Running News Daily

Applications for the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon are officially open, giving runners from around the world an opportunity to secure a place in one of the most prestigious races on the global road-running calendar. However, aspiring participants will have less than three weeks to enter the general lottery before applications close on October 29.

The 49th edition of the celebrated marathon is scheduled for Sunday, October 10, 2027, when thousands of athletes will take to the streets of Chicago for one of the sport’s biggest annual running events.

For the majority of runners, the non-guaranteed entry lottery remains the primary route to securing a coveted race bib. Applicants will have to wait until December 8, when the results are scheduled to be communicated by email. Those fortunate enough to be selected will then need to complete their payments within the designated mid-December deadline to confirm their participation.

The entry fee is set at $250 for United States residents and $260 for international applicants, with an additional processing fee. Importantly, runners who enter through the lottery will only be charged if they are successful in securing a place.

Beyond the general lottery, Chicago offers alternative pathways for runners who meet specific eligibility requirements. Athletes who achieve the designated age-group qualifying standards may apply for guaranteed entry, provided their qualifying performances were recorded on certified courses between January 1, 2025, and October 29, 2026.

Another opportunity is available through the Chicago Distance Series. Runners who successfully complete all three designated races in the 2027 series will earn guaranteed entry into the 2028 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, offering an alternative for those planning their marathon journey beyond next year’s event.

As one of the seven Abbott World Marathon Majors, Chicago continues to attract elite competitors, recreational runners and marathon enthusiasts seeking the experience of racing on one of the world’s most recognised marathon stages. Its reputation, fast course and electric atmosphere make securing entry a priority for thousands of hopeful participants each year.

With the application deadline approaching, runners hoping to be part of the 2027 edition should ensure they submit their lottery applications before October 29. Those pursuing guaranteed entry should also carefully review the official eligibility requirements and qualifying standards before applying.

For many, the journey to Chicago begins long before race day. With the lottery window now open, the first step towards the starting line is making sure the application is submitted on time.

CHICAGO, USA — The 2026 Chicago Marathon weekend has been overshadowed by a major labour dispute after hundreds of downtown hotel workers walked off the job, disrupting hospitality services just as thousands of runners and spectators arrive in the city for one of the world's biggest road races.

Members of UNITE HERE Local 1 began striking on Friday, October 9, at six major downtown hotels after contract negotiations failed to produce an agreement. The walkout has placed additional pressure on Chicago's hospitality industry at a particularly busy time, with marathon participants travelling from across the United States and around the world ahead of Sunday's race on October 11.

Although the affected hotels remain open, reduced staffing has created significant operational challenges. Guests have reported long queues, delayed check-ins and disruptions to services, including housekeeping, reception and food provision. The situation has raised concerns among visitors who need adequate rest, reliable accommodation and convenient access to race-day preparations.

Six Major Hotels Affected

The strike is currently affecting six prominent properties in downtown Chicago: the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, Palmer House Hilton, The Westin Chicago River North, The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago, Waldorf Astoria Chicago and Millennium Hotel Knickerbocker Chicago.

The dispute centres on workers' demands for improved wages and working conditions. Union members have raised concerns about the rising cost of living and the difficulties some employees face in meeting basic expenses despite working in a major tourism and hospitality market.

The walkout follows a broader labour dispute involving thousands of hotel employees across Chicago. More than 7,000 workers at 46 hotels had authorised strike action in an earlier vote, raising the possibility that the disruption could spread beyond the six properties already affected.

For marathon visitors, any expansion of the strike could make an already busy race weekend more complicated, particularly for those staying downtown or relying on hotel services before and after the race.

Unseasonably Warm Weather Adds to Marathon Challenges

Beyond the labour dispute, unusually warm conditions are another important consideration for athletes preparing for Sunday's marathon.

Forecasts have pointed to temperatures potentially reaching the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (approximately 24–28°C), accompanied by elevated humidity. Such conditions would be warmer than runners typically expect during an October marathon in Chicago and could significantly influence race-day strategies.

Warm weather can increase the body's cardiovascular strain, accelerate fluid loss and make it more difficult for runners to maintain their planned pace over the 42.195-kilometre distance. Athletes targeting personal bests or competitive finishing times may need to reassess their expectations depending on the conditions.

Runners are therefore encouraged to monitor official race-day weather updates, begin their hydration preparations early and avoid starting at a pace that is too aggressive for the conditions. Appropriate fluid intake, sensible pacing and attention to the body's warning signs can be particularly important when temperatures and humidity are elevated.

A Difficult Weekend for Runners and Visitors

The combination of a hotel workers' strike and potentially challenging weather presents an additional test for participants travelling to Chicago for the marathon. For many athletes, the weekend is the culmination of months of preparation, training and financial investment, making reliable accommodation and a smooth pre-race routine especially important.

The disruption also highlights the wider impact of labour disputes during major sporting events, when hotels, restaurants and other hospitality businesses experience increased demand from international visitors.

With the marathon approaching, attention will remain on developments in the hotel negotiations, the possibility of further strike action and the weather conditions expected on race morning.

Despite the uncertainty, thousands of runners are preparing to take on the streets of Chicago on Sunday, hoping to deliver strong performances in one of the world's most prestigious marathon events.

Uganda’s Martin Naibei Musau and Ethiopia’s Meskerem Mamo Hayile emerged as the standout performers at the 2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon, securing victories in the men’s and women’s races on Saturday, October 10, in Portugal.

The two champions delivered impressive performances over the classic 42.195-kilometre distance, while runners from Kenya and Ethiopia featured prominently across both races, producing a competitive day of elite marathon running.

Musau led the men’s field with a commanding performance, crossing the finish line in 2:08:07 to claim the title. The Ugandan’s victory was particularly significant as he improved on his previous personal best of 2:08:42, recorded at the Hamburg Marathon in 2024.

Kenya’s Gilbert Kipkurui finished second in 2:08:33, narrowly ahead of compatriot Stephen Chebon Kipkech, who completed the podium in 2:08:35. Just two seconds separated the two Kenyan athletes, highlighting the intensity of the battle for the remaining podium positions.

Ethiopia’s Desalegn Yilie finished fourth in 2:09:08, followed by Kenya’s Elkana Langat in fifth in 2:09:20. Another Kenyan, Victor Kiplimo, placed sixth in 2:10:34, while Ethiopia’s Abdi Ali Gelchu took seventh in 2:11:11.

Demisu Gemeda secured eighth place in 2:11:29, followed by Kenya’s Zablon Chumba in ninth in 2:12:23. Ethiopia’s Dechasa Nugusa Demsa completed the men’s top 10 with a time of 2:12:53.

2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon – Men’s Top 10 Results

1. Martin Naibei Musau (Uganda) — 2:08:07

2. Gilbert Kipkurui (Kenya) — 2:08:33

3. Stephen Chebon Kipkech (Kenya) — 2:08:35

4. Desalegn Yilie (Ethiopia) — 2:09:08

5. Elkana Langat (Kenya) — 2:09:20

6. Victor Kiplimo (Kenya) — 2:10:34

7. Abdi Ali Gelchu (Ethiopia) — 2:11:11

8. Demisu Gemeda (Ethiopia) — 2:11:29

9. Zablon Chumba (Kenya) — 2:12:23

10. Dechasa Nugusa Demsa (Ethiopia) — 2:12:53

Kenya recorded five athletes inside the top 10, while Ethiopia had four, with Uganda represented by the race winner. The results demonstrated the strength of East African distance running, with Musau producing the decisive performance to finish ahead of his Kenyan challengers.

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Meskerem Mamo Hayile delivered another outstanding performance, crossing the finish line in 2:28:04 to secure victory after a closely fought contest among the leading athletes.

Mamo finished just seven seconds ahead of compatriot Tejitu Siyum, who claimed second place in 2:28:11. Bashanke Bilo completed an all-Ethiopian podium, finishing third in 2:28:15 after another strong performance over the marathon distance.

The competition at the front remained intense, with Sintayehu Tilahun taking fourth in 2:28:19 and Abeebech Afework finishing fifth in 2:29:00. The five Ethiopian athletes at the top of the standings underlined the country's considerable depth in women’s marathon running.

Kenya’s Ruth Chebitok was the leading non-Ethiopian finisher, securing sixth place in 2:29:18. Her compatriot Ruth Chepkoech followed in seventh in 2:32:41, while Ethiopia’s Waganesh Endawork Asegie finished eighth in 2:33:00.

Genet Sahle completed the top nine in 2:34:04, giving Ethiopia seven athletes among the first nine finishers.

2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon – Women’s Top Nine Results

1. Meskerem Mamo Hayile (Ethiopia) — 2:28:04

2. Tejitu Siyum (Ethiopia) — 2:28:11

3. Bashanke Bilo (Ethiopia) — 2:28:15

4. Sintayehu Tilahun (Ethiopia) — 2:28:19

5. Abeebech Afework (Ethiopia) — 2:29:00

6. Ruth Chebitok (Kenya) — 2:29:18

7. Ruth Chepkoech (Kenya) — 2:32:41

8. Waganesh Endawork Asegie (Ethiopia) — 2:33:00

9. Genet Sahle (Ethiopia) — 2:34:04

The women’s race was particularly notable for the narrow margins separating the leading contenders. Mamo’s seven-second winning advantage reflected a determined contest at the front, with Siyum and Bilo pushing the eventual champion throughout the race.

The two competitions highlighted different dimensions of marathon racing. Musau established himself as the leading man with a personal-best performance, while Mamo prevailed in a tightly contested women’s race to secure the women’s crown.

The 2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon once again brought together elite distance runners from across East Africa and beyond, with Uganda celebrating a men’s champion and Ethiopia dominating the women’s podium.

Former 100-metre world record holder Asafa Powell is preparing to channel his experience from the highest level of international athletics into coaching and high-performance consultancy, with the aim of helping the next generation of sprinters reach their full potential.

The Jamaican sprint legend, who spent more than two decades competing against the world's fastest athletes, is now looking to share the knowledge, discipline and technical understanding he developed throughout his distinguished career. His move into mentorship offers an opportunity to pass on lessons learned through years of competing on the biggest stages in track and field.

Powell's reputation was built on extraordinary speed and consistency. He set the men's 100m world record of 9.77 seconds in Athens in June 2005 before lowering it to 9.74 seconds in Rieti, Italy, in September 2007. He subsequently recorded a personal best of 9.72 seconds at the Lausanne Athletissima meeting in 2008, establishing himself among the fastest men in athletics history.

Beyond his personal best, Powell became renowned for his remarkable ability to run under 10 seconds. He recorded more than 90 sub-10-second performances during his career, a testament to his consistency and longevity in an event where the smallest technical details can determine the outcome.

Although Powell never won an Olympic individual 100m medal, he achieved significant success on the international stage, including winning gold with Jamaica's 4x100m relay team at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2016 Rio Olympics. His experience also spans multiple World Championships and years of competing against sprinting greats, giving him valuable insight into the demands of elite performance.

Transitioning into coaching and high-performance consultancy provides Powell with a new platform to influence the sport beyond his own competitive achievements. His experience could help emerging sprinters understand the importance of starting technique, acceleration, maximum-velocity mechanics, race preparation, recovery and the mental demands of performing under pressure.

For young athletes hoping to establish themselves internationally, learning from someone who has experienced the challenges of elite sprinting firsthand could prove invaluable. Powell's journey demonstrates that success at the highest level requires more than natural speed; it also demands consistency, patience and the ability to perform when the stakes are highest.

As Jamaican sprinting continues to inspire athletes across the globe, Powell's next chapter could see his influence extend from the track to the training ground, where he can help shape future competitors.

The man who once held the world record is now looking toward a different kind of legacy: helping others discover how fast they can run.

The global running community is mourning the heartbreaking deaths of two runners who suffered medical emergencies during separate half marathons on Sunday, October 4, 2026.

The two incidents occurred thousands of miles apart, in Wisconsin in the United States and Cardiff in Wales, casting a sombre shadow over what should have been a day of celebration, competition and personal achievement.

Milwaukee Lakefront Half Marathon Tragedy

At the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon in Wisconsin, a 36-year-old father of four from Waukesha tragically collapsed near the 13-mile mark while running across the Hoan Bridge, just approximately 600 feet from the finish line.

Witnesses and medical personnel responded immediately, beginning CPR and using a defibrillator in an attempt to save his life. He was subsequently transported to Froedtert Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

According to his family, the runner had no known previous medical history. The race was reportedly his first half marathon.

Race organisers confirmed that the tragedy marked the first fatality in the event's 44-year history, leaving the local running community deeply saddened.

Cardiff Half Marathon Death

A separate tragedy unfolded at the Cardiff Half Marathon in Wales, where another runner suffered a medical emergency after completing the 13.1-mile race.

Medical teams stationed at the finish area and throughout the event immediately provided treatment before the runner was taken to the University Hospital of Wales. Despite the efforts of the medical teams, the runner later died.

Event organiser Run 4 Wales expressed its deep sorrow over the loss and praised the medical personnel at both the race and hospital for their swift response.

The two incidents serve as a painful reminder that, while distance running brings together millions of people through a shared passion for sport, medical emergencies can occur unexpectedly even among apparently healthy participants.

The running community now stands together in grief, extending its deepest condolences to the families, friends, fellow runners and all those affected by these devastating losses.

The 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon is set to become an even bigger stage for American distance running, with the race selected to host the 2027 USATF Marathon Championships on October 10, 2027.

The national championships will be contested directly within the Abbott World Marathon Major, giving American athletes the opportunity to fight for national titles while competing alongside one of the deepest international fields in marathon racing.

A dedicated championship field will feature 20 American men and 20 American women, creating two highly competitive national title races on the streets of Chicago. Chicago Event Management will serve as the local organizing committee, while USATF will announce the selection criteria and championship entry procedures at a later date.

The decision adds another major layer to what is already one of the world's most prestigious marathons.

More Spotlight For American Marathoners

One of the most significant elements of the announcement is the planned television coverage.

The Chicago Marathon will provide dedicated coverage of the USATF Championship races within the main broadcast, including additional cameras focused on the American men and women. This should give U.S. athletes considerably more visibility throughout the race, particularly when the international leaders begin to separate from the field.

The broadcast will be available on NBC in Chicago and Peacock nationally, bringing the championship battle to a much wider audience.

The national championship will also carry a prize purse of nearly $110,000, with prize money extending through 10th place in both the men's and women's competitions.

Chicago Expands High Performance Program

The 2027 event will also see Chicago expand its High Performance Program to 300 athletes, creating more opportunities for elite and sub-elite American marathoners to compete in a world-class environment while pursuing qualifying performances for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Marathon.

For the wider marathon community, applications for the 2027 Chicago Marathon open at 8:00 a.m. Central Time on Thursday, October 8, 2026, and close at 2:00 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

With a World Marathon Major, a national championship, a substantial prize purse and a growing pathway toward the 2028 Olympic Trials all converging on the same 26.2-mile course, Chicago 2027 is shaping up to be a major date on the American marathon calendar.

A controversy has emerged from the 2026 Berlin Marathon after Chinese fitness influencer Yuanyuan Sun, better known online as Abeeeer, admitted that she rode on the back of a bicycle during the closing stages of the race.

The 30-year-old initially crossed the finish line in 4:53:46, presenting the performance as a personal best. However, questions were later raised about her split times, particularly a significant improvement in her pace between the 35km and 40km marks.

According to the split data that circulated online, Sun’s final kilometres appeared considerably faster than the preceding section, prompting scrutiny from fellow runners and followers.

Sun subsequently acknowledged that she had accepted a ride on a bicycle during the race. She admitted that doing so was against the marathon’s rules and apologised for failing to disclose what had happened when she shared photographs following the event.

In her apology, Sun said she should not have used feeling unwell as a justification for breaking the rules. She also acknowledged that concealing the incident after the race was wrong.

The controversy quickly moved beyond social media, with Brooks China ending its relationship with Sun following the incident. The brand said the decision reflected its commitment to integrity, fairness and the spirit of running.

The episode has reignited a familiar debate within distance running: where should the line be drawn between simply finishing a race and genuinely completing it according to the rules?

For thousands of marathoners, the attraction of the sport is not only the number displayed on the finishing clock. It is the countless kilometres of training, the physical and mental struggle during the race, and the knowledge that every step toward the finish line was earned.

A marathon medal carries significance because of that journey.

Sun’s case is therefore likely to remain a talking point among runners, particularly because the controversy did not centre on an elite athlete chasing a world-class time, but on the importance of honesty and fair competition at every level of the sport.

Ultimately, a marathon is more than simply reaching the finish line. It is about earning your way there.

The TCS New York City Marathon is preparing to mark a major milestone in its history, and runners crossing the finish line on November 1 will take home a medal designed to celebrate five decades of the iconic five-borough course.

New York Road Runners (NYRR) has unveiled the official 2026 finisher medal, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the course that transformed the race after it moved beyond Central Park in 1976. The anniversary also marks 50 years since NYRR first introduced a finisher medal for the event.

The new medal combines elements of New York City and the marathon into a distinctive sculptural design. An abstract skyline spreads outward in a sunburst pattern, while the five bridges encountered along the marathon route are incorporated into the design, creating a visual connection between the race and the city through which it travels.

At the heart of the concept is an unbroken circular skyline, symbolising the five boroughs coming together as one. It reflects one of the defining characteristics of the New York City Marathon: a single 26.2-mile journey that connects Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan.

The 2026 medal will be produced in zinc with an electroplated gold finish and measures 3.5 inches across, making it slightly larger than the standard medal in recognition of the anniversary. Despite the larger overall size, the central medallion remains 2.12 inches, the same measurement used for the 2025 edition.

The ribbon also pays tribute to the race's history, drawing inspiration from the visual style of the 1970s. It features the marathon logo, the 50th-anniversary emblem and references to all five boroughs, completing a design that blends the event's past with its present.

For thousands of runners, the medal will represent far more than simply a race souvenir. It will be a lasting reminder of the miles covered through one of the world's most recognisable cities and of the personal achievement of reaching the finish line in Central Park.

NYRR chief marketing and digital officer Juliette Morris said the design was created to capture the unique character of the marathon, from the atmosphere of New York City to the shared experience that brings runners and spectators together every year.

As the 2026 edition approaches, the special medal adds another layer of significance to a race already steeped in history. For those who complete the journey on November 1, it will serve as a tangible symbol of both their individual achievement and the 50-year legacy of the modern New York City Marathon.

The Twin Cities Marathon has closed the chapter on one of the longest-running traditions in American marathon racing, with the event set to leave its familiar early-October slot and move to mid-October beginning in 2027.

The 2026 edition marked the final time the race would be held in its traditional early-October window, bringing an end to a calendar tradition that has defined the event for more than four decades.

Beginning in 2027, Twin Cities Marathon Weekend will move to a mid-October date. The decision follows growing concerns over warmer and increasingly unpredictable conditions during the race's traditional weekend, with organisers seeking a better environment for runners, spectators and volunteers.

The change is more than a simple adjustment to the racing calendar. Early October, once synonymous with crisp autumn temperatures in Minnesota, has increasingly brought challenging heat. In recent years, organisers have had to contend with conditions that can place additional stress on marathon runners and increase demands on medical and public-safety teams.

The inaugural Twin Cities Marathon was held on October 3, 1982, attracting 4,563 entrants. What began as a relatively young marathon has since developed into one of the most recognisable road races in the United States, growing alongside the running communities of Minneapolis and St. Paul.

The course itself has long been one of the event's defining features. Runners travel through Minneapolis, pass the city's famous chain of lakes and follow a scenic route toward St. Paul before finishing near the Minnesota State Capitol. The combination of major urban landmarks, parkways, waterways and autumn scenery has helped give the race its distinctive identity.

The 2026 edition continued that long tradition, with roughly 30,000 runners taking part across the various events of Marathon Weekend. The marathon also featured defending champions Will Norris and Jane Bareikis, while favourable temperatures provided runners with much more comfortable conditions than some of the warmer editions in recent years.

Yet even with favourable weather this year, the decision to move the race reflects a longer-term concern. Organisers are looking beyond a single race morning and considering how changing weather patterns could affect the event in the years ahead.

For runners, the move could eventually become one of the most important changes in the marathon's modern history. A later October date offers the possibility of cooler racing conditions while preserving the course, the atmosphere and the traditions that have made Twin Cities Marathon a fixture on the American running calendar.

For more than four decades, the first Sunday of October provided a familiar date for thousands of runners preparing to take on the Twin Cities course.

That tradition has now reached its final chapter.

From 2027, the Twin Cities Marathon will arrive later in the fall — opening a new era for a race whose history remains firmly connected to the streets of Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Traveling for a race is the perfect excuse to turn a running weekend into an adventure. Perhaps you’re heading to the Tokyo Marathon⁠ and already thinking about the sushi and ramen you’ll enjoy afterward. Or maybe your next finish line is beside the beach.

Between training, booking a hotel and planning what to explore, packing can become an afterthought. Then race morning arrives, and your favorite socks are still at home, your race information is buried in your suitcase and your water bottle is nowhere to be found.

A little organization before departure can make the entire trip smoother. These seven packing tips will help you arrive ready to run and enjoy the weekend.

1. Pack Your Race-Day Outfit in Your Carry-On

Keep your race-day clothing and essentials in your carry-on. Pack your running top, shorts or tights, socks, sports bra if needed, and the small items you depend on during a race. If your checked luggage is delayed, your key gear will still be with you.

Fold your race outfit together or place it in a packing pouch so everything is easy to find. A smaller zip pouch can hold accessories. Knowing exactly where your race kit is means one less thing to worry about when you arrive.

2. Wear Your Running Shoes on the Plane

Your running shoes deserve the same attention as your race outfit. Wearing them on the plane keeps them out of checked luggage and leaves more room in your suitcase.

Choose a familiar pair you have already used in training. Race weekend is not the time to discover that new shoes rub or fit differently than expected. If you prefer to travel in another pair, keep your race shoes in your carry-on.

3. Bring a Spacious Bag for Your Gear

A race trip often requires more than running clothes. Add a jacket, recovery clothes, snacks and accessories, and your packing list grows quickly. A spacious duffel with sturdy handles and useful pockets can keep those extras organized and serve as a day bag at your destination.

Think about what you’ll do beyond race day. A hike may call for trail shoes and a light layer. If pickleball is part of your plans, you may want a paddle and extra clothes.

The same thinking applies when choosing your bag. If you’re planning a few games on the court during the trip, consider pickleball tour and duffel bags⁠. A backpack may be more practical for hiking or exploring on foot. Choose a bag that suits your itinerary, and check your airline’s size and weight limits before packing.

4. Organize Your Bib and Race Documents

Keep your identification, registration confirmation and race instructions together. A slim document pouch works well for paper copies, while a dedicated folder on your phone can keep digital information easy to access.

Download important details before leaving home, including the race map, confirmation email and packet pickup instructions. Save copies you can open without an internet connection.

If you already have your bib, keep it flat and protected. Otherwise, check where and when you need to collect it and what identification the organizer requires. Handling these details in advance helps keep the pre-race scramble to a minimum.

5. Take Familiar Snacks with You

Race travel can disrupt your usual eating routine. Your preferred breakfast may be unavailable, and the hotel buffet may not offer what you normally eat before a run.

Bring the bars, gels and electrolyte products you have already used in training. Your runner’s diet⁠ shouldn’t become a vacation guessing game.

Count what you’ll need for travel and race day, then pack a little extra. Keep some familiar snacks in your carry-on and bring enough race fuel for your planned strategy. Check destination rules before carrying food across international borders.

6. Always Have a Water Bottle

Busy travel days can make it easy to forget your usual drinking habits. A reusable water bottle is a simple item that deserves a place on your packing list.

Carry it empty through airport security, then fill it where drinking water is available. Keep it handy during your journey and when heading out for packet pickup or other race activities.

Staying hydrated is also part of caring for your body while traveling⁠. If an electrolyte mix is already part of your routine, pack your usual product. Having familiar supplies nearby makes it easier to maintain your normal habits while traveling.

7. Pack Layers for Changing Weather

A mild forecast doesn’t always reflect how it will feel while waiting at the starting line early in the morning. Pack a lightweight layer you have already worn while running.

A zip jacket or long-sleeve top can help you stay comfortable before the start. Decide in advance whether you’ll carry it during the race or leave it at an official bag check, following the organizer’s instructions.

For colder conditions, familiar gloves and other tested gear can help. Review this guide to running in cold weather⁠, then check the forecast again before departure and once more before race morning so you can make any final adjustments.

Thoughtful packing helps you get more out of a destination race. Keep essential gear close, choose a bag that works for your plans and organize your documents before you leave. With those details handled, you can spend less time searching through your suitcase and more time enjoying the run—and everything that comes afterward.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA — The countdown is almost over. On Sunday, October 11, Eliud Kipchoge will return to marathon racing in Australia as the legendary Kenyan takes the next step in his extraordinary seven-continent world tour.

The two-time Olympic marathon champion will headline the 2026 Nike Melbourne Marathon, marking the third stop of his global journey after opening the project in Cape Town in May before travelling to Porto Alegre, Brazil, in July. Melbourne now becomes the next chapter in a remarkable mission designed to take one of the greatest marathoners in history across all seven continents.

And for Kipchoge, the Melbourne visit carries a message that reaches beyond the marathon itself.

Reflecting on the history of the Olympic city, Kipchoge drew inspiration from an extraordinary moment in 1956, when a 17-year-old boy named Ian (John Wing) encouraged Melbourne to come together and walk during the Olympic Games.

“In 1956, a 17-year-old kid called Ian (John Wing) told Melbourne to walk together during the Olympic Games. Seventy years down the line, I am going to tell the people of Melbourne, let us run together,” Kipchoge said.

The message perfectly captures the spirit behind his latest global adventure — using running not simply as competition, but as a way of bringing people together, inspiring communities and connecting different parts of the world through the sport he has devoted his life to.

And Melbourne has prepared for the occasion.

The 2026 Nike Melbourne Marathon has undergone one of the most significant course transformations in its history. Organisers have created a faster and flatter route, reducing elevation gain by up to 20 per cent and cutting the number of turns by around 30 per cent. The demanding climb between Birdwood Avenue and Domain Road has also been removed, while the race will once again culminate with the iconic finish inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

For Kipchoge, however, this journey is about far more than chasing another fast marathon time.

At 41, the Kenyan legend is at a different stage of his career. The days of relentlessly pursuing world records may be behind him, but his ambition remains unmistakable. This time, the challenge is to take his message of running, unity and inspiration to every corner of the world while sharing the road with runners and communities across seven continents.

The Melbourne appearance also carries a special significance. Kipchoge has never previously raced the Nike Melbourne Marathon, and his arrival has added another layer of excitement to an event already entering a new era. More than 60,000 participants are expected across the festival, while the marathon itself has a capacity of 20,000 runners.

The race will begin at 6:15 a.m. local time on Sunday, with runners setting off from Batman Avenue before making their way through some of Melbourne's most recognisable landmarks. The finish inside the MCG promises to provide a spectacular backdrop for what could become one of the most memorable moments of Kipchoge's global tour.

Kipchoge arrives in Melbourne with a formidable legacy that few athletes in any sport can match. He is a two-time Olympic champion, a former marathon world-record holder and the first man to run a marathon under two hours in a controlled, non-record-eligible event.

Yet his latest challenge is not about adding another number to an already extraordinary list of achievements.

It is about the journey.

From Africa to South America and now Oceania, Kipchoge's seven-continent adventure is allowing fans around the world to see the marathon icon in places where he has never raced before. Each race represents another opportunity to connect with runners, inspire younger generations and celebrate the power of the sport that has defined his life.

And in Melbourne, his message is simple: let us run together.

On Sunday morning, the streets will fill with thousands of runners, spectators will line the course, and one of the most celebrated athletes in the history of distance running will once again stand on a marathon start line.

Seventy years after a teenager encouraged Melbourne to walk together during the 1956 Olympic Games, Kipchoge will return to the city with a new invitation — to run together.

Eliud Kipchoge is coming to Melbourne, and the world will be watching.

For more than a decade, Usain Bolt defined Jamaican sprinting on the world stage. Now, a new generation is beginning to write its own chapter — and at the centre of that transition stands Oblique Seville, a sprinter whose journey is closely connected to the very people who shaped Bolt’s legendary career.

Seville announced himself as Jamaica’s new 100m champion in spectacular fashion at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Running a lifetime best of 9.77 seconds, he captured the world title ahead of compatriot Kishane Thompson, who clocked 9.82, giving Jamaica a memorable one-two finish.

The significance of the victory was enormous. Seville became the first Jamaican man since Bolt to win the World Athletics Championships 100m title. And watching from the stands was Bolt himself, who celebrated enthusiastically as his compatriot delivered one of the biggest victories of his career.

But the connection between the two generations goes far beyond that unforgettable night in Tokyo.

A Dream That Began At 10

Long before Seville became a world champion, he already knew exactly who he wanted to coach him.

When he was around 10 years old, Seville reportedly told his mother that he wanted to train under Glen Mills — the renowned Jamaican coach who guided Bolt during the most dominant period of his career.

That childhood ambition eventually became reality. Seville joined the Racers Track Club and came under the guidance of Mills, establishing a relationship that has played a major role in his development as an elite sprinter.

Mills had already helped shape one of the greatest sprinters in history. Now, years later, he was helping another Jamaican talent reach the summit of the 100 metres.

Bolt Became More Than An Inspiration

Seville has also spoken about the influence Bolt has had on his life away from the track.

Following the death of his father, Gerald Seville, Bolt became an important source of encouragement and motivation for the young sprinter. Seville has described Bolt as a major motivator, adding another deeply personal dimension to a relationship that began with admiration from afar.

That makes the scene in Tokyo even more powerful: the athlete Seville grew up watching was there as he achieved the breakthrough that could define his own generation.

Bolt's presence was not simply symbolic. Before the final, he had spoken about Seville and Thompson as athletes capable of challenging for the gold medal. Seville ultimately delivered when the pressure was greatest.

From 9.77 To A New Challenge

Seville's Tokyo triumph was not the end of the story.

In 2026, he continued to establish himself among the world's leading sprinters, eventually claiming the men's 100m Diamond League title at the series final in Brussels. He also produced a season-best 9.82 in Kingston and recorded several victories during the Diamond League campaign.

The progression is significant. From an ambitious youngster dreaming of being coached by Glen Mills, to a World Championships gold medallist, and now a Diamond League champion, Seville is steadily building a career that belongs to him.

Yet he remains deeply respectful of the athlete whose footsteps he is following.

Seville has repeatedly acknowledged Bolt's greatness, while also believing that the next generation of Jamaican sprinters can push the event to another level. The ambition is clear: the future may eventually demand performances in the 9.6-second range.

For now, however, Seville's focus is not on becoming another Usain Bolt.

It is on becoming the best version of Oblique Seville.

The Torch Has Been Passed — But The Story Is Still Being Written

Jamaica's sprinting tradition has produced some of the most extraordinary athletes the sport has ever seen. Bolt took that tradition to an unprecedented level. Seville now represents a new generation determined to keep it alive.

The symbolism is difficult to miss.

The coach who helped guide Bolt is now guiding Seville. The champion who once inspired Seville as a young boy was there to watch him become a world champion. And the young Jamaican who once dreamed of joining Glen Mills is now collecting major titles of his own.

Seville has already secured a World Championships 100m title, a 9.77 personal best and a Diamond League crown.

The next chapter of Jamaican sprinting is no longer waiting to begin.

It is already underway.

And with Glen Mills in his corner and Usain Bolt among those who have helped inspire him, Oblique Seville is carrying the Jamaican sprinting tradition forward — while creating a legacy of his own. 

A morning of racing at the 2026 Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon turned into a frightening scene on Saturday after a motorcycle entered a section of the course that had been closed to traffic and collided with two runners.

The incident happened at about 6:15 a.m. on October 3 along Jalan Munshi Abdullah, where the 10K race was taking place. Police said the 21-year-old motorcyclist, who was carrying a 19-year-old male pillion passenger, had passed through a section blocked off with traffic cones.

According to police, an officer manning the road closure ordered the rider to stop, but he allegedly continued riding and then travelled against the flow of traffic before crashing into two marathon participants.

The two injured runners were a 50-year-old woman and a 41-year-old man. The woman suffered neck injuries and was taken to Prince Court, while the man sustained injuries to his right knee and hand. Both received medical attention, with reports indicating that their injuries were not life-threatening.

The incident became even more serious when an initial alcohol screening of the rider returned a positive result. Police said an evidential breath test recorded 164mg of alcohol per 100ml, after which the rider and his passenger were taken to Hospital Kuala Lumpur for blood and urine samples as part of the investigation.

The motorcyclist was subsequently remanded while police investigated the circumstances surrounding the crash. The case was initially investigated under Section 44(1A)(b) of Malaysia's Road Transport Act 1987, as well as Section 186 of the Penal Code.

On Monday, October 5, the 21-year-old was charged in Kuala Lumpur Traffic Court with two counts of driving under the influence. The court granted bail of RM5,000 for each charge, although reports said he was unable to raise the bail and was ordered to be sent to prison pending the next court mention on January 7, 2027.

The crash has highlighted the crucial role of road closures, traffic police and race marshals in protecting runners during major road races. The Kuala Lumpur Marathon's 10K event is a designated race category, with the course reserved for participants during the event.

For the thousands of runners who took part, what should have been a celebration of running instead became a stark reminder that even with extensive race-day safety measures in place, one vehicle entering a closed course can create a potentially devastating situation.

The Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon organisers have confirmed the incident and are cooperating with authorities as the police investigation continues.

Kenyan distance-running star Joyciline Jepkosgei delivered a commanding performance at the 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon, storming to victory in 1:05:40 and rewriting the women’s course record in impressive fashion.

Jepkosgei produced a composed and powerful run at the front of the race, eventually pulling clear of a strong Ethiopian challenge to secure the title. Her winning time gave her a 14-second advantage over Ethiopia’s Wede Kefale, adding another prestigious road-racing victory to her accomplished career.

Kefale mounted the strongest challenge to the Kenyan, crossing the finish line in 1:05:54. She remained firmly in contention throughout the race, but Jepkosgei found the decisive strength when it mattered most to claim both victory and the course record.

The final podium position went to another Ethiopian, with Tigist Tesema making an impressive half-marathon debut in 1:07:23. Her performance completed a podium dominated by Kenya and Ethiopia and underlined the depth of talent competing at the front of the race.

For Jepkosgei, the Cardiff triumph adds another significant achievement to a career that has already produced major victories and world-class performances over the half-marathon distance. Her experience, controlled pacing and ability to deliver under pressure once again proved decisive on race day.

The 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon provided far more than a thrilling elite women’s contest. Gideon Kiprotich secured the men’s title stopping the clock at 59:34 giving Kenya a memorable double victory in the Welsh capital, while the elite wheelchair races and Welsh Championship events added further excitement to an action-packed programme.

The event also provided a platform for some of Wales’ leading athletes to compete on home soil, while runners across the field contributed to the atmosphere of a race that brought together elite competitors and thousands of participants.

From the sharp end of the elite races to the final finishers crossing the line, Cardiff produced another memorable celebration of road running. For Jepkosgei, however, the headline belonged to her: a commanding victory, a new course record and another impressive mark on her distinguished career.

Jepkosgei’s performance was ultimately a statement of class and consistency, as the experienced Kenyan turned a fiercely contested international field into another memorable triumph. With a new course record now attached to her name in Cardiff, she once again demonstrated the speed, resilience and tactical intelligence that have made her one of the most respected figures in modern women’s road racing.

Emily Venters delivered a commanding performance at the 2026 USATF 10K Championships in Minneapolis, Minnesota, powering to the national title in 31:09 and rewriting the championship record in spectacular fashion.

Venters controlled the women’s race from the opening stages, maintaining a relentless rhythm all the way to the finish. Her performance was enough to break the previous USATF 10K Championship record of 31:40, set by Jess McClain in 2024.

The Salt Lake City-based runner also created a huge gap over the rest of the field, crossing the finish line 48 seconds ahead of runner-up Kasandra Parker. Parker produced an impressive run of her own, clocking 31:57 to secure the silver medal, while Allie Ostrander completed the national podium with 32:02 for bronze.

Venters’ victory added another national championship title to her résumé, but the manner of the triumph made the achievement even more significant. Her 31:09 placed her firmly at the centre of the day’s headlines, with the championship record providing the perfect reward for a dominant display.

The women’s race also produced an exceptionally strong leading group, with the top eight all finishing inside 32:37. Amanda Vestri took fourth in 32:16, followed by Amy Davis-Green in 32:20 and Cailie Logue Hughes in 32:30.

Olivia Borowiak finished seventh in 32:33, while Jessie Cardin rounded out the top eight in 32:36, highlighting the depth of the field at this year’s national championships.

The Minneapolis championships proved to be a memorable weekend for USATF road running, with both the men’s and women’s winners establishing new championship records. Aidan Troutner also made history in the men’s race by breaking a championship mark that had stood for four decades.

2026 USATF 10K Championships — Women’s Top 8

1. Emily Venters — 31:09 — National Champion, Championship Record

2. Kasandra Parker — 31:57

3. Allie Ostrander — 32:02

4. Amanda Vestri — 32:16

5. Amy Davis-Green — 32:20

6. Cailie Logue Hughes — 32:30

7. Olivia Borowiak — 32:33

8. Jessie Cardin — 32:36

Venters’ 31:09 will now stand as the mark to beat at the USATF 10K Championships, capping a memorable morning in Minneapolis with a national title and a new championship record.

With the championship record now in her name, Venters has added another standout chapter to an already impressive season. Her 31:09 not only delivered gold on the national stage but also underlined her ability to produce a breakthrough performance when the biggest opportunities arrive. For the USATF 10K Championships, it was a performance that will be remembered long after the medals were handed out.

The wait is over for thousands of marathon hopefuls dreaming of running through the streets of Berlin next year, with registration for the 2027 Berlin Marathon officially opening on Thursday, October 1.

Runners now have until November 12, 2026, to enter the lottery, with the results scheduled to be sent by email on December 3. The entry fee of €215, around $244, will only be charged to athletes who successfully secure a starting place.

The 2027 race is scheduled for Sunday, September 26, once again bringing thousands of runners onto one of the most famous and fastest marathon courses in the world. Berlin has become synonymous with record-breaking performances, with 13 world records having been set on the course over the years.

That remarkable history continues to give the Berlin Marathon a unique place on the international marathon calendar. From elite athletes chasing world records to recreational runners attempting their first major marathon, the race attracts competitors from across the globe, all sharing the same iconic finish beneath the Brandenburg Gate.

For runners who have already built a special relationship with the event, however, there are ways to bypass the public lottery. Members of the Jubilee Club, which is open to runners who have completed the Berlin Marathon 10 or more times, receive a guaranteed starting place.

There is also a special route for runners who were unable to compete in the 2026 edition after accepting the organisers’ goodwill offer. Those athletes will receive a registration code for the 2027 race by email, with the code required to be redeemed before the ballot closes on November 12.

Runners do not necessarily have to enter alone, either. Groups of two or three athletes can apply together as a team. One runner registers the group and receives a team code, which is then shared with the other members. Each athlete completes their own registration using that code, and if the team is selected, everyone in the group receives a place together.

The lottery system means that demand will once again be high, with aspiring Berlin Marathon runners now facing a nervous wait after submitting their applications. For many, the December 3 email will determine whether their plans for one of the world's most prestigious marathons can become reality.

For those dreaming of lining up in Berlin, the important dates are clear: registration opened on October 1, the ballot closes on November 12, results will be announced on December 3, and the 2027 Berlin Marathon will be held on September 26.

The road to Berlin 2027 has officially begun — and for thousands of runners, the countdown to finding out whether they have secured their place is now underway.

The Valencia Half Marathon 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated women’s road races of the season, with a deep international field set to assemble in Valencia, Spain, on Sunday, October 25.

Leading the announced line-up are Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw, Tsigie Gebreselama and Kenya’s Caroline Gitonga, with a strong group of athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Germany and Spain adding considerable depth to the race.

Yehualaw arrives with a listed personal best of 1:03:51, placing her among the fastest athletes in the field. The Ethiopian has considerable experience in Valencia, having finished second in the 2021 edition in 1:03:51 when compatriot Letesenbet Gidey set the then-world record of 1:02:52.

Gebreselama is also listed at 1:04:21, while Ethiopia’s Ftaw Zerai enters with 1:05:12. Their presence gives Ethiopia a formidable challenge at the front of the women’s race and sets the stage for a potentially fast contest from the opening kilometres.

Kenya will be strongly represented as well. Daisilah Jerono has a listed best of 1:05:21, followed by Veronica Loleo at 1:05:35 and Caroline Gitonga at 1:06:16. Loleo is particularly familiar with Valencia, having finished third in the 2025 race in 1:05:46.

Germany’s Konstanze Klosterhalfen, listed at 1:05:41, adds another major international name to the field. Meanwhile, Spain’s hopes will be carried by Carla Gallardo, Laura Luengo and Irene Sánchez-Escribano, who are listed at 1:08:30, 1:08:50 and 1:09:10 respectively.

Valencia Half Marathon 2026 — Women’s Elite Field

1. Yalemzerf Yehualaw (Ethiopia) — 1:03:51

2. Tsigie Gebreselama (Ethiopia) — 1:04:21

3. Ftaw Zerai (Ethiopia) — 1:05:12

4. Daisilah Jerono (Kenya) — 1:05:21

5. Veronica Loleo (Kenya) — 1:05:35

6. Mizam Alem (Ethiopia) — 1:05:38

7. Konstanze Klosterhalfen (Germany) — 1:05:41

8. Caroline Gitonga (Kenya) — 1:06:16

9. Carla Gallardo (Spain) — 1:08:30

10. Laura Luengo (Spain) — 1:08:50

11. Irene Sánchez-Escribano (Spain) — 1:09:10

The quality of the field is particularly significant given Valencia’s reputation as one of the fastest half-marathon venues in the world. The race has produced both the women’s and men’s world records, with Gidey running 1:02:52 in 2021 and Yomif Kejelcha clocking 57:30 in 2024.

With several athletes already possessing credentials around or below the 1:06 mark, the women’s race could develop into a high-quality battle over the 21.0975-kilometre distance. The depth behind the leading trio also means the outcome could depend on pacing, positioning and how the contenders respond when the race reaches its decisive stages.

For the Spanish athletes, racing on home roads provides an opportunity to challenge a powerful African contingent, while the Kenyan and Ethiopian runners will arrive with ambitions of competing for the leading positions.

The Valencia Half Marathon 2026 will take place on October 25, bringing together an international elite field alongside thousands of mass-participation runners on the fast streets of Valencia.

The Olympic flame is preparing for a journey unlike any it has made before. 

For the first time in Olympic history, the flame heading to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games will travel through all 50 U.S. states, bringing one of the Games’ most enduring traditions directly into communities across the country.

The historic American chapter will begin in Atlanta, Georgia, the host city of the 1996 Olympic Games and the last U.S. city to stage a Summer Olympics. Thirty-two years after the Atlanta flame was extinguished, the Olympic flame will return to the city to begin its extraordinary journey toward Los Angeles.

Before reaching American soil, the flame will be ceremonially lit in Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. From there, it will make its way to the United States before beginning a nationwide relay in spring 2028. The complete route is expected to be announced in 2027.

50 STATES. ONE FLAME. ONE JOURNEY. 

From Hawaii to North Dakota and from South Dakota to California, the relay is being designed to showcase communities, landmarks, cultural celebrations and major events across the United States.

LA28 says the relay will be one of the largest in Olympic history, with the flame passing through iconic locations and bringing celebrations to selected cities along the way. The journey is intended to give people across the country an opportunity to experience the Olympic spirit before the Games officially begin in Los Angeles.

The public will also have an opportunity to become part of the history. LA28 has confirmed that members of the general public will be eligible to be nominated as torchbearers, although further details about the nomination process will be announced later.

The full route remains under development, meaning the landmarks, cities and communities that will welcome the flame are still to be revealed. What is already certain, however, is the scale of the journey: every U.S. state will have a place in the Olympic Torch Relay for the first time.

THE OLYMPIC STORY WILL CONTINUE

The flame's journey will not be the only torch relay connected with LA28.

Following the conclusion of the Olympic Games, the Paralympic Torch Relay will begin in August 2028. Its flame will originate in Stoke Mandeville, United Kingdom, the birthplace of the Paralympic Movement, before continuing its own journey toward Los Angeles. The starting point of the U.S. portion of that relay will be announced at a later date.

The LA28 Paralympic Games are scheduled for 15–27 August 2028, marking Los Angeles' first time hosting the Paralympic Games.

For LA28, the Olympic flame will therefore become more than a symbol carried toward an opening ceremony. It will become a moving connection between communities separated by thousands of miles, linking America's Olympic past in Atlanta with its Olympic future in Los Angeles.

One flame. Fifty states. Millions of people. One extraordinary road to LA28. 

The TCS London Marathon is preparing to make history in 2027, with the world-famous race set to become a two-day event for the first time.

The landmark edition will take place on Saturday, April 24, and Sunday, April 25, 2027, bringing together an unprecedented 100,000 participants across the weekend in a one-off expansion of one of the world's most prestigious marathons.

Known as the 2027 Double TCS London Marathon, the historic weekend will give thousands more runners the opportunity to experience the legendary course from Greenwich to Westminster, while elite athletes and mass participants share the spotlight across two days.

The decision to introduce the two-day format follows extraordinary demand for places. More than 1.33 million people entered the ballot for the 2027 marathon, underlining the enormous global appeal of the London Marathon.

DOUBLE BILL! 

For the first time in the event's history, the elite programme will be spread across two days, creating a unique weekend of world-class marathon racing.

SATURDAY, APRIL 24

1. Elite Men's Wheelchair

2. Elite Men

3. Men's Championships and Good For Age

Saturday will put the spotlight on the men's competition, with the elite men's wheelchair race and elite men's marathon forming the centrepiece of the opening day. Men's Championship and Good For Age runners will also take to the iconic London course.

SUNDAY, APRIL 25

1. Elite Women's Wheelchair

2. Elite Women

3. Women's Championships and Good For Age

Sunday will then belong to the women's field, with the elite women's wheelchair and elite women's marathon races followed by the Women's Championships and Good For Age categories.

The two-day arrangement will create a completely different atmosphere around the London Marathon, allowing the world's leading athletes and thousands of amateur runners to share the spotlight across an extraordinary weekend.

A Marathon Weekend Like No Other

Despite the expanded format, the event will retain the character that has made the London Marathon one of the world's most recognisable road races.

Runners will once again take on the iconic route through the streets of the British capital, beginning in the Greenwich area before making their way towards the famous finish in central London.

The 2027 edition will also provide an enormous platform for spectators, charities, volunteers and running communities from across the globe to become part of a historic occasion.

More Than Just A Race

The 2027 Double is expected to become much more than a marathon. It will be a huge celebration of running, charity and London communities, bringing together recreational runners, elite athletes, volunteers, spectators and supporters from around the world.

The London Marathon has long been recognised as one of the world's major fundraising events, and the expanded 2027 edition is expected to create even greater opportunities for charities and community organisations to raise money.

Organisers have projected that the 2027 Double could generate more than £150 million for good causes, while also delivering a significant economic and social contribution to the United Kingdom.

The wider celebrations will also include the TCS Mini London Marathon, ensuring that young runners have their own opportunity to be part of this historic weekend.

One Historic Weekend, One Iconic Race

Although the 2027 edition will look very different from previous London Marathons, the two-day format is planned as a one-off change for 2027.

With 100,000 participants, two days of elite competition and a mass field representing runners from around the world, the 2027 TCS London Marathon is set to become one of the most extraordinary editions in the event's history.

From world-class wheelchair athletes and elite marathoners to Championship competitors, Good For Age runners and thousands of recreational participants, London will become the centre of the global running world for one unforgettable weekend.

The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) has officially revealed the qualifying cut-off for the 131st Boston Marathon, with runners required to finish 5 minutes and 17 seconds faster than their respective qualifying standards to secure a place in the 2027 race.

In total, 25,630 qualified applicants have been accepted or are in the process of being accepted, while 8,019 qualifiers were not accepted, highlighting just how competitive entry to the iconic Boston Marathon has become.

For runners in the 18–34 age group, the numbers were particularly demanding. Men needed to run 2:49:43, while women and non-binary athletes needed 3:19:43 to make the cut.

The latest figures show that achieving the official Boston qualifying standard alone was not enough this time around. Thousands of runners managed to qualify under the published standards but were left outside the field because demand for places exceeded the available capacity.

The 5:17 cut-off also represents a significant margin for athletes chasing their Boston dreams. For many runners, the difference between qualifying and being accepted came down to several minutes after months or even years of training.

The figures also underline the growing depth of the marathon community, with a large number of athletes now capable of running times that would once have been comfortably inside the Boston field. As more runners target the historic race, the gap between simply achieving the qualifying standard and actually earning a bib continues to become an important part of the Boston experience.

For those who secured acceptance, the focus now shifts from qualification to preparation. With the race set for April 19, 2027, runners have the opportunity to build toward the famous 26.2-mile journey from Hopkinton to Boston and experience one of the most celebrated traditions in road racing.

The 131st Boston Marathon is scheduled for April 19, 2027, bringing together another highly competitive field of qualifiers from around the world. For those who made the cut, the next chapter is now about preparing for Patriots' Day and the historic journey from Hopkinton to Boston.

For the thousands who missed out despite achieving the qualifying standard, the result serves as another reminder of how difficult it has become to turn a Boston-qualifying time into an actual race entry.

Hungary’s Lili Anna Vindics-Tóth delivered a remarkable performance at the 48th Warsaw Marathon on Sunday, September 27, 2026, smashing the Hungarian marathon record and setting a new women’s course record with a stunning time of 2:24:48.

Vindics-Tóth produced a breakthrough performance on the streets of the Polish capital, improving her previous personal best of 2:27:21 by more than two minutes. Her 2:24:48 also eclipsed the previous Warsaw Marathon women’s course record of 2:28:35 by almost four minutes.

The Hungarian’s performance was particularly significant, as she became the fastest woman ever recorded over the marathon distance in a race held in Poland, according to the race organizers.

Her remarkable run also represented a major improvement on her previous 2026 best of 2:27:28, recorded in Copenhagen in May. The new Hungarian record marks a defining moment in her career and places her among Europe’s leading marathon runners.

Vindics-Tóth Leads Historic Women’s Podium

Vindics-Tóth secured the women’s title in 2:24:48, narrowly holding off Ethiopia’s Gelane Senbete, who finished second in 2:24:57.

Kenya’s Vivian Jerotich Kosgei claimed third place in 2:28:34, while Ethiopia’s Addis Alem Belay completed the top four in 2:30:31.

The women’s race produced a competitive contest at the front, with Vindics-Tóth’s record-breaking performance highlighting the growing depth of international distance running in Europe.

Stephen Kibor Leads Men’s Race

Kenya’s Stephen Kibor claimed overall victory in the men’s marathon, crossing the finish line in 2:09:19 to secure the title in Warsaw.

Kibor led an international podium, with Uganda’s Victor Kwemboi finishing second in 2:12:20, followed by compatriot Ezekiel Mutai, who took third place in 2:12:36.

Sweden’s Emil Millán de la Oliva completed the top four in 2:13:13, rounding off a competitive men’s race featuring athletes from several countries.

Kibor’s victory added another Kenyan success to the country’s long history of producing elite marathon runners who have excelled on major European road-racing courses.

International Field Takes on Warsaw’s Streets

The 48th Warsaw Marathon began at 9:00 a.m. around Świętokrzyska Street, near the Palace of Culture and Science, with the certified 42.195-kilometre course taking runners through the Polish capital.

This year’s edition attracted an international elite field alongside thousands of mass-participation runners, with spectators lining the streets to support the athletes throughout the race.

The organizers had targeted a significant improvement to the women’s course record, with pacemakers assigned to support a pace corresponding to approximately 2:24–2:26.

Vindics-Tóth ultimately delivered a performance that surpassed expectations, turning the Warsaw Marathon into the biggest race of her career so far and etching her name into the event’s history.

The Warsaw Marathon has remained a major fixture on the European road-running calendar since its first edition in 1979, continuing to attract elite athletes and recreational runners from around the world.

With a Hungarian national record, a new women’s course record and an impressive international podium, the 2026 edition produced a memorable day of marathon racing in the Polish capital.

Lili Anna Vindics-Tóth — 2:24:48. A Hungarian record, a Warsaw course record and a breakthrough performance that will be remembered for years to come.

For years, Grace Sugut has been a familiar presence alongside one of the greatest marathon runners in history, Eliud Kipchoge. Now, her own running story is beginning to take shape.

Sugut is preparing for the third marathon of her career when she lines up at the Nike Melbourne Marathon on Sunday, October 11, 2026, sharing the start line with her husband once again as Kipchoge continues his ambitious global marathon journey in Australia.

What makes Grace’s story particularly fascinating is the speed at which her marathon journey has developed. Rather than spending years building towards the distance, she has embraced the challenge in a relatively short period, travelling across continents and gradually establishing her own identity as a marathon runner.

Her journey began in Cape Town on May 24, 2026, where she completed her marathon debut in 4:29:59. That first race marked the beginning of a new chapter for a woman who had long been closely connected to marathon running through Kipchoge.

Just weeks later, she continued that adventure in South America, taking on the NB42K Porto Alegre Marathon in Brazil on July 12. The race provided another opportunity to gain experience over the demanding 42.195-kilometre distance and add another international marathon to her growing journey.

Now, Melbourne awaits.

The Nike Melbourne Marathon will give Grace another chance to test herself over the full marathon distance, this time on a redesigned course that organisers have made faster and flatter. The 2026 route features up to 20 per cent less elevation gain and 30 per cent fewer turns, while the race will once again finish inside the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The marathon starts at 6:15 a.m. from Batman Avenue before taking runners through some of Melbourne’s most recognisable areas and ultimately into the MCG for a memorable stadium finish.

For Grace, however, Melbourne represents more than another race on the calendar.

It places her directly inside the extraordinary global adventure being undertaken by her husband.

Kipchoge’s Eliud’s Running World project is taking him to seven marathons across all seven continents over a two-year period, combining marathon racing with a wider mission to bring communities together through running and support education and environmental initiatives through the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation.

Melbourne is the third stop of that journey, following Cape Town in South Africa and Porto Alegre in Brazil.

And this time, Grace is not simply accompanying the journey from the sidelines.

She is running it.

From Cape Town to Porto Alegre and now Melbourne, her progression reflects a personal transformation from being closely associated with marathon running through Eliud to taking on the distance herself.

There is something deeply compelling about that journey. While Kipchoge has spent more than a decade building one of the most celebrated marathon careers in history, Grace is beginning her own story from a very different starting point — learning the marathon one race, one continent and one kilometre at a time.

On October 11, thousands of runners will fill Melbourne’s streets, while the spectacular finish inside the MCG will provide the backdrop for another memorable day of marathon running.

Kipchoge will continue his seven-continent mission.

Grace Sugut will have a simpler but equally personal objective: to keep moving forward and complete another 42.195 kilometres.

From supporting a marathon legend to becoming a marathon runner herself, Grace’s journey is only beginning — and Melbourne could become another important chapter in a story that is already taking her around the world.

Some world records are broken within months or even weeks. Others survive for years, becoming part of athletics history and turning every new generation of challengers into another chapter in their remarkable story.

As of September 25, 2026, a remarkable collection of long-standing running world records continues to stand across the track. At the top of that list is one of the most enduring marks in modern athletics: Jarmila Kratochvílová’s women’s 800m world record of 1:53.28, set in Munich in 1983. The record has now stood for 43 years, making it the oldest current outdoor track world record in athletics.

Kratochvílová’s performance remains extraordinary not only because of its longevity, but also because of how rarely athletes have come close to it. Decades after it was established, the 1:53 barrier remains one of the most formidable standards in women’s middle-distance running.

The next-oldest record on the board belongs to Marita Koch, whose 47.60 for the women’s 400m has remained untouched since 1985. Koch’s mark is now 40 years old, while Florence Griffith-Joyner’s extraordinary world records of 10.49 for 100m and 21.34 for 200m, both established in 1988, have survived for 38 and 37 years respectively.

Those records from the 1980s and early 1990s form one of the most intriguing chapters in athletics history. They belong to an era that produced performances still sitting at the very top of the all-time lists, with modern generations repeatedly attempting to reach standards that have resisted decades of competition.

China’s Wang Junxia added another remarkable mark to that era when she ran 8:06.11 for 3000m in 1993. That record has now stood for 32 years, while Morocco’s Hicham El Guerrouj set the men’s 1500m world record of 3:26.00 in 1998, giving the list another mark that has survived for more than a quarter of a century.

Then comes a different kind of longevity: the extraordinary sprint records of Usain Bolt.

Bolt’s 9.58-second 100m world record, set in Berlin in 2009, and his 19.19-second 200m record, established at the same championships, are now both 17 years old.

When Bolt produced those performances, many of today’s elite sprinters were still children. Yet despite enormous advances in training, sports science, track technology and competition, his two marks remain the standards that every new generation must chase.

The list also highlights the remarkable staying power of more recent records. Kenya’s David Rudisha set the men’s 800m world record of 1:40.91 at the London 2012 Olympics, while South Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk stunned the world with 43.03 in the 400m at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

Kenya’s Beatrice Chepkoech followed with her historic 8:44.32 world record in the women’s 3000m steeplechase in 2018. Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei then established the men’s 5000m and 10,000m records in 2020, running 12:35.36 and 26:11.00 respectively.

More recently, Ethiopia’s Lamecha Girma set the men’s 3000m steeplechase world record at 7:52.11 in 2023, while Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon produced another landmark performance that year, running 4:07.64 for the women’s mile.

Together, these records create a fascinating timeline of athletics—from the pioneering performances of the 1980s to the spectacular achievements of the modern era. Some have survived for more than four decades, while others are still in the early stages of what could become an equally remarkable reign.

And that is what makes world records so captivating: every generation arrives believing that today’s impossible can become tomorrow’s target, yet some numbers continue to stand as enduring reminders of performances that changed the sport forever.

The TCS New York City Marathon is set for a small but significant change to its iconic 26.2-mile course, with runners facing a revised section in the Bronx between Miles 20 and 21.

For 15 years, every New York City Marathon runner passed through the exact same stretch of the Bronx around Mile 20, navigating a short loop that surrounded a neighborhood supermarket and a 24-hour laundromat for much of race day. This November, that familiar loop will disappear.

New York Road Runners (NYRR) is making its first course change to the marathon in 15 years. Instead of looping near East 140th Street, runners will head north on Alexander Avenue, turn onto Third Avenue and then cut south on 138th Street toward the Madison Avenue Bridge.

The adjustment removes two turns from the Bronx section, reducing the number from seven to five. While that may sound insignificant for a race covering 26.2 miles, the change comes at a point when runners are already deep into the marathon and every turn, road surface and change in rhythm can become more noticeable.

However, the primary reason for the change is not to make the course faster or help runners shave seconds from their finishing times.

Bronx resident Jennifer Alicea told The New York Times that the previous route made it extremely difficult to reach her only nearby grocery store on marathon day. NYRR's Metellus, who grew up in the Bronx, described the affected blocks as food deserts and saw the course's required recertification as an opportunity to address the problem.

The timing also carries added significance. This year marks 50 years since the New York City Marathon expanded beyond Central Park in 1976, becoming the five-borough race that has since grown into one of the world's most famous marathons.

The route will still cover the same 26.2 miles through New York's five boroughs, but the Bronx experience will be slightly different. For elite athletes, two fewer turns could mean a smoother rhythm during the crucial closing stages. For thousands of recreational runners, the bigger difference may be felt by the communities living along the course rather than on the race clock.

The New York City Marathon has long been celebrated not only for its elite competition but also for the connection between the race and the communities it passes through. The latest adjustment reflects that relationship, showing how even an established course can evolve while preserving the character of the event.

So, two fewer turns, the same five boroughs and the same 26.2 miles — but potentially one less headache for residents of the Bronx.

For runners taking on New York this November, the question remains: will you even notice those two fewer turns when you reach Mile 20? 

The 2026 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon is heading towards its biggest edition yet, with a record 30,700 runners registered and more than 200 elite athletes from 102 nationalities expected to take part in the October 25 race at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi.

The growing scale of the event has been matched by unprecedented backing from sponsors and partners, with a record KES 273 million committed towards this year’s marathon.

Standard Chartered has contributed KES 130 million, while sponsors have provided a further KES 143 million through cash and in-kind support. The investment is expected to play a key role in delivering a safe, memorable and world-class experience for the more than 30,000 runners expected on the starting line.

The increased support was highlighted during a breakfast appreciation event held for the marathon’s sponsors and partners, recognising their contribution to an event whose influence continues to extend beyond race day.

The 2026 edition has attracted 56 sponsors, up from 43 in 2025, representing a 30 per cent increase in the number of supporting partners. The combined sponsorship value is also 17 per cent higher than the KES 233 million secured last year and 58 per cent above the KES 173 million raised in 2024.

Local Organising Committee chairman David Mwindi said the record investment demonstrates the collective commitment behind the marathon and its wider impact.

“This record KES 273 million investment reflects the shared commitment of Standard Chartered and our sponsors to delivering a world-class marathon with lasting impact,” Mwindi said.

On the course, participants will start and finish at Uhuru Gardens, with the route taking runners through the Southern Bypass. The programme will feature the 42-kilometre full marathon, 21-kilometre half marathon and 10-kilometre road race, alongside a 21-kilometre wheelchair race.

The event will also cater for recreational runners and families through the 5-kilometre family fun run, while the CEO Challenge and Corporate Challenge will add another dimension to the day, bringing businesses and their teams into the celebrations.

The presence of more than 200 elite athletes from 102 nationalities is expected to add further international depth to an event already attracting unprecedented mass participation.

With record entries, a larger group of sponsors and KES 273 million in financial and in-kind support, the 2026 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon is set to offer more than a day of racing. It is increasingly becoming a platform that brings together elite sport, mass participation, business, community engagement and broader social impact.

As October 25 draws closer, attention will turn to the Kenya's capital for the elite line-ups, the athletes seeking honours across the various distances and the stories that will unfold while thousands of recreational runners prepare to make their own mark on what promises to be a landmark edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.

At just 19, Sha’Carri Richardson looked like a star destined to take over the sprinting world.

The speed was undeniable. In 2019, she announced herself on the collegiate stage with a 10.75-second NCAA record in the 100 metres, combining explosive acceleration with a fearless personality and a distinctive style that made her impossible to ignore.

She was young, confident and unapologetically herself.

But the road to becoming a champion was about to become far more complicated than anyone could have imagined.

In 2021, Richardson won the women’s 100m at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 10.86 seconds and appeared set for her Olympic debut.

Then everything changed.

A positive test for THC resulted in a one-month suspension, which ultimately ruled her out of the Tokyo Olympic 100m. USADA confirmed that Richardson accepted the sanction, which began on June 28, 2021.

The episode came at an especially difficult moment in her life. Richardson had publicly spoken about grieving the death of her biological mother and the emotional circumstances surrounding that period.

For an athlete who had seemed destined for Olympic glory, Tokyo became a painful chapter instead.

But it did not become the final chapter.

Richardson returned to the track with something to prove — not simply to the critics, but to herself.

The comeback became a championship story

In 2023, Richardson transformed her comeback into one of the defining performances of her career.

At the World Championships in Budapest, she won the 100m world title in 10.65 seconds, setting a championship record and defeating a field that included some of the greatest sprinters of her generation. World Athletics lists 10.65 as Richardson’s legal personal best, recorded on August 21, 2023.

She did not stop there.

Richardson also helped the United States win the women’s 4x100m relay gold in Budapest, adding another world title to a season that had completely changed the narrative surrounding her career.

The teenager who had once been celebrated for her raw talent was now a world champion.

Paris brought Olympic medals

A year later, Richardson arrived at the Paris 2024 Olympics carrying expectations of another major championship performance.

She delivered.

Richardson won silver in the individual 100m and then anchored the United States to gold in the women’s 4x100m relay. World Athletics records her as an Olympic champion and Olympic silver medallist.

The Olympic gold was particularly significant.

After missing Tokyo, Richardson had returned to the biggest stage in the sport and left Paris as an Olympic champion.

Her journey had gone from disappointment to the highest step of the podium.

2026: Still winning, still evolving

Richardson's story continued into 2026, and she closed the season in emphatic fashion at ATHLOS London.

On September 18 at StoneX Stadium, she won the 100m in 10.80 seconds with no wind assistance, finishing well clear of New Zealand's Zoe Hobbs, who ran 11.19. The performance was also an ATHLOS meeting record.

It was another reminder that Richardson remains one of the defining personalities of modern sprinting.

But the most compelling part of her journey cannot be measured entirely in seconds.

It is the evolution behind the performances.

The young sprinter who entered the global spotlight with enormous confidence has experienced public criticism, disappointment, grief, triumph and the enormous pressure that comes with being one of the world's most recognizable athletes.

Through it all, she has continued to shape her identity on her own terms.

Her story is no longer simply about speed.

It is about resilience, reinvention and the ability to return after a moment that could have permanently changed the direction of a career.

From a teenage sensation running 10.75 to a world champion running 10.65.

From missing the Tokyo Olympics to winning Olympic gold in Paris.

From one of the most difficult periods of her young career to becoming an established global sprint star.

Sha’Carri Richardson did not simply return to the track.

She returned with a different perspective, a bigger résumé and a story that belongs to her.

And perhaps that is the most powerful transformation of all: not becoming someone different, but growing into a stronger version of the person she always wanted to be.

The United States enjoyed a remarkable day at the 2026 World Athletics Road Running Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark, securing team medals in both the men’s and women’s half marathon competitions.

The American men claimed bronze in the team standings, while the women produced a historic performance to win silver and secure Team USA’s first-ever women’s team medal at the World Road Running Championships.

Leading the way for the American men was Conner Mantz, who finished 12th individually in 1:00:08, clocking a season’s best to spearhead the American challenge over the 21.1-kilometre distance.

For Mantz, the performance carried added significance as he continues his comeback from injury. His 1:00:08 season’s best provided a strong return to championship-level competition and an important tune-up as he prepares to take on the New York City Marathon in November.

Mantz’s performance also proved crucial to Team USA’s team medal effort, with his 12th-place finish providing the foundation for the Americans to secure bronze in the men’s standings.

Ahmed Muhumed followed closely in 13th place, crossing the finish line in 1:00:15. The performance marked a significant breakthrough for Muhumed, who lowered his previous best by 48 seconds in a major championship setting.

Wesley Kiptoo completed the American scoring trio, placing 23rd in 1:01:11. Kiptoo also produced a season’s best, contributing another important performance to the United States’ team effort.

The combined performances of Mantz, Muhumed and Kiptoo were enough to place the United States third in the men’s team standings, securing a hard-earned bronze medal in Copenhagen.

For Muhumed, the race was one of the biggest breakthroughs of the day, with his 1:00:15 representing a 48-second improvement on his previous best. Kiptoo’s season-best 1:01:11 further strengthened the American challenge and helped convert three individual performances into a place on the global podium.

On the women’s side, Team USA made history by placing three athletes inside the top seven, earning its first-ever women’s team medal at the World Road Running Championships.

Emma Grace Hurley led the American women with a sensational fifth-place finish in 1:06:23. The performance was a huge personal best, taking more than a minute off her previous best of 1:07:35 and moving her to No. 3 on the U.S. all-time half marathon list.

Hurley also finished as the first American across the line, delivering one of the standout performances of the championship for the United States.

Weini Kelati Frezghi followed in sixth place, clocking 1:06:35 and ensuring that Team USA had two athletes inside the top six. Jessica McClain completed the scoring trio in seventh, stopping the clock at 1:06:53.

McClain’s performance represented another major breakthrough. She entered Copenhagen with a half marathon personal best of 1:08:37 but improved that mark by nearly two minutes, producing a remarkable 1:06:53 and moving to No. 6 on the U.S. all-time list.

With Hurley, Kelati Frezghi and McClain all finishing inside the top seven, the American women combined their individual performances to secure a historic team silver medal.

The achievement gave Team USA a remarkable double podium finish in the half marathon team competitions, with the men taking bronze and the women claiming silver.

Beyond the medals, Copenhagen provided a showcase of individual breakthroughs for the American distance runners. Hurley moved into the top three on the U.S. all-time list, while McClain made an equally significant leap into sixth, as Mantz added another season’s best during his return from injury.

For Mantz, the Copenhagen race now serves as an important stepping stone toward the New York City Marathon in November, giving him a competitive test and a confidence-building performance as he continues his return to top-level racing.

It was a memorable championship outing for Team USA, with strong individual performances translating into two team medals and a landmark first for the American women at the World Road Running Championships.

Kenya’s Agnes Jebet Ngetich produced a stunning performance in Copenhagen on Sunday, September 20, 2026, powering to women’s half marathon gold at the World Athletics Road Running Championships in a sensational 1:05:15.

Ngetich’s victory delivered far more than a global title. Her 1:05:15 surpassed the previous women-only half marathon world record of 1:05:16, putting her at the top of the record books with a performance that further underlined her growing status as one of the most formidable road runners in the world. The record remains subject to the usual ratification procedures.

What made the performance even more remarkable was the manner in which Ngetich controlled the race. The Kenyan dictated the pace across all 21.1 kilometres, taking command from the outset and never surrendering her grip on the contest as she raced relentlessly towards the finish.

From the opening stages, Ngetich imposed a relentless rhythm, using the aggressive front-running style that has become one of the defining features of her racing. Rather than waiting for the decisive moments, the Kenyan took control early and forced her rivals to respond to her pace.

The performance marked another extraordinary chapter in a remarkable 2026 campaign. Ngetich had already established herself as a global champion earlier in the year, adding another major international title to a season that has continued to demonstrate her exceptional consistency and versatility.

Her strength extends well beyond the half marathon. Ngetich is already the world record-holder over 10km, having produced a breathtaking 28:46, a mark that established her as one of the fastest women ever recorded over the distance and further cemented her reputation as a dominant force on the roads.

Copenhagen therefore became another defining stage in Ngetich’s rapid rise. With her ability to sustain an extraordinary pace while racing aggressively from the front, she has developed a style that leaves little room for her competitors to settle into their own rhythm.

The Kenyan’s latest triumph also adds another prestigious global honour to her collection and strengthens her position among the leading figures of the current generation of distance running. Her performances throughout 2026 have shown remarkable range, from shorter road distances to the half marathon, while maintaining an unmistakable hunger for major titles.

By the time she crossed the finish line in Copenhagen, Ngetich had transformed another championship race into a piece of history. A world title, a women-only world record and complete control over 21.1km now stand alongside her name as she continues to build one of the most remarkable distance-running seasons of 2026.

The championship also produced a strong international top 10, with Kenya taking three of the first four places. Veronica Loleo followed Ngetich in second in 1:06:05, while Rwanda’s Florence Niyonkuru finished third in a national record of 1:06:08. Daisilah Jerono completed the Kenyan presence in the top four in 1:06:13, while the United States placed three athletes inside the top seven.

Top 10 Women’s Half Marathon Results — Copenhagen 2026

1. Agnes Jebet Ngetich (Kenya) — 1:05:15 — World Record

2. Veronica Loleo (Kenya) — 1:06:05

3. Florence Niyonkuru (Rwanda) — 1:06:08 — National Record

4. Daisilah Jerono (Kenya) — 1:06:13

5. Emma Grace Hurley (USA) — 1:06:23 — Personal Best

6. Weini Kelati Frezghi (USA) — 1:06:35

7. Jessica McClain (USA) — 1:06:53 — Personal Best

8. Ftaw Zeray (Ethiopia) — 1:07:07

9. Fatima Ezzahra Birdaha (Morocco) — 1:07:33 — National Record

10. Esther Chebet (Uganda) — 1:07:38

As Copenhagen witnessed another unforgettable chapter in women’s distance running, Ngetich emerged as the central figure of the championship. Her world-record run, backed by fearless front-running and remarkable endurance, has further elevated her place on the global stage. With the 2026 season continuing to produce historic performances, Ngetich’s latest achievement stands as another powerful reminder of Kenya’s enduring excellence in distance running.

Dawn Harper-Nelson has already experienced the highest level of success an athlete can reach. Now, years after establishing herself as one of the finest hurdlers of her generation, the American Olympic champion is carving out an equally compelling identity behind the microphone.

Harper-Nelson won the 100m hurdles gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games before returning four years later to claim silver at London 2012. Her career also produced two World Championship medals — bronze in 2011 and silver in 2017 — while her personal best of 12.37 seconds, set in London in 2012, remains a defining mark of her distinguished career.

But her influence on athletics did not end when she stepped away from competitive sport.

In recent years, Harper-Nelson has successfully moved into broadcasting, presenting and athlete-focused media work, bringing with her something that cannot simply be learned in a studio: first-hand experience of competing under immense pressure on the world's biggest stages.

Her transition into media gained further momentum after she worked as an analyst during NBCUniversal's coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, becoming part of an Emmy-winning broadcast team. She has also worked with USA Track & Field in roles including press moderator, emcee and broadcaster, extending her connection with the sport beyond the competition arena.

That experience has become particularly visible at some of athletics' newest and most ambitious events.

At the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest, Harper-Nelson served as an infield host throughout the three-day competition. World Athletics introduced the event with an emphasis on modern presentation, athlete storytelling and a television-focused experience, making the role of hosts and broadcasters increasingly important in connecting athletes with audiences.

Harper-Nelson was also involved in the championship's innovative pre-event programme, The Day Before, where athletes took part in interviews, content creation and other media opportunities ahead of the competition. Her presence alongside figures such as World Athletics President Sebastian Coe and Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt underlined the experience she now brings to major athletics productions.

Her connection with ATHLOS has provided another prominent platform. The women's track and field series has developed a presentation style that combines elite competition with entertainment and athlete-focused storytelling, and Harper-Nelson has become one of the recognizable voices helping bring that experience to audiences. She previously hosted ATHLOS's long-jump competition in New York and has continued her association with the event as it expanded internationally to London in 2026.

What makes Harper-Nelson's media career particularly interesting is the perspective she carries from her own competitive journey. She knows the nerves before a major final, the pressure of championship competition, the disappointment of falling short and the discipline required to return stronger.

That background allows her to approach athlete conversations from a position of genuine understanding. Rather than simply describing what happens on the track, she can draw on her own experiences to explore the emotions, preparation and personal stories behind the performances.

Her evolution also reflects a wider change in modern athletics, where former champions are increasingly becoming storytellers, analysts, presenters and ambassadors for the sport. The ability to communicate an athlete's personality and explain the significance of a performance has become an important part of how major competitions reach new audiences.

For Harper-Nelson, the journey from the starting line to the broadcast platform has therefore been more than a career change. It has been a continuation of her relationship with athletics — only this time, she is helping tell the stories rather than creating them through her own performances.

From Olympic champion to accomplished broadcaster and event host, Dawn Harper-Nelson is showing that an athlete's influence does not have to end when the competitive career does. Her second chapter is giving her a new way to remain at the heart of the sport she once dominated on the track.

Ethiopia’s Likina Amebaw produced another outstanding performance on the global stage on Saturday, September 19, 2026, winning the women’s 5km title at the World Athletics Road Running Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Amebaw stormed to gold in 14:41, adding another global title to her remarkable season just six days after winning the women’s 5000m at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championships in Budapest.

The Ethiopian distance star once again demonstrated her ability to deliver when it matters most, producing a commanding performance over the fast Copenhagen course to claim the world 5km road title.

Kenya’s Caroline Makandi Gitonga delivered a brilliant performance to secure the silver medal in 14:48, giving Kenya a place on the global podium. Gitonga stayed firmly in contention throughout the race before crossing the finish line just seven seconds behind the newly crowned champion.

Australia’s Rose Davies completed the podium in 14:50, taking bronze and setting an Australian area record in an impressive display of front-running and determination.

The result also saw several athletes produce notable performances behind the leading trio, with Marta Garcia recording 14:59, Georgia Griffith running 15:01, Samiya Hassan Nour finishing in 15:04, Hannah Gapes clocking 15:06 and Hannah Nuttall stopping the clock at 15:08, while Mirriam Cherop followed in 15:09 and Allie Ostrander in 15:10.

With two global titles secured within just six days, Likina Amebaw has turned an extraordinary week into a defining chapter of her 2026 season.

Women’s 5km Top 10 Results — Copenhagen 2026

1. Likina Amebaw — Ethiopia — 14:41

2. Caroline Makandi Gitonga — Kenya — 14:48

3. Rose Davies — Australia — 14:50 — Area Record

4. Marta Garcia — Spain — 14:59 — PB

5. Georgia Griffith — Australia — 15:01 — PB

6. Samiya Hassan Nour — Djibouti — 15:04

7. Hannah Gapes — Australia — 15:06 — PB

8. Hannah Nuttall — Great Britain — 15:08 — PB

9. Mirriam Cherop — Kenya — 15:09 — PB

10. Allie Ostrander — USA — 15:10 — PB

The Copenhagen race was fiercely contested, with the leading athletes pushing the pace over the flat and fast 5km course. Amebaw, however, had the strength to separate herself from her rivals and hold on for another major championship victory.

What makes her achievement even more remarkable is the short turnaround between her two titles. Winning a world 5000m championship in Budapest and returning only six days later to triumph over 5km on the roads of Copenhagen is a remarkable demonstration of endurance, recovery and championship racing ability.

For Ethiopia, Amebaw’s victory adds another major international success to a season already filled with impressive performances. For Kenya, Gitonga’s silver medal provides another strong result on the world stage and confirms her ability to compete among the best road runners in the world.

With two global titles secured within just six days, Likina Amebaw has turned an extraordinary week into a defining chapter of her 2026 season.

Germany’s Robert Farken gave himself an unforgettable early birthday present in Copenhagen on Saturday, producing a devastating late surge to win the men’s Road Mile title at the World Athletics Road Running Championships.

Just one day before his birthday, Farken stormed to victory in a world-leading 3:51.80, timing his finishing move to perfection to edge American star Yared Nuguse in a thrilling battle over the closing stages.

The victory was not only a global road-running title for Farken but also a German road mile record, underlining the quality of his performance on the streets of Copenhagen.

Farken remained composed as the leading contenders battled for position, refusing to make his decisive move too early. With the finish approaching, the German unleashed his acceleration at exactly the right moment, opening a crucial gap on Nuguse and powering through the final metres to secure gold.

Nuguse, one of the leading contenders in the field, produced a season’s best of 3:52.33 to take the silver medal. The American remained in contention deep into the race but could not match Farken’s final burst.

Luxembourg’s Ruben Querinjean completed the podium in 3:52.83, adding another impressive chapter to his national record. His performance ensured that Luxembourg also left Copenhagen with a record-breaking result.

The victory marked a memorable moment for Farken, who turned the eve of his birthday into a celebration of global road-running success. Rather than waiting for the cake and celebrations, the German middle-distance specialist delivered his present on the road — a world title and a record-breaking performance.

The race also featured two Kenyan athletes. Brian Komen finished 14th, while Kyumbe Munguti placed 25th as the Kenyan representatives battled through a fiercely contested international field.

Men’s Road Mile Results

1. Robert Farken — Germany — 3:51.80

2. Yared Nuguse — USA — 3:52.33

3. Ruben Querinjean — Luxembourg — 3:52.83

Farken’s performance provided a fitting start to his birthday weekend. With the field separated by fractions of a second and the title ultimately decided by the final acceleration, the German showed remarkable patience before producing the decisive move when it mattered most.

One day before turning another year older, Farken had already given himself a gift that will be difficult to forget — world road mile gold in Copenhagen and a world-leading 3:51.80.

Kenyan marathon star John Korir has offered a glimpse into the demanding preparation behind his pursuit of another major victory, revealing that he is covering an astonishing amount of mileage as he builds towards the 2026 Valencia Marathon.

Korir, who will return to Spain on December 6 for the prestigious Valencia Marathon, says his current training programme involves running between 45 and 48 kilometres a day, with his weekly mileage reaching between 250 and 270 kilometres.

“I do 45 to 48 kilometres a day and 250 to 270 kilometres per week,” Korir revealed in an exclusive interview with Teddy Mulei of The Star.

The remarkable workload highlights the level of endurance required at the very top of marathon running, with Korir combining substantial mileage with dedicated speed work as he prepares for another demanding championship-calibre race.

“I have been focusing on both speed and endurance,” he added.

Korir will head to Valencia with confidence after establishing himself as one of the leading marathoners on the global circuit. He won the 2025 Valencia Marathon in 2:02:24, delivering a controlled and powerful performance to claim the prestigious title.

His impressive form continued into 2026 when he produced one of the biggest performances of his career at the Boston Marathon. Korir stormed to victory in a course-record 2:01:52, lowering his personal best and further strengthening his reputation as one of Kenya’s leading marathon specialists.

The challenge in Valencia, however, is expected to be significantly tougher this time around, with a formidable international field taking shape.

Among the biggest names expected to line up is Ethiopian speedster Yomif Kejelcha, whose transition from the track and shorter road distances to the marathon has already produced remarkable results.

Kejelcha made headlines with a sensational 1:59:41 in London, becoming only the second man to break the two-hour barrier in an official marathon after Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe recorded the world-record 1:59:30 in the same race.

The Ethiopian also has a strong connection with Valencia. He previously set a world record in the half marathon on the Spanish course and has demonstrated repeatedly that he possesses the speed required to produce extraordinary times over longer distances.

For Korir, the upcoming Valencia Marathon will therefore represent more than simply a defence of his title. It will be another opportunity to measure himself against some of the fastest marathoners in the world.

Despite the excitement surrounding the race and the possibility of another exceptionally fast performance, Korir is choosing to remain measured about his specific target.

“For now I cannot talk about what I will be going for in Valencia, but I am praying to God for good health and to be injury-free,” he said.

That cautious approach reflects the unpredictable nature of marathon racing, where months of preparation can ultimately come down to how an athlete responds over the final kilometres.

With his massive training volume, renewed focus on speed and endurance, and growing experience at the highest level, Korir is laying the groundwork for another major performance.

When the elite field takes over the streets of Valencia on December 6, the defending champion will have the added motivation of protecting his crown against a group of rivals carrying ambitions of their own.

For Korir, the road to Valencia has already begun with thousands of kilometres of preparation. The next chapter will be written over 42.195 kilometres.

The stage is set for a spectacular men’s half marathon at the World Athletics Road Running Championships Copenhagen 26, with some of the world’s leading distance runners preparing to battle for global honours on Sunday, September 20.

Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir headlines the field with a remarkable personal best of 58:08, the fastest mark among the athletes entered.

Kipkorir will face a formidable challenge from compatriot Gideon Kipkertich Rono, who owns a 58:38 personal best. Sweden’s Andreas Almgren also brings an exceptional 58:41 to the start line, while Ethiopia’s Tadese Worku has a 58:59 personal best.

Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa adds another major name to the field with a national record of 59:01, while Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo enters with a 59:04 personal best and valuable championship experience.

Ebenyo won silver at the 2023 World Road Running Championships in Riga and will be looking to challenge for another medal in Copenhagen.

Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei will bring enormous championship pedigree to the race. The Olympic and multiple world champion has a half marathon best of 59:21, making him another athlete capable of featuring prominently in the battle for the medals.

The American challenge will be led by Conner Mantz, who owns a 59:15 personal best. France’s Etienne Daguinos, Portugal’s Samuel Barata, Ethiopia’s Bereket Nega, France’s Jimmy Gressier, Canada’s Rory Linkletter, Australia’s Jack Rayner and Morocco’s Mohamed Reda El Aaraby further strengthen an already formidable international field.

Kenya will have particular interest in the championship, with several of its leading road runners lining up against some of the best athletes from Europe, Africa, North America, Asia and Oceania.

The race will be contested over the traditional 21.0975-kilometre distance, with the elite men scheduled to start at 9:45 a.m. local time on Sunday, September 20.

Leading Athletes And Personal Bests

1. Nicholas Kipkorir (Kenya) — 58:08

2. Gideon Kipkertich Rono (Kenya) — 58:38

3. Andreas Almgren (Sweden) — 58:41

4. Tadese Worku (Ethiopia) — 58:59

5. Yemaneberhan Crippa (Italy) — 59:01

6. Daniel Simiu Ebenyo (Kenya) — 59:04

7. Alex Nzioka Matata (Kenya) — 59:11

8. Conner Mantz (USA) — 59:15

9. Joshua Cheptegei (Uganda) — 59:21

10. Etienne Daguinos (France) — 59:27

11. Samuel Barata (Portugal) — 59:40

12. Bereket Nega (Ethiopia) — 59:43

13. Jimmy Gressier (France) — 59:45

14. Rory Linkletter (Canada) — 59:49

15. Peter Lynch (Ireland) — 59:52

16. Jack Rayner (Australia) — 59:53

17. Mohamed Reda El Aaraby (Morocco) — 59:54

18. Hillary Bor (USA) — 59:55

19. Zerei Kbrom Mezngi (Norway) — 1:00:01

20. Bastien Augusto (France) — 1:00:09

21. Mande Bushendich (Uganda) — 1:00:14

22. Jack Rowe (Great Britain) — 1:00:17

23. Cameron Levins (Canada) — 1:00:18

24. Ogikubo Tomoya (Japan) — 1:00:22

25. Bayelign Teshager (Ethiopia) — 1:00:22

26. Elroy Gelant (South Africa) — 1:00:22

27. Célestin Ndikumana (Burundi) — 1:00:23

28. Said Mechaal (Spain) — 1:00:24

29. Nishizawa Yuma (Japan) — 1:00:26

30. Namiki Neo (Japan) — 1:00:29

31. Othmane El Goumri (Morocco) — 1:00:30

32. Inyasi Nicodemus Sulley (Tanzania) — 1:00:31

33. Wesley Kiptoo (USA) — 1:00:34

34. Haftu Strintzos (Australia) — 1:00:36

35. Filmon Tesfu (Netherlands) — 1:00:38

36. Mustapha Akkaoui (Morocco) — 1:00:38

With such remarkable depth, the championship could remain finely poised until the closing stages. The presence of multiple sub-59-minute runners, experienced championship performers and strong finishers sets the scene for a race in which positioning, tactics and the ability to respond to late surges could prove decisive.

For Kipkorir, Ebenyo and their Kenyan teammates, Copenhagen provides an opportunity to turn impressive personal credentials into championship medals. But with a world-class field assembled behind them, the final outcome will only be determined when the leading runners reach the finish line.

The Boston Marathon is about to make history in another way, with a record 215 nonprofit organizations selected to participate in the 2027 Official Charity Program.

The Boston Athletic Association announced the record field on Monday, confirming that the program has surpassed 200 organizations for the first time. Among the 215 selected charities, 22 are first-time partners, adding a new group of organizations to one of the most prominent charity programs in distance running.

The 131st Boston Marathon will take place on Monday, April 19, 2027, with charity runners expected to account for close to 10 percent of the overall field. That translates into thousands of athletes taking on the legendary 26.2-mile course while raising money for causes that extend far beyond the race itself.

The charities represent a wide range of missions, including hospitals and medical care, cancer research, veterans' services, youth development, disability advocacy and homelessness prevention. For the runners involved, the Boston Marathon becomes more than a personal challenge—it becomes a platform for giving back and bringing attention to causes close to their hearts.

The financial impact of the program has also reached record levels. Charity runners raised $57.3 million in 2026, setting a new single-year fundraising record. That was a 13.7 percent increase from the $50.4 million raised in 2025, showing just how rapidly the charitable side of the Boston Marathon continues to grow.

Since the official charity initiative began in 1989, more than $675 million has been raised through Boston Marathon fundraising efforts, providing significant support to nonprofit organizations over nearly four decades.

The growth in the number of participating charities is equally striking. The program featured 160 organizations in 2024, while the 2027 edition will have 215. That is an increase of 55 charities, or roughly 34 percent, in just three years.

But earning a charity place is not simply a shortcut to the Boston starting line. Runners who secure one of these coveted spots take on a major fundraising responsibility, with commitments generally ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, depending on the charity and its requirements.

For many runners, that means their Boston journey begins long before they arrive in Hopkinton. Training runs are accompanied by fundraising campaigns, community events and personal appeals as athletes work to reach their targets while preparing for one of the world's most demanding and prestigious marathons.

The charity route has also become an important pathway for runners who cannot enter through the traditional qualifying system. It gives them an opportunity to experience Boston while simultaneously turning their marathon journey into a fundraising mission.

With 215 organizations now preparing their teams for 2027, the Boston Marathon's charitable footprint has never been larger.

When the starting gun fires next April, thousands of runners will chase the famous finish line on Boylston Street—but they will also be running for something much bigger than themselves.

Masai Russell has called time on a remarkable 2026 campaign, withdrawing from ATHLOS London and ending a season in which the Olympic champion won every race she contested.

The American hurdler confirmed the decision on September 15, just days before ATHLOS London’s September 18 meeting at StoneX Stadium. Russell said she and her team believe stepping away is the right decision for her body as they turn their attention to what comes next.

“I'm grateful for everyone who has supported me throughout this year,” Russell said in her message to fans, before signing off with a promise to return to the track in 2027.

It brings an extraordinary season to a close: 14 races, 14 victories and an unbeaten record in 2026.

Russell’s season reached another level in August when she produced one of the defining performances of the year at the Weltklasse meeting in Zurich. The Olympic champion stormed to 12.09 seconds in the 100m hurdles, breaking Tobi Amusan’s world record of 12.12 and becoming the fastest woman ever over the barriers.

The performance was not a one-off. Russell followed her world-record run by winning the Diamond League Final in Brussels in 12.20 seconds before heading to Budapest for the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship.

In Budapest, she completed her perfect season in style, winning the 100m hurdles in 12.22 seconds ahead of Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan and the Netherlands’ Nadine Visser. The victory was Russell’s 14th of the year and secured her unbeaten record for 2026.

Her withdrawal means fans will not get to see the world-record holder compete at ATHLOS London, where she had originally been announced among the star-studded field. The event takes place at StoneX Stadium on Friday, September 18, as ATHLOS makes its first international appearance.

For Russell, however, the decision closes the chapter on a season that has already placed her among the defining figures of the 2026 athletics campaign.

She has collected Olympic, Diamond League and World Athletics Ultimate Championship success, while adding a world record that erased one of the most significant marks in women's sprint hurdles.

And perhaps most remarkably, she did it without losing a single race.

Now Russell turns her attention to recovery, preparation and whatever comes next.

After a year of 14 wins from 14 races, a world record and an unbeaten streak, the next time Masai Russell steps onto the track will be in 2027 — with the 12.09 world-record holder entering a new season carrying an entirely different level of expectation.

The Great North Run was overshadowed by tragedy on Sunday after two 25-year-old runners died after collapsing during the iconic half-marathon from Newcastle upon Tyne to South Shields.

The two men, both from the North East of England, fell ill during the race despite the presence of extensive medical support along the 13.1-mile course. Organisers confirmed that emergency teams made their “very best efforts” to save them, but both runners sadly died.

More than 63,000 participants took part in the 45th edition of the Great North Run, with huge crowds lining the route. However, what was expected to be a celebration of running was painfully disrupted by the deaths, with fellow competitors and spectators witnessing some of the emergency incidents.

One runner, Rob Nicholson, described the conditions as particularly difficult, saying it had been an exceptionally hot and crowded day.

“Everyone that was there was great,” Nicholson said, highlighting the efforts of members of the public who stepped in to help. He said an off-duty nurse was among those who provided assistance to a collapsed runner.

The race featured numerous measures designed to help participants cope with the heat, including water stations, showers and water-spraying systems. Spectators also joined the effort, handing runners bottles of water, ice pops and other refreshments along the route.

Despite those measures, Nicholson said the combination of heat and congestion made the race especially challenging.

“It was a very hot day and the most crowded I’ve felt doing the run,” he said, explaining that some runners were forced to move onto paths used by spectators as they tried to navigate through the densely packed field.

The most distressing scenes came when runners stopped to protect and assist the collapsed competitors.

Nicholson recalled seeing participants form what he described as a “human shield” around one of the men, while emergency crews used medical screens around the second casualty to protect the scene from public view.

“It was really not nice to see,” he said.

The exact circumstances and cause of the two deaths remain under investigation, with work continuing to establish what happened to the two young runners.

News of the tragedy prompted an outpouring of grief, particularly from friends and fellow members of the local running community. One friend paid tribute on social media, describing one of the men as an “amazing, funny and kind man” and expressing sympathy for both families during what they described as an “awful time.”

The Great Run Company, which organises the event, also expressed its condolences to the families and friends of the two participants.

“Everyone involved in organising the Great North Run extends their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the two participants,” the organisers said.

They added that they were continuing to support the families during the difficult period and offered their thoughts and sympathies to everyone who knew and loved the two men.

The Great North Run remains one of the world's largest and most celebrated mass-participation half-marathons, bringing together tens of thousands of runners and hundreds of thousands of spectators each year.

But this year's edition will be remembered not only for the scale and atmosphere of the event, but also for the heartbreaking loss of two young lives on a day that was supposed to celebrate the joy of running.

Tomorrow could be a defining day for Kenyan athletics — and potentially for the entire African continent.

The World Athletics Council is expected to announce the host of the 2029 World Athletics Championships, with Nairobi's bid carrying the hopes of a continent that has produced generations of extraordinary athletes but has never staged the senior global championships.

For Kenya, the moment could represent the culmination of decades of dominance, sacrifice and achievement on the international athletics stage.

For generations, Kenya has built one of the most remarkable traditions in track and field. From pioneering legends such as Kipchoge Keino and Tegla Loroupe to modern icons including Eliud Kipchoge, Faith Kipyegon, David Rudisha, Sebastian Sawe, Beatrice Chebet and Ezekiel Kemboi among others. Kenyan athletes have repeatedly stood on the biggest stages in world sport.

Their achievements have helped make Kenya one of the most respected names in global athletics. Olympic triumphs, world titles, records and unforgettable performances have carried the country's name across every corner of the sporting world.

But Kenya's relationship with athletics extends far beyond its medal collection.

Running is deeply rooted in communities throughout the country, while the high-altitude training environments of the Rift Valley have become famous worldwide for producing elite distance runners. Behind every champion is a network of coaches, families, training partners and communities that have helped sustain Kenya's extraordinary athletics culture.

Now Nairobi is seeking to bring the world's biggest track and field championship to the country where so many champions have been produced.

The proposed centerpiece of Kenya's bid is Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, a venue already deeply connected to Kenyan athletics. If the bid succeeds, Kasarani could become the stage where the world's finest athletes gather in 2029 to compete for global titles.

And the significance would extend far beyond Kenya.

Africa has produced some of the greatest athletes in athletics history, yet the continent has never hosted the World Athletics Championships. Nairobi's bid could change that.

Kenya's proposal is therefore not simply about staging another major sporting competition. It represents an opportunity to bring the championships to African soil for the first time and introduce millions of international fans to the continent's remarkable athletics culture.

However, Nairobi is facing formidable competition.

Kenya's bid is competing against proposals from London, Rome and Munich, three European cities with established sporting traditions and significant experience hosting major international competitions.

That sets up a fascinating choice for World Athletics.

Will the organization take the championships to a continent that has never hosted the event, creating a historic first for Africa? Or will the competition return to one of Europe's traditional athletics powerhouses?

For Nairobi, the stakes could hardly be higher.

A successful bid would give Kenyan athletes the opportunity to compete at a World Championships in front of their home supporters. It would give young runners across the country the chance to watch the world's best athletes compete in their own backyard. And it would place Kenya's extraordinary athletics heritage at the center of global attention.

It could also provide an opportunity to celebrate the champions who came before — athletes whose achievements helped establish Kenya as an athletics superpower — while inspiring the generation that will carry that legacy forward.

Imagine Kasarani filled with thousands of passionate supporters, the world's best athletes arriving in Nairobi, and Kenyan stars stepping onto the track knowing that the biggest championship in their sport is being staged on home soil.

For a country whose identity is so closely intertwined with running, it would be a remarkable sight.

And for Africa, it could be a moment of enormous symbolic importance.

Tomorrow, Kenya — and Africa — could hear its name called.

One decision. One host. One opportunity to make history.

If Nairobi is chosen, the story would not simply be about Kenya winning a bid. It would be about Africa finally welcoming the World Athletics Championships to its own soil.

It would be a celebration of the pioneers, the champions, the coaches, the communities and the generations of athletes who have helped make African athletics a global force.

And perhaps the headline of 2029 would already be waiting:

Kenya, the home of champions, has finally brought the world to its own backyard.

Nairobi 2029 — could this finally be Africa's moment?

The BMW Berlin Marathon has unveiled its official finisher medal for the 2026 edition, giving thousands of runners another exciting reminder of what awaits them when they cross the finish line in the German capital on September 27.

The striking medal celebrates Berlin through a distinctive combination of gold and silver tones. On the front, the city’s iconic Victory Column takes centre stage, creating a powerful symbol of the historic marathon and the unforgettable journey runners will make through the streets of Berlin.

The reverse side continues the city-inspired theme, featuring a detailed map of Berlin with the marathon course highlighted across it. The design also carries the words “Berlin Legend” and the race date, 27 September 2026, making the medal a lasting reminder of the occasion.

But while the medal offers a glimpse of the reward waiting at the finish, organisers are also making preparations to help runners manage one of the biggest challenges of marathon racing: staying cool during the closing stages of the 42.195-kilometre journey.

For the 2026 race, dedicated Cooling Stations will be available at kilometres 30 and 38, integrated into the aid-station areas. These locations are strategically positioned to provide runners with an opportunity to cool themselves during the demanding final stretch of the marathon.

The cooling facilities will be located before the respective aid stations in the direction of running, close to the showers. They will be clearly identifiable by an official sign attached to the wash trough, making them easy for participants to spot while racing.

The wash troughs will be filled with water, allowing runners to dip their own sponges, towels, caps and other cooling items into the water before continuing their journey. Importantly, participants must bring these items themselves, as they will not be supplied or handed out at the cooling stations.

The reminder could prove particularly valuable for runners planning their race strategy. By preparing cooling equipment in advance and knowing exactly where the stations are located, participants can make the most of the facilities when fatigue begins to set in during the final 12 kilometres.

The BMW Berlin Marathon is one of the world's most prestigious marathon races and forms part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners from across the globe. For many participants, finishing in Berlin represents the culmination of months of training, sacrifice and anticipation.

Now, with the 2026 finisher medal revealed and practical race-day details being released, the excitement is building. The goal for thousands of runners will soon become very real: navigate the streets of Berlin, manage the demanding final kilometres, cross the finish line and earn the coveted “Berlin Legend” medal.

For those lining up on September 27, the countdown is officially on.

The 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon has unveiled its official finisher medal, giving thousands of runners another exciting reason to look forward to one of the world’s most celebrated marathons.

Designed as a tribute to the city and its legendary 26.2-mile course, the medal beautifully captures the character of Chicago while reflecting the experience runners will have as they race through the streets of the Windy City.

The front of the medal features the spectacular Chicago skyline rising behind the LaSalle Street Bridge, recreating an iconic view that participants will encounter during the race. While running along Wells Street, runners will be able to look to their left and see the very scene that has been immortalised on the medal.

The location is particularly meaningful because the LaSalle Street Bridge comes into view during the fourth of the six crossings of the Chicago River that runners make along the marathon course. It creates a special connection between the physical experience of race day and the keepsake runners will proudly carry home after completing the 26.2 miles.

Turning the medal over reveals another remarkable detail, with all 29 neighbourhoods featured along the iconic marathon route. In this way, the medal becomes more than a finishing award—it serves as a lasting celebration of the communities, landmarks and streets that define the Chicago Marathon experience.

For those who earn it, the medal will represent far more than simply completing 26.2 miles. It will carry memories of months of preparation, demanding training sessions, personal sacrifices and the emotional journey of finally reaching the finish line.

The design also gives runners a unique opportunity to carry a piece of Chicago with them long after race day. Every glance at the medal will serve as a reminder of the streets they conquered, the river crossings they navigated and the atmosphere of a city that comes alive for marathon weekend.

With anticipation building among elite athletes and thousands of runners from around the world, the unveiling of the medal marks another exciting milestone on the road to race day. Chicago is preparing once again for a spectacular celebration of distance running—and this year’s medal promises to make the achievement even more memorable. 

Registration for the 2027 Boston Marathon opened today, September 14, giving thousands of runners who have achieved the official qualifying standards their chance to apply for one of the most coveted places in road racing. The registration window will remain open through Friday, September 18, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

The 2027 edition of the Boston Marathon will bring a major change to the qualification process. For the first time, runners who meet their age-group qualifying standard but finish outside the eventual cut-off will have an additional opportunity to gain entry through a new Boston Qualifier Selection.

After registration closes, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) will verify performances and rank applicants according to how far they finished under their respective qualifying standards. The fastest qualifiers will be accepted first, with their performances determining the cut-off for each age and gender group.

But this time, missing that cut-off will not necessarily mean the end of the dream. Approximately 1,000 runners whose qualifying performances are not fast enough to secure automatic entry will be randomly selected through the Boston Qualifier Selection. Those athletes will automatically be included in the pool for the additional draw.

The new system comes as demand for Boston continues to outpace the number of available qualifying places. In recent years, simply achieving the published standard has increasingly failed to guarantee entry. For the 2025 Boston Marathon, 12,324 qualified applicants were not accepted, while another 8,887 missed out for the 2026 race after the qualifying field produced a cut-off of 4 minutes and 34 seconds faster than the applicable standard.

That reality has transformed Boston qualification into a race within the race. A runner may finish under the official standard and still need to be several minutes faster to secure a place, depending on the strength and size of the applicant pool.

The new random-selection component therefore offers a small but significant second chance to runners who have already done what Boston asks of them: beat the qualifying standard for their age and gender. The B.A.A. says the change reflects the increasingly fast pace of marathon running and the growing global demand for places in the historic race.

There is another important change for the 2027 registration cycle, and it could have a major impact on runners choosing where to chase their qualifying times.

The B.A.A. has introduced a net-downhill adjustment for qualifying performances. Any verified qualifying time recorded on a course with a net elevation drop of at least 1,500 feet will receive an adjustment when submitted for Boston consideration. Courses with a net drop of 1,500 to 2,999 feet will receive a five-minute addition, while courses dropping 3,000 to 5,999 feet will receive a 10-minute addition. A course with a net downhill of 6,000 feet or more will not be accepted as a Boston qualifying course.

The rule means a runner's official finishing time may not necessarily be the time ultimately used by Boston for qualification purposes. For example, a 2:45:30 performance on a course with a 2,000-foot net descent would be assessed as 2:50:30 after the five-minute adjustment.

The B.A.A. says the policy is intended to account for the significant advantage provided by courses with substantial net elevation loss and to create a more consistent standard for athletes qualifying around the world.

Despite the changes, the published 2027 qualifying standards remain unchanged. Men aged 18–34 must run 2:55:00, while women and non-binary runners in the same age group must run 3:25:00. The standards gradually increase across the older age groups, with runners aged 80 and above required to run 4:50:00 for men and 5:20:00 for women and non-binary athletes.

Importantly, qualifying standards are based on a runner's age on race day, April 19, 2027, and qualifying times must be official net times from eligible certified marathon courses. Meeting the standard still does not guarantee entry because the size of the qualifying field remains limited.

For runners chasing Boston, the message is clear: running under the standard remains the first hurdle, but running significantly faster can still make the difference between receiving a bib and watching from home. The new Boston Qualifier Selection, however, gives approximately 1,000 additional qualifiers a chance that did not previously exist.

The 131st Boston Marathon, will be held on Monday, April 19, 2027. Qualifier applicants are expected to receive their acceptance or non-acceptance notifications by early October.

Boston, long regarded as one of the hardest major marathons to enter through qualification, is changing with the times. As runners get faster and the global appetite for the race continues to grow, the road to Boylston Street is becoming more competitive—but for around 1,000 runners who fall just short of the cut-off, the dream will now remain alive a little longer.

Kenyan distance runners produced a commanding performance at the 2026 Hyundai Meia Maratona do Porto in Portugal, taking all three men’s podium places and securing a one-two finish in the women’s race. The 21-kilometre contest combined speed, endurance and excitement, with athletes battling through the streets of Porto and Gaia before a memorable finish beside the Douro River.

Owen Korir Kapkama claimed the men’s title in 1:01:58, delivering a polished performance to lead the field across the finish line. His compatriot Cyrus Kipkemoi Kimayo mounted a strong challenge and finished only five seconds behind, stopping the clock at 1:02:03 to take second place.

The battle for third also remained firmly in Kenyan hands, with Timothy Kibet Misoi completing the podium in 1:03:22. His result confirmed Kenya’s complete control of the men’s top three, as the country’s runners combined tactical discipline with the sustained pace required over the demanding half-marathon distance.

In the women’s race, Naomi Chepngeno delivered a winning performance to secure the title in 1:10:35. She held off fellow Kenyan Margaret Murinjo Monicah, who crossed the line in 1:10:57, finishing just 22 seconds behind the champion.

Hiwot Mehari Beza of Ethiopia claimed third place in 1:12:07, completing a competitive women’s podium and adding an international dimension to an event otherwise dominated by Kenyan athletes.

The race unfolded against a striking Portuguese backdrop, with Porto and Gaia providing a scenic yet demanding stage for the competitors. From the opening kilometres to the final push toward the finish, the athletes brought intensity and determination to a course that rewarded both speed and endurance.

The closing stretch offered a particularly memorable setting, as runners approached the Douro River with the iconic Ponte Luís I serving as a dramatic backdrop. The historic bridge and riverside scenery added a touch of grandeur to the final moments of a race defined by athletic excellence.

Along the route, thousands of spectators gathered to encourage the competitors, creating an energetic atmosphere that carried the runners through the streets. Their cheers, combined with the rhythm of racing feet and the determination of the athletes, helped transform the event into a celebration of running.

The 19th edition of the Hyundai Meia Maratona do Porto concluded with Kenya dominating the men’s podium and securing the top two positions in the women’s race. With its competitive racing, iconic riverside finish and enthusiastic crowds, the event once again showcased the enduring appeal of road running in Porto and Gaia.

Busang Collen Kebinatshipi has delivered another sensational performance, storming to victory in the men’s 400m at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest.

The reigning world champion stopped the clock at an astonishing 43.39 seconds, smashing his own Botswana national record and moving to fifth on the world all-time list.

Kebinatshipi produced a commanding finish to pull away from his rivals and secure the Ultimate Championship title. American star Rai Benjamin finished second in 44.15, while Jereem Richards of Trinidad and Tobago completed the podium in 44.23.

 Men’s 400m

1. Busang Collen Kebinatshipi — 43.39 NR

2. Rai Benjamin — 44.15

3. Jereem Richards — 44.23

The performance is even more remarkable considering that Kebinatshipi had already rewritten the Botswana record just one week ago in Brussels, where he ran 43.40. In Budapest, he lowered that mark by another 0.01 seconds to establish a new national record of 43.39.

That improvement has also propelled the 22-year-old into rare territory. His latest time now ranks him fifth fastest in history over 400m, placing him among an extraordinary group of athletes who have broken the 43.40 barrier.

Kebinatshipi's victory also caps an extraordinary season for the Botswana star. After establishing himself as a global champion, he has continued to demonstrate that he belongs among the very best one-lap runners in the world.

And there is a major reward for his historic night in Budapest: Kebinatshipi walks away as the Ultimate Champion and $150,000 richer.

From another national record to a place among the five fastest 400m runners ever, Kebinatshipi has turned an already remarkable season into something truly special.

Botswana has its latest sprinting superstar — and Kebinatshipi is showing that his ceiling may be even higher than anyone imagined. 

Masai Russell has added another major achievement to her remarkable 2026 season, powering to victory in the women’s 100m hurdles at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest.

The American produced a brilliant 12.22 seconds to capture the Ultimate Championship title, once again demonstrating her ability to deliver when the pressure is at its highest.

Russell controlled the race from the opening hurdles, attacking each barrier with precision before powering down the home straight to secure a convincing victory. Her performance confirmed why she has been one of the most dominant hurdlers in the world this season.

Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan, a former world-record holder and one of the most experienced athletes in the field, mounted a strong challenge but had to settle for second positon in 12.34 seconds.

The bronze medal went to the Netherlands’ Nadine Visser, who crossed the line in 12.39 seconds after another impressive championship performance.

Women’s 100m Hurdles Final

1. Masai Russell — United States — 12.22

2. Tobi Amusan — Nigeria — 12.34

3. Nadine Visser — Netherlands — 12.39

Beyond the medals and times, the race produced one of the most memorable images of the championship.

Moments after Russell secured the title, she shared a warm embrace with Amusan, creating a striking scene of mutual respect between two athletes who have played major roles in the evolution of women’s sprint hurdling.

There was no love lost between the former world-record holder and the athlete who has now taken over the top spot. Amusan’s journey helped redefine the event, while Russell has emerged as the new generation’s leading force.

The embrace offered a fitting reminder that elite sport is not only about rivalry and competition. Behind the starting line are athletes who understand the sacrifice, pressure and dedication required to reach the highest level.

For Amusan, the silver medal represents another podium finish at the highest level, while Visser continues to underline her credentials among the world’s elite hurdlers.

But the night belonged to Russell.

With another major title secured and her confidence soaring, the American has made it increasingly difficult for anyone to challenge her position at the top of women’s sprint hurdling.

And perhaps the most fitting image of the night came after the race — the former world-record holder embracing her successor as Russell celebrated becoming the inaugural Ultimate Champion.

Budapest has crowned its first Ultimate Champion, and Masai Russell has once again shown that when the biggest moment arrives, she is ready to answer.

Kenya produced a remarkable double victory at the 2026 Swedbank Tallinn Marathon Half Marathon in Estonia, with Vincent Kiptoo and Regina Wambui Ndungu claiming the men’s and women’s titles in record-breaking fashion.

Kiptoo delivered the headline performance of the morning, storming to victory in 59:48 to become the first athlete to run a half marathon in under one hour on Estonian soil. His performance also established a new Tallinn Half Marathon course record, marking a historic milestone for both the Kenyan and the race.

The Kenyan’s victory was backed by an impressive display of depth from his compatriots. Johana Erot finished second in 1:00:51, recording a personal best, while Enos Kipruto Saat completed the podium in 1:01:22. Kenya therefore swept all three men’s podium positions.

The fastest Estonian in the men’s race was Leonid Latsepov, who finished in 1:04:20, giving the home crowd another performance to celebrate despite the dominance of the Kenyan contingent.

The women’s race provided another Kenyan triumph, with Regina Wambui Ndungu producing a superb 1:07:35 to take the title and set a new Tallinn Half Marathon course record. Her performance completed a memorable Kenyan double on a morning when both winners rewrote the course records.

Winsam Jerono secured second place in 1:10:29, also improving her personal best, while Morocco’s Soukaina Atanane took third in 1:11:24. The fastest Estonian woman was Pille Hinn, who crossed the line in 1:23:02.

The men’s result was particularly striking, with Kenya occupying every place on the podium. Kiptoo’s historic sub-hour run was followed by Erot’s personal-best performance and Kipruto Saat’s strong third-place finish, underlining the depth of Kenyan talent over the half-marathon distance.

For Kiptoo, the 59:48 performance represents more than a race victory. Breaking the one-hour barrier in Estonia places his name in the history of the Tallinn Half Marathon and gives him a course record that will now become the benchmark for future editions of the race.

Ndungu’s victory added another layer to the Kenyan success. Her 1:07:35 not only secured the women’s title but also lowered the course record, meaning both elite races produced new standards on the same morning.

The scale of the event added to the occasion, with more than 5,000 runners taking on the 21.1-kilometre challenge. The streets of Tallinn were filled with runners of different levels, creating a vibrant backdrop for a morning that produced two Kenyan victories and two new course records.

The half marathon was only one part of a packed Tallinn running weekend. The 10K Tallinn Autumn Run was scheduled to follow at 14:00, with the Nike Youth Run later in the evening at 18:30, keeping the Estonian capital at the centre of the running action throughout Saturday.

The weekend will then reach its grand finale on Sunday morning with the Tallinn Marathon, scheduled for a 09:00 start. With thousands of runners continuing to take to the streets, the city’s celebration of distance running is set to continue.

For Kenya, however, the defining moment of the half marathon will remain Kiptoo’s historic 59:48. Alongside Ndungu’s course-record victory, it gave the country a spectacular start to the Tallinn Marathon weekend and etched another memorable chapter into Kenya’s remarkable road-running story.

Kenyan steeplechase star Doris Lemngole has officially turned professional after signing a contract with Swiss sportswear brand On, marking the beginning of a new chapter for one of the most accomplished young distance runners in the sport.

On announced the move on Thursday, September 10, confirming that the 24-year-old has been elevated from the NIL partnership she signed with the brand in August 2025 to its professional athlete roster. 

The decision comes after Lemngole completed a spectacular collegiate career at the University of Alabama, where she established herself as one of the most dominant distance runners in NCAA history. She leaves Tuscaloosa as a five-time NCAA champion, a collegiate record-holder and the winner of The Bowerman, the highest individual honor in American collegiate track and field.

Her breakthrough came in the 3,000m steeplechase, an event in which she repeatedly pushed the boundaries of collegiate running. In 2025, she clocked 8:58.15 to become the first woman in NCAA history to break the nine-minute barrier in the event. She also captured consecutive NCAA outdoor steeplechase titles in 2024 and 2025.

Lemngole was equally impressive over cross country. At the 2025 NCAA Championships in Missouri, she defended her national title in 18:25.4, producing the fastest winning performance in NCAA championship history by a considerable margin. Her consistency and dominance across disciplines ultimately helped her secure The Bowerman in December 2025, making her the first Alabama athlete and first Kenyan to receive the prestigious award. 

Her transition from collegiate standout to international contender has been remarkably rapid. Still competing as an Alabama athlete, Lemngole won her Diamond League debut in the 3,000m steeplechase at Athletissima in Lausanne in August 2025 before going on to represent Kenya at the World Championships in Tokyo, where she finished fifth. 

Now, just days before her professional announcement, Lemngole produced perhaps the strongest performance of her career. At the Diamond League Final in Brussels on September 4, she stormed to a massive personal best of 8:52.86 for second place in the 3,000m steeplechase. Only five women in history had previously run faster, underlining just how extraordinary the performance was. Faith Cherotich won in a meeting-record 8:51.61, while Olympic champion Winfred Yavi finished third in 8:53.54. 

That performance provided a fitting bridge between Lemngole's collegiate dominance and her professional future. She is no longer simply one of the NCAA's brightest talents; she has now established herself firmly among the world's leading steeplechasers.

For On, the decision represents a natural continuation of a relationship that began when Lemngole joined its NIL roster in 2025. The Swiss brand said her ability to dominate at the collegiate level while immediately challenging the world's best made the move to its professional roster a natural progression.

For Lemngole, the signing is about much more than a new contract. It represents the next stage of a journey that has taken her from NCAA champion and record-breaker to Bowerman winner and international title contender.

With her collegiate chapter now complete and a sub-8:53 performance already on the record, the Kenyan has made her intentions clear: **the next challenge is to see just how far she can take her extraordinary talent on the global stage.**

Team USA delivered a remarkable display of depth in the men’s 5,000m at the World Ultimate Championships, placing five athletes among the top seven in a tightly contested race.

Cole Hocker led the American charge, finishing second in 13:00.05. The Olympic champion was followed closely by Parker Wolfe, who crossed the line third in 13:00.13, just eight hundredths of a second behind his compatriot.

Nico Young added another strong performance in fifth, clocking 13:00.26, while Grant Fisher finished sixth in 13:00.34. Graham Blanks completed the remarkable American showing, taking seventh in 13:00.40.

The closeness of the finish made the American performance even more impressive. The five Team USA athletes were separated by just 0.35 seconds, underlining the extraordinary level of competition within the American distance-running ranks.

It was also a striking combination of established experience and emerging talent. Hocker and Fisher have already established themselves among the leading American distance runners, while Wolfe, Young and Blanks represent the strength of the next generation pushing their way onto the global stage.

Although Team USA did not sweep the medals, having five runners inside the top seven was a powerful statement of collective strength. It demonstrated that American distance running possesses not only individual stars but also remarkable depth capable of challenging at the highest international level.

For Hocker, Wolfe, Young, Fisher and Blanks, the result adds another significant chapter to their seasons and provides a glimpse of the growing competitiveness of the United States in the 5,000m. With such a tightly packed group performing at the front of a major championship race, American distance running has plenty of reason for optimism.

The road racing spotlight will turn to Newcastle this Sunday as the 2026 AJ Bell Great North Run brings together an impressive international men's field featuring several of America's leading distance runners alongside proven global stars.

The iconic half marathon from Newcastle upon Tyne to South Shields is once again shaping up to be one of the most intriguing road races of the weekend, with a deep field capable of producing a highly competitive battle over 13.1 miles.

Leading the American challenge is Clayton Young, who heads into the race with an important autumn marathon campaign already on his mind. Young recently announced plans to make an attempt at the American marathon record at the Chicago Marathon later this fall, making Sunday's race an interesting opportunity to gauge his fitness ahead of that major target.

However, Young will face plenty of quality opposition.

The American contingent also includes Zouhair Talbi, Casey Clinger, Woody Kincaid, Jared Ward and Jake Barraclough, giving the United States considerable depth in the men's field.

Kincaid is particularly intriguing. The USATF 10K champion has already established himself as one of America's most accomplished distance runners and will be looking to continue building his reputation on the roads against an international field.

The global challenge is equally strong.

Alex Mutiso of Kenya, Abdi Nageeye of the Netherlands, Ethiopia's Deresa Geleta, Italy's Iliass Aouani, Britain's Ben Connor and Andy Butchart, as well as a strong contingent from Japan, add plenty of experience and firepower to the race.

With athletes arriving at different stages of their seasons and several already looking toward major autumn targets, the Great North Run could produce a fascinating tactical battle before the final miles decide who has the strength to take control.

Selected Men's Elite Entries

1. Clayton Young — United States

2. Casey Clinger — United States

3. Zouhair Talbi — United States

4. Woody Kincaid — United States

5. Jared Ward — United States

6. Jake Barraclough — United States

7. Alex Mutiso — Kenya

8. Abdi Nageeye — The Netherlands

9. Deresa Geleta — Ethiopia

10. Ben Connor — Great Britain

11. Taiga Hirayama — Japan

12. Ayumu Kobayashi — Japan

13. Tatsuya Maruyama — Japan

14. Kosei Matsunami — Japan

15. Yohei Ikeda — Japan

16. Shoya Yonei — Japan

17. Iliass Aouani — Italy

18. Andy Butchart — Great Britain

19. Alfie Manthorpe — Great Britain

20. Calum Johnson — Great Britain

The 2026 AJ Bell Great North Run will take place on Sunday, September 13, with the elite men's race scheduled to get underway in Newcastle.

It may be a half marathon, but this is certainly not a race to overlook. With Young preparing for Chicago, Kincaid continuing to make his mark on the roads and an international field packed with talent, the Great North Run could quietly become one of the most entertaining races of the weekend. 

For thousands of marathon runners around the world, qualifying for the Boston Marathon is more than a race goal — it is a badge of honour, a symbol that months and sometimes years of disciplined training have finally paid off.

But there is an important distinction every aspiring Boston runner needs to understand: running under the official Boston qualifying standard does not automatically guarantee a place on the starting line.

That reality has caught out countless runners who believed that crossing the finish line a few seconds inside their qualifying mark meant their Boston dream was secured.

It does not.

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) sets qualifying standards according to age and gender, but the race also has a limit on the number of participants. When the number of qualified applicants exceeds the available places, the fastest runners within the qualifying pool are given priority. In other words, simply achieving the published standard gives you the opportunity to apply — it does not guarantee acceptance.

The Cutoff Is The Number That Really Matters

This is where the famous Boston “cutoff” comes into play.

The cutoff represents how much faster than the official qualifying standard a runner needed to be in order to gain entry that particular year. And it can change significantly depending on how many runners apply and how fast the qualifying field is.

The numbers tell the story.

For the 2024 Boston Marathon, the cutoff was 5:29. For 2025, it climbed sharply to 6:51. For the 2026 race, the cutoff settled at 4:34, meaning accepted qualifiers needed to be at least four minutes and 34 seconds faster than their applicable age- and gender-based standard.

That means a runner who finishes a marathon just 30 seconds under the published qualifying standard can technically be a Boston qualifier — yet still miss out on an actual place.

And that is where the heartbreak begins.

Imagine spending months building mileage, sacrificing weekends, surviving brutal workouts and finally producing the race of your life. You cross the line, look at your watch and discover that you have beaten the Boston standard.

For a moment, you believe you are going to Boston.

Then registration closes.

And you discover that the field was faster than expected.

Don't Train For The Bare Minimum

For runners serious about making the journey to Hopkinton, Massachusetts, the lesson is straightforward: don't make the official qualifying standard your ultimate target.

Make it your starting point.

If your age-group standard is 3:00:00, for example, training specifically to run 2:59:59 may leave almost no margin for the realities of Boston qualification. A stronger strategy is to set a substantially faster personal target, giving yourself a buffer against an unpredictable cutoff.

A five-minute cushion is often discussed among Boston hopefuls as a sensible ambition, but runners should understand that there is no guaranteed “safe” buffer. The cutoff is determined after registration based on the qualifying pool, and even a five-minute margin cannot promise entry in every year.

The smartest approach is therefore to aim as far under your standard as your training and ability realistically allow.

Boston Is Getting Faster

The growing difficulty of earning a place reflects the popularity and competitiveness of the marathon.

The B.A.A. has acknowledged that demand for Boston has increased while marathoners have continued to get faster. For the 2026 race, the organisation tightened qualifying standards by five minutes for runners aged 18–59, yet the race still received far more qualifying applications than available places.

For the 2026 Boston Marathon, the B.A.A. received 33,249 qualifier applications. Of those, 8,887 applicants were ultimately not accepted, despite having achieved the official qualifying standard.

Those numbers provide a powerful reminder: Boston qualification is no longer simply about beating a published time. It is about beating it by enough.

And There Is Another Detail Runners Must Watch

For the 2027 Boston Marathon, the B.A.A. has also introduced time-index adjustments for qualifying performances on courses with more than 1,500 feet of net elevation drop.

Depending on the amount of net downhill, a qualifying performance can receive a five- or ten-minute adjustment during the registration review process. That makes course selection an increasingly important part of the Boston qualification strategy.

So runners chasing Boston should not only ask, “Can I run the qualifying time?”

They should also ask:

“Can I run significantly faster than it — on a course that meets Boston's qualification rules?”

The Dream Is Boston. The Goal Should Be Faster Than Boston.

Qualifying for Boston remains one of the most prestigious achievements in recreational marathon running. But the difference between qualifying and getting accepted is now more important than ever.

The official standard gets you into the conversation.

Your margin gets you closer to the starting line.

So if Boston is the dream, don't build your entire training cycle around scraping under the qualifying mark by a few seconds. Give yourself room. Chase a faster marathon. Choose your qualifying race carefully. Prepare for the possibility that the cutoff may move.

Because the ultimate goal isn't simply to say:

“I qualified for Boston.”

It is to wake up on Patriots' Day, make your way to Hopkinton, and finally hear the words every Boston hopeful has dreamed about:

“You're going to Boston.” 

The women’s 100m hurdles is set for a spectacular showdown at the Brussels Diamond League Final on September 5, where Olympic champion Masai Russell will lead one of the strongest fields of the season in the battle for the coveted Diamond Trophy.

Russell arrives in Brussels in extraordinary form and as the athlete everyone will be chasing. The American star has enjoyed a remarkable season, combining consistency with breathtaking speed, and recently delivered another unforgettable performance when she ran a sensational 12.09 seconds in Zurich to break the world record.

That performance further strengthened Russell’s position as the dominant force in the event. Her remarkable consistency has been equally impressive, with the Olympic champion winning all 10 of her finals so far this season. With 48 points, she also finished at the top of the Diamond League standings during the regular season.

However, the points race is now behind her. In Brussels, everything comes down to one final. The Diamond League Final offers no room for complacency, and Russell will have to defeat an exceptional collection of world-class hurdlers to leave Belgium with the Diamond Trophy.

Among her biggest challengers is Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan, one of the finest hurdlers of her generation and a former world record holder. The field also includes Dutch star Nadine Visser, Bahamas standout Devynne Charlton and Poland’s Pia Skrzyszowska, ensuring that Russell will face serious opposition over every hurdle.

American Alaysha Johnson, Jamaica’s Megan Simmonds and Belgium’s Yanla Ndjip-Nyemeck complete a fascinating eight-athlete lineup for what promises to be one of the highlights of the Diamond League Final.

With Russell’s unbeaten record, her recent world-record performance and the Diamond Trophy on the line, the pressure will be immense when the athletes take their marks. Yet in an event as unpredictable and technically demanding as the 100m hurdles, one mistake can completely change the outcome.

Russell may arrive as the overwhelming favourite, but Brussels offers her rivals one final opportunity to produce something special. The stage is set for a thrilling race between the fastest and most accomplished hurdlers in the world—and after a season of dominance, Russell now has one more hurdle to clear in her pursuit of Diamond League glory.

Women’s 100m Hurdles Final Start List

 1. Masai Russell — United States

 2. Tobi Amusan — Nigeria

 3. Nadine Visser — Netherlands

 4. Devynne Charlton — Bahamas

 5. Pia Skrzyszowska — Poland

 6. Alaysha Johnson — United States

 7. Megan Simmonds — Jamaica

 8. Yanla Ndjip-Nyemeck — Belgium

One race. Eight elite hurdlers. One Diamond Trophy. Will Masai Russell complete another unforgettable chapter of her remarkable season, or will Brussels produce a surprise?

The 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon is set to introduce an important new innovation that could change the way runners approach hydration during major road races.

For the first time, participants in an Abbott World Marathon Major will have the opportunity to refill their own approved, self-carried hydration containers while competing on the course. The initiative will make its debut through four Culligan Water Refill Stations strategically positioned along the 26.2-mile route.

The refill stations will be located shortly before Aid Station 4 at Mile 5.7, Aid Station 7 at Mile 10.1, Aid Station 12 at Mile 15.7 and Aid Station 16 at Mile 20.3. At each location, runners carrying approved personal hydration gear will be able to stop and refill with Culligan-filtered water before continuing their race.

The move represents a significant step forward for one of the world's most prestigious marathons. Chicago will become the first Abbott World Marathon Major to formally provide runners with the opportunity to refill personal hydration containers during the race, opening the door to a potentially more sustainable approach to supporting thousands of participants over the marathon distance.

Beyond the environmental benefits, the initiative will also be fascinating to watch from a sporting perspective. Hydration is a crucial part of marathon performance, particularly for runners competing over more than two hours and for the many recreational athletes spending considerably longer on the course. The effectiveness and convenience of the refill stations, as well as how smoothly runners are able to use them without disrupting their rhythm, will be closely observed.

The project is also designed to reduce reliance on single-use hydration products while giving runners greater flexibility and control over how they manage their fluids during the race. If successfully implemented, Chicago's new approach could provide an important example for other major endurance events around the world.

Culligan International President and Chief Operating Officer Al Hamood said the company's involvement reflects its wider commitment to innovation, sustainability and improving the race-day experience for athletes.

The 2026 Chicago Marathon will therefore offer much more than another spectacular day of elite racing and personal achievement. It will also serve as a live test of an idea that could help shape the future of hydration at major marathons.

When the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon gets underway, runners will not only be racing against the clock—they will also be part of something entirely new. At four points along the legendary 26.2-mile course, a simple refill could become a glimpse into the future of marathon running. The real question will be how smoothly thousands of athletes embrace the system and whether Chicago's bold experiment can set a new standard for the sport. If it succeeds, the ripple effect could extend far beyond the streets of Chicago, inspiring major races around the world to rethink how they keep runners hydrated while reducing waste. In 2026, one of marathon running's biggest stages will be testing a small but potentially game-changing idea—proving that sometimes the future of the sport may be waiting at the next water refill station.