba.

2021 men's winner Jemal Yimer is also back in the Larne field and will again be the man to beat give his outstanding personal best of 58:33 set in 2018, which is 49 seconds quicker than the next fastest competitor, compatriot Tesfahun Akalnew.

Yimer was three seconds outside Sir Mo Farah's course record of 60:27 set in 2020 when he triumphed 12 months ago.

Akalnew finished one second behind his compatriot 12 months ago and is again back in the field along with last year's third placer Shadrack Kimining of Kenya.

With the field also including sub-60 minute men Ethiopians Huseydin Mohamed and Gizealew Ayana, organiser McIlroy is very optimistic that the one-hour barrier will be broken for the first time on Irish soil, with Geoffrey Kamworor's UK all-comers mark of 59:10 from 2016 possibly also in danger.

Englishman Marc Scott finished only five seconds behind Yimer in fourth spot 12 months ago and will be joined in the field by fellow British Olympian Callum Hawkins, whose has a half marathon best of exactly 60 minutes.

With Ireland's Tokyo competitor Stephen Scullion a late withdrawal from Sunday's race, Irish male hopefuls David Mansfield and Paul O'Donnell will both be aiming to improve their respective personal best of 63:23 and 63:37.

The women's event could see a good domestic battle for top-10 finishes between Emma Mitchell, Fionnuala Ross and Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games competitor this summer, Hannah Irwin.

The Eamonn Christie-coached Mitchell is the fifth fastest in the women's field on lifetime bests behind the African contingent with a 72:28 mark set in Valencia in 2019, while Ross has clocked 73:08 and Irwin 73:23.

The mass race in the event which starts and finishes in Larne will have around 6,000 competitors with McIlroy delighted to report "entrants from 19 countries this year".

As you slog through those final dog-day runs of late summer, you’re no doubt making sure to replace all the fluids you sweat out—just as you never forget to floss and always send thank-you notes after dinner parties. In case you ever slack off, though, consider the following odd—and oddly reassuring—study.

Scientists at Loughborough University’s National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine in Britain, led by Lewis James, put a group of volunteers through a series of gruelling 15-minute cycling time trials in a heat chamber set to 34 C and 50 per cent humidity. Before each time trial, they did enough light exercise to sweat out two per cent of their starting body weight. Then the researchers snaked a feeding tube down their nose or throat and reinfused some of the fluids—or not.

The subjects thought they were testing the effects of different sports drinks. In reality, the scientists infused just enough water directly into their stomachs to set their dehydration level at 1.6 per cent. Then they lied to the subjects and told them either that they were two per cent dehydrated, or that they were fully rehydrated. The only difference between trials was what the subjects believed about their hydration. The result: their performance decreased by six per cent when they thought they were dehydrated, and they reported higher levels of thirst. Conversely, they reported more stomach fullness and bloating after the fictitious rehydration.

Such trick studies aren’t entirely new. James and his colleagues have published previous studies with a higher level of dehydration—three per cent—and, in that case, performance suffered equally, regardless of what the subjects believed about their hydration status. And back in 2015, Brock University’s Stephen Cheung used intravenous drips to manipulate hydration levels; in Cheung’s study, even three per cent dehydration had no apparent effect on cycling performance.

It’s not just dehydration that’s, at least in part, “in your head.” One study found that you’ll be less alert and more fatigued if you’re given fake sleep-tracker data that incorrectly suggests you had a bad night of sleep. A heating pad in the small of your back that makes you feel warm will make you run slower, even if the amount of heat it provides is too small to actually change your body temperature. A swig of sports drink will boost your performance, even if you spit it out rather than swallow it.

The wrong message to take from all this is that hydration—and heat and sleep and so on—doesn’t matter. The battle over hydration has been raging for almost two decades. It started with South African researcher Tim Noakes pointing out flaws in the existing dehydration research, most notably that the vast majority of studies didn’t distinguish between thirst and dehydration—and didn’t blind subjects to their condition. Those kinds of studies, as James’s new study makes clear, do indeed make dehydration seem worse than it really is.

Noakes wrote a book in 2012 called Waterlogged that pushed this argument to extremes, suggesting most dehydration research was a conspiracy funded by sports drink companies. True dehydration, he suggested, would be marked by the signs observed in a company of soldiers who got lost in the Texas desert in 1877: “an uncontrollable desire for water; inability to detect the presence of fluid or food in the mouth; inability to masticate food; uncontrollable desire to ingest any fluid, even blood or urine.” Others joined the fray; CrossFit launched a public campaign accusing Gatorade and the American College of Sports Medicine of causing numerous deaths by promoting overdrinking. Hydration became yet another culture war.

Of course, hydration isn’t the only topic where runners have drawn lines in the sand. Barefoot running, low-carb diets … heck, even nasal breathing—these are all topics where people don’t just believe they’re right, they believe that those who disagree with them must be doing it wrong. One of the most interesting and controversial scientific debates I’ve written about is whether our limits are dictated by the brain or the body. It seems clear to me that both play a role, but some people insist it has to be one or the other. “It’s like Freud saying it’s all sex,” the endurance writer Matt Fitzgerald once told me. “A lot is sex, but not everything!”

So where does that leave us on hydration? Noakes’s mantra is that you should drink when you’re thirsty and not worry about anything else. As a general guiding principle, I think that’s a good place to start. The fear that you need to be constantly drinking ahead of thirst—that by the time you notice you’re thirsty it’s already too late—is based on those outdated studies that conflate thirst and dehydration. And letting yourself get temporarily thirsty, like during a relaxed one-hour run, is no big deal, as long as you’ll have an opportunity to drink when you finish. In fact, there’s even evidence that sometimes allowing yourself to get thirsty during a run could help you adjust more rapidly to hot weather.

But thirst is just a rough guide. It only works if you’re paying attention to it, and if you’re able to respond when you notice it. One reason it makes sense to drink ahead of thirst in a marathon is that, if you get thirsty between fluid stations, it may be a long time before you get another chance to drink. And even if James found that 1.6 per cent dehydration doesn’t matter, his previous work suggested that 3.0 per cent dehydration does matter. There’s a middle ground here, one that acknowledges the physiological reality of dehydration but allows a reasonable margin for error. So, by all means, keep minding your hydration, and keep flossing and writing bread-and-butter notes—but if it slips your mind now and then, don’t stress about it.

Alex Hutchinson is a Toronto journalist specializing in the science of running and other endurance sports, and the author of Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance (now in paperback).

The men’s elite field for the 50th edition of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON race comes with a change that reflects the recent development at the very top of elite marathon racing.

It will be the first time since 2014 that you will not find the name of either Eliud Kipchoge or Kenenisa Bekele on the start list of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. However the Elite Race Director of the marathon where most world records (13) were broken, Mark Milde, can be confident that not so much will change regarding the outcome. Although world-records will not be the target on 29th September, the jubilee race could well deliver extraordinary fast times yet again. 

A record number of more than 50,000 runners are expected to run the 50th BMW BERLIN-MARATHON on 29th September. The race, that saw its first edition back in 1974 with 244 finishers, never had over 50,000 runners before.

From those on the men’s start list at least one has the potential to become Kenya’s next marathon superstar: Kibiwott Kandie is a former world half marathon record holder with a personal best of 57:32. This time suggests that he could become one of the fastest marathon runners of all time if he can transform his talent to the classic distance. The 28 year-old, who has a current PB of 2:04:48 and was inspired by former Berlin world record breaker Paul Tergat, is one of half a dozen runners who feature very strong personal bests of sub 2:05:00. 

Returning to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON will be Ethiopia’s Tadese Takele and Ronald Korir of Kenya, who placed third and fourth last year. Both ran their personal bests of 2:03:24 and 2:04:22 here. Kenya’s Cybrian Kotut, a younger brother of former Abbott World Marathon Majors Champion Martin Lel, will run his first BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. Kotut features a PB of 2:04:34. Ethiopians Hailemaryam Kiros (2:04:41) and Bazezew Asmare (2:04:57) are the other two runners with sub 2:05 PBs. Another runner who could challenge for a place on the podium is Samwel Mailu. The Kenyan smashed the course record of the Vienna City Marathon last year with 2:05:08. Due to an injury the bronze medallist from the 2023 World Half Marathon Championships was unable to compete this spring.

The women’s race could see a battle between Ethiopia’s newcomer Tigist Ketema and Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru. With their personal bests they are among the top ten on the marathon all-time list. Tigist Ketema took the Dubai Marathon this year with an unofficial world debut record of 2:16:07.

She is a training partner of Tigst Assefa, who smashed the world record at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON a year ago. Rosemary Wanjiru ran her marathon debut in Berlin two years ago and finished second with a brilliant 2:18:00. This year she improved to 2:16:14 when she was runner-up in Tokyo. 

Former 1,500m world record holder Genzebe Dibaba, who is the younger sister of Ethiopian running legend Tirunesh Dibaba, will hope to achieve a fast time on the flat Berlin course. She ran a 2:18:05 debut in Amsterdam two years ago, but was not yet able to improve this time. Genzebe Dibaba was the 2014 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year. Fellow-Ethiopian Yebrgual Melese is the fourth woman on the start list who has a sub 2:20 PB with 2:19:36.

Elite Runners for the 50th BMW BERLIN-MARATHON:

MEN

Tadese Takele ETH 2:03:24

Ronald Korir KEN 2:04:22

Cybrian Kotut KEN 2:04:34

Hailemaryam Kiros ETH 2:04:41

Kibiwott Kandie  KEN 2:04:48

Bazezew Asmare ETH 2:04:57

Samwel Mailu KEN 2:05:08

Milkesa Mengesha ETH 2:05:29

Haymanot Alew ETH 2:05:30

Philimon Kipchumba KEN 2:05:35

Stephen Kiprop KEN 2:07:04

WOMEN

Tigist Ketema ETH 2:16:07

Rosemary Wanjiru KEN 2:16:14

Genzebe Dibaba ETH 2:18:05

Yebrugal Melese ETH 2:19:36

Mestawot Fikir ETH 2:20:45

Azmera Gebru ETH 2:20:48

Sisay Gola ETH 2:20:50

Ababel Yeshaneh  ETH 2:20:51

Mizuki Matsuda JPN 2:20:52

Fikrte Wereta  ETH 2:21:32

The 36th monthly KATA (Kenyan Athletics Training Academy) time trial was held on the road near Thika, Kenya.  31 athletes registered for either thr 10k or 5k.  Plus we had over 50 kids run the 2k. 

The men 5km race was very impressive. Bernard msau sprinted to victory and stopped the clock at 14:14, setting a meet record and a personal best time. Raphael karita posted a personal best time of 14:16 finishing second in a tight race. 

Charles ndirangu finished in third place and also posted a personal best time of 15:23.

Stephen ngigi one of our new athletes finished in third place in 10 kilometers in a personal best time of 30:37 lowering his previous time by 10 seconds. He is very promising in training and by the look of his performance, he is the man to watch.

One of our main objectives at KATA is to develop young talents within our community. Other than our normal athletes, today's time trial was graced by young athletes who have shown interest in the sport. They did two kilometers. They were up to the task. The best time recorded for the boy was 7.14 while the girl managed 8.42. More will be joining us during the double race on the 14th of September.

The next KATA event will be thr 4th Annual KATA Double Road Race 15k (10k+break+5k) on Saturday Sept 14.  The second leg (5k) starts one hour 45 minutes after the start of the 19k.  Times from the two legs are added together for scoring.

The world record for this event are: For men 43:11 set by Julius Kosgei (Kenya) May 5, 2015 in Pacific Grove Ca USA.  He clocked 29:11 for the 10k leg and 14:11 for the 5k leg.  For women 48:45 set by Risper Gesabwa (Kenya) Dec 21, 2014 in Pleasanton, Ca USA.  She clocked 32:55 per the 10k leg and 15:49 for the 5k leg.  

At the third annual KATA Double Bernard Musau clocked 44:32 (third fastest time ever).  At the same event Miriam Chepkemoi clocked 51:33 the fifth best time ever.

Results from todays time trial:

5km WOMEN 

1 Karen chepkemoi 22 276 17:33

2 Jacinta kamau 22 273 17:53

3 Lilian musenya 23 277 18:44

5km MEN

1 Bernard msau 26 323 14:14

2 Raphael karita 24 286 14:16

3 Charles ndirangu 23 379 15:23

4 Gabriel kahura 41 279 15:29

5 Shedrack kiprotich 23 385 15:52

6 Amos chirchir 23 453 15:59

7 John makeri 26 452 16:02

8 William mbugua 21 256  17:39

9 Alex kamau 22 149 19:34

10 Fredrick mwenda 18 240 20:04

10km Women 

1 Karen waithira 36 398 35:08

2 Virginia wanjiru 22 255 35:36

3 Susan njuu 36 269 35:47

4 Veronica Wakuraya 25 392 39:09

5 Sheila mbaku 54 261 41:13

6 pennina mugure 53 331 47:27

7 Lucy muritu 39 275 48:34

10km MEN

1 Hillary Komen 33 382 29:56

2 John Njuguna 29 287 30:27

3 Stephen ngigi 20 402 30:37

4 Charles chege 16 268 31:09

5 Peter wanyoike 28 281 31:11

6 Kenneth gichoya 27 282 31:30

7 Shedrack kiprotich 23 262 32:21

8 Charles mwangi 17 65 32:26

9 Bernard giceha 33 267 33:44

10 David muriuki 28 390 33:45

11 Zachary kirika 22 278 41:12

The 35th Monthly Kenya Athletic Training Academy (KATA) July time trial was held today July 17th in Thika Kenya.  The turn out was good considering the weather. It was chilly and started drizzling as athletes were heading to the starting line. 

Men were really affected by wet weather. Despite the effort, Zachary kirika won the men 10km race in 29:39, well outside his personal best. 

Lewis kuria won the men 5km race in 14:56 which was just ten seconds slower than his previous time.

The day belonged to the women.  They defied the cold weather making personal bests and course records. Monica wanjiru won the 5km race in an impressive time of 16:19. This was her personal best time and also the course record. 

Nympha kiteta only 18 years old took victory in the women's 10km race in a personal best time of 33:53. She was followed by Lois wambui who lowered her personal best by over one minute clocking 35:04.

Virginia wanjiru finished in third place in a personal best time of 35:09.

The overall performances was indeed impressive considering the weather conditions.

Women 5km

1 Monica wanjiru 22 482 16:19

2 Susan njuu 36 179 17:24

3 Karen chepkemoi 22 244 17:51

4 Lilian musenya 22 240 18:23

5 melody ochana 21 149 18:59

6 Anastasia muthoni 21 75 19:08

7 Sheila makungu 21 198 21:32

8 Catherine njihia 22 153 21:43

9 shelmith rono 24 196 24:23

10 Doreen waka 26 251 25:51

11 Catherine waithira 24 242 29:06

12 mwolobi sarafin 19 241 29:07

MEN 5km

1 lewis kuria 22 779 14:56

2: Gabriel kahura 41 998 15:17

3 Shadrack kiprotich 23 120 15:27

4 Charles ndirangu 23 474 15:54

5 Amos chirchir 23 252 16:15

6 Jeremiah obura 20 255 16:40

7 Geoffrey ngama 50 466  17:26

8 Benjamin marauder 26 145 17:38

9 Felix koech 28 450 17:43

10 Ethan ochana 19 138 17:45

11 Anthony owino 28 193 18:39

12 Jared olero 24 458 18:49

13 Alex kamau 22 410 19:52

14 festus waita 29 154 20:37

15 Alvin mise 28 134 20:51

16 Sammy lagat 34 468 21:16

17 Philip kinyanjui 24 453 21:26

10km WOMEN 

1 Nympha kiteta 18 335 33:53

2 Lois wambui 23 409 35:04

3 Virginia wanjiru 22 502 35:09

4 Florence kiarie 33 239 37:30

5 Jane wanjiru 41 197 37:44

6 Monica Njoroge 22 131 40:10

7 Ruth maina 21 251 43:23

8 Lucy muritu 39 238 47:38

10km MEN 

1 Zachary kirika 22 179 29:39

2 John njuguna 26 245 30:15

3 Stephen ngigi 20 498 30:47

4 peter wanyoike 23 432 31:04

5 Fredrick kiprotich 23 319 31:17

6 Joseph kariuki 38 449 32:16

7 David muriuki 28 642 32:17

8 Joseph wanjiru 27 489 33:33

9 Hezira kiprotich 23 436 33:40

10 Fred kamande 24 457 33:54

11 Ismael mburu 23 205 33:57

12 Charles ndirangu 64 163 37:11

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Shericka Jackson and Hansle Parchment are among the global champions who feature on Jamaica’s team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Fraser-Pryce claimed 100m titles at both the 2008 and 2012 Games and secured 100m silver in Tokyo. Jackson, a two-time world 200m champion, claimed 100m bronze behind Fraser-Pryce in Tokyo and in Paris she is entered for both the 100m and 200m.

Parchment will defend his 110m hurdles title, while Kishane Thompson, who won the national 100m title in 9.77, will contest that sprint event.

World U20 champion Jaydon Hibbert is entered for the triple jump and Danniel Thomas-Dodd, the 2019 world silver medallist, is confirmed for the shot put.

Jamaican team for Paris

WOMEN

100m: Tia Clayton, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Shericka Jackson

200m: Niesha Burgher, Shericka Jackson, Lanae-Tava Thomas

400m: Junelle Bromfield, Nickisha Pryce,  Stacey Ann Williams

800m: Natoya Goule-Toppin, Adelle Tracey

1500m: Adelle Tracey

100m hurdles: Janeek Brown, Ackera Nugent, Danielle Williams

400m hurdles: Rushell Clayton, Janieve Russell, Shiann Salmon

High jump: Lamara DistinLong jump: Chanice Porter, Ackelia Smith

Triple jump: Shanieka Ricketts, Ackelia Smith, Kimberly Williams

Shot put: Lloydricka Cameron, Danniel Thomas-Dodd

Discus: Samantha HallHammer: Nayoka Clunis

4x100m: Tia Clayton, Shashalee Forbes, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Shericka Jackson

4x400m: Junelle Bromfield, Stephenie Ann McPherson, Nickisha Pryce, Stacey Ann Williams

MEN

100m: Ackeem Blake, Oblique Seville, Kishane Thompson

200m: Andrew Hudson, Bryan Levell

400m: Sean Bailey, Jevaughn Powell, Deandre Watkin

800m: Navasky Anderson

110m hurdles: Orlando Bennett, Rasheed Broadbell, Hansle Parchment

400m hurdles: Roshawn Clarke, Jaheel Hyde, Malik James-King

High jump: Romaine Beckford

Long jump: Tajay Gayle, Carey McLeod, Wayne Pinnock

Triple jump: Jaydon Hibbert, Jordan Scott

Shot put: Rajindra Campbell

Discus: Ralford Mullings, Traves Smikle, Roje Stona

4x100m: Ackeem Blake, Jehlani Gordon, Oblique Seville, Kishane Thompson

MIXED

4x400m: Zandrian Barnes, Raheem Hayles, Andrenette Knight, Ashley Williams

The Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF) has unveiled a team of 20 athletes to represent the country at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games later this month.

Over 10,000 top athletes from around the world will take part in the Games slated for July 26 to August 11 in France.

Announcing the track and field squad, UAF President Dominic Otuchet said the team boosts experienced athletes who have what it takes to win medals for the country.

“We have athletes who have been proven and tested at the big stage,” said Otuchet.

World star Joshua Cheptegei who bagged a gold and silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020 will lead Uganda’s team together with half-marathon world record holder Jacob Kiplimo. The duo will battle in the 5,000m and 10,000m final.

“After getting a bronze medal at the last Olympic Games in Tokyo, my target is now to improve and win a gold medal. I know it will call for a lot of hard work to be able to achieve this and I am already working hard,” says Kiplimo.

Female athlete Peruth Chemutai who won a gold medal in the women’s 3000m steeplechase will also be another medal hopeful for the Ugandan team.

The team has 10 male and 10 female athletes, with another two, Belinda Chemutai and Loice Chekwemoi, on the waiting list. Besides track and field athletes, Uganda will also have two swimmers, a cyclist and a female rower.

Uganda Team:

Men:

Tarsis Gracious Orogot (200m),

Tom Dradriga (800m),

Jacob Kiplimo, Joshua Cheptegei (5,000m/10,000m),

Oscar Chelimo (5,000m),

Martin Magengo Kiprotich (10,000m),

Leonard Chemutai (3,000m SC),

Victor Kiplangat, Stephen Kissa, Andrew Rotich Kwemoi (Marathon)

Female:

Halimah Nakaayi (800m),

Winnie Nanyondo (1,500m),

Joy Cheptoyek (5,000m/10,000m),

Esther Chebet (5,000m),

Sarah Chelangat, Annet Chemengich Chelangat (10,000m), Peruth Chemutai (3,000m SC),

Stella Chesang, Rebecca Cheptegei, Mercyline Chelangat (marathon),

Reserves: Belinda Chemutai (5,000m),

Loice Chekwemoi (3,000m SC).

The KATA (Kenyan Athletics Training Academy) June time trial was the best ever held today in Thika Kenya.   The turn out was good. A total of 52  athletes  registered for the two events.  

Athanas kiroko took the victory in the men 10km race in a time of 28:58.    Zachary kirika was the man of the day. He finished in 2nd place in a personal best time of 29:12 lowering his previous time by 27 seconds. Fredrick kiprotich finished in third place in a time of 31:11.

Kellen waithira took the crown in the women's 10km race in a time of 34:58. She was followed impressively by Jane wanja who finished in 2nd place in 35:45 lowering her personal best by over one minute. Karen chepkemoi placed third in 36:33 lowering her personal best by 14 seconds.

Job kamande finished first in men 5km race in 14:36. This was his first time in this distance. Charles ndirangu finished second in 15:24 lowering his personal best by 16 seconds. Amos chirchir finished third place in 15:49, lowering his previous time by 3 seconds. The improvement in women's 5km race was indeed astonishing. Lois wambui who finished in third place in 17:10 improved by 33 seconds. Jacinta kamau finished 4th in 17:14 improved by 35 seconds and Virginia wanjiru who finished in 5th position in 17:47 improved by 12 seconds.

The next KATA time trial is July 17. 

5k MEN

1 job kamande 24 430 14:36

2 Charles ndirangu 23 267 15:24

3 Amos chirchir 23 272 15:49

4 Raphael karita 24 392 15:52

5 Kelvin ragui 21 271 16:16

6 John makeri 27 227 16:26

7 Emmanuel rono 24 318 16:41

8 Collins maina 20 284 16:43

9 Brian njenga 20 390 16:44

10 Geoffrey ngama 50 384 17:26

11 Jeremiah obura 20 323 18:37

12 Anthony owino 28 382  19:10

13 Alex kamau 22 333 19:49

14 mavirine rotich 27 312 22:05

15 Kennedy mungai 25 375 22:10

5km WOMEN 

1 Monica wanjiku 22 265 16:28

2 Nympha kiteta 18 266 16:58

3 Lois wambui 23 277 17:10

4 Jacinta kamau 22 276 17:14

5 Virginia wanjiru 22 275 17:47

6 Anastasia muthoni 21 283 19:12

7 Susan njuu 36 380 20:50

8 Sheila makungu 21 385  21:26

9 Ann kipchumba 33 331 22:14

10 Emily wanjiru 17 278 23:43

11 pory ngatha 35 374 29:44

10km MEN

1 Athanas kioko 29 377 28:58

2 Zachary kirika 22 269 29:12

3 Fredrick kiprotich 23 264 31:11

4 Stephen ngigi 20 280 31:27

5 Henry Komen 33 2:81 31:32

6 Shadrack kiprotich 33 332 31:52

7 Paul kibet 26 287 31:54

8 lewis kuria 22 459 32:13

9 Gabriel kahura 41 270 32:23

10 Fred kamande 24 286 32:55

11 Ismael mburu 23 391 33:00

12 Chris kamande 39 314 33:09

13 Ramadan ambani 24 279 34:20

14 Charles ndirangu 64 389 37:51

15 Paul Njoroge 28 383 38:05

16 Kelvin waiganjo 28 387 39:39

10km WOMEN 

1 Kellen waithira 36 381 34:59

2 Jane wanja 34 273 35:45

3 Karen chepkemoi 22 274 36:33

4 Naomi wambui 39 388 36:51

5 Florence kiarie 33 379 37:07

6 Caroline kimoi 32 65 38:38

7 Lilian musenya 22 285 39:44

8 Lucy muritu 39 282 45:05

9 Ruth maina 21 386 46:14

A new study shows that running may increase your longevity and that elite runners live longer than their peers.

The 200th person to break four minutes for the mile, according to the National Union of Track Statisticians, was a Swiss runner named Rolf Gysin. On August 16, 1974, Gysin clocked a 3:56.88. It wasn’t a big surprise: he had already run 3:37 for 1,500 meters the year before, which is equivalent to about a 3:54 mile, and had competed in the Munich Olympics a few years earlier. He was 22 when he broke four; he’s now 72—and still kicking, so to speak.

Gysin was the last guy to make the cut in a new British Journal of Sports Medicine study assessing the longevity of the first 200 runners to break four minutes in the mile, timed to coincide with the seventieth anniversary of Roger Bannister’s famous run. Sub-four doesn’t have the cachet it used to—Track and Field News announced last year that they would stop tracking American sub-fours because the barrier was no longer relevant, though it later reversed the decision—but it’s still a big deal now and was even more so a few generations ago. So did the rigors of pushing their bodies past a once impassable barrier shave years off the lives of these supermen? In a word, no. The study adds another data point to the general finding that elite endurance athletes—Olympians, Tour de France riders, runners—are rewarded with increased longevity. What this finding actually means, though, is perhaps less obvious than it seems.

The study was led by Stephen Foulkes and Mark Haykowsky of the University of Alberta along with André La Gerche of St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne in Australia. Its set-up is straightforward. Take the first 200 sub-four milers, and hit up Google to see when they were born and when or if they died. Overall, 60 of the 200 men had died, at an average age of 73.6. Those still alive had an average age of 77.6 and counting. The researchers weren’t able to obtain causes of death for everyone, but of the seven who died before the age of 55, six were traumatic deaths or suicide and one was cancer.

For each runner, they then calculated their life expectancy on the day they broke four. For Bannister, the relevant comparison was how long a 25-year-old Englishman would be expected to live in 1954; for Gysin, it was a 22-year-old Swiss in 1974. Then they aggregated the results to see whether the runners had greater longevity than their age- and sex-matched countrymen.

Here’s what the survival curve looks like, with the x-axis showing years since first sub-four mile:

On average the runners outlive the matched general population by 4.7 years. There’s a generational effect: those who broke four in the 1950s outlived their peers by 9.2 years, while those who did it in the 1960s or 1970s had an edge of 5.5 or 2.9 years, respectively. That could be because the health of the general population is improving thanks to better medical care. But a bigger factor, I assume, is that most of the milers are still alive. Check back in another decade or two, and Rolf Gysin and his 1970s peers will (touch wood) have added to their longevity stats.

The main spur for this study was the long-running debate on whether “extreme” levels of exercise can damage your health—and lead to heart problems in particular. You may think that running a mile isn’t very extreme. But training to run a sub-four-minute mile is definitely extreme: this analysis from a few years ago found that top milers generally run between 75 and 105 miles a week, with around 20 percent of it at very high intensities. So it’s good news to find that barrier-breaking milers aren’t dropping like flies.

Still, there are a bunch of caveats to this kind of study. One is that outliving the average person is a pretty low bar to clear. How do athletes fare compared to someone doing the modest amount of exercise recommended by public health guidelines? One estimate found that the equivalent of just five hours of brisk walking per week extends your life expectancy by 4.2 years. Other estimates, to be fair, are less optimistic—but a comparison of sub-four milers with, say, 5:00 or 6:00 milers rather than the average couch-potato would be interesting.

The other big question is how much of the milers’ longevity is a result of genetics. I’m of the opinion that breaking four is something that only a small fraction of the world’s population can achieve, regardless of how hard they train, how healthily they eat, how fervently they believe in themselves, and how springy their shoes are. Perhaps the traits that make a four-minute mile feasible—strong heart, robust metabolism, great immune system—also favor longevity. Maybe Bannister would have lived just as long even if he had never run a step.

These are tricky problems to solve: you can’t randomly assign people to follow one lifestyle or another for decades, so every dataset has weaknesses. This particular study is also, yet again, all men. The women’s mile record is Faith Kipyegon’s 4:07.64, set last summer. At first I was thinking you could pick an alternate benchmark to study in women, like sub-four for 1,500 meters. But that barrier wasn’t broken until 1976, and by 2000 only 64 women had done it, most of whom are presumably still alive. Even if you pick lower thresholds, there simply weren’t that many women competing until longer track events were added to the Olympic program in the 1970s. Unfortunately, this sort of longevity analysis for female endurance runners will likely have to wait a few more decades.

But even if you could tease out the effects of genetics and training, I suspect there might still be something missing from the analysis: the mystique of the four-minute barrier. I’d love to see a comparison of those first 200 sub-four milers with their contemporaries who ran between 4:00.0 and 4:01.0 in the same era—the near-misses. Back in 2018, a Dutch economist named Adrian Kalwij studied the longevity of U.S. Olympic medalists between 1904 and 1936. All the medalists lived longer than the general population, but silver medalists lived about three years less than gold or bronze medalists. There was something about being “first loser” that was even worse than coming third—an observation that has been confirmed by facial expression analysis on the podium, which finds that silver medalists are the least likely to smile.

Kalwij is interested in the effect of socio-economic status (SES) on health: why do rich people live longer than poor people, and by how much? But his theory is that it’s not just about resources; it’s also about the psychological effects of winning and losing—whether it’s a race, or a spot at an elite college, or a job promotion. In a follow-up study in 2019 (which I wrote about here), he found that the effect of SES on the longevity of Dutch Olympians has been growing, from no effect in the earliest cohort to a difference of 11 years between high- and low-SES athletes in the most recent cohort. That reflects, he believes, an increasingly winner-take-all society in which we all have more opportunities to succeed but also more opportunities to fail. Those who accrue loss after loss in these micro-competitions pay a price in our health.

Whenever I see a study about the longevity of athletes—or, say, Oscar winners, who live longer than Oscar nominees—I’m reminded of Kalwij’s work. I have no doubt that physical activity is the single most powerful lever we have to improve health. I’m fairly confident that those benefits accrue even to those who train really hard, even if the new miler study doesn’t prove it. But I also wonder how much you benefit from the transcendent experience of reaching the top of the mountain—perhaps because my own best 1,500 time, according to World Athletics scoring tables, is equivalent to a 4:00.03 mile. Ouch.

The duo of Ismael Sadjo and Patience Mwavwang will be seeking to successfully defend the Okpekpe international 10km titles they won last year.

Sadjo ran 31:53 to win the event last year but will need to be at his very best and prepare to break 31 minutes for the first time in his career to ward off the challenge that will be posed by Francis James who ran 30:47 to win the 10km race at the Lagos Access Bank marathon in Lagos in February.

Gang James Boyi (30:51) also ran inside 31 minutes in Lagos will also be in Okpekpe to challenge for the title.

Sadjo’s best in Okpekpe was the 31.06 he ran to win at the inaugural edition of the race in 2013 (before the label status) and a repeat performance could earn him the title for the second straight year.

For the women, David Abiye will challenge Mwavwang for the title but the defending champion will hope to get the better of her in-form challenger just like she did in Lagos last February in the 10km race at the Lagos Access Bank marathon.

Mwavwang ran a new 34:43 lifetime best (probably a new Nigeria record) in the race and will hope to become the first Nigerian woman to break 34 minutes over the 10km when she runs in Okpekpe.

Multiple winners, Deborah Pam will not be available this year as she has taken a leave off the road for procreation.

Stephen Nuhu, a long distance running coach who will accompany the athletes to Okpekpe is confident Nigerian athletes can get over the 30 minutes line and become internationally recognized very soon.

“The athletes have been training very well and I am confident they will soon become recognized as international elite athletes very soon which will make them available for other label road races around the world,” he said and praised organizers of the Okpekpe road race for always having the welfare of the Nigerian elite athletes among their top priorities.

“Okpekpe race organizers offer our athletes accommodation and transport subsidy, something we don’t get in some of the other races in Nigeria except the 10km road race we ran in Ilesha about two years or so ago,” he revealed.

There will be over a N100million  on offer as prize money at the race for the top five finishers in each gender category for the international elite field as well as for the Nigerian elite runners will battle for the prize money.

Winners in each gender category will go home with $15,000 while second and third place finishers will be rewarded with $8,000 and $5,000 respectively, with fourth and fifth going home with $3,000 and $2,000 respectively.

For the Nigerian elite athletes, a top prize of N500,000 will go to the winners of each gender category. Second to fifth place will be rewarded with N300,000, N200,000, N120,000 and N80,000 respectively.

Okpekpe road race, run over hills and tarred roads, starting from Apana Road and ending in Okpekpe town is the first road race in Nigeria to have its course measured by a World Athletics certified course measurer and the first to be granted a label status (bronze in 2015) by World Athletics.

This means Okpekpe road race is the first internationally recognized road running event in West Africa. It was upgraded to a silver level label staus in 2018 before it moved to gold in 2023. 

It is thus the first gold label 10km race ever run on Nigerian soil.

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

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

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

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

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

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

5km Men 

1 Raphael karita 24 417  14:26

2 Charles ndirangu 23 319 15:40

3 Ismael mburu 23 318 15:42

4 John mutiso 19 253 16:15

5 Geoffrey ngama 50 146 16:47

6 Collins maina 20 140 14:04

7 Jeremiah obura 20 249 17:05

8 peter Mukundi 25 488 18:18

9 Lukas pytel 34 74 19:49

10 Alex kamau 22 317 21:28

5km women 

1 Virginia wanjiru 22 419 17:59

2 Emily wanjiru 17 313 22:47

10km Men 

1 peter mwaniki 26 325 29:10

2 Zachary kirika 22 246 29:39

3 Job kamande 24 442 29:51

4 Brian wekesa 26 191 30:40

5 Kelvin ragui 21 315 30:42

6 Joseph mwangi 22 326 30:43

7 Titus kemboi 19 199 31:05

8 Anthony Mukundi 35 444 32:04

9 Stephen ngigi 20 418 33:07

10 Boniface mungai 26 247 33:25

11 Joseph makeli 32 455 35:04

12 Charles ndirangu 64 414 37:46

10km women 

1 Jacinta kamau 22 320 35:06

2 Karen chepkemoi 22 248 36:48

3 Lucy muritu 39 322 48:27

World marathon champion Victor Kiplangat will lead Uganda’s athletics team at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Dominic Otuchet, President of the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), confirmed in an interview with Xinhua on Monday that despite multiple athletes meeting the qualifying standards, only the top three men and women have been selected for the team.

The 24-year-old Kiplangat, who clinched gold at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest, will be joined by Stephen Kissa and Andrew Kwemoi.

“I continue to work hard because there is still some time left before the Olympics,” said Kiplangat, who finished 15th at the Tokyo Marathon in March.

The women’s team has Stella Chesang, the 2019 Commonwealth Games 10,000m champion, Mercyline Chelangat and Rebecca Cheptegei.

“I am very happy that I have made the team. This will be my first time to compete in such a highly formidable race,” said Chesang.

Otuchet expressed confidence in the selected athletes, noting their extensive experience and ongoing preparations. He emphasised that the six marathon runners representing Uganda are all seasoned athletes capable of winning medals at the Olympics.

Having come out of left field to win the season opening Absa Run Your City Gqeberha 10k in April, Vincent Langat is looking to make it two out of two in the popular 10km series.

The Kenyan will line up for the Absa Run Your City Cape Town 10K on May 12 looking to once again pull the rug from underneath the local stars’ feet just as he did in Gqeberha. Unheralded and not even included in the pre-race elite runners’ media conference as he was to run his maiden race out of Kenya, Langat ran a Personal Best (PB) time of 28:01 to leave all of Elroy Gelant, Precious Mashele and Thabang Mosiako in his wake.

He showed that he is a top class runner just this past weekend when he bettered that mark to 27:11 which earned him fifth place at the Adizero Road to Records in Germany. Langat now has his sights set on reigning supreme in Cape Town on Mothers’ Day.

“I have been well. I just went on with training without any problems. It was very nice to cross the finish line as the first finisher,” he said in reference to his victory in Gqeberha “I (had) hoped for a faster time, but the circumstances didn’t allow it. I want to win another race in South Africa! And try to better my PB.”

But Langat will not have it his way, especially now that the South African runners are aware of him. Both Mashele and Gelant are likely to want to gain revenge on the Kenyan and with the legendary Stephen Mokoka in the mix too, it will take something special for Langat to be victorious again.

Another South African keen to do well next weekend is Kabelo Mulaudzi who had a breakthrough 2023 in the Absa series.

The youngster sat out the Gqeberha race doe to injury but has since healed and is excitedly looking forward to Cape Town.

“I’ve recovered from the injury and have been training well,” he said “I’m just focusing on my race because I know it’s not going to be an easy one. I’m racing against the best in the country, the likes of Precious Mashele, Stephen Mokoka and Elroy Gelant. But for now, I’m focusing on my race. If I can get a top five or top three podium position, I would be happy. I’m looking forward to giving my best.”

Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder is thrilled that Langat is back for the second of the five-legs series: “His return adds an extra level of excitement, highlighting the competitive spirit of the Series. It's fantastic to see South Africa's elite athletes like Kabelo Mulaudzi and Precious Mashele going head-to-head with international athletes of Langat's calibre. We can’t wait to witness this thrilling competition at the Absa Run Your City Cape Town 10K."