Running News Daily

On Sunday, November 2, 2025, the five-borough spectacle of the New York City Marathon will unfold once again, offering more than 50,000 runners the chance to push 26.2 miles through the heart of New York. From the cannon blast on Staten Island to the triumphant finish in Central Park, this is a race that marries endurance, emotion and urban drama.

Kipchoge and Hassan Headline an Extraordinary Field

The biggest storyline heading into this year’s race is the presence of Eliud Kipchoge, the greatest marathoner in history, and Sifan Hassan, the double Olympic champion who stunned the world with marathon victories in both London and Chicago. For Kipchoge, New York completes his journey through all six Abbott World Marathon Majors — a crown that has eluded him until now.

Hassan, meanwhile, returns to the marathon distance after a string of world-class performances on both track and road, her fearless racing style perfectly suited to the unpredictable rhythm of New York’s streets.

They’ll face an elite field stacked with world-class names, including Benson Kipruto of Kenya (2:02:16 PB), Evans Chebet (two-time Boston champion, 2:03:00 PB), and defending champion Tamirat Tolaof Ethiopia (course record holder at 2:04:58). The women’s field is equally star-studded, featuring 2022 champion Sharon Lokedi, Tokyo winner Rosemary Wanjiru, and a host of East African contenders ready to test Hassan on one of the sport’s toughest stages.

Among the American hopefuls, Emily Sisson, the U.S. record holder in the marathon, headlines the women’s field and will make her New York debut. On the men’s side, Biya Simbassa leads the U.S. charge, joined by a deep domestic field racing for top-American honors and prize bonuses.

Course Records

• Men: 2:04:58 — Tamirat Tola (ETH), 2023

• Women: 2:22:31 — Margaret Okayo (KEN), 2003

These records reflect both top-tier performance and the challenging character of the course — rather than flat, pacer-assisted routes that routinely see world-record times.

Prize Purse

The stakes are high. Open-division winners stand to earn $100,000, with descending prizes through 10th place. The event also offers a $50,000 bonus for a winner who breaks the standing course record, plus separate prize pools for top U.S. finishers and wheelchair divisions. With total payouts approaching nearly a million dollars, the financial motivation is real — even if the course isn’t built for world-record thrills.

Why a World Record Isn’t Realistic

Make no mistake: the New York course is legendary for its toughness rather than its speed. Runners face five major bridge crossings, a long ascent up the Queensboro Bridge around mile 15–16, variable terrain, sharp turns and a final push up Fifth Avenue into Central Park. Unlike flat, pacemaker-led courses such as Berlin or Chicago, NYC emphasises tactical racing, rivalries and finish-line theatre. The organising body eliminated dedicated elite pacemakers years ago in favour of pure head-to-head competition.

While pace groups may support recreational waves, elite winners will race without the type of structured pacemaking that enables constant sub-2:03 splits. In short: this is a championship-style contest, not a time-trial.

What Makes NYC Unique

• Cityscape & crowd noise: From Staten Island’s Verrazzano Narrows Bridge to Brooklyn’s vibrant neighborhoods, the Queensboro Bridge, Manhattan’s First Avenue and the final loop in Central Park, the scenery is unmatched.

• Massive scale but elite depth: The global field, the tens of thousands of recreational runners, the international media — the race’s atmosphere is unmatched in road-racing.

• Legacy of racing over timing: Past editions have celebrated bold attacks and dramatic finishes more than normally smooth pacing. That makes this one of the world’s most storied and unpredictable marathons.

What to Watch on November 2

• How Kipchoge adapts his disciplined, flat-course style to a course that demands rhythm changes, hills and surges.

• Whether Hassan will leverage her track speed and tenacity to counter a course that rewards strength and race-tactics.

• Whether Sisson (and other U.S. entrants) can navigate the final tougher miles to claim top-American status or even an open podium spot.

• The weather and pacing strategy: any wind across the bridges or mis-timed surge could decide the race more than early splits.

• Whether someone dares to go after Tola’s 2:04 : 58 mark — unlikely but possible under perfect conditions.

The 2025 New York City Marathon is more than a race. It is a testament to endurance, to the city that hosts it and to runners who thrive in challenge rather than comfort. Kipchoge and Hassan bring star power. The U.S. challengers bring ambition. And the 50,000+ starters bring stories.

Whether you’re chasing a personal best, seeking a finish-line moment or just watching from the sidelines, November 2 will be unforgettable. The bridges, the boroughs, the final climb into Central Park — the city will judge your resolve. And with no pacemakers to pull you through, this year’s finishers will know they earned every step with heart.

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

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

The Big Picture

• Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Course Records

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

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

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

Men’s Elite Highlights

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

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

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

• Benson Kipruto (Kenya) – Chicago 2022 winner.

• Albert Korir (Kenya) – former NYC champion.

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

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

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

Women’s Elite Highlights

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

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

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

• Sheila Chepkirui (Kenya) – defending NYC champion.

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

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

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

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

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

What Makes New York Unique (and Brutal)

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

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

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

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

Storylines to Watch

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

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

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

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

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

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

For Runners and Coaches

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

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

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

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

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

The Bottom Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Records and Legacy

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

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

 An Event with Global Reach

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

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

 Looking Ahead

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

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

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

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

Just three weeks after placing an impressive fifth in the marathon at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Finland’s Alisa Vainio has once again made headlines—this time rewriting the national record books.

Competing at the Finnish Championships in Vantaa on Saturday (Oct 4), Vainio claimed the national marathon title in 2:23:06, breaking the previous Finnish record by 92 seconds. The old mark of 2:24:38 was set by Camilla Richardsson at the 2023 Valencia Marathon.

In contrast to Tokyo’s hot and humid conditions, Vantaa offered cool but blustery weather, which suited Vainio’s strong and efficient running style. She finished second overall, just 33 seconds behind men’s winner Kari Heikura, who clocked 2:22:33.

“I felt pretty good, pretty strong the whole time. The stride felt good and I was able to tighten my stride uphill and then relax downhill. Sometimes I got some help from the guys,” said Vainio.

“I wanted to run hard. In Tokyo, I couldn’t run hard in the heat and that was annoying. After Tokyo, the recovery went incredibly well and I wanted to be brave today.”

Remarkably, Vainio took just one week off following Tokyo before resuming training, showing her trademark resilience and determination. Her 2:23:06 performance now places her third on the 2025 European list, trailing only Olympic champion and European record-holder Sifan Hassan (2:19:00) and Germany’s Fabienne Königstein (2:22:17), who placed sixth at last month’s Berlin Marathon.

Despite having raced two marathons in three weeks, Vainio hasn’t ruled out another major test this year.

“I possibly have a place in Valencia. It’s not completely confirmed yet. There should be good conditions to run hard, but everything has to go well until then,” she said.

Eliud Kipchoge and Sifan Hassan, two of the biggest names in distance running, will make their New York City Marathon debuts on November 2 after both raced the Sydney Marathon on August 31.

Kipchoge, the 40-year-old Kenyan icon, is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and the second-fastest marathoner in history with his 2:01:09 from Berlin in 2022. His last victory over the 26.2-mile distance came at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. Since then, his results have been mixed: 10th at the 2024 Tokyo Marathon, a DNF at the Paris Olympic marathon, and sixth and ninth in London and Sydney this year. Remarkably, 2025 marks the first year of his marathon career in which he will line up for three marathons in a single calendar year.

Despite recent setbacks, Kipchoge’s career remains unmatched. He has won four of thekoopoo six long-standing World Marathon Majors—Berlin, Chicago, London, and Tokyo—leaving only Boston and New York City without victoriesok. He finished sixth in Boston in 2023. New York now offers him another chance to etch his name deeper into the sport’s most prestigious stages.

Dutch star Sifan Hassan, already an Olympic champion and one of the most versatile distance runners in history, will also make her New York debut. Known for her ability to dominate from 1500m on the track to the marathon on the roads, Hassan’s presence adds another layer of intrigue to a race that consistently delivers drama.

With both Kipchoge and Hassan in the field, the 2025 New York City Marathon promises to be one of the most anticipated races of the year, a true meeting of legends on one of the sport’s grandest stages.

Sydney, August 31, 2025 – The Sydney Marathon ushered in a new era today, joining the elite ranks of the Abbott World Marathon Majors with a race that delivered both record-breaking performances and unforgettable moments on the streets of Australia’s largest city.

Hassan Dominates the Women’s Race

Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands continued her dominance in the marathon with a commanding victory. Hassan crossed the finish line at the Sydney Opera House in 2:18:22, smashing the course record and becoming the first woman to dip under 2:20 on Australian soil.

Former world record holder Brigid Kosgei of Kenya claimed second place, while last year’s Sydney champion Workenesh Edesa of Ethiopia secured third. Hassan’s winning margin reflected her superior class and endurance, reinforcing her reputation as one of the greatest all-around distance runners in history.

Kiros Breaks Men’s Course Record

The men’s race was equally electrifying. Ethiopia’s Hailemaryam Kiros surged clear at the 30km markalongside compatriot Addisu Gobena before unleashing a decisive kick in the final stages. Kiros broke the tape in 2:06:06, the fastest marathon ever run on Australian soil.

Gobena, just 20 years old and competing in his fourth marathon, impressed with a 2:06:16 for second place, while Tebello Ramakongoana of Lesotho clocked 2:06:47 to finish third.

“The competition was very tough, this was a strong, strong field,” said Kiros, who finished fifth at the Berlin Marathon earlier this year.

Kipchoge Inspires at 40

Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, celebrating his 40th birthday this year, showed his enduring spirit on the world stage. Although he was unable to keep pace when the Ethiopians surged, Kipchoge still battled through to finish ninth in 2:08:31.

For the man many consider the greatest marathoner of all time, the performance was a reminder that his mission extends beyond racing—to inspire, to unite, and to prove that running is a lifelong journey.

A Citywide Celebration

The marathon course highlighted Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, with the field of 35,000 runnersstreaming across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, winding through Centennial Park, and finishing against the stunning backdrop of the Opera House.

Perfect racing conditions—bright sunshine and cool temperatures—helped elevate performances and ensured Sydney made the most of its debut as a World Marathon Major, joining New York, London, Boston, Chicago, Tokyo, and Berlin in the sport’s most prestigious series.

Final Results at a Glance

Men

1. Hailemaryam Kiros (ETH) – 2:06:06 (course record)

2. Addisu Gobena (ETH) – 2:06:16

3. Tebello Ramakongoana (LES) – 2:06:47

Women

1. Sifan Hassan (NED) – 2:18:22 (course record)

2. Brigid Kosgei (KEN) – ~2:18:56

3. Workenesh Edesa (ETH) – ~2:22:05

A Defining Moment

With new course records, thrilling competition, and global attention, the 2025 Sydney Marathonestablished itself as not just a spectacular race but also a cornerstone of the global marathon calendar. For elite athletes and everyday runners alike, Sydney delivered a day to remember.

Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has announced that she will not compete in the marathon at the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.

The Dutch star explained her decision on Friday (Aug. 29, 2025), citing recovery concerns following her marathon schedule. “In two or three weeks, I don’t even know if I will have recovered,” Hassan said, noting that she “can hardly run in the days after a marathon.”

Instead, Hassan will shift her focus to Sunday’s Sydney Marathon, which will make its debut as part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors. The Sydney event now joins the elite company of London, New York, Tokyo, Boston, Berlin, and Chicago, further cementing its place among the most important marathon races in the world.

For Hassan, the decision underscores the physical and strategic challenges of balancing a championship calendar with the demands of the marathon. Known for her remarkable versatility on the track and the roads, she continues to shape her career by targeting races that define her legacy.

The absence of the reigning Olympic champion from the Tokyo World Championships marathon will be a significant storyline, but all eyes will now be on Sydney this weekend, where Hassan looks to etch her name in history at the newest member of the Marathon Majors.

Sydney, Australia – August 31, 2025

Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has officially been confirmed for the TCS Sydney Marathon, set to take place on August 31, 2025. The Dutch superstar, known for her unprecedented range and fierce finishing kick, will bring global attention to one of the fastest-rising races on the international calendar.

But Hassan won’t have the spotlight to herself.

She will face a formidable challenge from Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei, the former marathon world record holder. Kosgei, who ran an astonishing 2:14:04 at the 2019 Chicago Marathon, is determined to reclaim her place at the top of women’s marathoning. With multiple major wins under her belt, including London and Chicago titles, Kosgei remains one of the most consistent and feared competitors in the sport.

This clash between two marathon titans promises to be one of the most compelling head-to-head matchups of the year. Hassan, who made a sensational marathon debut in 2023 and has since cemented herself as a serious contender at the distance, will look to further build her legacy. Meanwhile, Kosgei will aim to reassert her dominance and remind the world why she once redefined what was possible over 26.2 miles.

With the TCS Sydney Marathon bidding to become a World Marathon Major, this showdown adds star power and global significance to the 2025 edition.

My Best Runs will be tracking this race closely as the world watches two legends collide down under.

Alright, track and field fans—buckle up, because the London Diamond League 2025 is nearly here, and while anticipation is high, one major name has just dropped out, shaking up the event’s buzz.

The eleventh stop on this year’s Diamond League circuit, London has long been a fan-favorite meet. With global sprint star Noah Lyles set to light up the straightaway, Femke Bol ready to command the hurdles, and a stacked roster of middle-distance talent, expectations were sky-high. But one race—the women’s mile—was drawing extra attention for a reason: it was supposed to feature Sifan Hassan, one of the sport’s most versatile and dominant athletes.

A Stunning Turn of Events

In a surprise Instagram post that landed just days before the event, the Olympic marathon championannounced her withdrawal. “I was really looking forward to racing at the @londonathleticsmeet,” Hassan wrote, “but I haven’t been feeling my best last week with my body not responding as well as I wanted. I love this meet and I feel really bad towards the organisers and my fans. But after talking with my team, we decided it’s smarter to skip it, stay focused and keep preparing for what’s next this season!”

The words hit hard. Hassan’s disappointment was palpable—and shared by fans worldwide.

A Legend in Her Prime

Hassan is no ordinary athlete. The Dutch superstar is known for doing the impossible—winning gold in the 5,000m and 10,000m and bronze in the 1,500m at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and later making headlines with her 2:13:44 marathon win in Chicago in 2023. She returned to the London Marathon earlier this year, building momentum that had fans itching to see her take to the track again.

Her absence from London robs the meet of a major draw, especially in the women’s mile, which was set to be one of the headline events of the weekend.

What Happens Now?

With Hassan out, the field remains strong—but no doubt the spotlight dims just a bit. The question becomes: Who will rise in her absence? Can the other middle-distance stars deliver a race worthy of her legacy? Will new names break through and capitalize on the opportunity?

The London Diamond League still promises firepower across multiple events, with top-tier battles lined up in the sprints, hurdles, and field events. But there’s no denying that the loss of one of track’s most beloved icons changes the emotional tone of the weekend.

Still, Hassan’s decision serves as a reminder: even the best need to listen to their bodies. And with her eyes still firmly set on the remainder of the season—and perhaps another Olympic run—fans will be watching and waiting for her next move.

Stay with My Best Runs for complete coverage of the London Diamond League and all the latest from the global distance running scene.

Sifan Hassan is heading back to the track—and to one of her signature events—at the London Athletics Meet on July 19, where she’ll contest the mile, a distance in which she once held the world record.

The Dutch distance superstar has done nearly everything in the sport. She’s an Olympic champion in the 5000m, 10,000m, and marathon, making history in Paris last summer by becoming the first woman ever to win Olympic gold in all three. She also took bronze in both the 5,000m and 10,000m at those same Games, adding to the three medals she won in Tokyo (held in 2021).

But despite her dominance in longer races, the mile still holds a special place in Hassan’s legacy. She shattered the world record in the mile in Monaco in 2019, running 4:12.33—a mark that stood until 2023.

Now, she returns to London, a city where she’s had immense success. She made headlines with her marathon debut win in 2023, clocking 2:18:33 in dramatic fashion after stopping mid-race to stretch. In her second appearance at the London Marathon in 2025, she placed third.

Her last outing on the track at the London Athletics Meet was also memorable—she finished third in the 5000m in 14:13.42, a time that still stands as the European record.

At 31, Hassan shows no signs of slowing down. Her return to the mile is a reminder of the versatility and endurance that have defined her career. With her eyes now set on another strong showing in London, fans can expect fireworks on July 19.

The 2025 Sydney Marathon just got even more exciting.

Already making global headlines with the announcement that world record holder Eliud Kipchoge ?? would headline the event, organizers have now confirmed that Dutch star Sifan Hassan ?? will also line up on Sunday, August 31.

This marks a major development in the race’s bid to join the World Marathon Majors circuit. By bringing together two of the sport’s biggest names, Sydney is positioning itself as one of the must-watch marathons of the year.

Kipchoge, a two-time Olympic marathon gold medalist and widely regarded as the greatest marathoner of all time, will be running on Australian soil for the first time. Meanwhile, Hassan, the reigning London Marathon champion and one of the most versatile distance runners in history—with Olympic medals in the 1500m, 5000m, and 10,000m—is looking to build on her marathon legacy.

Both Kipchoge and Hassan bring massive global attention to any race they enter. Their participation is not only a coup for Sydney but also a sign of the growing competitiveness of international marathon events outside the traditional six majors.

The 2025 edition of the Sydney Marathon promises to be one of the most watched marathons of the year.

Stay tuned for more updates as the elite field continues to build.

For serious distance runners, every second counts. While high mileage, speed work, and careful recovery are key to success, there’s a subtle yet powerful strategy that can give you an edge on race day: micro-pacing.

Unlike traditional pacing—where runners aim for steady splits or even effort—micro-pacing is about making minute, real-time adjustments throughout a race. It’s the art of responding to every subtle change: a slight headwind, a gradual incline, a moment of mental fatigue. It means staying attuned to both your body and the course, and making tiny shifts in effort that keep you in the optimal performance zone.

How to Practice Micro-Pacing:

• Train on varied terrain: Incorporate rolling hills, uneven surfaces, and mixed conditions to sharpen your awareness and adaptability.

• Use your tools wisely: Leverage GPS watches with elevation profiles or running power meters to track micro-changes in effort.

• Develop internal awareness: Practice mindful running, focusing on breathing, body tension, and posture. This helps you tune into subtle cues that signal when to adjust your effort.

Why It Works:

• Energy efficiency: Micro-pacing helps you conserve energy early in a race and maintain strength when it counts most.

• Adaptability: It allows you to respond dynamically to your competitors’ moves, unexpected race-day conditions, or even your own energy fluctuations.

• A competitive edge: Elite runners like Eliud Kipchoge and Sifan Hassan don’t just stick to a rigid plan—they read the race moment by moment, making subtle adjustments that keep them in control.

For serious distance runners, micro-pacing is the next level of race strategy. It turns pacing from a static plan into a fluid, responsive system, empowering you to perform your best when it matters most. If you’re chasing a personal best, it’s time to master the art of the unseen.

It was one of the most unforgettable moments of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

In the first round of the women’s 1500 meters, Dutch distance star Sifan Hassan was cruising near the back of the pack when disaster struck. With just one lap to go, a runner ahead of her tripped and fell—causing Hassan to tumble hard onto the track.

For a brief second, it looked like her Olympic dream might be over.

But Hassan didn’t stay down.

With remarkable poise and determination, she sprang back to her feet and began an astonishing chase. In less than 400 meters, she not only caught the field but blew past them, surging into the lead and winning the heat in a dramatic, come-from-behind finish that left the world in awe.

And that was just the beginning.

Hassan went on to complete one of the most ambitious programs in Olympic history, running six distance races in just eight days. Her results were historic:

• Gold medal in the 5,000 meters

• Gold medal in the 10,000 meters

• Bronze medal in the 1,500 meters

Her Tokyo triple made her the first athlete—male or female—to ever medal in all three of these events in a single Olympics.

Sifan Hassan’s fall could have ended her Games. Instead, it defined them. Her performance wasn’t just about winning races—it was about heart, courage, and rising when it matters most.

As she later said, “It’s not about the fall, but how hard we rise.”

History was made on the streets of London this morning. Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa surged to victory at the 2025 TCS London Marathon, setting a new women’s-only world record with an unofficial time of 2:15:50.

With cool, crisp conditions early in the race, Assefa quickly established her dominance. Pulling away from her rivals by the halfway point, she maintained a strong and steady pace through the final miles. In the closing stages, it was clear the race against the clock had begun — and she delivered in spectacular fashion, crossing the finish line with a commanding lead of over a minute ahead of second-place Joyciline Jepkosgei.

The previous women’s-only world record was held by Britain’s Paula Radcliffe, whose 2:17:01 mark from London in 2005 had stood for two decades. Assefa’s breakthrough performance, pending official ratification, trims over a minute from that legendary time.

Tigst Assefa had already stunned the running world with her mixed-race world record of 2:11:53 set in Berlin in 2023. Today, she confirmed her place among the all-time greats by dominating a race staged without male pacemakers, underlining her incredible solo strength.

Assefa’s record run headlined what has already become one of the most memorable editions of the London Marathon, with over 56,000 participants and perfect spring weather creating an electric atmosphere.

Paula Radcliffe posted "That was a phenomenal race so hats off to Tigst Assefa for being brave enough to go out in the pace she did!

The manner in which she lifted herself to get across the line as well. 

You can see how much it means to her. It's more to build on for her moving forward."

Eilish McColgan picks up the pace as she comes across the line in 02:24:25 for eighth place.

She's tired on her marathon debut but has done one thing she wanted - beat her mum Liz's best time. Liz McColgan won here in 1996.

A decent effort for a first attempt.

Top 13 Women’s Elite Finishers

1. Tigst Assefa (ETH) – 2:15:50

2. Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN) – 2:18:44

3. Sifan Hassan (NED) – 2:19:00

4. Haven Hailu Desse (ETH) – 2:19:17

5. Vivian Cheruiyot (KEN) – 2:22:32

6. Stella Chesang (UGA) – 2:22:42

7. Sofiia Yaremchuk (ITA) – 2:23:14

8. Eilish McColgan (GBR) – 2:24:25

9. Rose Harvey (GBR) – 2:25:01

10. Susanna Sullivan (USA) – 2:29:30

11. Phily Bowden (GBR) – 2:30:28

12. Molly Bookmyer (USA) – 2:32:31

13. Holly Archer (GBR) – 2:39:45

Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa delivered a historic performance, setting a new women-only world record with a time of 2:15:50. She broke away from the pack after the 30-kilometer mark and maintained her lead to the finish line.   

Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei secured second place with a strong finish at 2:18:44, while the Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan completed the podium in third with a time of 2:19:00.  

Notably, Great Britain’s Eilish McColgan finished eighth, setting a new Scottish marathon record with her time of 2:24:25.  

Faith Chepngetich Kipyegon has cemented herself as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time, rewriting records and redefining what is possible in women’s athletics. With multiple Olympic and World Championship titles to her name, she continues to push the boundaries of human performance. Now, she stands on the brink of making history again—becoming the first woman to break the elusive four-minute mile barrier.

Born on January 10, 1994, in Bomet, Kenya, Kipyegon’s journey to greatness began in the Rift Valley, a region known for producing world-class distance runners. Initially a soccer enthusiast, her raw talent for running became evident when she effortlessly won a school race at age 14. That moment set her on a path that would lead to global dominance.

Kipyegon burst onto the international stage at the 2010 World Cross Country Championships in Poland, where she competed barefoot and finished fourth in the junior race. She quickly ascended the ranks, winning gold at the 2011 and 2013 World Cross Country Championships, as well as titles in the 1500m at the 2011 World Youth Championships and the 2012 World Junior Championships.

Her Olympic career is nothing short of legendary. She won her first 1500m gold at the 2016 Rio Games and defended her title in Tokyo in 2021. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she made history by securing a third consecutive gold medal in the event, setting an Olympic record of 3:51.29. In World Championship competition, she has claimed multiple titles, including a remarkable double victory in the 1500m and 5000m at the 2023 Budapest World Championships.

Kipyegon’s dominance extends beyond championship racing—her record-breaking performances on the track are rewriting history. The year 2023 was a defining one for her career. On June 2, she shattered the 1500m world record with a time of 3:49.11 at the Florence Diamond League. Just a week later, she broke the 5000m world record in Paris, running 14:05.20. On July 21, she delivered yet another groundbreaking performance by setting a new world record in the mile, clocking 4:07.64 at the Monaco Diamond League.

Her mile world record surpassed the previous mark of 4:12.33, set by Sifan Hassan in 2019. This extraordinary feat has sparked conversations in the running world about whether Kipyegon could be the first woman to break the four-minute mile barrier. Experts suggest that with optimal pacing, drafting, and race conditions, she has the potential to achieve what was once thought impossible.

In February 2025, Kipyegon had an uncharacteristic setback at the Sirikwa Cross Country Classic in Eldoret, where she failed to finish the 10km race. Despite this rare off day, she remains focused and determined, with her eyes set on another historic season. With her current trajectory, breaking four minutes in the mile is no longer a question of if, but when.

Beyond her achievements on the track, Kipyegon is also a devoted mother and wife. She is married to Timothy Kitum, the 2012 Olympic 800m bronze medalist, and together they have a daughter, Alyn, born in 2018. Balancing motherhood and elite competition, she continues to inspire millions with her work ethic and determination.

Faith Kipyegon is not just a champion—she is a trailblazer. As she continues to push the limits of middle-distance running, the world watches in anticipation. If there is one athlete capable of redefining history and shattering the four-minute mile, it is Faith Kipyegon.

Top British marathoner Emile Cairess has officially withdrawn from the 2025 TCS London Marathon due to a persistent ankle tendon injury that has derailed his training. The setback forces the 27-year-old to put his pursuit of Mo Farah’s British marathon record of 2:05:11 on hold as he focuses on recovery.

Cairess, who burst onto the marathon scene as the fastest British debutant of all time in 2023 with a 2:08:07 finish, had since lowered his personal best to 2:06:46, securing third place in last year’s London Marathon behind Alex Mutiso and Kenenisa Bekele. He followed that success with a fourth-place finish at the Paris Olympics, further solidifying his status as one of Britain’s brightest distance-running stars.

“It’s incredibly disappointing to miss London this year, especially after how well things had been progressing,” Cairess shared. “But the ankle injury has made it impossible to maintain the consistency I need. Right now, my focus is on healing properly so I can come back stronger.”

Star-Studded Field Remains

While Cairess’s absence is a blow to British hopes, the men’s elite field remains stacked with talent. Eliud Kipchoge, Kenenisa Bekele, and Olympic champion Tamirat Tola are set to headline the race, joined by world half-marathon record-holder Jacob Kiplimo and defending champion Alex Mutiso.

On the British front, Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee will make his highly anticipated marathon debut, while Mahamed Mahamed and Phil Sesemann, both fresh from the Paris Olympics, aim to make their mark on home soil.

Women’s Elite Race Draws Global Talent

In the women’s race, Lucy Reid has also withdrawn due to injury after initially planning her London debut following a breakthrough 2:26:35 in Malaga last December. However, the competition remains fierce, with world record-holder Ruth Chepngetich, reigning Olympic champion Sifan Hassan, and Tigst Assefa—who famously shattered the Berlin Marathon record—leading the charge.

Adding to the excitement, defending champion Peres Jepchirchir will return, while British star Eilish McColgan is set to make her long-awaited marathon debut, bringing further domestic interest to the race.

While Cairess’s withdrawal is undoubtedly disappointing, the marathon season is far from over. With careful rehabilitation, he remains hopeful for a return later this year, possibly targeting the Berlin or Chicago Marathons as alternative stages for his record pursuit.

The London Marathon, meanwhile, continues to promise world-class performances, with a stellar field ready to light up the streets of the British capital come race day.

In elite marathon running, pacemakers—often called “rabbits”—play a crucial yet understated role. These athletes set a predetermined tempo, guiding lead runners through significant portions of the race to facilitate record-breaking performances or personal bests. The Chicago Marathon offers a compelling case study of this dynamic, particularly through the collaboration between Sifan Hassan and her pacer, Reid Buchanan. 

A Synergistic Partnership: Hassan and Buchanan

Sifan Hassan, a distinguished middle-distance runner, embarked on her second marathon endeavor in 2023 Chicago. To navigate this challenge, she enlisted Reid Buchanan, a seasoned U.S. athlete with a personal marathon best of 2:11:38, set in 2020 at The Marathon Project in Chandler, Arizona. Despite his experience, pacing another athlete introduced new complexities.

Their pre-race dialogue underscored the strategic intricacies of pacing. Buchanan proposed, “I was brought in to run 2:16 pace, but I think I can get you to about 25K at 2:12 pace.” Hassan’s response was both confident and motivating: “Oh, I’m sure you can go further. You just have to believe.” This exchange not only set ambitious expectations but also highlighted the psychological interplay between athlete and pacer. 

During the race, Buchanan’s steady pacing was instrumental. Hassan initially struggled to find her rhythm, feeling the intensity of the early kilometers. However, Buchanan’s consistent tempo helped her regain composure. By the 22K mark, Hassan had closed the gap on the leading pack, and by 25K, she began to assert her dominance, eventually breaking away to finish with a course record time of 2:13:44.

The Evolution and Role of Professional Pacemakers

The concept of pacemaking is not a modern innovation. Its roots trace back to 1954 when Chris Brasher and Chris Chataway paced Roger Bannister to the first sub-four-minute mile. This historic event showcased the potential of strategic pacing in achieving unprecedented athletic feats.

In contemporary marathons, pacemakers are integral, especially in events aiming for fast times and records. Races like the London and Chicago Marathons employ pacers to maintain a consistent, swift pace, enhancing the event’s prestige and competitive allure. Conversely, marathons such as Boston and New York prioritize tactical racing and do not utilize pacemakers, fostering a different competitive atmosphere.

The responsibilities of a pacemaker are multifaceted. They must possess the physical capability to sustain target paces comfortably, often requiring personal bests significantly faster than the pace they are assigned to set. Contracts typically outline specific distances and paces, with incentives for exceeding expectations. While some races mandate that pacemakers drop out at predetermined points, others allow them to complete the race, potentially influencing the final standings.

The Psychological and Physiological Impact of Pacing

Beyond the physical benefits, pacemakers offer psychological advantages. Running alongside a pacer can reduce the mental burden of pace management, allowing athletes to focus on other aspects of their performance. Studies have shown that runners perceive efforts as less strenuous when following a set pace, potentially enhancing overall performance.

Physiologically, pacemakers help mitigate air resistance, enabling runners to conserve energy. Research indicates that drafting behind a pacer can reduce oxygen consumption by approximately 8% at certain speeds, underscoring the strategic advantage in distance running.

The Debate: Purity of Competition vs. Record-Breaking Performances

The utilization of pacemakers is not without controversy. Critics argue that their presence can detract from the competitive essence of racing, transforming events into time trials rather than head-to-head contests. This perspective suggests that pacemakers may provide an undue advantage to certain athletes, potentially overshadowing the unpredictability and strategic depth that characterize traditional racing.

Proponents, however, contend that pacemakers elevate the sport by facilitating record-breaking performances and pushing the boundaries of human potential. They argue that the presence of pacers can lead to more exciting and dynamic races, showcasing the zenith of athletic achievement.

The Chicago Marathon exemplified the profound impact a pacemaker can have on an athlete’s performance. The collaboration between Sifan Hassan and Reid Buchanan not only led to a record-setting run but also highlighted the intricate balance of strategy, trust, and mutual ambition in elite marathon racing. As the sport continues to evolve, the role of pacemakers will undoubtedly remain a focal point of both innovation and debate, shaping the future landscape of long-distance running.

On February 16, 2025, Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo delivered a historic performance at the eDreams Mitja Marató de Barcelona, setting a new men's half marathon world record with a time of 56 minutes and 42 seconds. This remarkable run shattered the previous record of 57:30, held by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha since October 2024, by an astonishing 49-second margin.

Kiplimo's achievement makes him the first athlete ever to complete the half marathon distance in under 57 minutes, representing the most significant improvement in the men’s half marathon world record to date. The 24-year-old credited the ideal race conditions in Barcelona for his unprecedented feat.

“The temperature was perfect, there was no wind at all, and the course was fantastic—everything went better than expected,” Kiplimo said after the race.

A Perfect Race Strategy

Kiplimo approached the race with a calculated strategy, setting an aggressive yet controlled pace from the start. By the third kilometer, he felt strong and decided to push the tempo further, creating an unstoppable rhythm that led to his record-breaking sub-57-minute finish.

With cool 13°C (55°F) weather, no wind, and Barcelona’s famously flat and fast course, Kiplimo capitalized on the conditions to achieve a performance that will be remembered for years to come. His average pace over the 21.1-kilometer course was an astonishing 2:41 per kilometer or 4:19 per mile, making this one of the fastest sustained performances in distance running history.  His 15k split was 39:47, best time ever at that distance.  

A Legacy of Dominance in Distance Running

This latest achievement further solidifies Kiplimo’s position as one of the world’s premier distance runners. His accolades include:

Olympic success: Bronze medalist in the 10,000 meters at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Cross country dominance: Two-time World Cross Country Champion.

Half marathon excellence: Previous world record holder with a time of 57:31, set in Lisbon in 2021.

Now, with a sub-57-minute half marathon, he has redefined the possibilities in the event.

A Look to the Future: Marathon Debut in London

Following his world record performance, Kiplimo announced that he will not compete again until making his marathon debut at the London Marathon on April 27, 2025. His transition to the 42.195-kilometer distance has been highly anticipated, and with his strength, speed, and endurance, many believe he could make an immediate impact on the world marathon scene.

His Barcelona performance indicates peak condition, and the running community eagerly awaits to see if he can translate his half marathon dominance into full marathon success.

Men's Top 10 Finishers:

Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda) – 56:42 (World Record)

Geoffrey Kamworor (Kenya) – 58:44

Samwel Mailu (Kenya) – 59:40

Birhanu Legese (Ethiopia) – 1:00:15

Philemon Kiplimo (Kenya) – 1:00:22

Mule Wasihun (Ethiopia) – 1:00:35

Leonard Barsoton (Kenya) – 1:00:50

Abdi Nageeye (Netherlands) – 1:01:05

Sondre Nordstad Moen (Norway) – 1:01:20

Julien Wanders (Switzerland) – 1:01:35

Women's Top 10 Finishers:

Joyciline Jepkosgei (Kenya) – 1:04:13

Letesenbet Gidey (Ethiopia) – 1:04:35

Ruth Chepngetich (Kenya) – 1:04:50

Yalemzerf Yehualaw (Ethiopia) – 1:05:05

Hellen Obiri (Kenya) – 1:05:20

Brigid Kosgei (Kenya) – 1:05:35

Peres Jepchirchir (Kenya) – 1:05:50

Sifan Hassan (Netherlands) – 1:06:05

Almaz Ayana (Ethiopia) – 1:06:20

Lonah Chemtai Salpeter (Israel) – 1:06:35

Kiplimo’s sub-57-minute performance in Barcelona has transformed the landscape of distance running. His ability to maintain a blistering pace throughout the race not only redefines human potential but also inspires the next generation of athletes to push beyond perceived limits.

As he shifts focus to the marathon, one question remains: Is he just getting started?

With the London Marathon on the horizon and potential future records in sight, Jacob Kiplimo’s journey is far from over—it's only just beginning.

In a recent episode of the CITIUS MAG Podcast, host Chris Chavez sat down with the illustrious Sifan Hassan to delve into her remarkable performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics and her future aspirations in marathon running.

Reflecting on the Paris Olympics:

Hassan achieved an extraordinary feat in Paris, securing bronze medals in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events before clinching gold in the marathon with a time of 2:22:55, setting a new Olympic record. She shared insights into the rigorous training and mental fortitude required to compete across these diverse events, emphasizing her relentless pursuit of excellence.

Aiming for Marathon Milestones:

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Hassan expressed her ambition to push the boundaries of women’s marathon times. Inspired by Ruth Chepng’etich’s world record of 2:09:56, Hassan is contemplating the possibility of running a marathon under 2:10. She stated, “Maybe, it takes me longer to work hard to achieve it… We will now try and hit the thing.” This goal reflects her desire to explore the limits of female endurance and performance.

Upcoming Challenges:

Hassan is set to compete in the 2025 London Marathon, returning to the city where she made a victorious marathon debut in 2023. She acknowledged the increasing competitiveness of women’s marathon running, particularly in light of recent record-breaking performances, and is eager to test herself against a formidable field.

Mental Resilience and Training Philosophy:

Throughout the conversation, Hassan highlighted the importance of mental strength in her training regimen. She humorously remarked, “I think my brain is so scared of me,” underscoring the psychological challenges inherent in elite athletic performance. Her approach combines rigorous physical preparation with a focus on mental resilience, enabling her to tackle multiple demanding events successfully.

This insightful discussion offers a comprehensive look into Sifan Hassan’s past achievements and future goals, shedding light on her exceptional versatility and determination in the realm of distance running.

US sprint legend Michael Johnson is among those who cannot wait to see what Sifan Hassan will do next after the Dutch legend’s recent promise to break new marathon barriers.

American sprint legend Michale Johnson believes Sifan Hassan’s determination will carry her to another historic performance following her promise to run a sub 2:10 marathon.

Hassan is one of the greatest long-distance runners and had a highly successful 2024 season when she won bronze in both 5,000m and 10,000m before crowning it with gold in marathon.

Her gold medal win came just 37 hours after her 10,000m race, showing her remarkable levels of energy and perseverance, and heading into the 2025 season, she wants to become the second woman in history to dip under 2:10, following in the footsteps of Kenya’s Ruth Chepng’etich.

Chepg’entich became the first woman to achieve the feat, previously seen as impossible, when she ran 2:09:56 at last year’s Chicago Marathon, to set a new world record, after breaking Tigist Assefa’s mark of 2:11:53 set in Berlin in 2023.

“Maybe it takes me longer to work hard to achieve it [the sub 2:10 marathon],” Hassan said in a recent interview with Athletics Weekly. “But Ruth Chepng’etich [the reigning world record holder] has shown me it’s possible.”

It is that assurance that makes Johnson, a former world record holder, believe that Hassan could be the next to make marathon history given her determination and ability to take on and succeed in various challenges.

“When Sifan gets curious about something, look out,” Johnson posted on X.

Few can bet against Hassan doing it given what she has shown before, having claimed the London and Chicago marathons in 2023 before her rare hat-trick at the Olympics last year.

Hassan holds the third fastest time in marathon history of 2:13:44, clocked in Chicago two years ago, but that is nearly four minutes away from the world record, meaning she has her work cut out if she has to reach Cheng’etich’s levels.

“I want to see how far females can go. To see what is inside me and what I can do,” Hassan added during the interview.

After such a big year when she was crowned World Athlete of the Year, Hassan will be among the marathoners to beat in 2025 but whether that includes a world record is something fans will have to wait and see.

Sifan Hassan aims to break the marathon barriers, inspired by Ruth Chepng’etich’s world record of 2:09:56.

Dutch woman Sifan Hassan knows no boundaries when it comes to being an athlete and she has recently opened up about running under 2:10 in a marathon.

The reigning Olympic marathon champion, in an interview with Athletics Weekly, revealed that Ruth Chepng’etich has proved that is possible to clock fast times and she believes that someday, she will be able to achieve greater milestones when it comes to time.

The former Chicago Marathon champion is currently the third fastest marathoner in the world with her time of 2:13:44 that she set at the 2023 edition of the event.

Chepng’etich is the fastest marathoner in the world, having the world record time of 2:09:56. Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa is second with a time of 2:11:53 that she set at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. Sifan is training hard and she hopes that at some point, she will be able to achieve that milestone.

“Maybe, it takes me longer to work hard to achieve it (sub 2:10 marathon) but Ruth Chepng’etich has shown me it’s possible. We will now try and hit the thing,” Sifan said.

"I want to see how far females can go, to see what is inside me and what I can do."

Sifan made her full marathon debut at the 2023 Chicago Marathon where she stunned a strong field which had defending champion Ruth Chepng’etich to take the win.

She was fresh from competing at the 2022 World Championships where she took bronze in the 1500m and silver in the 5000m. in the 10,000m Sifan finished 11th.

In 2024, she experienced one of the most successful seasons, starting out with a fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Marathon before she began preparations for the Paris Olympic Games. At the Olympic Games, she finished third in both the 5000m and 10,000m.

Sifan Hassan rounded up her season with a win in the women’s Olympic marathon. She was honored by World Athletics following her successful season, winning the women’s out of stadium category before being named as women’s World Athlete of the Year.

Olympics marathon champion Sifan Hassan has given reasons why she has been busy at work during the festive season when most of her peers are on a break.

It may be the festive season but Olympics marathon champion Sifan Hassan has not taken a break as she has maintained her training with eyes on further success in 2025.

Hassan was one of the athletes who had a remarkable 2024 season that yielded three medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics which saw her crowned World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year early in December.

The Dutchwoman participated in 5,000m, 10,000m and marathon, winning bronze in the first two, before she put the icing on the cake with gold in the latter, and it was no surprise when she was named World Athlete of the Year Out of Stadia as well as the overall women’s prize.

It has fueled her desire for more going by her latest sentiments and actions as she has been busy in training during the festive season when most of her peers are on a break.

“I love running at this time of year. It always offers an opportunity to reflect on what we’ve achieved, seek inspiration, and set intentions for the year ahead. What are your goals for 2025?” she posed on X.

Hassan must be looking to win a world title in 2025 when the World Championships will take place in Tokyo, Japan and made a vow to try out four races after her decision to go for a treble paid off in Paris.

It will also not be a surprise if she signs up for one of the major city marathons, having claimed London and Chicago titles in 2023 which set the stage for her Olympics heroics in 2024.

Marathon Olympic champion Sifan Hassan will concentrate in marathon in 2025 after a breakout year.

Paris Olympic marathon champion Sifan Hassan has revealed his excitement to fully major in marathons next year.

While she confirmed that she will combine both track and road races in 2025, She maintained that the marathon will be a priority for her.

The double Paris bronze medalist in 5000m and 10000m told World Athletics: “I think I’m going to do the track and road again, because I just want to do those things, a combination of track and road close to each other. Because I am very curious. I really like it because I don’t know for sure if it is going to happen. I like the excitement."

Hassan, who grabbed the 5000m gold in the Tokyo version of the Games, said she faced a mental battle regarding her chances in the marathon until at some point during the race she contemplated quitting. The three-time Diamond League champion pursued a marathon in 2023 and won both the London and Chicago marathons the same year.

This year, she took the Tokyo marathon course as well as the gruesome Paris course. “My first three marathons were all different and for the Olympic marathon, I was really fighting myself. One side of me said: 'concentrate on the marathon', the other side said: 'better that you do the track'. I was really struggling with myself. I didn’t have confidence I was going to win after the track," she said.

A bold Hassan said she will take an unpopular decision of doing four marathons in the near future even though that has never happened to any athlete. “One time, I want to do four marathons in a year – from February to February. I want to see if it is possible.”

Launching your own track meet and naming it after yourself is one thing–but Great Britain’s 800m Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson didn’t stop there. On Wednesday, British Athletics revealed that the inaugural Keely Klassic track meet, set for Feb. 15 in Birmingham, will conclude with Hodgkinson trying to break the 800m world record, which has stood for 41 years.

The record of 1:53.28, set by Czechoslovak athlete Jarmila Kratochvílová in 1983, is the longest-standing world record in athletics. Hodgkinson would need to run more than a second faster than her personal best (1:54.61) to even come close to taking it down. The run will mark Hodgkinson’s season opener and first race back from an injury that cut her 2024 season short.

At the Keely Klassic, Hodgkinson promises “a unique, immersive experience that will combine elite competition with an electrifying atmosphere” and extends the meeting invitation to Great Britain’s world-class track and field athletes.

The unveiling comes less than a day after Tuesday’s BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) ceremony, where Hodgkinson took centre stage. The 22-year-old is the first track athlete to win since Mo Farah won in 2017, and the first female track athlete to win since 2004. Her win also marks the fourth consecutive year that a woman has won the award–the longest streak in history.

“I’m actually in a bit of shock,” Hodgkinson said upon accepting the trophy. “I’m actually more excited for my coach, to be honest, because I wouldn’t be where I am without his guidance, [which] I’ve had since I was 17.”

“This year has been absolutely incredible for me,” she continued. “I achieved everything I set out to do on the outdoor track, which is kind of rare, so I’m grateful to be in this position.”

Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee was also a contender for the award.

Hodgkinson’s coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, were awarded Coach(es) of the Year. Along with the Olympic 800m champion, the pair coaches Olympic 1,500m bronze medallist Georgia Bell.

Mondo Duplantis wins Sport Star of the Year

Pole vaulting legend Mondo Duplantis was also acknowledged at the event, winning World Sport Star of the Year. The Swedish-American world record holder was pitted against fellow sports icons, including gymnast Simone Biles, WNBA player Caitlin Clark and Olympic marathon champion Sifan Hassan.

“So sorry that I can’t be in attendance tonight–I’m back here in the States right now, training for the up and coming season. I know I’m in great company–the biggest legends of all time in sports have won this award. This really means a lot to me.”

Sifan Hassan reveals how talking to self while racing helps her to conquer fear and this helps her bring her A-game.

Paris Olympic marathon champion Sifan Hassan, one of the most decorated athletes in recent times, has spilled the beans about one thing that has made her a dominant force in her specialties. 

While most athletes, whether on track or road races focus entirely on the job at hand, the 31-year-old said she normally talks to herself. 

Hassan, the only athlete in Olympic history to win medals across a middle-distance event and both long-distance races in a single Games, added that self conversation is the biggest part of her motivation.  "When I race, really, I talk too much. I can’t stop talking,“ Hassan, the double bronze medalist in Paris, told World Athletics. 

The three-time World Indoor medalist maintained that she normally wakes up very early and meditates on what the race holds for her and it was a similar case in Paris.

"I woke up at 4am and I was telling myself: 'This is the wrong thing I have done'. Then before the race, I looked at everybody and how fresh they were. And I looked terrible! I was so scared of myself. I tried talking to myself then, getting ready to use my brain to run," she observed.

Hassan was born in Adama, Ethiopia but she left her home country as a refugee and arrived in the Netherlands in 2008 at age 15.

She acquired Dutch citizenship in 2013. She held a world record at 10,000m for two days in June 2021.Hassan holds six European records (1500m, 3000m, 5000m, 10,000m, half marathon, marathon) and three other Dutch records.

Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa headlines the Bangsaen21 Half Marathon women’s elite field, a World Athletics Platinum Label event, in Chon Buri on Sunday (15).

She will be joined by Rosemary Wanjiru of Kenya and other elite athletes from across the world.

For Tigist Assefa, the race in Chon Buri is her first as an Olympic silver medalist. The former world marathon record-holder, who clocked 2:11:53 in Berlin last year, was a narrow second to Sifan Hassan in the Olympic marathon in Paris in August and prior to that she finished second in the London Marathon in April in 2:16:23.

She last raced a half marathon in 2022 and her PB of 1:07:28 dates back to April of that year.

Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s Nibret Melak, Leul Gebresilase and Bazezew Asmare are also strong candidates for victory.

African 10,000m champion Nibret Melak, who finished seventh in the half marathon at the World Road Running Championships last year, has a best of 59:06.

Hassan competed in three grueling races at the Paris Olympics, winning marathon gold and bronze in both 5000m and 10000m

Paris Olympics marathon champion Sifan Hassan has revealed why she made a decision to take part in three races at the 2024 Paris Games.

The 31-year-old claimed 5000m and 10,000m bronze before winning the marathon in an Olympic record.

The Dutchwoman was honored at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco on December 1 where she won the women’s out of stadium category before being named as women’s World Athlete of the Year.

"This year, my curiosity pushed me to take a risk and compete in three distances at the Paris Olympics. It was terrifying, and that made each finish line more meaningful. It wasn’t perfect, but sometimes happiness comes from embracing imperfections," she told World Athletics. 

The Paris 2024 marathon course went down as one of the toughest and most challenging in Olympic history, taking place in grueling conditions and featuring one long, sustained climb and a second almost vertiginous climb around the 29km marker before a long, steep, giddy downhill stretch heading back into the city center.

Hassan said she studied the Paris course very well and familiarity gave her the confidence that she had what it takes to reign supreme in the French capital. She added that her Tokyo experience came in handy too.

"After I ran the Tokyo marathon, I looked at the Paris course. I started really practising to run 600m up, then 800m down. I did it so often that I couldn’t sit down, I couldn’t run. I almost injured myself," said the Tokyo Olympics 10000m champion.

“My coach said to me: ‘Why are you only focusing on this?’ And I said: ‘You didn’t see what I saw!’ Really, before Paris, I overtrained. I felt like I was done," the 5000m Tokyo Olympics champion maintained.

Her marathon win in an Olympic record of 2:22:55 came just 37 hours after Hassan had won 10,000m bronze, and six days after her 5000m bronze.

Olympic champions Sifan Hassan and Letsile Tebogo have been announced as World Athletes of the Year at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco.

Following a vote by fans, Hassan and Tebogo received top honors on an evening that saw six athletes crowned in three categories – track, field and out of stadium – before the overall two winners were revealed.

Tebogo was confirmed as men’s track athlete of the year, with Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone receiving the women’s honour. Hassan claimed the women’s out of stadium crown and Tamirat Tola the men’s, while Mondo Duplantis and Yaroslava Mahuchikh were named field athletes of the year.

This year’s Rising Stars were also celebrated, with Sembo Almayew and Mattia Furlani receiving recognition.

World Athletes of the Year for 2024

Women’s World Athlete of the Year: Sifan Hassan (NED)Men’s World Athlete of the Year: Letsile Tebogo (BOT)

Women’s track: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (USA)Women’s field: Yaroslava Mahuchikh (UKR)Women’s out of stadium: Sifan Hassan (NED)Men’s track: Letsile Tebogo (BOT)Men’s field: Mondo Duplantis (SWE)Men’s out of stadium: Tamirat Tola (ETH)

Women’s Rising Star: Sembo Almayew (ETH)Men’s Rising Star: Mattia Furlani (ITA)

“At the end of what has been a stellar year for athletics, we are delighted to reveal our list of World Athletes of the Year – both in their respective disciplines and overall,” said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. “This group of athletes represents the very best of our sport and has this year redefined what is possible in terms of athletic performance.

“Our 2024 cohort set new standards in heights, speed and distance, including six world records and a host of Olympic and national records between them.

“I congratulate all our award winners, and all of the athletes nominated for these honors, and I thank them for inspiring us all with their performances this year.”

World Athletes of the Year Hassan and Tebogo both won gold and claimed multiple medals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Dutch star Hassan’s medal treble in Paris was capped by her winning the final athletics gold medal of the Games with her triumph in the marathon in an Olympic record of 2:22:55. That performance came just 37 hours after Hassan claimed bronze in the 10,000m, and six days after her first medal in the French capital – also bronze – in the 5000m.

As a result, she became the first woman to win medals in the 5000m, 10,000m and marathon at the same Games, and the first athlete since Emil Zatopek, who won all three men’s titles in Helsinki in 1952.

Tebogo also made history in Paris when he won the 200m, as he claimed a first ever Olympic gold medal in any sport for Botswana. He ran an African record of 19.46 – a time that moved him to fifth on the world all-time list – and that performance followed his sixth-place finish in the 100m final. He went on to form part of Botswana’s silver medal-winning men’s 4x400m team.

He dipped under 20 seconds for 200m a total of nine times in 2024, with those performances topped by his Olympic title-winning mark which remained the fastest of the year.

His fellow track athlete of the year, McLaughlin-Levrone, improved her own world 400m hurdles record twice, to 50.65 and 50.37, and claimed Olympic gold in that event as well as in the 4x400m. Tola, who joined Hassan in being named out of stadium athlete of the year, won the Olympic marathon title in Paris in an Olympic record.

World records were set by both field athletes of the year. Mahuchikh cleared 2.10m to improve the world high jump record before winning Olympic gold, while Duplantis revised his own world pole vault record three times, eventually taking it to 6.26m, and won the Olympic title.

"Thank you to the fans, to everybody who voted," said Hassan, who was in Monaco to receive her two awards. "I never thought I was going to win this one. This year was crazy. It’s not only me – all the athletes have been amazing. I’m really grateful. What more can I say?"

Standing alongside Hassan on the stage at the Theatre Princesse Grace, Tebogo said: "It feels amazing to know that the fans are always there for us athletes. It was a great year.

"This means a lot," he added. "It’s not just about the team that is around you, there are a lot of fans out there that really want us to win something great for the continent. It was a real surprise to hear my name because I didn’t expect this."

Almayew and Furlani named Rising Stars of 2024

Not only did Sembo Almayew and Mattia Furlani achieve great things as U20 athletes in 2024, they both also secured success on the senior stage.

Almayew finished fifth in the 3000m steeplechase final at the Paris Olympics, going close to her own national U20 record with her 9:00.83 performance, before she travelled to Lima where she won the world U20 title, setting a championship record in the process. With that win, the 19-year-old became the first ever Ethiopian world U20 women’s steeplechase champion.

Furlani improved the world U20 long jump record to 8.38m at the European Championships on home soil in Rome to secure silver, and he won two more senior major medals at the World Indoor Championships, where he got another silver, and the Olympic Games, where he claimed bronze.

In Glasgow – at the age of 19 years and 24 days – Furlani became the youngest athlete ever to win a world indoor medal in the horizontal jumps.

Knight wins President’s Award

The winner of the President’s Award was also announced in Monaco on Sunday (1), with Nike co-founder Phil Knight receiving the honour in recognition of his constant inspiring support for athletics and the development of the sport.

The President's Award, first awarded in 2016, recognises and honours exceptional service to athletics. Past winners of the award include the Ukrainian Athletics Association, British journalist Vikki Orvice, Swiss meeting director Andreas Brugger, Jamaican sprint superstar Usain Bolt, the Abbott World Marathon Majors, and 1968 men’s 200m medallists Tommie Smith, Peter Norman and John Carlos for their iconic moment on the podium in Mexico.

“Phil Knight’s passion for athletics is pretty much lifelong,” said Coe. “He developed an almost father-son relationship with his coach, the legendary Bill Bowerman, whose training approach was a departure from the orthodoxies of the day and who not only guided Knight’s career on the track but became a central figure when Phil took his first tentative steps in the running shoe business that became the dominant global force Nike.

“His love of athletics runs through Nike. It is a business created and driven by runners, with Phil never afraid to be the front runner.”

Knight said: “Thank you, Seb Coe, for the ultimate honour of the President’s Award, given by World Athletics. I am in great company, with Tommie Smith and John Carlos, and Usain Bolt. Obviously, I didn’t run as fast as those guys, but I am in such high company that I am thrilled by the award. Track and field has always been an important part of Nike – it has always been a central part of who Nike is.

“I do think running will continue to grow. Not only does Seb and his team do a great job promoting the sport, but it is a sport that not only is enjoyable, but it is probably the best fitness activity you can do. So, for me to win this honour, it is very meaningful.”

During the ceremony, a moment was taken to remember last year’s men’s out of stadium athlete of the year Kelvin Kiptum, the marathon world record-holder who died in a road traffic accident in February, as well as other figures from the sport who have passed away in 2024.

Compression socks have sprinted from the clinic to the track, with pro runners like Sifan Hassan and Eliud Kipchoge touting their recovery and performance benefits. Are they really more than just a fashion trend? Here’s the scoop on what compression socks deliver, and where the hype might be outpacing the science.

Better blood flow and swelling control

Studies suggest that compression socks really do promote blood circulation and reduce swelling in the legs. Whether you’re logging miles on the trail or pounding the pavement, compression can help prevent that dreaded heavy-leg feeling by keeping blood moving efficiently back to the heart, as recently reported in SELF magazine. Dr. Leada Malek, a San Fransisco-based sports physical therapist, notes that compression socks are particularly useful for runners dealing with recurring swelling or minor injuries like ankle sprains. By reducing fluid buildup, the socks help maintain freedom of movement, letting you run without the drag of swollen, tired legs.

Compression socks can also be helpful for runners who experience postural dizziness after intense effort. For runners with conditions like postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), which can cause lightheadedness when shifting from sitting to standing, the socks help push blood back to the brain and heart.

A calmer stomach on race day

If you’ve ever experienced a queasy stomach during a race, compression socks might help. Running can decrease blood flow to your gut, which leads to discomfort or even nausea. A study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research suggests that compression socks can direct more blood from your legs to your GI tract, helping reduce digestive distress. By maintaining better blood circulation, you may find yourself more comfortable mid-race, with fewer interruptions from an unhappy stomach.

A boost for post-workout recovery

The role of compression socks in post-workout recovery is widely debated. Some research suggests that wearing compression garments can reduce markers for muscle damage. While the effects vary, many athletes report feeling less sore after wearing them. Even if muscle repair benefits are unclear, the stable, “hugging” sensation of compression might help you feel ready to move your body sooner.

Compression socks for travel and long races

Planning to run a far-off race? Compression socks might help keep you healthy by reducing your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long flights. According to research, wearing compression socks during prolonged sitting can prevent blood clots by keeping blood flowing in the legs.

Research also suggests that wearing them during a race might reduce DVT risk for the flight home, as the pressure supports blood flow and circulation.

The takeaway

Compression socks may not shave seconds off your race time, but they do offer a variety of benefits, from easing leg swelling to calming a queasy stomach. And if they make you feel more confident on race day, that extra motivation could be all you need to push harder.

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

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

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

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

Chebet is no stranger to cross-country success.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

year filled with unforgettable moments in the sport, the nominations highlight remarkable performances from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the World Athletics Cross Country Championships, Label road races, and other global events.

World Athletics announced the nominees for the esteemed 2024 Track Athlete of the Year award last week. The list of 12 outstanding athletes features some of the biggest names in international athletics, each having left a significant mark on the season.

The nominees for 2024 Women’s Out of Stadium Athlete of the Year are:

Sutume Asefa Kebede, Ethiopia

• Tokyo Marathon winner• No.2 marathon time of 2024

Sutume Asefa Kebede made waves this year with her victory at the Tokyo Marathon, clocking in at 2:15:55, the fastest marathon time of 2024, securing her place as the eighth-fastest woman in marathon history. Since her debut in 2016, Kebede has steadily risen through marathon ranks, often training alongside her husband and coach, Birhanu Mekonnen, whose support has been instrumental. Along with her Tokyo triumph, she delivered an exceptional performance at the Houston Half Marathon, winning in 1:04:37, a record-breaking time on US soil.

Ruth Chepngetich, Kenya

• World marathon record• Chicago Marathon winner

Ruth Chepngetich solidified her status as the world’s top marathoner by winning this year’s Chicago Marathon with a groundbreaking world record, becoming the first woman to break the 2:10 barrier with a time of 2:09:56. She also holds the world record for the half marathon and has consistently excelled in major marathons. Known for her bold, high-powered pacing, Chepngetich’s approach has led to multiple victories throughout her career, including previous wins in both Chicago and London.

Sifan Hassan, Netherlands

• Olympic marathon champion• Olympic record

Dutch runner Sifan Hassan’s victory in the Olympic marathon in Paris marked a pivotal achievement in her celebrated career, as she set a new Olympic record. Renowned for her versatility, Hassan has excelled across a range of distances, both on the track and road. Her transition from shorter track events—where she’s earned medals and set records—to marathon racing initially surprised many. However, she showcased her remarkable endurance and adaptability by winning not only at the Olympics but also in London and Chicago in 2023.

Tigist Ketema, Ethiopia

• Berlin Marathon winner• Dubai Marathon winner

Ketema had an exceptional year, claiming victories at both the 2024 Dubai Marathon and the 50th Berlin Marathon. In Dubai, she set a record for the fastest debut marathon by a woman with a time of 2:16:07, establishing herself as a standout among elite runners. Continuing her stellar performance in Berlin, Ketema crossed the finish line in 2:16:42, the third-fastest time in the event’s long history. Leading the women’s field from early on, she finished well ahead of her competition in Berlin.

Agnes Jebet Ngetich, Kenya

• World 5km and 10km records• World half marathon lead

Ngetich’s 2024 season has been outstanding across multiple distances. She set new world records in both the 5km (14:25) and 10km (29:24) road races, demonstrating impressive speed and endurance over varied distances. Additionally, she topped the global rankings in the half marathon this year, underscoring her versatility and dominance in road racing worldwide.

The nominees for 2024 Mens’s Out of Stadium Athlete of the Year are:

Yomif Kejelcha, Ethiopia• World half marathon record• World 10km lead

Yomif Kejelcha has captured attention in 2024 with an extraordinary season on the road. He set a new world record in the half marathon in Valencia, clocking an impressive 57:30, and continued to demonstrate his strength over longer distances. Known for his range, Kejelcha also recorded outstanding times in the 5km and 10km, including a remarkable 10km finish of 26:37 earlier this year in Laredo, Spain. These performances add to his accomplished career, which includes two World Indoor Championship titles and a Diamond League title, affirming his status among the elite in both track and road racing.

Jacob Kiplimo, Uganda• World Cross Country Championships gold• Valencia 10km winner

Ugandan distance star Jacob Kiplimo has consistently showcased his prowess in cross-country and road events. In 2024, he secured gold at the World Cross Country Championship, excelling against a formidable field and challenging conditions. His impressive season also included a victory in the 10km in Valencia, further adding to his accolades. Kiplimo’s performances in recent years have established him as one of the world’s leading long-distance runners, highlighted by his Olympic bronze medal and his world record in the half marathon, set in 2021.

Benson Kipruto, Kenya• Tokyo Marathon winner• Olympic marathon bronze

Ugandan distance star Jacob Kiplimo has continually demonstrated his skill in cross-country and road races. In 2024, he captured gold at the World Cross Country Championship, excelling in a competitive field and tough conditions. His remarkable season also featured a win in the 10km in Valencia, further enhancing his achievements. Kiplimo’s recent performances have solidified his position as one of the top long-distance runners in the world, marked by his Olympic bronze medal and his world record in the half marathon, established in 2021.

Brian Daniel Pintado, Ecuador• Olympic 20km race walk champion• Olympic marathon race walk mixed relay silver

Brian Pintado’s career soared to new heights in 2024 with his historic Olympic gold medal in the 20km race walk, bringing Ecuador into the spotlight. He further enhanced his accomplishments by helping Ecuador secure silver in the mixed relay marathon race walk. Pintado’s achievements this season have established him as a leading figure in the race-walking community, making him the only race walker among the nominees.

Tamirat Tola, Ethiopia• Olympic marathon champion• Olympic record

Tamirat Tola capped off his 2024 season with an Olympic marathon victory, during which he set a new Olympic record, solidifying his status as an elite long-distance runner. He has consistently ranked among the world’s best, having previously claimed the World Championships title in 2022 and achieving top times in various marathon circuits.

Who do you think deserves top honors—the Olympic champion or the new women's world record holder?

Two of the world’s most dominant marathoners, Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands and newly-minted world record holder Ruth Chepngetich, are among the nominees for the World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year (Out of Stadium) award.

Hassan’s distance running triple at the Paris Olympic Games made her a guaranteed candidate, where she won two bronze medals on the track (5,000m/10,000m) and capped off her historic run with a gold medal in the women’s marathon, setting a new Olympic record. Chepngetich made history of her own, becoming the first woman to break 2:10 in the marathon with her stunning 2:09:56 performance at the 2024 Chicago Marathon earlier this month.

The other nominees for the women’s out-of-stadium award include Kenyan distance star Agnes Jebet Ngetich, who set world records in the 5K and 10K on the roads, and who ran the second-fastest half-marathon in history at the Valencia Half Marathon on Sunday (63:04, a Kenyan national record); Ethiopian Sutume Kebede, the Tokyo Marathon champion, and second-place in Chicago; and Tigist Ketema of Ethiopia, who took wins at the 2024 Berlin Marathon and in Dubai.

Men’s nominees

On the men’s side, the nominees feature a similarly competitive field. Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, who set a new Games record on the tough Paris course, and his compatriot Yomif Kejelcha, who just broke the men’s world record in the half-marathon by one second at the 2024 Valencia Half. Other nominees for the award include Kenya’s Benson Kipruto, the Tokyo Marathon champion and Olympic bronze medalist; Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo, the world cross-country champion; and Ecuador’s Brian Daniel Pintado, who won Olympic gold in the men’s 20km race walk.

A World Athletics panel compiled the list of nominees. The two finalists for each award will be determined through a three-way voting process that runs until Nov. 3. The World Athletics Council vote accounts for 50 per cent of the decision, while the World Athletics Family (including athletes, coaches and officials) vote accounts for 25 per cent, and the remaining 25 per cent comes from a public vote on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Fans can cast their votes by liking posts on Facebook and Instagram or by retweeting on X.

In 2023, the out-of-stadium award went to Kenyan marathoner Kelvin Kiptum on the men’s side, following his remarkable 2:00:35 performance at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. Ethiopian marathoner Tigist Assefa won the women’s award with her marathon record-breaking run in Berlin.

World Athletics revamped the awards system for 2024, introducing overall World Athlete of the Year titles for both women and men, alongside three specialized awards for track events, field events, and out-of-stadium events. This new approach allows for a more recognition of the diverse athletic accomplishments throughout the year.

Athletics Kenya has defended Ruth Chepngetich after her record-breaking Chicago Marathon win, urging respect and dismissing doping accusations, emphasizing her consistent, hard-earned success.

Athletics Kenya has called for the respect of newly-crowned Chicago Marathon champion Ruth Chepng’etich who is fresh from breaking the marathon world record.

Ruth Chepng’etich clocked an impressive 2:09:56 to win the race at the Chicago Marathon, shattering Tigst Assefa’s previous record of 2:11:53 that she set to win the 2023 Berlin Marathon.

The Kenyan distance sensation ran a solo race to showcase her mastery of the course after winning the 2021 and 2022 editions of the race and finishing second behind Sifan Hassan at the 2023 edition of the event.

However, rumours have emerged that Ruth Chepng’etich might have doped following her impressive splits and that her world record might not be credible. However, Chepng’etich is one of the most consistent marathoners who has a lot of titles including the world marathon title she won at the 2019 World Championships in Doha, Qatar.

Following a ton of accusations, Athletics Kenya has jumped to her defence, urging the public to allow her to celebrate her huge feat and acknowledge her efforts as one of the most outstanding marathon runners in the world.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Athletics Kenya acknowledged her efforts, noting that she has been extraordinary in her performances for over five years and has joined the exclusive world of world record holders including Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet and Beatrice Chepkoech.

“In any case, many world records were broken this year, and to single her out is utterly unfair. It is therefore disheartening to witness some sections of the media casting unwarranted doubt on her achievements. Such aspersions, made without due process, undermine not only her efforts but the integrity of the sport,” Athletics Kenya said in a statement.

“We urge the media and the global community to give Ruth the respect she deserves and protect athletes from harassment. Let her celebrate this hard-earned victory and let us acknowledge the years of hard work and discipline that have brought her to this moment.”

The Kenyan federation was quick to note that every athlete, including Ruth Chepng’etich, underwent the required anti-doping tests and defended her performance on the global stage.

Discover the top 5 fastest female marathoners in the world, featuring record-breaking athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia who continue to redefine the sport.

Kenya and Ethiopia, long-standing powerhouses in long-distance running, are known for producing some of the greatest female marathoners of all time, consistently setting new records and redefining athletic excellence.

Athletes such as Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya and Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia have not only dominated the marathon world but have also broken significant barriers with their remarkable times.

The competitive landscape of the World Marathon Majors (WMM) — including iconic races like the Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and London Marathon — has seen historic performances from these and other top runners.

In this article, we review the top 5 fastest female marathoners in the world, analyzing their breakthrough races, their contributions to the sport, and how they continue to inspire future generations of athletes.

5. Amane Beriso Shankule (Ethiopia) – 2:14:58

Rounding out the top 5 is Amane Beriso Shankule of Ethiopia, whose incredible performance at the 2022 Valencia Marathon earned her a place among the fastest female marathoners. Shankule completed the race in 2:14:58, showcasing her strength and determination in long-distance running.

Although still relatively new to the elite marathon circuit, Shankule’s time places her in an elite group of women who have broken the 2:15 barrier. Ethiopia has long been a dominant force in long-distance running, and Shankule’s success further underscores the depth of talent in the country. Her performance in Valencia will likely serve as a stepping stone to even greater achievements in the future.

4. Brigid Kosgei (Kenya) – 2:14:04

Brigid Kosgei of Kenya is no stranger to marathon success, having made history during the 2019 Chicago Marathon. On October 13, 2019, Kosgei crossed the finish line in 2:14:04, breaking the previous world record and establishing herself as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Kosgei’s performance in Chicago was groundbreaking, as she broke the world record that had stood for over 16 years. Her run was characterized by her smooth stride and exceptional stamina, which allowed her to dominate the race from start to finish. Her record time remained unbeaten until 2023 when Tigst Assefa surpassed it.

Kosgei’s marathon career has been illustrious, with multiple wins in prestigious events such as the London Marathon. Her success has further cemented Kenya’s reputation as a global leader in marathon running. Although her record was eventually broken, Kosgei’s achievements remain a significant chapter in the history of women’s marathoning.

3. Sifan Hassan (Netherlands) – 2:13:44

In third place is Sifan Hassan, a Dutch athlete known for her incredible versatility. Originally a middle-distance runner, Hassan shocked the world when she ran the 2023 Chicago Marathon in 2:13:44, marking her debut in the marathon with one of the fastest times ever recorded by a woman.

Hassan’s ability to transition from track events to the marathon is nothing short of exceptional. Her success in the 1,500m, 5,000m, and 10,000m events — where she has multiple Olympic and World Championship titles — clearly translated well to the marathon. Her 2023 performance in Chicago not only placed her among the fastest female marathoners but also demonstrated the potential for athletes to excel across different distances.

Hassan’s achievement has inspired many young runners, especially those who see her as a symbol of athletic versatility. By running one of the fastest marathons on her debut, Hassan proved that success in the marathon does not always require years of specialized training in the event.

2. Tigst Assefa (Ethiopia) – 2:11:53

Second on the list is Ethiopian sensation Tigst Assefa, who delivered a breathtaking performance at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. On September 24, 2023, Assefa finished the race in 2:11:53, setting a new course record and breaking the previous world record for female marathoners at the time. This monumental run placed her firmly among the fastest women in marathon history.

Assefa’s journey to the top has been remarkable. A former middle-distance runner, she transitioned to marathon running with great success, demonstrating her versatility across different distances. Assefa’s victory also highlighted Ethiopia’s dominance in marathon running, adding her name to a long list of world-class Ethiopian athletes who have left their mark on the sport.

With her record-breaking time, Assefa solidified her position as one of the greatest marathoners of all time.

1. Ruth Chepngetich (Kenya) – 2:09:56

Ruth Chepngetich stands as the fastest female marathoner in history, having recently shattered records at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. On October 13, 2024, Chepngetich clocked a stunning time of 2:09:56, becoming the first woman to break the 2:10 barrier. This incredible achievement has cemented her position as the top female marathoner globally.

Known for her aggressive pacing and strong endurance, Chepngetich’s performance in Chicago was nothing short of extraordinary. She had already been a prominent figure in the marathon world, having won the 2019 World Championships Marathon in extreme heat conditions. However, her 2024 run in Chicago redefined what was possible for women in the marathon, establishing her as a trailblazer in the sport.

Chepngetich’s ability to push boundaries continues to inspire countless female athletes, especially those from Kenya, where marathon running has become a symbol of national pride. Her record-breaking marathon will undoubtedly remain a benchmark for years to come.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elite fields

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

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

The Kenyan will be targeting her third victory in Chicago whilst Ethiopia’s Birhanu Legese leads the men’s field.

This weekend, all eyes will be on Chicago as the city hosts the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday (October 13), promising a thrilling showdown amongst top-tier athletes.

In the women’s competition, Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich, a former Chicago Marathon winner in 2021 and 2022 and the fourth-fastest woman in marathon history, is set to return to the course, which winds through 29 neighborhoods.

The 30-year-old enters as the fastest woman in this year’s line-up after winning the title in 2022 by running her fastest time of 2:14:18. At the time, she was 14 seconds short of Brigid Kosgei’s world record of 2:14:04, before Tigist Assefa (2:11:53) and Sifan Hassan (2:13:44) went quicker in 2023.

The 2019 world champion secured a second-place finish in Chicago last year behind Sifan Hassan.

Yet, it will not be an easy run to victory for Chepngetich. Ethiopia’s Sutume Kebede, fresh off her Tokyo Marathon win, arrives with the fastest marathon time of 2024, having ran 2:15:55 in Tokyo.

Kebede has had a stellar year, setting a record time of 64:37 at the Aramco Houston Half Marathon – the fastest-ever women’s half marathon time on US soil.

Chepngetich and Kebede will be joined by Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei, who has previously taken titles at the New York City Marathon in 2019 and London Marathon in 2021. Jepkosgei finished third this year in London where she clocked her personal best of 2:16:24.

American athletes Keira D’Amato (2:19:12) and Betsy Saina (2:19:17) join the list of athletes. D’Amato, a former American record holder in the marathon, is making a comeback as a competitor after working as a commentator. Meanwhile, Saina, who had to withdraw from the Chicago Marathon in 2019 due to illness, returns to make her mark.

The men’s race will also feature a highly competitive field with Ethiopia’s Birhanu Legese leading the charge. Legese, who recorded an impressive 2:02:48 at the 2019 Berlin Marathon is the fastest on paper.

A two-time Tokyo marathon champion, this will be his second time tackling the Chicago course after finishing 10th in 2018 with a time of 2:08:41. Most recently, Legese took third place at the 2024 Rotterdam Marathon.

Legese will be up against strong competition, particularly from Kenya’s Amos Kipruto and Vincent Ngetich, who both hold personal bests of 2:03:13.

Kipruto, a bronze medallist at the World Championships in Doha 2019, claimed victory at the 2022 London Marathon. Ngetich won bronze in the Tokyo marathon earlier this year.

After missing selection the for Paris 2024 Olympics, the reigning Tokyo women's marathon champion - and fastest marathoner this year - is set to compete in Chicago on Sunday October 13th. You can watch the race on the Olympic Channel via Olympics.com.

As a world-leading marathoner, Sutume Kebede has accumulated training volumes of up to 700 hours weekly on forest paths and dirt roads around the world.

But there are some brief stints of her workouts that have stayed with her over the last few months.

The Ethiopian chose Chicago, where she trained last year in a group that included the late world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum. It was a routine experience that is now etched forever in her memory.

She is hopeful that the utterly incredible run that changed the men’s marathon can inspire her to achieve her greatest marathon win.

“After seeing what my teammate Kelvin Kiptum did last year, I want to come to Chicago to do something great,” she said on setting her sights on winning a first World Marathon Majors in the U.S.

The fastest woman over the marathon distance this year headlines the Chicago Marathon on Sunday  October 13, looking to continue making history with every stride.

Sutume Kebede looks to extend her strong form in Chicago after Tokyo win

When Kebede chose to race competitively, she looked up to one of the greatest track distance runners ever, Tirunesh Dibaba. She based herself at the legend’s Athletics Training Academy, training as a 5000m and 10,000m athlete.

And when she was ready for the international stage, the budding Ethiopian runner, who grew up as one of ten siblings, decided to forego the track and head straight to the roads.

In May 2015, the then 21-year-old achieved the world's best performance in the 25km with a time of 1:21:55, which was also an Ethiopian record.

This was a pivotal moment that gave her the courage to stay on the roads and make her debut at the Dubai Marathon in 2016.

A few years, and lots of half marathons and several marathons later, Kebede, now 29, has carved her name among the best marathoners. She is coached by her husband Birhanu Mekonnen, a retired roadrunner who prematurely ended his career to fully support hers. She is always quick to credit him as one who helped her reach this position.

Kebede has achieved a new level this year. She ran the fastest women’s half marathon on US soil when she won in Houston last January, beating a strong field that included Olympic silver medallist Hellen Obiri. Her unexpected victory of 1:04.37 set her up for her biggest win yet.

She returns to Chicago to run again, though with a heavy heart, but at the pinnacle of her career after winning the 2024 Tokyo Marathon in 2:15:55, the eighth-fastest woman of all time.

“I am extremely happy to come back to Chicago and run on a course that has proven to be very fast,” said Kebede, who is motivated to try again in Chicago, where she last met Kiptum. They were both managed by Marc Corstjens at Golazo Talent. The flashbacks of their training sessions around the Windy City and their ensuing races are still very fresh in her mind.

It’s been a year of highs and lows for the East African runner. As the fastest woman marathoner this year, she was banking on being an automatic pick for the Paris 2024 Olympics. But after missing out on selection, she opted to give the Chicago Marathon another shot. She was 15th last year when Olympic champion Sifan Hassan raced to the second-fastest time of the year.

"All the races I've won bring me joy, but my victory in the Tokyo Marathon, one of the world's major marathons, stands out as a highlight,” she told Ethiopian press.

She will face a strong field led by the two-time Chicago Marathon winner Ruth Chepngetich, runner-up last year, and 2021 London champion Joyciline Jepkosgei, who is coached by her husband Nicholas Koech and trains with American Betsy Saina. Saina is among the local stars tipped to shine alongside former American marathon record holder Keira D’Amato.

The races will also be broadcast live on Olympics.com in a number of territories.

A new study tests the performance claims of Omius’ unique looking headband worn by Olympic legends Sifan Hassan and Eliud Kipchoge.

As the best men’s marathoners in the world prepared to race in Paris last month, Jake Leschly was waiting at the 3K mark, peeping over the shoulder of the spectator next to him, who was streaming the race broadcast on his phone. Leschly is the CEO of a small three-person company called Omius, which makes a bulky, futuristic-looking headband that purports to keep you cool—and he was about to get a pleasant surprise: “They introduce Kipchoge,” Leschly recalls, “and I’m like, ‘Son of a bitch, he’s wearing it!’”

Omius’s headband first showed up in the triathlon world back in 2019. The fledgling company took a hiatus during the pandemic, but resumed sales in 2022. Triathletes have been enthusiastic: according to Leschly, 43 of the 53 pros at last year’s Women’s Ironman World Championship in Kona wore it, along with a third of the 2,000 age-group competitors.

But the headband’s conspicuous presence at this summer’s Olympic marathons—along with Kipchoge, other notables wearing it included Sifan Hassan and Hellen Obiri, the gold and bronze medalists in the women’s race, and Bashir Abdi, the silver medalist in the men’s race—brought it to a new audience. In the

The one simple trick that Omius relies on is to increase the surface area available for evaporation. The headband contains 20 cooling units, each of which consists of nine mini-towers of porous and heat-conducting graphite. Overall, this increases the surface area of the relevant patch of your forehead by a factor of five. The cooling units can be swapped in and out; Omius also makes visors and caps, and is developing other garments.

As long as you keep the headband damp and have airflow passing across it, water will evaporate from this large surface area, drawing heat away from your forehead and creating a cooling effect. Sweat can help moisten the cooling units, but in most situations you’ll need to periodically splash or spray them with water. You’ll generate enough airflow simply by running outdoors, but to use the headband indoors on a treadmill or stationary bike, you’ll need a fan. Leschly advises against cycling outdoors with it, because the cooling units don’t have appropriate impact properties.

The one simple trick that Omius relies on is to increase the surface area available for evaporation. The headband contains 20 cooling units, each of which consists of nine mini-towers of porous and heat-conducting graphite. Overall, this increases the surface area of the relevant patch of your forehead by a factor of five. The cooling units can be swapped in and out; Omius also makes visors and caps, and is developing other garments.

As long as you keep the headband damp and have airflow passing across it, water will evaporate from this large surface area, drawing heat away from your forehead and creating a cooling effect. Sweat can help moisten the cooling units, but in most situations you’ll need to periodically splash or spray them with water. You’ll generate enough airflow simply by running outdoors, but to use the headband indoors on a treadmill or stationary bike, you’ll need a fan. Leschly advises against cycling outdoors with it, because the cooling units don’t have appropriate impact properties.

You might think that the goal of sucking all this heat from your forehead is to cool your whole body down. That’s been the claim for some previous cooling devices, like palm-coolers that purported to lower your core temperature. But Omius isn’t going down that road. “It obviously does not change your core temperature,” Leschly says. “Nothing changes your core temperature.” Instead, he says, it’s a local effect that makes you feel cooler, enabling you to go faster. That’s not a crazy claim: one study, for example, found that applying a tiny amount of heat through a heat pad caused cyclists to slow down even though their core temperature didn’t change. But it makes Omius’s claims much harder to test.

Desroches’s study involved ten volunteers who completed a running test twice: once with the real headband and once with the sham headband. The test involved 70 minutes of running in a heat chamber set to 95 degrees Fahrenheit with 56 percent humidity at a predetermined moderate pace, followed by an all-out 5K time trial. The researchers measured all sorts of physiological data, including core temperature with a rectal thermometer, skin temperature with four different probes, and forehead temperature

It’s probably worth mentioning that the basic headband with cooling pieces currently costs $204. That’s considerably more than other cooling options like, say, pouring water on your head. As it happens, there’s another new study, just published in the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance by a team led by Samuel Chalmers of the University of South Australia, that explores the benefits of pouring water on yourself during hot runs.

While the details differ, the two studies are remarkably similar. In this case, 13 runners did a 10K time trial followed an hour later by a 60-minute moderate run, in a room set at 87 degrees Fahrenheit and 47 percent humidity. They completed this protocol twice; in one of the sessions, they poured two cups of water over their head, face, and arms every 2.5K or ten minutes. As with the headband, water dousing made them feel cooler and lowered their skin temperature, but didn’t change their core temperature. There is one key difference compared to the headband, though: they ran 1.0 percent faster in the water dousing time trial, which was a statistically significant benefit.

Because of the differences in protocol—the lack of a placebo trial

Multiple World and Olympics champion Faith Kipyegon is not ruling out a switch to other distances next year after dominating the 1,500m for many years.

Multiple world and Olympics champion Faith Kipyegon is weighing whether to take on other challenges next season after totally dominating the 1,500m race.

Kipyegon has three Olympics titles, a world record, and as many world titles, which makes her the greatest female athlete in history over the distance.

She added a fifth Diamond League title to her trophy cabinet last weekend and she says a switch to other races to test herself is not off the table in 2025.

“I hope to stay strong and healthy towards next year and see what I am capable of doing. I don’t know if I will still do 1,500m or move to 5,000m but I hope for the best next year,” Kipyegon told Athletics Weekly.

Kipyegon says she has been motivated by other athletes who have contested different disciplines, such as Norwegian Jokob Ingebrigtsen who made his half marathon debut last weekend, and Dutchwoman Sifan Hassan, who has won titles in marathon, half marathon, 1,500m and 10,000m.

“I have seen Jakob is running in Copenhagen, I hope he gives me the motivation and I can also do half [marathon],” she added.

“Also, Sifan [Hassan] doing half, marathon and coming to 1,500m, 5,000m so I think it is only to twist how you think and say I am going to do this and hopefully we will do it.”

Kipyegon has already proven that she has what it takes to compete in the 5,000m after winning a world title in Budapest last year, this coming after she had broken a world record, while she also claimed Olympics silver in Paris over the distance.

She has also previously expressed her interest in running a marathon in future and 2025 could be the year she starts the transition if she makes the decision.

Double Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet has opened up about how Dutch woman Sifan Hassan motivated her history-making season in 2024.

Beatrice Chebet has opened up about drawing her inspiration from Sifan Hassan, a move that has enabled her to break barriers and make history this season.

The double Olympic champion pointed out that two-time Boston Marathon champion Hellen Obiri has also been a vital part of her career growth but Hassan has stood out for her this season. Chebet explained that Hassan, the reigning Olympic marathon champion, is never afraid of making bold moves and she is a source of motivation to the Kenyan distance sensation.

At the Paris Olympic Games, Hassan competed in the women’s 5000m, 10,000m and marathon and she claimed bronze medals in the 5000m and 10,000m and a gold in the marathon, a feat that has never been achieved in the history of the Olympic Games.

“Hellen Obiri has always been a role model to me but for now, I’ll talk about Sifan Hassan. She is a lady who believes in herself and when she says that she will go for something, then she will pursue it, be it the 1500m or the marathon. Sifan has always motivated me and she gives me the confidence that I can do it,” Chebet said.

At the Olympic Games, Chebet claimed the gold medal in the women’s 5000m and 10,000m. It was a historic feat as no woman has ever won double gold over the two distances on the Olympic stage and she was also the first woman to win gold over the 25-lap race.

She explained that going into the Olympics, she wanted to do something unique since she had yet to win a gold medal at the World Championships. Chebet added that after winning the 5000m, the toughest of the two races, she knew the 10,000m would not be difficult.

After the Olympics, Chebet still had it in her as she went on to win the Diamond League Meeting in Zurich before claiming the Diamond League trophy in Brussels.

“This season has been great, especially going to the Olympics as a debutant and winning two gold medals. I can say it was not easy but I had to remain focused and believe in myself. When I entered the 10,000m race, I just wanted to win a medal but making history motivated me to go for a gold medal,” Chebet said.

“I had been to the World Championships but never won a medal and I wanted to do something great in Paris. The 5000m was the hardest event and going into the 10,000m, I knew I could do it. After the Olympics, I had to believe in myself and since I was the Olympic champion, I knew I had to do it,” she added.

Chebet, who won gold medals in both the 5000 and 10,000 meter races at te Paris Olympics, has revealed when she is going to fully transition into marathon racing.

Fresh off her dominating performance in Zurich, where she marked her return to action with a win in the 5000 meters, double Paris 2024 Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet has disclosed when she plans to fully transition into marathon running. 

Chebet, who has had a stellar year, has been eyeing the marathon as her next frontier after conquering the track.

Chebet’s 2024 season has been nothing short of extraordinary. She claimed gold in both the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters at the Paris Olympic Games, cementing her status as one of the premier long-distance runners of her generation. 

Earlier in May, Chebet also broke the world record in the 10,000 meters, clocking an impressive 28:54.14 in Eugene, Oregon. Her dominance extended to the road as well, where she set a world record in the 5-kilometer road race in Barcelona with a time of 14:13.

However, the 5000-meter world record, held by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay at 14:00.21, remains elusive for Chebet. She attempted to break the record at the Zurich Diamond League but fell nine seconds short under challenging rainy conditions. Despite the near miss, Chebet's eyes are firmly set on new goals, particularly in road racing and eventually marathon running—a natural progression for the long-distance star.

In a recent interview, Chebet revealed her long-term plans, stating that she is taking a gradual approach to marathon running, drawing inspiration from fellow Kenyan marathon legends like Hellen Obiri and Vivian Cheruiyot.

“We are going slowly. Everything now has its own time so we have to go gradually until we reach the marathon,” Chebet told Citius Mag.

Chebet, who won gold medals in both the 5000 and 10,000 meter races at te Paris Olympics, has revealed when she is going to fully transition into marathon racing.

Fresh off her dominating performance in Zurich, where she marked her return to action with a win in the 5000 meters, double Paris 2024 Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet has disclosed when she plans to fully transition into marathon running. 

Chebet, who has had a stellar year, has been eyeing the marathon as her next frontier after conquering the track.

Chebet’s 2024 season has been nothing short of extraordinary. She claimed gold in both the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters at the Paris Olympic Games, cementing her status as one of the premier long-distance runners of her generation. 

Earlier in May, Chebet also broke the world record in the 10,000 meters, clocking an impressive 28:54.14 in Eugene, Oregon. Her dominance extended to the road as well, where she set a world record in the 5-kilometer road race in Barcelona with a time of 14:13.

However, the 5000-meter world record, held by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay at 14:00.21, remains elusive for Chebet. She attempted to break the record at the Zurich Diamond League but fell nine seconds short under challenging rainy conditions. Despite the near miss, Chebet's eyes are firmly set on new goals, particularly in road racing and eventually marathon running—a natural progression for the long-distance star.

In a recent interview, Chebet revealed her long-term plans, stating that she is taking a gradual approach to marathon running, drawing inspiration from fellow Kenyan marathon legends like Hellen Obiri and Vivian Cheruiyot.

“We are going slowly. Everything now has its own time so we have to go gradually until we reach the marathon,” Chebet told Citius Mag.

Reflecting on her remarkable performances this season, Chebet expressed her satisfaction, especially with her ability to maintain her form late into the season. “It was amazing because it was the beginning of the season so you feel stronger and energetic, but in the 5000, coming here at the end of the season, I just said, ‘let me go and try’,” she explained.

Chebet’s 14:09 finish in Zurich was impressive, given that she ran 2.5 kilometers alone in the race. “I am so happy. A good performance after Paris. Running 14.09 is not easy, especially after running 2.5 kilometers alone,” she added.

As the season winds down, Chebet is looking forward to taking a well-deserved break. “Take part in the Diamond League, get back and relax, and then prepare the season again for next year,” she said.

Chebet had earlier expressed her admiration for Ethiopian-born Dutch runner Sifan Hassan, whose versatility across multiple events has inspired Chebet’s future ambitions. Hassan took bronze in both the 5000 and 10,000 meters in Paris before striking gold in the marathon, a feat that left a lasting impression on Chebet.

“She always motivates me. She has personal bests in the 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 10,000m, and even the marathon. She’s a great athlete and makes me believe that you can do anything if you believe in yourself,” Chebet said.

Looking ahead, Chebet hopes to follow in Hassan’s footsteps, testing her capabilities in the marathon. “I want to follow in her footsteps too. In some years to come, I will also try the marathon,” she hinted.

Beatrice Chebet and  Abraham Kibiwott left Kenya for the Paris Olympics games as a constable in the police service, but ascended to the rank of Corporals, upon landing back.

Chebet was promoted to the rank by acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli at Jogoo House on Wednesday, after grabbing gold in the women's 5000m and 10000m races.

Meanwhile, Kibiwott won bronze in the men’s 3000m race, to also get one star added on his sleeve, moving to the Corporal rank.

It is a custom that officers in the discipline forces are always promoted one rank higher for their stellar performances in all disciplines on the international stage.

Chebet who is based in Kericho couldn’t hide her joy, saying she achieved her goals through hard work and discipline and promised to continue making Kenya proud.

“It feels good to be promoted and I thank my boss Masengeli, for awarding my efforts handsomely. I also appreciate my collogues, teammates, and my family for pushing me towards this achievement.”

The Olympics debutant beat an experienced field of runners on August 6t, to claim the 5000m gold in 14 minutes and 28.56 seconds, finishing ahead of compatriot Faith Kipyegon and Dutch legend Sifan Hassan respectively.

The 24-year-old national police officer is based in  Kericho and is coached by Peter Bii.

The best performer in team Kenya’s camp completed her historic double on August 9th 2024 in style grabbing the 10,000m race in 39:43.25.

She beat Italy's Nadia Batocletti and Sifan in that order, at the iconic Stade de France.

Chebet’s historic performance places her among the legends of long-distance running, becoming only the third woman to win both events at the same Olympics.

Meanwhile, Abraham Kibiwott who is an Administration police officer based in APTC training school Embakasi, also made a courtesy call to his boss for his coronation hours after landing from Paris.

Kibowott who was among the five Kenyan bronze medalists, clocked 8:06.47, to finish behind America’s Kenneth Rooks and Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali.

The 28-year-old who hails from Uasin Gishu County, has a personal best of 8:05.51 minutes. 

He also claimed bronze in the 2023 World Championships in Budapest and the 2016 Durban, African Championships.

“I did my best, but I couldn’t get the desired gold. I will continue working towards it. I want to thank my boss for acknowledging my efforts, I am so happy to have climbed one rank higher,” said Kibiwott.

Both athletes proceeded to Eldoret the City of Champions where President William Ruto, hosted the Kenyan Olympics for a breakfast meeting. 

President Ruto is expected to award the medalists with cash-winning bonuses.

Team Kenya finished at position  17 in Paris with 11 medals; 4 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze medals.

The Dutch marathon runner has vowed to dominate her Kenyan and Ethiopian rivals aiming to race until her last breath.

Dutch distance running great Sifan Hassan has set a new gold standard in Olympic marathon running emphatically stating she plans to dominate the event for years to come.

After a stunning victory at the Paris Olympics, Hassan warned her top rivals from Kenya and Ethiopia that she is just getting started.

In one of the most grueling tests of human endurance, Hassan pulled off a historic victory in what was dubbed the toughest Olympic marathon course ever.

The race included punishing hills and an elevation surpassing those of the Boston and New York marathons.

Despite these challenges, Hassan managed to claim gold with a new Olympic record of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 55 seconds, narrowly defeating world record holder Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia by just three seconds.

“I’m really crushed.I don’t want to disappoint myself. I want to give everything. That’s what I did. It feels like a dream," she said as per Independent..

The 31-year-old Dutch athlete has now become the first woman to secure Olympic gold medals in the 1500m, 5,000m, 10,000m, and marathon across multiple games.

“Everybody else was fresh but I was telling myself, I don’t feel fresh, I don’t feel good, why didn’t you just run the marathon? From the beginning to the end, I felt uncomfortable,” Hassan explained.

Yet, her strategic focus on the marathon paid off, culminating in a breathtaking final sprint that left onlookers gasping at the idyllic gardens surrounding the golden dome of Les Invalides.

The race was not just a physical battle but also a mental one.

Hassan has been open about her fears and the immense pressure she faces each time she lines up at the starting line.

“Yes, I’m still scared of the marathon, I’ve only done four and they’re all different.You’re uncomfortable for two hours or more, and the brain wants to protect you," she added.

Hassan’s mental resilience and ability to manage her heart rate were critical in her Olympic success.

“I recover great, that’s good, but the rest is the challenge, I love the extra challenge. I like to try things out. I’m not scared... I mean, I am scared but I like to try things. Does it work or does it not? That’s what makes me better than others, I try,” Hassan said.

“I’ll still get nervous, but I’m not finished yet, I think I’ll do marathons until I die. I’m not going to stop. It’s a lot of fun,” she declared.

Sifan Hassan defies conventional logic or reasoning. It shouldn’t be possible to do many of the things she does. However time and again she sets herself impossible challenges and goes about achieving them. At this Olympics, she started by securing bronze medals in the 5000m and 10,000m in perhaps the most efficient way possible, staying at the back of the pack, running her own race and kicking through the field over the last lap to secure a bronze medal in each.

Then she took on the ultimate racing challenge, the Olympic marathon, on one of the most challenging courses ever seen. When she was with the leaders with two kilometers left to go, there was a sense of inevitability, and of destiny, that awaited her in front of the appropriately golden dome of Les Invalides on the final morning of the Paris Olympics.

As she crossed the finish line to secure the third Olympic gold of her career, she became the first female athlete to win individual Olympic golds across 5000m, 10,000m and the marathon.

At two successive games, she has medalled in not one, not two, but three different individual events, achieving this whilst battling a schedule that would make it near impossible for an athlete to give their best across all three events. The triple she attempted on this occasion has only been attempted (at least successfully) by one athlete in history: the Czech athlete Emil Zátopek at the 1952 Olympics, in which he won all three events.

You may have noticed that a number of elite athletes in the weekend’s Olympic marathons, including former Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge, Olympic champion Sifan Hassan and bronze medallist Hellen Obiri, were sporting unusual headbands that look almost like miniature solar panels. In fact, they were taking advantage of some “cool” new wearable tech for athletes exercising in hot weather. 

The headbands are made by the company Omius, and comes in various configurations (there is also a cap and a visor) and two colours, but all feature the 20 squares of graphite that provide the cooling. 

The graphite pieces contact the skin directly and are held in place by a silicon grid. They function by absorbing  sweat, and their irregular surfaces greatly increase the amount of surface area subject to sweat evaporation, which speeds cooling. (Evaporation of sweat is the body’s mechanism for cooling it down.) The headband weighs only 50 grams (a little more than an ounce and a half), and require no freezing or charging. The cooling pieces continue to provide cooling as long as needed, as long as they stay moist and are subject to airflow (either outdoors, or from a fan if using indoors). The pieces are reusable.

The Omius website warns that the cooling pieces are fragile and should be washed, handled and stored with care. (It suggests treating them like an expensive pair of sunglasses.)

They are also not cheap. The headband will set you back CDN $277.50; a cap incorporating the tech is $291.38, and a set of cooling pieces on its own is $124.08. Yes, they ship internationally, and no doubt they will be swamped with orders since the weekend.

The curtains for the 2024 Paris Olympics fell on Sunday night with Kenya ranking 17th in the world after winning 11 medals.

Despite Kenya topping the African continent with 4 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze medals, the results left a lot to be desired.

From 83 athletes competing in seven disciplines, a significant impact was expected from the Kenyan athletes and the world.

The show started with Judoka Zeddy Cherop falling 10-0 to Portugal’s Patricia Sampao in a record 22 seconds while Fencing African champion Alexandra Ndolo crushed out 13-12 to Ukranian Olena Kryvytska in her debut.

Maria Brunlehner and Ridhwan Mohamed finished 3rd and 4th in the women’s 50m freestyle and Men’s 400m freestyle heats respectively to crush out of contention for a swimming medal.

The sevens rugby team also crushed out in the group stage, after going down to Australia, Argentina and Samoa.

The women’s volleyball team booked their next flight after failing to win a single set following three identical 3-0 losses in a tough group B pool comprising Brazil, Poland and Japan.

Paris, the City of Love, had very little affection for Kenya as former world champion Julius Yego, finished a distant 5th in the javelin final with a 87.72m throw, to also bite the dust.

Africa's fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala's 100m Olympic medal dream was shattered in the semi-finals after clocking 10.08 seconds to finish 8th.

However, Kenya redeemed herself with debutant Beatrice Chebet grabbing double gold in the 5000m and 10000m women’s races.

The best performer was followed closely by Faith Kipyegon who defended her 1500m gold and added the 5000m women’s silver.

Another debutant, Emmanuel Wanyonyi, grabbed the 800m gold, while Ronald Kwemoi struck the men’s 5000m silver.

Mary Moraa, the dancing queen, grabbed the 800m bronze, same as Faith Cherotich (3000m steeplechase) and Abraham Kibiwot (3000m steeplechase).

Hellen Obiri and Benson Kipruto rounded up the bronze tally in the men's and women's marathons.  

Obiri failed in her quest for an Olympic medal having won silver in the women's 5000m in Tokyo, 2020 and Rio 2016 games.

History Making

Kenya will however keep pride in making history after Faith Kipyegon became the first woman to complete an Olympic hat trick after breaking her 1500m record in 3:51.29, before a fully packed iconic Stade de France. 

Debutant Beatrice Chebet was the best performer entering the history books by winning a double gold in the women's 5000m and 10000m.

The feat makes Chebet the first Kenyan woman to win Olympic 10000m gold for Kenya since the race was introduced in the 1988 Olympics.

She is the third woman after Tirunesh Dibaba and Sifan Hassan to win the 5000m and 10000m double at the Olympic Games.

"I'm dedicating this medal to all Kenyans. I just want to hear my country is proud. This was for you, you were in my mind and heart in every lap; I might have made history but I will sleep better knowing Wananchi wataenjoy the weekend," she said.

Kenya’s legend Eliud Kipchoge failed to complete an Olympic marathon treble after dropping out of the race at the 20km mark.

Kipchoge later confirmed he won’t be running in the Los Angeles 2028 summer games.

“I felt a sharp pain in the stomach and I couldn’t continue. I'm disappointed that for the first time in my career, I failed to finish a race .” Kipchoge said.

Lady luck also smiled on Kenya after Kipyegon's 5000m silver medal was reinstated following an appeal, after a push and shove with Ethiopian nemesis, Gudaf Tsegay, had her initially disqualified.

In the 800m final, Canada appealed against Kenyan winner Emmanuel Wanyonyi's personal best of 1:41.91 in the 800m, claiming he obstructed silver medallist Marco Arop. Kenya won the appeal.

Tokyo 2020

Despite the dismal show in Paris, Kenya had bettered the 2020 Tokyo tally of 10 medals and a 19th spot finish.

The post-Covid games had challenges but Kenya grabbed four gold, four silvers and two bronze medals.

Emmanuel Korir (800m), Faith Kipyegon (1500m), Peres Jepchirhir (marathon), and Eliud Kipchoge (marathon) were the gold medalists while Hellen Obiri (5000m), Fergussin Rotich (800m), Brigid Kosgei (marathon) and Timothy Cheruiyot (1500m) won silver.

Benjamin Kigen and Hyvin Kiyeng won the men's and women's 3000m steeplechase races respectively.

Rio 2016 

In the 2016 Rio De Janeiro games, Kenya managed six gold, six silver and one bronze medal for a tally of 13 medals. 

Rio 2016 Olympics gold medalists were Jemima Sumgong in women's marathon, David Rudisha in 800m, Faith Kipyegon in 1500m, Conseslus Kipruto in 3000m steeplechase, Vivian Ceruiyot in 5000m and Eliud Kipchoge marathon.

Meanwhile, Vivian Cheruiyot (10000m); Paul Tanui (10000m); Hyvin Kiyeng (3000m steeplechase); Boniface Mucheru (400m hurdles); and Hellen Obiri (5000m) all grabbed silver, while Julius Yego managed a rare javelin silver. Margaret Wambui won bronze in women's 800m.

London 2012  

The London 2012 Summer Games saw Kenya manage 2 gold, 4 silver and 7 bronze for a total of 13 medals.

Despite a cold and warm performance in the Queens land, Kenya won two gold medals to finish a distant 29th in the world rankings.

Legendary track masters Ezekiel Kemboi and David Rudisha grabbed gold in the men's 3000m and 800m races respectively.

Sally Kipyegon brought home the women's 10000m silver, while Priscah Jeptoo won the women's marathon silver medal as Vivian Cheruiyot grabbed the women's 5000m race.

Abel Kirui rounded up the silver medals haul after clinching the men’s marathon race.

Vivian Cheruiyot won bronze in the 10000m women's race, while Asbel Kiprop and Milcah Chemos clinched bronze in the men's and women’s 3000m steeplechase.

Timothy Kiptum and Pamela Jelimo clinched the men's and women's 800m race respectively while Thomas Longosiwa and Wilson Kipsang rounded off Kenya's bronze medals haul, winning the 5000m men's and women's marathon races.

What next?

As the nation awaits the Paris 2024 Games report on what worked and what didn't work, a lot will be looked into including preparations, sports science, lack of stadia and lack of funds among others.

However, one constant reminder is that Kenya must smell the coffee, lest our legacy is discarded by the improving rival nations every day.

The next Omanyala, Yego, Obiri and Kipchoge should be nurtured immediately if we are to remain world beaters in the summer games.

Beating the 2008 Beijing Summer Games remains the target, where Kenya sent a total of 46 athletes: 28 men and 18 women who brought home the best tally of six gold, four silver and six bronze medals.

The journey to the Los Angeles 2028 games starts with a new sheriff in town, CS Kipchumba Murkomen, at the helm of the Sports ministry.

On Sunday, Dutch distance star Sifan Hassan won the Paris Olympic marathon in her usual thrilling style, setting a new Olympic record only days after capturing bronze in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events. Hassan has created a name synonymous with excellence in distance running, and all athletes can incorporate some of her extraordinary qualities into their training, regardless of distance goals or ability.

Hassan’s race victories constantly demonstrate unparalleled versatility, mental resilience and a powerful finishing kick. She made history by winning the London Marathon on her debut, and her trifecta of medals in Paris showcased her fearless approach to trying new challenges. Here’s how you can channel Hassan in your own training.

1.- Dominate the finish

Hassan’s ability to close races from behind is legendary. No matter the race distance, she consistently outkicks her rivals when it matters most. To build your own finishing power, incorporate some strides or accelerations at the end of your easy runs. Adding just a tiny amount of speed reminds your legs how to move quickly even when fatigued, and helps you develop the strength to finish strong like Hassan.

2.- Be brave and try new things

One of Hassan’s most admirable traits is her courage to step out of her comfort zone, as seen in her marathon debut and distance triple in Paris. She is open about facing self-doubt and fear, but she still lines up and gives each race her all. This willingness to try new things, even if they frighten her, has been key to her success and growth as an athlete. To channel this mindset, don’t shy away from trying new distances, races or training techniques. Embracing challenges will not only make you a better runner but also build your mental toughness.

3.- Embrace versatility

Hassan’s success across a range of distances, from the track to the roads, is rooted in her versatility. This adaptability was on full display in Paris, and she was able to transition from track races to the marathon distance. Make sure to switch up your training by incorporating a mix of workouts—speed work, tempo runs and longer-distance sessions (with lots of easy runs in between)—to build a versatile skill set that can adapt to any race scenario.

4.-Build that base

Winning the London Marathon on her debut, and pulling off a distance triple in Paris, are testaments to Hassan’s incredible endurance. She’s known for her high-mileage training weeks, which prepare her for everything from the 800 meters to the marathon. Gradually increasing your weekly mileage while allowing for adequate recovery will help you build the stamina necessary to tackle any distance.

Hassan’s combination of speed, endurance, versatility and courage sets her apart in the world of distance running. By incorporating these four strategies into your own training, you can start to emulate the qualities that have made her one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Sifan Hassan and Tigst Assefa moved towards the final corner of the breathless, frenetic women’s marathon shoulder‑to‑shoulder as they fought desperately for one of the last gold medals of the Paris Olympics. Under normal circumstances, Hassan’s supreme footspeed would almost always outstrip marathon specialists, but this was remarkably her 62nd kilometre of the Games after 10 days of racing. Anything was possible.

Only Hassan is crazy enough to attempt a ridiculous treble of 5,000m, 10,000m and marathon, but she is also the only athlete talented and versatile enough to succeed in all three. In the final metres, the Dutchwoman pulled away from Assefa, after a dramatic coming together, to win her first marathon gold medal with a blistering Olympic record of 2hr 22min 55sec. Assefa of Ethiopia, the world record holder, finished 3sec behind Hassan in second place while Kenya’s Hellen Obiri took the bronze.

“Can you imagine for two hours, just focusing on every step? I have never focused like I focused today,” said Hassan, who had to survive an appeal from the runner-up. “I’m Olympic champion and what can I say? Marathon; I’ve been Olympic champion [in other events] but it’s something else.”

Having already built up one of the most extraordinary track and field careers of all time, this is surely Hassan’s crowning achievement. The 31-year-old has won three medals at the Paris Olympics, her marathon gold complemented by bronzes in the 5,000m and 10,000m. The last athlete to win medals in all three events in one Olympics was the Czech Emil Zatopek in 1952. She is also the first woman to win Olympic gold in 5,000m, 10,000m and marathon competitions, having won the first two in Tokyo. She is a six-time Olympic medallist overall.

Nine days earlier, Hassan’s Olympics began in the women’s 5,000m heats on Friday 2 August before she won bronze in the rapid, hectic final last Monday. The women’s 10,000m final followed four days later on Friday, Hassan also finishing with an excellent bronze medal.

Just 35 hours later, Hassan lined up for a legendary Olympic marathon performance. The race came alive at the 28km mark as the runners scaled a painfully steep hill. Hassan struggled badly and a significant 50m gap opened up between her and the leading pack as, with her closing speed in mind, the marathon specialists accelerated up the hill in order to distance themselves. But they just could not get rid of her. As the course flattened, Hassan quickly closed the gap, stalking the leaders from the back of the group.

The formidable final five of Hassan, Assefa, Obiri, Sharon Lokedi and Amane Beriso Shankule remained extremely tight. But as the pace picked up, the group gradually thinned out until only Hassan and Assefa remained. Hassan made her move with about 300m to go, drawing her brilliant speed developed through years of greatness in 1500m races. As she took the inside line and flitted past Assefa, all the Ethiopian could do to try to stop her was put her body in the way and extend an elbow. But Hassan nudged the 27-year-old back and tore past her rival to close out an unforgettable win.

“I have no words for it. When I started this morning, every single moment [in the race] I was regretting that I ran the 5,000m and 10,000m,” Hassan said. “I was telling myself: ‘If I hadn’t done that, I would feel comfortable today.’ From the beginning until the end, I felt every step so hard and I regretted it: ‘What is wrong with me?’ The moment I felt good was at 20km.”

The post-event ceremony was significantly delayed after Ethiopia filed a protest over the incident when Assefa and Hassan crashed into each other towards the end of the race. Their protest was unsurprisingly rejected. Afterwards, Assefa claimed the clash had cost her the gold.

Hassan, who was born in Ethiopia before becoming a refugee and moving to the Netherlands in 2008 at 15, ran her first marathon only last year, in London. After her first medal in the 5,000m final, Hassan explained that she had chosen such an intense challenge because she is equally crazy and inquisitive: “I’m very curious. Could I podium? Could I even complete [each race]? I’m trying to fight with myself. What can I do after the 10,000m? Am I strong enough to keep the pace?”

As has been the case throughout a career in which she has constantly experimented and pushed her athleticism to its limits, her performance answered every single question affirmatively.

Wow, what an amazing athlete! Maybe the best of the games! 

Sifan Hassan has raced to victory in a new Olympic record in the Paris 2024 women’s marathon on Sunday 11 August.

The Dutch athlete braved the undulating course that wound through some of the most iconic sights in Paris, finishing the race in 2:22:55.

Hassan raised eyebrows when she announced she would complete the 5000m/10,000m/marathon treble at these Games. However, her brilliant gold in today's marathon, added to the bronze medals she won over the shorter distances, is proof that the 31-year-old is able to overcome the type of sporting challenges others would deem impossible.  She placed third in the 10000m as well.  

Much has also been made about the unique challenges posed by the Paris 2024 marathon course with its steep, gruelling inclines followed by fast downhill sections.

But in front of a cheering crowd that lined the streets of France’s capital, Hassan proved herself strongest, fastest and more determined over the 42.195km race.

Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia won silver (2:22:58) with Kenya’s Hellen Obiri claiming bronze (2:23:10).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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