Running News Daily

Olympic 10000m Champion Selemon Barega Wins Seville Marathon with a 2:05:15 debut

The 2025 Zurich Maratón de Sevilla delivered unforgettable performances on Sunday, February 23, as Ethiopia’s Selemon Barega stormed to victory in his marathon debut with an impressive time of 2:05:15,  This marks the third-fastest marathon time of the year and continues Ethiopia’s dominance in the prestigious event.

Barega’s Marathon Debut: A Statement Victory

Selemon Barega, the reigning 10,000m Olympic champion, transitioned seamlessly to the marathon distance, showcasing his endurance and tactical brilliance. Running much of the second half alone, Barega maintained composure to cross the line well ahead of the field.

He was followed by compatriot Adisu Tesfahun, who finished second in 2:06:27, and Mohamed Reda of Morocco, clocking 2:06:45 for third place.

Barega’s performance not only secured his place among the marathon elite but also extended Ethiopia’s winning streak to six consecutive victories at the Seville Marathon.

“I’m proud of this result. My training for the marathon has been intense, and Seville was the perfect place to debut. I hope to build on this and aim for even faster times,” Barega said after the race.

Women’s Race: Anchinalu Dessie Genaneh Triumphs

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Anchinalu Dessie Genaneh delivered a dominant performance, breaking the tape in 2:22:17. This victory further cemented Ethiopia’s success in Seville, with Dessie Genaneh holding off a strong international field.

France’s rising star Manon Trapp took second place in 2:23:38, while Cynthia Chepchirchir Kosgei of Kenya secured third in 2:23:43.

Dessie Genaneh, already known for her strong half-marathon performances, proved she has the strength and speed to excel over the full 26.2 miles.

Selemon Barega: From Track Star to Marathoner

Born on January 20, 2000, in the Gurage Zone of Southern Ethiopia, Selemon Barega rose to prominence as a middle-distance prodigy. He clinched gold in the 5000 meters at the 2016 World U20 Championships and 3000 meters at the 2017 World U18 Championships.

In 2018, he set a world U20 record in the 5000 meters, clocking 12:43.02, one of the fastest times in history. His crowning achievement came at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he won the 10,000 meters gold medal, solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.

Now, with a 2:05:13 marathon debut, Barega has proven that his talents extend far beyond the track. The running world will be watching closely as he targets future marathons and, possibly, world record attempts.

Record Participation and Global Appeal

The 2025 Zurich Maratón de Sevilla also witnessed record participation, with 14,000 runners from around the world lining up to tackle the fast, flat streets of Seville. Known for its ideal conditions and scenic course, the race continues to attract elite athletes and passionate amateurs alike.

With Selemon Barega’s stunning debut and Anchinalu Dessie Genaneh’s commanding victory, the 2025 Seville Marathon has once again proven itself as a stage for breakthrough performances. Both champions are now firmly on the radar as contenders for future World Marathon Majors and Olympic glory.

Tokyo Marathon 2025 Elite Runners Set for Epic Battle in the Streets of Japan’s Capital

The Tokyo Marathon 2025, set for Sunday, March 2, promises to be a thrilling contest as some of the world’s fastest distance runners converge on one of the flattest and fastest courses in the marathon circuit. As the opening race of the expanded Abbott World Marathon Majors series, now featuring seven races with the addition of the Sydney Marathon, Tokyo will set the tone for the global marathon season.

The men’s field features a star-studded lineup, headlined by Benson Kipruto of Kenya, who returns to defend his title after setting a Japanese all-comers record of 2:02:16 last year. Kipruto, known for his tactical racing style and strong finishing kick, will face fierce competition from Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei, the world record holder in the 5000m and 10000m. Cheptegei’s marathon debut has generated significant buzz, as he transitions from dominating the track to testing his endurance over 42.195 kilometers. Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta, who clocked an impressive 2:02:38 in Valencia last year, is another serious contender. Meanwhile, Japan’s Akira Akasaki and Yohei Ikeda, both fresh from breakthrough performances in 2024, will look to shine on home soil and challenge the international elites.

On the women’s side, Ethiopia’s Sutume Asefa Kebede returns after her dominant win in Tokyo last year, where she clocked 2:15:55—the fastest time ever run on Japanese soil. She’ll face stiff competition from Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru, the 2023 Tokyo Marathon champion, and Brigid Kosgei, the former world record holder and 2022 Tokyo winner. Ethiopia’s rising stars Tigist Ketema, who claimed victory in Berlin last fall, and Hawi Feysa, winner of the Frankfurt Marathon, add further intrigue to an already stacked field. Japan’s Ai Hosoda, with a personal best of 2:20:31 from Berlin, and Yuka Ando, the 2024 Nagoya Women’s Marathon champion, will be eager to make an impact in front of their home crowd.

The Tokyo Marathon course offers a scenic and historically rich route through the heart of Japan’s capital. Starting at the towering Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, runners will weave through iconic districts such as Asakusa, Ginza, and Ueno. The course includes long, flat stretches with minimal turns, creating ideal conditions for fast times. The final kilometers will lead runners past Tokyo Tower and along the Imperial Palace moat, culminating near Tokyo Station on Gyoko-dori Avenue. Known for its efficiency and vibrant atmosphere, Tokyo’s marathon route consistently attracts runners chasing personal bests and national records.

While the official prize structure for the 2025 edition has not yet been announced, historical trends suggest a total purse of around 40.3 million Japanese Yen (approximately $286,000 USD). Both the men’s and women’s champions are expected to earn 11 million Yen each (approximately $78,100 USD), with additional payouts for podium finishes and record-breaking performances. Special awards will also be presented to top finishers in the semi-elite and university-affiliated categories, ensuring a broad distribution of recognition across all competitive levels.

Beyond the competition itself, the Tokyo Marathon is known for its electric atmosphere and world-class organization. Thousands of volunteers and enthusiastic spectators line the streets, while the pre-race expo offers participants and visitors a chance to engage with brands, explore new running gear, and celebrate the spirit of the sport. The race also continues its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, with initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting running as a global community sport.

As the countdown to race day continues, all eyes will be on Tokyo to see who emerges victorious in what promises to be an unforgettable showdown of endurance, strategy, and speed. For elite runners, Tokyo offers not just a chance to claim victory but to set the tone for the year ahead in the ever-competitive world of distance running.

Sara Hall Reflects on the Path That Made Her Fall in Love with the Marathon

Sara Hall’s journey as one of America’s top marathoners has taken her across the world, from the high-altitude hills of Ethiopia to the historic streets of Boston. But one place remains especially meaningful—the rail trail to Shasta Dam in Redding, California.

Recently, Hall returned to this familiar path, sharing how it played a pivotal role in shaping her marathon career.

“Ryan & I moved to Redding in 2012 with months til the Olympic Trials, wanting more of God and to be a part of Bethel, but not knowing much about what it would be like to train here. This place far exceeded our expectations, with the most beautiful bike path in the world (rail trail up to Shasta Dam) and an endlessly positive training partner, Ben Keck.”

Reuniting with Keck for a long run, Hall logged over 1,000 feet of elevation gain without bike support—stashing bottles, ketones, and a ziplock of gummy peaches in her sports bra to fuel the effort. “Thinking of the people like Ben who have kept me enjoying the sport for so long when I could have easily hung it up—forever grateful,” she added.

Now 41, Hall continues to defy expectations as she prepares for the next phase of her career. She will turn 42 just before the 2025 Boston Marathon, an event where she will once again test herself against the world’s best.

In December 2024, she set a new U.S. masters marathon record, running 2:23:45 at the Valencia Marathon, breaking her own previous record of 2:26:06. The performance reaffirmed her status as one of the fastest American women over 40, showing she is still improving and competing at the highest level.

Her journey to the marathon was not a direct one. A standout high school and collegiate runner, Hall won multiple state and NCAA titles before turning pro. She initially focused on shorter distances before successfully moving up to the marathon, setting a personal best of 2:20:32 at the 2020 Marathon Project—one of the fastest times ever recorded by an American woman.

Her latest masters record in Valencia secured her place at the top of the fastest American women over 40 list:

Fastest American Masters Women’s Marathon Performances

Sara Hall – 2:23:45 at age 41, 2024 Valencia Marathon

Desiree Linden – 2:27:35 at age 40, 2023 Chicago Marathon

Colleen De Reuck – 2:28:40 at age 40, 2004 Olympic Trials Marathon

Roberta Groner – 2:29:09 at age 41, 2019 Rotterdam Marathon

These performances highlight the longevity and competitiveness of elite American female marathoners, proving that success in the sport doesn’t have to fade with age.

As Hall continues her career, she remains focused on both competition and the relationships that have kept her inspired along the way. Whether she is training on the hills of Ethiopia, preparing for another major marathon, or revisiting the path that first fueled her love for the sport, one thing is certain—Sara Hall is far from finished.

Yomif Kejelcha Runs Second Fastest 10K Ever on Road with 26:31 at Castellón

Yomif Kejelcha delivered a stunning performance at the Castellón 10K, clocking a personal best and course record time of 26:31. The Ethiopian star, known for his versatility across middle and long-distance events, continues to prove why he is one of the most formidable runners in the world today.

A Performance for the Ages

Kejelcha’s time of 26:31 is the second fastest ever recorded for 10 kilometers on the road, trailing only Rhonex Kipruto’s world record of 26:24 set in Valencia in 2020. He showcased his incredible endurance and speed, setting a blistering pace from the start and maintaining it through the streets of Castellón. His performance not only secured him the win but also solidified his place among the all-time greats in road racing.

The previous course record stood as a benchmark for elite performances, but Kejelcha demolished it with authority. His ability to transition between track and road racing at such a high level highlights his exceptional talent and training.

The Evolution of Yomif Kejelcha

Kejelcha has long been a dominant force in distance running. A two-time World Indoor Champion in the 3000m, he has also excelled on the track with a 12:46.79 personal best in the 5000m and a fo former indoor world record of 3:47.01 in the mile. His progression to longer road races has been remarkable, and this latest achievement suggests he is just getting started in rewriting records on the roads.

With this performance, Kejelcha joins again an elite club of sub-27-minute 10K road runners, a testament to his endurance and tactical brilliance. The road racing scene has seen unprecedented speed in recent years, with top athletes pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and Kejelcha’s performance is yet another milestone in that progression.

What’s Next for Kejelcha?

With his new personal best, Kejelcha will undoubtedly be a contender in upcoming major road races and championship events. Whether he continues his focus on the 10K or makes an even stronger push into the half marathon and marathon distances remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—he is a runner to watch.

The Castellón 10K has witnessed history, and Yomif Kejelcha has once again shown why he is one of the premier distance runners in the world. His 26:31 finish not only sets a new course record but also raises the bar for what’s possible in road racing.

Top 10 Men's 10K Road Race Performances

As of February 2025, here are the top 10 fastest men's 10K road race times:

26:24 – Rhonex Kipruto (Kenya), Valencia, Spain, January 12, 2020

26:31 – Yomif Kejelcha (Ethiopia), Castellón, Spain, February 2025

26:33 – Berihu Aregawi (Ethiopia), Laredo, Spain, March 11, 2023

26:37 – Yomif Kejelcha (Ethiopia), Laredo, Spain, March 16, 2024

26:38 – Joshua Cheptegei (Uganda), Valencia, Spain, December 1, 2019

26:44 – Leonard Patrick Komon (Kenya), Utrecht, Netherlands, September 26, 2010

26:48 – Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda), Valencia, Spain, January 14, 2024

26:49 – Sebastian Sawe (Kenya), Herzogenaurach, Germany, April 29, 2023

26:50 – Kibiwott Kandie (Kenya), Herzogenaurach, Germany, April 30, 2022

26:51 – Nicholas Kimeli (Kenya), Brașov, Romania, September 25, 2022

Note: The above times are based on official records as of February 2025.

The Evolution of the Half Marathon From Breaking One Hour to a New Era

“It was not that many years ago that breaking an hour for the half marathon was an amazing feat,” says My Best Runs editor Bob Anderson. “And today, we saw that record dip under 57 minutes. That’s running 4:19 mile pace for 13.1 miles. Wow!”

The half marathon, a 21.0975-kilometer (13.1-mile) race, has long been a benchmark of endurance and speed. For decades, breaking one hour in the event was considered an extraordinary achievement. But as training, technology, and competition have advanced, so have the records. On February 16, 2025, Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo took the event into a new era, becoming the first person to break 57 minutes with a stunning world record of 56:42 at the eDreams Mitja Marató de Barcelona.

The history of the half marathon

The half marathon has been a competitive event since at least the early 20th century, though it did not gain widespread popularity until later. It emerged as a race distance that was more accessible than the full marathon but still required a balance of endurance and speed. Unlike the marathon, which has been an Olympic event since 1896, the half marathon has never been included in the Games, but it has had its own World Championships since 1992.

With the rise of professional distance running and major city half marathons, the event has grown into one of the most participated-in races worldwide. Many view it as a stepping stone to the full marathon, while others appreciate it as a challenging yet more manageable race.

Breaking one hour The milestones

The quest to run a half marathon in under one hour became a defining goal for elite male distance runners. While marathon times had been steadily improving throughout the 20th century, the half marathon saw a more gradual progression.

1960: Australian runner Dave Power ran an unofficial best of 1:01:44.

1974: Ron Hill of Great Britain set a recognized world best of 1:02:22.

1978: Italy’s Marcello Fiasconaro improved the mark to 1:01:49.

1985: Steve Jones of Great Britain ran 1:01:14, bringing the record closer to the one-hour barrier.

1993: Moses Tanui of Kenya became the first man to break one hour, running 59:47.

Once Tanui shattered the one-hour barrier, improvements became more frequent, with Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes dominating the event.

1997: Paul Tergat (Kenya) ran 59:17.

2005: Samuel Wanjiru (Kenya) ran 59:16, then 58:33 in 2007.

2010: Zersenay Tadese (Eritrea) set a long-standing record of 58:23.

2020: Kibiwott Kandie (Kenya) became the first to break 58 minutes, running 57:32.

2021: Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda) set a new record at 57:31.

2024: Yomif Kejelcha (Ethiopia) improved it to 57:30.

2025: Jacob Kiplimo rewrote history with 56:42.

The women's half marathon world record

On the women’s side, the world record has seen significant improvements as well. Ethiopia’s Letesenbet Gidey currently holds the record, running 1:02:52 on October 24, 2021, at the Valencia Half Marathon. This was a massive leap forward, making her the first woman to break 64 minutes.

Previous records include:

1982: Joan Benoit Samuelson (USA) ran 1:08:34.

2001: Elana Meyer (South Africa) became the first woman to break 67 minutes, running 1:06:44.

2007: Lornah Kiplagat (Netherlands) set a world record of 1:06:25.

2017: Joyciline Jepkosgei (Kenya) became the first woman under 65 minutes, running 1:04:52.

2021: Letesenbet Gidey shattered expectations with 1:02:52.

A new era for the half marathon

With Kiplimo’s record-breaking 56:41, the half marathon has entered uncharted territory. His ability to maintain a 4:19 per mile pace for 13.1 miles is a testament to the evolution of the sport. Advances in training methods, course selection, pacing strategies, and shoe technology have all contributed to these record-breaking performances.

The question now is what comes next. Will someone push the limits even further and run under 56 minutes? Will Kiplimo’s record stand for years, or will it spark another round of breakthroughs?

For now, all eyes turn to Kiplimo’s next challenge: his marathon debut at the London Marathon on April 27, 2025. If his half marathon success is any indication, the world may soon see him make history over 26.2 miles as well.

One thing is certain—the evolution of the half marathon is far from over, and the best may still be yet to come.

Jacob Kiplimo Shatters Half Marathon World Record with Historic Sub-57 Performance

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.

Italy’s Most Popular Half Marathon Returns for 2025 with a Strong International Field

The Roma-Ostia Half Marathon, Italy's most popular half marathon, is set to celebrate its 50th edition on Sunday, March 2, 2025. This landmark event is expected to attract over 12,000 participants, including a significant international contingent, with foreign runners comprising approximately 42% of the registrants.

The race will follow its traditional route, starting in Rome's EUR district near the Palazzo dello Sport. Runners will traverse the wide boulevards of the neighborhood before proceeding onto the Cristoforo Colombo road, leading directly to the finish line at Ostia's main roundabout. This 21.0975-kilometer course is renowned for its speed, offering participants a prime opportunity to achieve personal bests.

In the lead-up to the race, the Casa RomaOstia 2025 Village will be open from Thursday, February 27, to Saturday, March 1, at Piazzale Pier Luigi Nervi. The Village will feature a photographic exhibition celebrating the half-century history of the event, along with various stands showcasing the latest in sports and running. A highlight of the pre-race activities is the elite athletes' parade scheduled for Saturday, March 1.

As of now, the official list of elite runners for the 2025 race has not been released. However, the Roma-Ostia Half Marathon has a storied history of attracting top-tier international talent. In the 2024 edition, notable athletes such as Ethiopian Tsegu Berehanu Wendemu and Kenyan Mary Wacera Ngugi participated, with Ngugi clinching the women's title. Given this tradition, participants and spectators can anticipate a competitive field in the upcoming race.

The current course records stand as a testament to the event's competitive nature. In the men's category, Moroccan athlete Aziz Lahbabi set the record in 2014 with a time of 59:25. On the women's side, Kenyan runner Florence Kiplagat holds the record with a time of 1:06:38, achieved in 2012.

Grant Fisher Shatters 5,000m Indoor World Record with 12:44.09 at BU Valentine Invite

American distance running star Grant Fisher delivered a historic performance at the Boston University David Hemery Valentine Invitational, setting a new world indoor record in the 5,000 meters with an astonishing time of 12:44.09. Fisher’s blistering run on February 14, 2025, broke the previous record of 12:49.60, set by Ethiopia’s Kenenisa Bekele in 2004.

The race saw Fisher dominate the competition, with French athlete Jimmy Gressier finishing second in 12:54.92, setting a new European indoor record and breaking his own French national record. Fisher’s remarkable pace and precision in the race demonstrated his growing dominance on the track and solidified his place among the sport’s greatest distance runners.

Back-to-Back World Records

This milestone comes just days after Fisher set the world indoor 3,000-meter record at the Millrose Games in New York on February 8, clocking 7:22.91. With two world records in less than a week, Fisher has established himself as one of the most formidable long-distance runners in history.

His recent performances build upon his success at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he claimed bronze medals in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events—becoming the first American to medal in both events at a single Olympics.

Fisher’s Reaction and Looking Ahead

After his record-breaking run, Fisher expressed his excitement and gratitude for the support from his team and the electric atmosphere in Boston. He acknowledged the significance of breaking Bekele’s long-standing record and credited the momentum gained from his recent 3,000m world record as a key factor in his historic performance.

As Fisher continues to push the limits of American and global distance running, all eyes will be on what he does next. Could this be just the beginning of an even greater legacy?

Stay tuned to My Best Runs for more coverage of the latest record-breaking performances and distance running news.

10K FACSA Castelló is A Fast-Growing Race with World-Class Talent

The 10K FACSA Castelló, set for February 16, 2025, in Castellón de la Plana, Spain, has quickly become one of the most exciting races on the international road racing calendar. Known for its flat and fast course, the event attracts an increasing number of participants each year while maintaining a reputation for top-tier organization and race-day experience.

This year’s edition promises to be one of the most competitive yet, with a strong lineup of elite runners ready to battle for victory on the streets of Castellón.

More Participants, Bigger Competition

Every year, the 10K FACSA Castelló sees an exponential increase in participation, with runners drawn to the event's fast course, great atmosphere, and high-quality organization. It is widely recognized as one of the fastest 10K races in Spain, earning a World Athletics Road Race Label, a prestigious distinction that places it among the best road races globally.

The race runs alongside the Marató BP Castelló, creating an exciting environment as thousands of runners take to the streets for both events. With the 10K and marathon starting together on Avenida Vila-real, the early miles are packed with energy before the races split at Avenida Valencia, where 10K runners can focus on a speedy finish.

Elite Athletes Confirmed for 2025

The 2025 edition of the race will feature some of the world’s best distance runners, ensuring a thrilling contest for top honors. Among the confirmed elite athletes:

Yomif Kejelcha (Ethiopia) – A two-time world indoor champion with exceptional speed over middle and long distances.

Janeth Chepngetich (Kenya) – A rising talent looking to make a mark in the 10K distance.

Mathew Kibiwott (Kenya) – An experienced road racer with strong finishing speed.

Pauline Mutwa (Kenya) – A formidable contender in women’s road racing.

Adding to the excitement, Spanish running legend Martín Fiz is set to take part. The former world marathon champion and European champion, now a master’s category record-holder, returns to Castellón with great enthusiasm. Fiz holds the Spanish M60 record in the 10K, which he set on this very course, and he remains an inspirational figure in the global running community.

A Course Built for Speed

The 10K FACSA Castelló is known for its quick course, making it a favorite for both elite and amateur runners seeking personal bests. With minimal elevation changes and well-designed turns, it offers ideal conditions for fast times. Past editions have produced some of the best 10K performances in Spain, further cementing its status as a top-tier event.

This year’s race is expected to deliver more outstanding performances, with perfect conditions in mid-February helping runners chase their best times.

A Race That Keeps Growing

With every passing year, the 10K FACSA Castelló continues to evolve, attracting larger fields, more elite athletes, and greater recognition on the international stage. Whether you're an elite competitor or a recreational runner aiming for a new personal best, this race promises an unforgettable experience.

As the 2025 edition approaches, excitement is at an all-time high. With an elite field ready to push the limits, a course designed for speed, and thousands of runners taking part, the 10K FACSA Castelló is set to deliver another thrilling chapter in its history.

Yalemzerf Yehualaw and Bernard Koech Dominate the 2025 Dubai Half Marathon

The 2025 Dubai Half Marathon, held on February 9, delivered another thrilling edition of one of the world’s fastest and most competitive half marathons. With a deep field of elite runners, Yalemzerf Yehualaw of Ethiopia and Bernard Kiprop Koech of Kenya emerged victorious in the women’s and men’s races, respectively.

Men’s Race: Bernard Koech Secures Victory in Fast-Paced Battle

In the men’s race, Kenya’s Bernard Kiprop Koech claimed victory with a stellar time of 1:00:15, showcasing his strength in the final kilometers. He was closely followed by fellow Kenyan Wisley Kipkemoi, who crossed the line in 1:00:38, securing second place. Completing the Kenyan-dominated podium was Enos Kipruto, finishing in 1:01:40.

The men’s race started at a blistering pace, with an early pack of contenders pushing the limits through the flat and fast streets of Dubai. The decisive move came in the last five kilometers, where Koech displayed a strong surge to break away from Kipkemoi and secure the win.

Women’s Race: Yalemzerf Yehualaw Reigns Supreme

On the women’s side, Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw showcased her dominance in the half marathon distance, clinching victory in 1:07:09. The 25-year-old long-distance star, known for her impressive endurance and closing speed, maintained a controlled pace throughout before making her move in the latter stages of the race.

Behind Yehualaw, Great Britain’s Eilish McColgan finished in 1:08:58, securing second place with a strong performance. Kenya’s Jackline Cherono rounded out the podium with a time of 1:09:33.

Yehualaw’s win in Dubai adds to her growing legacy in road racing, reaffirming her place as one of the best half marathon specialists in the world.

A World-Class Event in Dubai

The Dubai Half Marathon, previously known as the Burj2Burj Half Marathon, has quickly established itself as a premier event in the global running calendar. The race takes runners through a scenic yet challenging course in one of the world’s most vibrant cities, attracting some of the biggest names in distance running.

Despite warm temperatures and moderate winds, the 2025 edition saw fast times and tactical racing, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats. The event continues to be a favorite for both elite runners and amateur athletes, thanks to its world-class organization and fast course.

As the road racing season progresses, eyes will be on Yalemzerf Yehualaw and Bernard Koech to see how they build on their Dubai victories in upcoming races.

Final Results – 2025 Dubai Half Marathon

Men’s Race

1. Bernard Koech (Kenya) – 1:00:15

2. Wisley Kipkemoi (Kenya) – 1:00:38

3. Enos Kipruto (Kenya) – 1:01:40

Women’s Race

1. Yalemzerf Yehualaw (Ethiopia) – 1:07:09

2. Eilish McColgan (Great Britain) – 1:08:58

3. Jackline Cherono (Kenya) – 1:09:33

Historic World Records Dominate 2025 Millrose Games

The 117th Millrose Games, held on February 8, 2025, at New York’s Armory—a venue renowned as “The Fastest Track in the World”—delivered an unforgettable spectacle of middle-distance racing. Athletes shattered world records, national marks, and personal bests across events from the 800m to the 3000m, cementing this edition as one of the most electrifying in the meet’s storied history. Below, we break down the standout performances.

Records Fall in Mile, 3000m, and 800m

1. Wanamaker Mile: Yared Nuguse Rewrites History

Yared Nuguse (USA) stormed to a world indoor mile record of 3:46.63,  eclipsing Ethiopian Yomif Kejelcha’s 2019 mark (3:47.01) . In a race missing world champion Josh Kerr (withdrawn due to illness), Nuguse led wire-to-wire, splitting 3:31.74 for 1500m—a North American record—before surging past a fierce challenge from Hobbs Kessler (3:46.90, also under the previous WR) . Australian teen Cam Myers stunned with a world U20 record of 3:47.48, while France’s Azeddine Habz (3:47.56) set a national record.

2. Men’s 3000m: Grant Fisher Outduels Olympic Champion

Grant Fisher (USA) and Cole Hocker (USA)—the Olympic 10,000m bronze medalist and 1500m gold medalist, respectively—collided in a tactical masterclass. Fisher’s 7:22.91 broke Lamecha Girma’s world indoor record (7:23.81), with Hocker (7:23.14) also surpassing the old mark . Fisher’s final 200m in 27.50 sealed the win, while France’s Jimmy Gressier (7:30.18) and Australia’s Ky Robinson (7:30.38) set national records .  

3. Men’s 800m: Josh Hoey’s American Record Triumph

Josh Hoey (USA) dominated the 800m in 1:43.90, breaking Donovan Brazier’s American indoor record (1:44.21) and holding off Bryce Hoppel (1:44.19 PB) . Sixteen-year-old Cooper Lutkenhaus (1:46.86) smashed the high school record, previously held by Hoey himself .  

Women’s Events: Breakthroughs in Mile, 3000m, and 800m

1. Women’s Wanamaker Mile: Georgia Bell’s Tactical Mastery

Georgia Bell (GBR), the Olympic 1500m bronze medalist, edged a stacked field to win in 4:23.35,  outkicking Heather MacLean (USA, 4:23.41) and Nikki Hiltz (USA, 4:23.50) . Bell navigated a slow early pace (67.12 for the first quarter-mile) before unleashing a 61.97 final lap, crediting her composure in a “hard and messy” race .  

2. Women’s 3000m: Whittni Morgan’s Commanding Victory

Whittni Morgan (USA) surged late to win in 8:28.03, a personal best, ahead of Josette Andrews (USA, 8:29.77) and Sarah Healy (IRL, 8:30.79 NR) . Ethiopia’s Tsigie Gebreselama (8:33.13) and Australia’s Jessica Hull (8:30.91) added depth to a fiercely competitive race .  

3. Women’s 800m: Shafiqua Maloney’s Dominance  

Shafiqua Maloney (VIN) claimed victory in 1:59.07, fending off a late charge by Addy Wiley (USA, 2:00.14) . Olivia Baker (USA, 2:00.02 PB) and Kaela Edwards (USA, 2:00.14) rounded out the podium in a race showcasing tactical grit .  

With world records in the mile (Nuguse) and 3000m (Fisher), plus a slew of national and age-group marks, the 2025 Millrose Games underscored the rising global standard in middle-distance running. As athletes shift focus to outdoor seasons, these performances set the stage for a thrilling 2025 World Championships.  

Richard Ringer Set for a Competitive Return to Hamburg Marathon

European Marathon Champion Richard Ringer is set to compete in the Haspa Marathon Hamburg on April 27. The German runner has opted not to defend his continental title at the European Championships earlier in April, which will be held in a new format.

Ringer, who improved his marathon personal best to 2:05:46 in Valencia last December, making him the third-fastest German marathoner in history, will face stiff competition from at least four athletes who have run significantly faster times. Leading the start list is former London Marathon winner Amos Kipruto, who holds a personal best of 2:03:13, making him the joint fastest entrant ever in Germany's premier spring marathon.

"We are still finalizing the elite fields, but we anticipate a highly competitive men's race. Based on the fastest runners in the field, this will be the strongest lineup in our history. Richard Ringer may not be the favorite, but we know he has the ability to deliver an unexpected performance," said chief organizer Frank Thaleiser at a press conference in Hamburg. A total of 15,000 runners have registered for the 39th edition of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg, marking the highest participation in years.

For the first time, Hamburg will feature three athletes with personal bests under 2:04. In addition to Amos Kipruto, Ethiopian runners Guye Adola and Kinde Atanaw have also achieved this feat. The 32-year-old Kipruto recorded his personal best of 2:03:13 when finishing second to Eliud Kipchoge in the 2022 Tokyo Marathon.

Later that year, he secured his biggest career victory, winning the London Marathon in 2:04:39. Kipruto has continued to perform at a high level, running sub-2:05 times in both 2023 and 2024. His best time ties him as the fastest entrant in Hamburg's marathon history, equaling the record set by Emmanuel Mutai in 2018.

Guye Adola's personal best of 2:03:46 places him second on the current entry list. The Ethiopian achieved this mark in his marathon debut in Berlin in 2017, where he challenged Kipchoge until the final kilometers and secured second place with an unofficial world debut record. Although his career has been affected by injuries, Adola, now 34, remains a formidable contender.

Kinde Atanaw achieved his best time of 2:03:51 in 2019 when he won the Valencia Marathon. Meanwhile, Philemon Kiplimo has demonstrated strong recent performances, breaking 2:05 in Berlin in 2023 with a time of 2:04:56 and securing third place in last year's Haspa Marathon Hamburg with 2:05:37.

Richard Ringer chose to focus on Germany's biggest spring marathon rather than defend his European title. The 35-year-old returns to Hamburg with fond memories, having improved to 2:08:08 there two years ago, narrowly meeting the Olympic qualifying standard and finishing sixth in a competitive field.

"The course and the atmosphere at the Haspa Marathon Hamburg are fantastic. Choosing to return was an easy decision. This time, my training will be even more focused on this race to ensure I am in peak form on race day," Ringer stated. "My goal for the summer is to compete in the marathon at the World Championships." Ringer has proven himself to be a strong championship competitor, having won the European marathon title in Munich in 2022 and finishing as Germany's top runner in the Olympic marathons of 2021 and 2024, placing 25th and 12th, respectively.

Record-Breaking Performances Shine at Czech Indoor Gala in Ostrava

World indoor 1500m champion Freweyni Hailu delivered one of the fastest 3000m performances of all time at the Czech Indoor Gala—the fourth World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold meeting of the season—held in Ostrava on Tuesday (4).

Competing in just the third 3000m race of her career, the Ethiopian 23-year-old dominated with an 8:24.17 season opener, moving her to eighth on the world all-time list. Following a 2:52.08 split at 1000m and hitting 2000m in 5:45.8, Hailu surged over the final five laps, closing the last kilometre in 2:39 to secure victory.

Portugal’s Salome Afonso, who ran with Hailu in the early stages, finished second in a personal best of 8:39.25, followed closely by Kenya’s Purity Kajuju Gitonga in 8:39.36. Great Britain’s 18-year-old Innes FitzGerald shattered the European indoor U20 record by over 10 seconds, running 8:40.05 to claim fourth place.

The men’s 800m also saw a standout performance, with Belgium’s Eliott Crestan breaking the 1:45 barrier indoors for the first time, clocking a national record of 1:44.69 in his season debut. The world indoor bronze medallist improved on his previous best of 1:45.08 from last year’s World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, securing 12th place on the world all-time list. Italy’s Catalin Tecuceanu finished second in 1:45.35, while Algeria’s Slimane Moula, making his indoor debut, took third in 1:45.50.

In the women’s 800m, Gabriela Gajanova emerged victorious in 2:02.16, overtaking world indoor bronze medallist Noelie Yarigo in the final 150m as Yarigo faded in the closing stretch.

Meanwhile, Portugal’s Isaac Nader continued his dominance in Ostrava, setting his second consecutive meeting record with a 3:54.17 mile after breaking the 1500m record last year. He surged past Great Britain’s Elliot Giles in the home straight, with Giles finishing second in 3:54.62 in his first indoor race since 2022. Sweden’s Samuel Pihlstrom also made history, running a Swedish indoor record of 3:54.78 to place third.

With multiple meeting records shattered and world-leading times set, the Czech Indoor Gala in Ostrava reaffirmed its status as a premier stop on the World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold circuit.

Anticipation Builds for Middle-Distance Showdowns at 2025 Czech Indoor Gala

The Czech Indoor Gala, scheduled for February 4, 2025, in Ostrava, is set to feature thrilling middle-distance races, particularly in the men’s 800 meters and the women’s 3000 meters.

Men’s 800 Meters:

Czech national record holder Jakub Dudycha will compete on home soil. As a junior, he set a national U20 indoor record of 1:47.42 at the Czech Indoor Gala, later improving it to 1:47.12. Outdoors, he advanced to the semi-finals at the European Championships in Rome, clocking a time under 1:45, and subsequently set a new Czech senior record of 1:44.82 in Bydgoszcz. Dudycha has expressed his ambition to break the national indoor record this season.

He will face formidable international competitors, including Belgium’s Eliott Crestan, who is the sixth fastest European in history with a national record of 1:42.43 set at the Paris Diamond League meeting. Crestan is a bronze medallist from both the European and World Indoor Championships. Another strong contender is Catalin Tecuceanu, representing Italy since 2022, who secured European bronze in Rome and boasts personal bests of 1:45.00 indoors and 1:43.75 outdoors.

Women’s 3000 Meters:

Kristiina Sasínek Mäki, a Tokyo Olympics finalist, will compete in the 3000 meters. She has been training under Swiss coach Louis Heyer and is eager to showcase her progress. However, she will face stiff competition from African athletes. Ethiopia’s Freweyni Hailu, the 1500m world indoor champion from Glasgow 2024, returns after setting a meeting record in the mile at last year’s Czech Indoor Gala. Joining her is compatriot Sembo Almayew, the junior world record holder in the steeplechase and World U20 champion, as well as Norah Jeruto, the World 3000m steeplechase champion from the 2022 Eugene Championships, now representing Kazakhstan.

The Czech Indoor Gala, part of the World Athletics Indoor Tour Gold series, continues to attract top-tier talent, ensuring a night of exceptional athletic performances in Ostrava.

Alex Matata wins RAK Half Marathon, Ejgayehu Taye runs world leading time

Alex Matata of Kenya had the best win of his career in the 18th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon early today. But strong winds on an unusually cool morning in one of the smaller of the United Arab Emirates meant that Ejgayehu Taye’s attempt at the women’s world record was going to be blown off course, even if she had not started too fast.

The breeze and lack of a pacemaker to split the field meant that the men’s race was relatively sedate as well as over-populated in the first 10k, with 20 men still in contention at 28min 34sec. But there was no mistaking Matata in the pack, channelling Michael Jackson with a pink glove on his right hand. ‘For wiping the sweat, that’s all,’ he explained afterwards. But when colleague and race favourite Isaia Lasoi, who’d been sharing the lead with him up to then started feeling a groin strain, Matata began to assume the initiative.

"I realised at 14k that I was stronger than the others, so I thought I had a good chance of winning,’ he said. He raised the pace such that the computed finish outside 60min was soon transformed, and his relentless front-running dropped both his rivals and the time, and he ended up taking 17sec off his personal best with a win in 59min 20sec.

Lasoi hung in well, and looked to have second place sewn up, especially when Gemechu Dida suddenly dropped back with a kilometre to run; but the Ethiopian rallied and caught the Kenyan just before the line to get second and relegate Lasoi to the same third spot as last year. A stride can be costly in this sport. While Matata took home $20,000, Dida’s last gasp second place earned him $10,000, four thousand more than Lasoi.

Matata is something of an outlier in Kenya, coming from the capital Nairobi instead of the western highlands’ hotbeds of excellence; and also being a relatively late starter in his early twenties. But when he began running well with a 61.03 clocking in the Nairobi half-marathon in 2021, he was persuaded to move up to Eldoret, the heartland of national distance running. Now at 27, a regime of 150 kilometres a week has seen him transformed into a regular winner, with four victories and three sub-60min clockings in his five half-marathons last year. And now, he’s given himself a New Year’s present. But he’s not tempted to move up to the marathon yet. ‘Not for two years. I still want to run faster at the half-marathon, in the 58 minutes and maybe 57 minutes’.

In the women’s race, Ejgayehu Taye was so confident that she could run well that she even brought her own pacemaker, Wosinew Admasu with her. And a starting temperature of 12C (54F) felt good until she headed into the wind. Although the expected contest with her colleage Girmawit Gebrzihair did not materialise (the latter dropped out) things went to plan for the first five kilometres, which she covered in 14min 57sec.  But the pace and wind took their toll and she fell further behind her schedule and was grateful to win in 65.52, exactly three minutes outside her target time. ‘I was expecting to run fast, even maybe get the world record, but the wind was too strong; I felt it was pushing me back. But I’m glad to win’. Her time is a world lead for 2025.

Results, Men:

1. Alex Matata KEN 59:20

2. Gemechu Dida ETH 59:25

3. Isaia Lasoi KEN 59:26

4. Chimdessa Debele ETH 59:28

5. Gerba Dibaba ETH 59:35

6. Nibret Melak ETH 59:45

7. Hillary Kipkoech KEN 59:53

8. Tesfaye Deriba ETH 59:56

9. Haftamu Gebresilase ETH 59:56

10. Mao Ako TAN 60:28

Women:

1. Ejgayehu Taye ETH 65:52

2. Judy Kemboi KEN 66:34

3. Jesca Chelangat KEN 66:53

4. Ftaw Zeray ETH 67:05

5. Gete Alemayehu ETH 67:14

6. Adane Anmaw ETH 68:02

7. Veronica Loleo KEN 68:06

8. Lemlem Hailu ETH 68:07

9. Brillian Jepkorir KEN 68:48

10. Betelihem Afenigus ETH 69:02

Sprint Showdowns and Distance Battles to Take Center Stage at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix

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

Sprints and Hurdles: Lyles and Alfred Lead the Charge

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

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

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

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

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

Middle and Long Distance Races: Olympic Medalists Face Off

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

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

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

Other Key Events

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

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

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

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

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

Women Take Center Stage at the 2025 RAK Half Marathon

The women’s race is set to steal the spotlight at the 18th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon on Saturday morning (February 1), with Ethiopian stars Girmawit Gebrzihair and Ejgayehu Taye both declaring their intent to chase the world record. Meanwhile, Kenya’s Isaia Lasoi, the fastest man in the field, is equally determined to go for victory and potentially set a new global mark himself.

The battle between the Ethiopian women promises to be fascinating, as both share a personal best of 64:14. Girmawit, who set that time when she won this race three years ago, still holds the course record. She admitted at the pre-race press conference that she surprised even herself with that performance, but after clocking a sub-30-minute 10K in Valencia just two weeks ago, she believes Letesenbet Gidey’s world record of 62:52 is within her reach.

Ejgayehu, on the other hand, ran her 64:14 in her half marathon debut in Valencia three months ago. She is so confident of running fast that she has brought her own pacemaker to help push the pace. Her agent, Yonas Mekonnon, explained: “She decided to go for the world record based on her recent training. She ran just over 64 minutes in Valencia with limited mileage, having trained for no more than six weeks after the track season. Her longest run was only 25km. This time, however, she has regularly been covering more than 28km at a 3:30/km pace at altitude. Her goal in this race is the world record.”

Women have played a defining role in the nearly two-decade history of the RAK Half Marathon. While Kenya’s Sammy Wanjiru set a men’s world record in the inaugural edition in 2007, the women have since taken center stage, with world records being set by Mary Keitany and Peres Jepchirchir of Kenya, and Ababel Yeshaneh of Ethiopia.

Among the men, Lasoi is the clear favorite. With a personal best of 58:10 from Copenhagen last autumn, he is the fastest in the field by a significant margin. He is also hoping to follow in the footsteps of past RAK winners who climbed the podium before taking victory. Having finished third last year, he is eager to claim the top spot. “I’ve been running 175-190 kilometers per week in training. I’ve prepared really well and I’m ready to win,” he said. “Also, there have been some changes to the course that make it faster. I think I can go under 58 minutes, and maybe even challenge the world record.”

Last year’s race saw strong winds and thick mist rolling in from the sea, affecting the final stages. However, the forecast for this year couldn’t be better, with ideal racing conditions of 15-16°C (60°F) expected for the elite start at 6:40 AM.

Now in their second year of overseeing the RAK Half, the long-time Dubai Marathon organizers, Pace Events, have significantly boosted participation across all events, including the 2K, 5K, and 10K races, pushing total registrations close to 10,000. Iyad Rasbey, VP of the RAK Tourism Development Authority, remarked, “When the event began in 2007, we were aiming for 2,500-3,000 participants. To be nearing 10,000 is extraordinary.”

With perfect conditions, a deep field, and multiple world record ambitions, the 2025 RAK Half Marathon is poised for a historic edition.

Edesa retains marathon title in Osaka

Ethiopia’s Workenesh Edesa successfully defended her title at the Osaka Women’s Marathon, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, on Sunday (26).

The course record-holder, who ran 2:18:51 when winning last year, this time clocked 2:21:00 to take top spot ahead of Japan’s Kana Kobayashi and Yuka Suzuki, who both ran big PBs.

Seven runners joined the pacemakers in covering the first 5km in 16:50 and they passed 10km in 33:23.

Japan’s Mizuki Matsuda and Natsumi Matsushita plus Israel’s Lonah Chemtai Salpeter started to fall behind after 12km. Edesa, Kobayashi, Suzuki and Japan’s Nanaka Izawa, who was making her marathon debut, remained together, passing 15km in 50:02 and 20km in 1:06:32.

Kobayashi fell behind after 21km, only to regain contact a few kilometres later, but she was dropped again, leaving Edesa, Suzuki and Izawa to pass the 25km mark in the lead in 1:22:53.

Izawa was next to go, and by 28km Suzuki was also gone from the lead pack. Edesa passed 30km alone in 1:56:06, 17 seconds ahead of Suzuki, with Kobayashi another 34 seconds back.

Edesa continued to run solo, passing 40km in 2:13:26. Suzuki was 18 seconds behind, but Kobayashi was closing the gap and was 16 seconds behind Suzuki at that point.

Edesa’s victory was never in doubt and she won in 2:21:00, while Kobayashi passed Suzuki with 800m to go to move into second place. Suzuki couldn’t respond and so Kobayashi secured the runner-up spot in 2:21:19, improving on her previous PB of 2:24:59, while Suzuki was third in 2:21:33, improving her own previous best of 2:24:02.

Paris Olympic ninth-place finisher Salpeter, who was the fastest in the field thanks to her PB of 2:17:45 set in Tokyo in 2020, clocked 2:24:03 to finish fourth, while Matsushita was fifth in 2:26:04.

“I am happy to defend the title from 2024,” said Edesa. “My goal is to further improve my personal best.”

Kobayashi said: “It hasn't dawned on me yet. My goal was to clinch the World Championships marathon team berth by running 2:23. I am surprised to perform this well. Fans along the route encouraged me by saying the leaders were slowing down, which gave me a power to push on.”

With thanks to Ken Nakamura

Leading results

1 Workenesh Edesa (ETH) 2:21:002 Kana Kobayashi (JPN) 2:21:19 3 Yuka Suzuki (JPN) 2:21:33 4 Lonah Chemtai Salpeter (ISR) 2:24:035 Natsumi Matsushita (JPN) 2:26:046 Chiharu Suzuki (JPN) 2:26:417 Mizuki Matsuda (JPN) 2:27:11 8 Nanaka Izawa (JPN) 2:29:28

Kebede, Kipruto, Kosgei and Cheptegei announced for Tokyo Marathon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elite fields

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

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

Ejgayehu Taye and Isaia Lasoi target record times at RAK Half Marathon

Ejgayehu Taye and Isaia Lasoi are leading contenders to follow a quartet of stars who have set world records in the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon whose 18th running comes on Saturday, February 1. Taye of Ethiopia and Lasoi of Kenya reckon that they are running into the sort of form that suggests fast times a week Saturday.

World championships bronze medallist indoors and out, and a top eight finisher at the Olympic Games, Taye has rarely raced on the road, but if she can bring her track form to Ras Al Khaimah, she would clearly be a leading contender for victory in 2025; the more so since in her sole performance at the half marathon in Valencia three months ago, she finished ahead of last year’s RAK winner Tsigie Gebrselama.

Taye ran 64min 14sec in Valencia on what her manager reports was less than adequate preparation. Yonas Mekonnon says, ‘Taye decided to try for the world record based on her recent training. RAK ‘half’ will be her second half marathon and when she compared both training based on the quality and volume, the hope for RAK half is much better. She ran just over 64minutes in Valencia without good enough mileage.  She was trained really for not more than six weeks after the track season was over and the longest training was 25km. However, this time she’s regularly been covering more than 28km with 3min 30sec pace at altitude. Her goal in this race is the world record’.

The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon has regularly returned world record times since Sammy Wanjiru of Kenya ran 58min 53sec in the inaugural event in 2007. The women then took over with luminaries like Mary Keitany, Peres Chepchirchir and Ababel Yeshaneh setting women’s records during the last decade. But such have been the advances in shoe technology and the boost of energy gels in the interim that the current men’s record is over a minute faster, with the 57:30 that Yomif Kejelcha clocked in Valencia three months ago. The women’s record is an equally formidable 62:52 set by his colleague Letesenbet Gidey at the same race over three years ago.

In contrast, the RAK record is eminently breachable, at least on the women’s side. As it happens, Taye’s debut 64:14 is exactly the same as the RAK course record time, set in 2022 by another colleague Girmawit Gebrzihair who runs again next weekend. Gebrzihair looks to be in prime form too, following a rapid 29:34 for the Valencia 10k on January 12.

In the men’s race, Lasoi is hoping to emulate recent top three finishers who returned to win the following year. Lasoi came through for third last year, and is nothing if not ambitious. He clocked 58:10 in Copenhagen last autumn, and stated badly afterwards, ‘Eager to run 57 minutes in half marathon in future’.

This is the second year that RAK half-marathon will be overseen by Pace Events, long time organiser of the neighbouring Dubai Marathon. Race Director Peter Connerton says, ‘We’re looking to build on the success of last year’s event, and continue to bring both fast, exciting elite racing to Ras Al Khaimah, in addition to a well-supported popular race, supported by the community’.

Thrilling Finish at the 2025 Chevron Houston Half Marathon: Conner Mantz Ties Event Record, Sets New American Standard

The 2025 Chevron Houston Half Marathon delivered an unforgettable race, featuring one of the closest finishes in the event’s history. In a jaw-dropping sprint to the finish line, Addisu Gobena of Ethiopia and Conner Mantz of the United States both crossed the tape at 59:17, sharing the event record in an electric photo finish.

For Mantz, this historic performance was doubly significant. The Utah native not only tied the event record but also shattered Ryan Hall’s longstanding American record of 59:43, set in 2007. Mantz’s 59:17 establishes a new national standard, cementing his place as one of the greatest American half-marathoners.

The men’s field showcased extraordinary depth, with four runners breaking the elusive 1-hour mark and an additional eight runners finishing under 61 minutes. The sheer quality of performances underscores Houston’s reputation as one of the premier half-marathon events in the world.

Men’s Results Overview

1. Addisu Gobena (Ethiopia) – 59:17

2. Conner Mantz (USA) – 59:17 (New American Record)

3. Gabriel Geay (Tanzania) – 59:18

4. Jemal Yimer (Ethiopia) – 59:20

5. Patrick Dever (Great Britain) – 1:00:11

Mantz’s record-breaking run wasn’t the only highlight for American fans. Hillary Bor, Wesley Kiptoo, Andrew Colley, and Alex Maier all posted sub-61-minute finishes, demonstrating the growing strength of U.S. distance running.

A Photo Finish for the Ages

The showdown between Gobena and Mantz captivated spectators. Both runners surged in the final meters, with Gobena just barely edging ahead in the official results. While Gobena claimed the win, Mantz’s breakthrough made headlines, showing that American distance running continues to rise to global prominence.

Conner Mantz’s Perspective

“This was a dream race for me,” Mantz said after the event. “I’ve always admired Ryan Hall’s record, and to not only break it but to do so in such a competitive field is incredibly special. Sharing the event record with Addisu Gobena makes it even more memorable.”

A Record-Setting Day

The 2025 Chevron Houston Half Marathon proved to be one for the history books. With its flat, fast course and deep international field, the event continues to attract world-class talent. Gobena and Mantz’s shared record and Mantz’s new American milestone will stand as highlights of this year’s race, reminding fans why Houston is synonymous with excellence in distance running.

Women’s Half Marathon:

Weini Kelati lowered her own American women’s half marathon record by completing the race in 1:06:09, a 16-second improvement from her previous record of 1:06:25 set at the same event last year. Kelati secured second place in the women’s field, finishing just four seconds behind Ethiopia’s Senayet Getachew, who won with a time of 1:06:05. 

The favorable weather conditions in Houston contributed to these record-breaking performances, making the 2025 Houston Half Marathon a memorable event for American distance running. 

Hirpa and Gemechu lead Ethiopian sweep at Dubai Marathon

Bedatu Hirpa came from behind to take the women’s title at the Dubai Marathon in a huge PB of 2:18:27, while marathon debutant Bute Gemechu made it an Ethiopian double by taking the men’s title at the World Athletics Label road race in 2:04:51 on Sunday (12).

After an intriguing five-way tussle up to 25km, Dera Dida and training partner Hirpa forged a lead which was to prove unassailable for the pursers. When Dida eased away with 5km to go, it looked as though she was set to repeat her 2023 victory.

But as soon as she came into the lengthy finishing straight, she started to struggle with stomach cramps. At that stage, with less than a kilometre to run, Hirpa was still 10 seconds behind, but the 2015 world U18 1500m champion soon made up the ground and eased into the lead.

Hirpa crossed the line in 2:18:27, a substantial improvement on the PB of 2:21:09 she set in Amsterdam three months ago. Dida finished five seconds behind but was rewarded with a PB of 2:18:32. Tigist Girma, contesting her first marathon since December 2022, was third in 2:20:47.

Bute Gemechu broke away from the leading men’s group at 35km. Compatriot Shifera Tamru cut the gap to about 20 metres with two kilometres to go, but his challenge was short-lived.

Gemechu went on to win in 2:04:51, becoming the fifth Ethiopian debutant in succession to win the Dubai men’s race. Berehanu Tsegu came through for second place in 2:05:14 ahead of Tamru (2:05:28).

Ethiopian athletes filled the top 16 places in the women’s race and the first 14 positions in the men’s race.

Women1 Bedatu Hirpa (ETH) 2:18:272 Dera Dida (ETH) 2:18:323 Tigist Girma (ETH) 2:20:474 Zeineba Yimer (ETH) 2:21:125 Bertukan Welde (ETH) 2:21:546 Kuftu Tahir (ETH) 2:22:537 Gadise Mulu (ETH) 2:23:198 Almaz Kebede (ETH) 2:23:309 Kebebush Yisma (ETH) 2:24:0410 Dibabe Beyene (ETH) 2:24:38

Men1 Bute Gemechu (ETH) 2:04:512 Berehanu Tsegu (ETH) 2:05:143 Shifera Tamru (ETH) 2:05:284 Desalegn Girma (ETH) 2:06:525 Dejene Hailu (ETH) 2:07:036 Getachew Masresha (ETH) 2:07:047 Tadele Demissie (ETH) 2:08:218 Boki Diriba (ETH) 2:09:069 Embay Goitom (ETH) 2:09:0810 Yismaw Atinafu (ETH) 2:09:32

Almgren breaks European 10km record in Valencia

Kenya's Hellen Ekalale Lobun and Sweden’s Andreas Almgren claimed victories at the 10K Valencia Ibercaja by Kiprun, a World Athletics Label road race, on Sunday (12).

Lobun, who took the women’s title in 29:30, moved to fourth on the world all-time list while Almgren took 11 seconds off the European record, winning the men’s race in 26:53.

In a race of incredible depth, the first four women now feature in the top 10 on the world all-time list, while the men’s contest marked the first time 11 athletes had finished inside 27:30.

The women’s contest had been billed as an assault on the Ethiopian record (29:14) by pre-race favourite Fotyen Tesfay, who won the Valencia Half Marathon in 1:03:21 in October. Paced by Spain’s Abedarrahman El Khayami, the lead quartet of Tesfay, Lobun, Girmawit Gebrezihair and teenager Asayech Ayichew went through 3km in 8:46, putting them on course to break the world record of 28:46.

The cadence soon dropped, however, and Tesfay went through 5km in 14:31 with Lobun five seconds behind, Ayichew another two seconds in arrears and Gebrezihair clocking 14:42. Soon after, Tesfay had been reeled back in, and the lead trio – Tesfay, Lobun and Gebrezihair – reached 7km in 20:29.

Approaching the final kilometre, Tesfay dropped back, leaving Lobun and Gebrezihair to duel for the victory. Lobun broke away from her Ethiopian rival with 600 metres to go, crossing the line in 29:30 in what was her first standalone 10km race (though she has previously contested two half marathons).

Gebrezihair was second in 29:34, taking more than a minute off her previous best, while a tired Tesfay (29:42) managed to hold off Ayichew (29:43), both women setting PBs. It’s just the second time in history – after last year’s Valencia 10k – that four women have finished inside 30 minutes.

“I didn’t expect to win but I knew I was in good shape,” said Lobun who is based in Kirenget and is coached by Williams Langat. “It was my first 10km ever so my debut has been fantastic. I’ll next compete on 23 February at the Lobo Village cross country race in Eldoret and later I’ll focus on the track season as I try to make the Kenyan team for the World Championships in Tokyo.”

Despite the absence of the scheduled pacemaker Rodrigue Kwizera, who was forced to withdraw because of flu, the men’s contest ended up being one of the best ever in terms of depth.

Kenya’s Daniel Kinyanjui, Vincent Langat and Benard Langat, along with Ethiopia’s Tadese Worku and Telahun Haile Bekele took charge of the pacing duties with Almgren, Switzerland’s Dominic Lobalu and Belgium’s Isaac Kimeli also part of the leading pack. The opening 3km was covered in 8:13 and half way was passed in 13:43, suggesting a finishing time well outside 27 minutes.

The pace soon started to increase, though, as Bekele, Langat and Lobalu started to push harder, reaching 7km in 19:05 with seven athletes in the lead pack. The pace, now at 2:40/km, continued to increase as Lobalu, Langat and Almgren reached 9km well ahead of the rest.

European 10,000m champion Lobalu tried to surge in the closing stages, but Langat and Almgren stayed on his shoulder. With just seconds to go, track specialist Almgren put his kick finish to good use and edged in front to cross the line in 26:53, having covered the second half in 13:10.

Lobalu settled for second in 26:54 and Langat completed the podium in 26:55. Further down the field, Uruguay’s Santiago Catrofe set a South American record of 27:16 in eighth.

“Last year I ran 27:20 here and I knew I could run much faster today,” said Almgren, the 2014 world U20 800m bronze medallist who has moved up in distance in recent years and ran 26:53.57 for 10,000m on the track last year. “It’s my first European record so I’m over the moon; I’ll now spend four weeks in the altitude of Sierra Nevada to focus on my next target, the 3000m at the European Indoor Championships.”

In addition to the area records, national records were also set by Switzerland’s Lobalu, Eritrea’s Dawit Seare (27:21), Great Britain’s Rory Leonard (27:38), Spain’s Ilias Fifa (27:41) and Ireland’s Efrem Giday (27:43).

Leading results

Women1 Hellen Lobun (KEN) 29:302 Girmawit Gebrzihair (ETH) 29:343 Fotyen Tesfay (ETH) 29:424 Asayech Ayichew (ETH) 29:435 Fentaye Belayneh (ETH) 30:006 Christine Chesiro (KEN) 30:067 Maurine Toroitich (KEN) 30:288 Miriam Serem (KEN) 30:299 Alice Chemtai (KEN) 30:4710 Lomi Muleta (ETH) 31:01

Men1 Andreas Almgren (SWE) 26:532 Dominic Lokinyomo Lobalu (SUI) 26:543 Vincent Langat (KEN) 26:554 Daniel Kinyanjui (KEN) 27:065 Isaac Kimeli (BEL) 27:106 Benard Langat (KEN) 27:117 Telahun Haile Bekele (ETH) 27:138 Santiago Catrofe (URU) 27:169 Dawit Seare (ERI) 27:2110 Celestin Ndikumana (BDI) 27:23

Fast field set for Dubai marathon this Sunday

If there’s such a thing as a First Family in athletics, then it has be the Tola-Dida clan from Ethiopia; and one of their favourite watering holes is the Dubai marathon, whose quarter century is celebrated with Sunday morning’s event. Current Olympic men’s champion Tamirat Tola won Dubai in 2017 (2.04.11), while spouse Dera Dida won in 2023 (2.21.11), on the same day that her brother-in-law, Tamirat’s younger sibling Abdisa won the men’s title (2.05.42).

Tamirat went on to greater things, with a world championship silver medal in London later in 2017, then gold in the delayed world championship in Eugene 2022, a New York Marathon victory in 2023, and the Olympic crown last year. This time round, he has a far more important task, staying at home and minding their daughter.

Because bringing their daughter (even with a nanny) to last year’s Dubai race may have distracted Dera from a repeat victory, though she still finished third in 2.19.29, two minutes faster than the previous year; but she’s left hubby to do the domestic chores this time, and comes determined to win her second Dubai Marathon while Tamirat watches on TV back home on the outskirts of capital Addis Ababa.

As befits a First Family, only the best is good enough, and their training group has got to be one of if not the strongest in the world.  Among her running partners are former marathon world record holder and Olympic silver medallist Tigst Assefa as well as the current marathon World Champion Amane Beriso. ‘I don’t train with the group every day,’ she said through an interpreter. ‘On a day to day basis, I train with Tamirat, but I join them occasionally. Since Tamirat won the Olympics, we’ve had a lot more media interest, but we try to concentrate on our running and not get too distracted’.

Well, her rivals (and compatriots) here in Dubai, Tigist Girma and Zeineber Yimer already have plenty to distact her, given that their respective best times, 2.18.52 and 2.19.07 are better than hers (2.19.24), but not so much as to deter her ‘I think I’m in shape to run the course record (2.16.07, set by another colleague Tigist Ketema last year); I hope that will be enough to win‘.

Another return winner has equally high aspirations, although injuries have ploughed a broad furrow between Lelisa Desisa’s glory days and Sunday’s race. Lelisa was one of many debutant winners in Dubai over the last decade or so, but his came in winning probably the most exciting race in Dubai Marathon history. On a rare foggy day in the Emirates, Lelisa emerged from the mists with a superb sprint finish to clock 2.04.45, and outpace four close pursuers who all finished within a handful of seconds, the first time five men had ever gone inside two hours, five minutes for a marathon.

Like Tamirat, Lelisa went on a have a superlative set of sequels, two victories and two second places in Boston and a win in New York, culminating with the world title on a torrid night in Doha 2019. A series of injuries and the pandemic halted his progress, but he maintains he’s back close to his best.

Following today’s press conference, he said, ‘I’ve been training with Milkesa (Mengesha), who won the Berlin Marathon last year, and with Deresa (Geleta), who finished second in Valencia; I think I’m as good, and they’re running 2.02/2.03. Things have changed a lot since I won here in 2013. At that time, we were thinking of 2.04 to 2.07 for a marathon, now we have to think of two hours! I think I can run a personal best on Sunday’.

Since his best remains the 2.04.45 from 2013, if he and his young rivals can get anywhere near that, they’ll be threatening the course record of 2.03.34that another colleague Getaneh Mollah ran here in 2019.

An intriguing entrant is former world record holder, Dennis Kimetto of Kenya. One of the shooting stars of recent marathon history, Kimetto had a short stellar career during which (in addition to other top victories) he won three of the most important marathons in the world, Chicago, Tokyo and Berlin, breaking the course record in each event, and setting a world record in the final one, in Berlin 2014. He was the first to run sub 2:03 (2.02.57) and his record stood for four years. Obviously, at ten days short of his 41st birthday, Dubai 2025 is going to be a very different challenge for Kimetto.

Elite runners with personal bests

MEN:

Dennis Kimetto KEN 2:02:57

Lelisa Desisa ETH 2:04:45

Dino Sefir ETH 2:04:50

Shifera Tamru ETH 2:05:18

Gebru Redahgne ETH 2:05:58

Ashenafi Moges ETH 2:06:12

Abay Alemu ETH 2:06:50

Mesfin Nigusu ETH 2:07:58

Tadele Demissie  ETH 2:08:25

Desalegn Girma ETH 2:08:30

Berehanu Tsegu ETH Debut

Boki Diriba  ETH Debut

WOMEN:

Tigist Girma ETH 2:18:52

Zeineba Yimer ETH 2:19:07

Dera Dida ETH 2:19:24

Etagegne Woldu ETH 2:20:03

Gadise Mula ETH 2:20:59

Bedatu Hirpa ETH 2:21:09

Beyenu Degefa  ETH 2:23:04

Kuftu Tahir Dadiso ETH 2:23:14

Tigist Geshaw ETH 2:24:39

Kebebush Yisma ETH 2:27:46

Mulugojam Ambi ETH 2:28:59

Betukan Welde ETH Debut

Etenesh Diro ETH Debut

Bekelech Teku  ETH Debut

Alem Tsadik ETH Debut

Hellen Obiri of Kenya will return to the Boston Marathon in April and attempt to win for the third time in a row.

In the race’s history, only four other women (Bobbi Gibb, Sara Mae Berman, Uta Pippig, and Fatuma Roba) have won three times a row, according to race organizers, who released the elite field today. The race is set for April 21.

Last year, Obiri broke the race open by covering the 24th mile in 4:41 and won in 2:22:37, 8 seconds ahead of her countrywoman Sharon Lokedi, who will also return to Boston. 

Obiri, 35, trains in Boulder, Colorado, with the On Athletics Club, and she has been on the podium in five of the six marathons she has run. In addition to her two Boston titles, she won the New York City Marathon in 2023, finished second there in 2024, and won the Olympic bronze medal in Paris. (The only blemish on her marathon record was her sixth-place finish at her debut in New York in 2022.) 

Obiri and Lokedi will be challenged by Amane Beriso and Yalemzerf Yehualaw of Ethiopia. Beriso has a personal best of 2:14:58 from the Valencia Marathon in 2022. She’s currently the fifth-fastest woman of all time. 

Sisay Lemma of Ethiopia, the defending men’s champion, will also return to Boston. Lemma’s 2:01:48 from Valencia in 2023 makes him the fourth-fastest man in history. 

Last year in Boston, Lemma got out to a large early lead, and the course record seemed almost certain to fall. But by the Newton hills, Lemma was feeling his hot early pace and slowed considerably. He held on to win in 2:06:17.

His challengers at the 2025 race will include Evans Chebet of Kenya, who has won the race twice (2022 and 2023) and was third in 2024. John Korir of Kenya, who won the 2024 Chicago Marathon in a fast 2:02:44, will also be back to race in Boston. He was fourth last year. 

A Strong American Field 

Many top Americans are entered into Boston. On the women’s side, they include Keira D’Amato, who briefly held the American record of 2:19:12 in 2022, and Sara Hall, who had a strong race at last fall’s Berlin Marathon, where she ran 2:23:45. She’ll turn 42 the week before the race. 

D’Amato told Runner’s World in a text message that she is recovering from the injury in her left foot—stress reactions in her calcaneus and talus—that caused her to drop out of Chicago. “Hoping all the cross training has made me Boston Strong,” she wrote. “I’m building up conservatively to have a killer 2025.”

Olympians Dakotah Popehn and Des Lindenwill run (Linden for the 12th time), as will Emma Bates, the top American at Boston last year, Olympic Marathon Trials fourth-place finisher Jess McClain, and notables Sara Vaughn, Kellyn Taylor, and Lindsay Flanagan. 

On the men’s side, Olympians and training partners Conner Mantz and Clayton Young, who finished eighth and ninth at the Games, respectively, will run Boston. They’ll be joined by CJ Albertson, who runs several fast marathons each year (five in 2024, including his PR of 2:08:17 in Chicago) and Zach Panning, who was fifth at the Olympic Marathon Trials.

Houston chases new American records elite fields include Yehaulaw and Kiptoo

The 2025 road racing year will open with an exciting chase for American records at the Aramco Houston Half Marathon and course records at the Chevron Houston Marathon on Sunday, January 19.

The Houston Marathon Committee announced the professional fields for both races today, featuring returning champions and all-time top performers.

The women’s half marathon field is led by the fifth fastest woman in history, Yalemzerf Yehaulaw of Ethiopia who will race in North America for the first time. Yehaulaw, 25, holds two of the top ten all-time half marathon performances including her personal best of 1:03:51 from Valencia in 2021. In 2024, Yehaulaw set a new personal best time in the marathon, winning the Amsterdam Marathon in 2:16:52, a course record.

“It has always been my ambition to race in the United States and now the opportunity has finally come,” said Yehaulaw, the 2022 TCS London Marathon winner. “Running an early race means I get a chance to focus fully on the half marathon to go for a fast time. I am eager to win.”

The Aramco Houston Half Marathon women’s race also features the follow-up half marathon for the American record holder Weini Kelati. Kelati set the record of 1:06:25 in her debut half marathon here last year. She has not raced the distance since, instead focusing on the 10,000m in which she represented the United States at the 2024 Paris Games.

“I’m really excited to come back to Houston and run my second half marathon,” said Kelati, who finished fourth here in 2024. “Last year was great and I hope this year’s race will be even better. My training has been going well and I know the competition will be very good.”

The women’s professional field features 15 women who have run faster than 1:10 in the half marathon. Other top contenders include last year’s third place finisher Buze Diriba of Ethiopia; the third fastest British half marathoner in history, Jessica Warner-Judd, and fellow Brit and 2024 Olympic marathoner, Calli Hauger-Thackery. Hauger-Thackery won the California International Marathon last month.

The men’s competition will see a rematch of last year’s thrilling Aramco Houston Half Marathon. Wesley Kiptoo of Kenya who has been runner-up here for the past two years will again face off against Jemal Yimer of Ethiopia. Yimer outsprinted Kiptoo in 2024, beating him by just one second.

“I can’t wait to return to Houston to try to defend my 2024 title,” said Yimer, who also won here in 2020. “It’s a special place for me to kick off my 2025 road season.”

The pair will be joined by Tanzania Olympian and former Boston Marathon runner-up Gabriel Gaey who has a personal best of 59:42 from his seventh place finish here in 2020.

The men’s race will also see an attempt to finally topple the American half marathon record of 59:43 set here by Ryan Hall in 2007. Leading the chase on the 18-year-old record will be 2024 Olympic marathoners Conner Mantz and Clayton Young. Mantz and Young, who finished eighth and ninth in Paris, train together in Provo, Utah. In November, they were the top two American finishers in the TCS New York City Marathon with Mantz breaking the American course record. This will be Young’s Houston debut. Mantz last ran here in 2023, finishing in sixth place.

“I want to race the Aramco Houston Half Marathon because there are other fast Americans going for the American Record,” said Mantz, who also set the American record in the 10 mile last October. “The opportunities to race in a field like this, on a fast and record-eligible course are rare.”

Mantz and Young will face competition for a spot in the record books from Diego Estrada, the ninth fastest American in history and 2015 Houston champion who had a career-best performance here last year when he finished fifth in 1:00:49. Joe Klecker, an Olympian in the 10,000m, will look to play a factor in his half marathon debut along with his training partner Morgan Pearson, a two-time Olympic silver medalist in the triathlon with a personal best of 1:01:08. Klecker comes to Houston with family history. His mother Janis Klecker is the 1992 Houston Marathon champion.

The Chevron Houston Marathon features the return of two-time champion Dominic Ondoro of Kenya. Ondoro, who won here in 2017 and 2023, will be part of a field that includes two men who have run under Zouhair Talbi’s course record of 2:06:39 set in 2024: Haimro Alame (Israel, 2:06:04) and Ande Filmon (Eritrea, 2:06:38). The field also includes last year’s third place finisher, Hendrik Pfeiffer of Germany. Pfeiffer led nearly 22 miles of last year’s race and finished with a personal best of 2:07:14.

“Houston was the best marathon race in my career so far. I have great memories of the fast course and the impressive city,” said Pfeiffer, whose wife Esther is in the women’s half marathon elite field. “I have already experienced how it feels to lead the race for more than 35 kilometers and I‘m hungry for more. I will definitely try to chase a fast time again.“

A new winner will be crowned in the Chevron Houston Marathon women’s race. After making her half marathon debut here in 2023, Anna Dibaba will return to Houston to run just the second marathon of her career. The sister of Ethiopian legends Tirunesh, Ejegayehu and Genzebe, Dibaba ran 2:23:56 in her debut in Amsterdam last October.

“As I race in more marathons I am sure that I will understand better what I am capable of,” said Dibaba who placed fourth in the 2023 Aramco Houston Half Marathon. “You have to respect the distance of the marathon and it is not enough to be in shape. You must know how to interpret each race, the various courses and conditions. I am looking forward to seeing what I am now able to do in my next race in Houston."

There are two Ethiopian women who have run faster than Dibaba entered in the race. Tsigie Hailesale who has run 2:22:10 and has marathon victories in Stockholm and Cape Town is the fastest and Sifan Melaku, also a past winner in Stockholm with a 2:23:49 personal best.

American Erika Kemp will line up for only her second career marathon in Houston. Kemp, a two-time U.S. champion will look to build on her experience from the Boston Marathon last spring.

“In 2023 I learned what it was like to be out there competing for over two hours,” said Kemp, who runs for Brooks, the footwear and apparel sponsor of the Houston Marathon Weekend of Events. “I’m hoping to utilize the course karma I’ve built up in Houston to have a great marathon.”

“We are excited to see so many top runners kick off their 2025 racing season with us in Houston,” said Wade Morehead, Executive Director of the Houston Marathon Committee. “We are expecting a historic day that will add to this event’s reputation as one of the best races in the world.”

More than USD 190,000 in prize money and bonuses will be awarded to the top finishers of the Chevron Houston Marathon and USD 70,000 plus time bonuses for the top finishers in the Aramco Houston Half Marathon. The races will be broadcast live on ABC13 and feature commentary from Olympic Marathoner and Boston Marathon champion Des Linden.

Ethiopian Sisay Lemma eyes successful Boston Marathon title defence against Kenyans John Korir, Cybrian Kotut & Co

Sisay Lemma is looking to replicate his 2024 success at this year's Boston Marathon but Kenyans John Korir and Cybrian Kotut are among those standing in his way.

Ethiopian marathon star Sisay Lemma is gearing up to defend his title at the 2025 Boston Marathon, set to take place on April 21.

Fresh off his thrilling victory in 2024, Lemma will look to replicate his success and conquer the demanding course once again.

In the 2024 edition, Lemma surged ahead of a fierce field that included his fellow Ethiopian Mohamed Esa, as well as Kenyan marathon giants Evans Chebet and John Korir, who finished second, third, and fourth, respectively.

Lemma's winning time of 2:06:17 was a testament to his impressive form, but he remains aware of the heightened challenge awaiting him this year.

“I was very happy after winning the Boston Marathon last year, and in 2025 I know it will be an even bigger challenge to win again,” Lemma said via World Athletics, acknowledging the difficulty of repeating such a remarkable performance.

While the Boston Marathon holds a special place in his heart, Lemma’s 2024 season was marred by injury setbacks.

The Ethiopian was hoping to redeem his Olympic performance after a disappointing debut at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he failed to finish the race.

Unfortunately, injury prevented him from competing in Paris in 2024, further hindering his plans for an Olympic comeback.

His struggles continued as he missed a podium finish at the Valencia Marathon that same December due to a lack of full fitness.

“I was unlucky, because of an injury, not to be able to participate at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and I was not completely ready at the Valencia Marathon last December,” Lemma confessed.

Now, with the Olympics behind him, Lemma has set his sights firmly on the Boston Marathon. Despite the challenges of the past year, he remains confident in his preparation.

“I will be 100% ready in April because the Boston Marathon is a special event,” Lemma asserted, emphasizing the importance of the race in his career.

However, Lemma will face stiff competition. Among the challengers is last year’s bronze medalist, Kenyan marathon star Evans Chebet, who clocked 2:07:22, just behind Lemma’s winning time.

Chebet, who has proven his endurance and speed on the Boston course, will be looking to outpace the Ethiopian this time around.

He will be joined by a strong Kenyan contingent, including John Korir, who finished fourth last year, as well as Cybrian Kotut, Daniel Mateiko, Abel Kipchumba, and Albert Korir.

With a fierce field and his sights set on history, Lemma’s journey toward a successful title defense will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the 2025 marathon season.

Ethiopian runner shatters marathon course record in a speedsuit

It’s no secret that you want to be as light and comfortable as possible for your marathon, which is why most male marathoners opt for the singlet and split shorts (or half tights) combo on race day. However, Ethiopia’s Dawit Wolde took a different approach at Sunday’s 2025 Xiamen Marathon in Xiamen City, China, winning in a new course record of 2:06:06 while wearing a one-piece speedsuit. Running pundits are saying it’s possibly the fastest marathon ever recorded in a speed suit.

Speedsuits are unusual for road racing as they are typically designed for faster track races like the 100m or the long jump. The purpose of a speedsuit is to reduce air resistance, allowing athletes to move more efficiently through the air without their clothing holding them back. This can lead to slightly faster times by minimizing drag. However, in a marathon, a speedsuit could potentially cause more harm than good, especially if the runner experiences any bowel malfunctions or needs a quick bathroom stop.

For Wolde, the speedsuit didn’t seem to be an issue, as he flew to a new Xiamen course record, winning the race by 12 seconds over Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, who ran a national record of 2:06:18. Ramakongoana trains in Flagstaff, Ariz., under American marathon coach James McKirdy, and he also finished seventh in the men’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Last year’s champion, Asefa Boki Kebebe, rounded out the podium for third in 2:06:32.

It was an Ethiopian sweep as the women’s race saw Ruti Aga rise to the top once again in China. The 2019 Tokyo Marathon champion won the race in a course record of 2:18:46, just half a minute shy of her personal best set at the Dongying Marathon in 2023. The 30-year-old now owns the two fastest women’s marathon performances ever achieved in China.

Ethiopia’s Mengesha wins Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge race

The Bank of China Hong Kong-Zuhai-Macau Bridge Half Marathon made a considerable improvement on its flawed previous edition as it was praised by elite and amateur runners on Sunday.

After criticism following the inaugural race 14 months ago, the logistical aspects were as important as the identities of the winners at this second event.

Handily for organizers, the first man and woman over the line, Milkesa Mengesha and Grace Nawowuna, were gushing in their assessments of the race, which is staged inside a border checkpoint at the Hong Kong end of the world’s longest sea-crossing bridge.

Ethiopian Mengesha, winner of last year’s Berlin Marathon, completed the 13.1 miles (21km) in one hour, one minute and 27 seconds, three seconds ahead of Patrick Mosin, from Kenya, who finished in 1:01.30.

“I am so happy to win here, the level of everything has been perfect, even above my expectations,” Mengesha said.

The 21-year-old Kenyan Nawowuna clocked 1:07.56, ahead of compatriot Sheila Chelangat in 1:08.06. She said the mixed reviews of November 2023 had not been a factor when deciding whether to compete.

“The organisation was everything we could have asked for and Hong Kong is beautiful,” Nawowuna said.

Complaints following the debut race focused on a scarcity of toilets, delays transporting runners between their AsiaWorld-Expo assembly point and the course, an absence of food and shortage of drink, and a pre-race drop-off about a 1.5km walk from the start line.

Simon Yeung Sai-mo, chairman of the organising committee, said a backlash from “runners and the media” had prompted a host of changes.

“There were more than 70 toilets in the starting and finishing areas,” Yeung said. “The drop-off point was fewer than 500 metres from the start line and we provided food and drinks for runners.”

As they walked to the start, flanked by rows of portable toilets, some of the 8,000 runners were heard saying lessons had been learned. Out on the course, there were six water stations, with food available from those on the homeward straight.

The start was watched by government officials including Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui.

Fleets of buses were waiting to take runners back to AsiaWorld-Expo, where they were greeted with gift bags containing a banana, crackers, water and a towel, before collecting their bags.

Amateur runner Rick Yam said: “I heard a lot about last year, but there isn’t anything I can say that needs improving.

“We could see the start line when we got off the bus and the transport was good. It can’t be as easy as some other races, because we’re in an area where there is usually restricted access. Overall, it was pretty good.”

Fellow runner Alan Zagury said the toilets and shuttle bus service were faultless, but he would not be back for future editions “because it is a huge logistical headache”. “I left home at 4.30am, it’s now past 9.30am, which is far too much for a half-marathon,” he said.

Zagury also said the 45-minute wait in a confined area before starting was “too long and meant we could not warm-up”.

Given the race’s location, however, hanging around before starting was the nature of the beast.

Virginia Lo Ying-chiu, the first Hong Kong woman home in 1:16.45, said it had been a “privilege to be involved”. “I think the problems were solved,” she said. “We didn’t need to wait for toilets, or walk to the start line. The arrangement is much better.”

Japan’s 2018 Boston Marathon winner, Yuki Kawauchi, finished seventh in 1:07.52 before being mobbed for autographs and selfies. He said it had been a “good decision” to compete and rated the event above his own country’s Chiba Aqualine Marathon, where runners race on the bridge section of the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line.

Yeung said the race would return next year, on condition of government support, but the plan was to make it “better rather than bigger”.

“If we increased numbers, it would not be a good experience for runners,” he said. “We can’t have any more, because we have to give the bridge back to the government as soon as possible.”

After assembling a strong international field, organisers were rewarded when World Athletics designated the event a Gold Label Road Race, one rung beneath its top-tier Platinum Label races.

Nearly 100 elite athletes of 25 nationalities will compete for victory at the 10K Valencia

On January 12, thousands of runners will fly through the fastest 10K course in the world. Dominic Lobalu, Isaac Kimeli and Andreas Almgren arrive in Valencia with the goal of breaking the European 10K record.

The 10K Valencia Ibercaja by Kiprun is finalizing the details to offer again a great show in what will be its 17th edition this coming January 12. The race, which closed its registration last December 22 after exhausting the available numbers, will feature a cast of elite athletes of up to 25 nationalities. 

According to José Enrique Muñoz Acuña, Coordinator of Elite athletes and sports director of the race, the goal this year "is to continue the level of sporting demand that has the 10K Valencia as the best 10K in Spain and holder of world records for both men and women". "This January 12 we will once again experience an event of the highest level, in which -if the conditions respect us- athletes can meet their goals and we can once again see men under 27 minutes and women under 30 minutes," he added. 

As usual in the 10K Valencia, in men "we find a list that stands out for the good level of European athletes, who come with the aim of breaking the European record", which is currently held by Etienne Daguinos (27:04, Lille 2024). For this "there are three clear favorites: Dominic Lobalu (Switzerland), Isaac Kimeli (Belgium) and Andreas Almgren (Sweden), who will have a hare to launch the race to go under 27 minutes." 

As for the African armada, several athletes stand out, such as the Ethiopians Telahun Bekele, Getnet Wale and the debutant in the distance Samuel Tefera, double world indoor 1,500ml champion. In addition to many other athletes who can opt for victory, such as Kenyans Daniel Kinyanjui, Vincent Langat or Meshack Lelgut, "In total, we have 32 men with records under28 minutes".

As for the Spanish representation, several names stand out: Abdessamad Oukhelfen, current national record holder of the distance with 27:44 made last January on this circuit, Daniel Arce, who comes from running very fast in León, Juan A. Pérez Moreno, Víctor Ruiz and Aarón Las Heras. It is worth mentioning the Uruguayan athlete living in Spain, Santiago Catrofe, who comes to Valencia with the intention of improving the South American AR, which is currently held by the Argentinean Antonio Silio (27:51, 1990). 

Women, going all out 

In the women's field, three clear favorites stand out: Fotyen Tesfay (Ethiopia), Christine Chesiro (Kenya) and the young and talented Ethiopian athlete Asayech Ayichew, who won the Great Ethiopian Run a few weeks ago. "In addition to them we have to add a great cast of African athletes. They all come to Valencia to improve their records".  

In European terms, several athletes stand out, such as Slovenia's Klara Lukan, France's Mekdes Woldu and England's Abbie Donnelly, all of them looking to break their current records. 

In the Spanish field, we have two athletes who arrive in a similar form as Alicia Berzosa and Laura Priego, the clear favorites to win in the Spanish category without forgetting the athlete of the Serrano Athletics Club, Maria Jose Perez.

It is worth remembering that the 10K Valencia, which achieved the World Record in men in 2020 (26:24), managed to break all forecasts in the last edition when the athlete Agnes Jebet beat the 10K world record with a 28:46. On a national level, Abdessamad Oukhelfen won the Spanish men's 10K record with a time of 27:44. 

'I want to see how far females can go'- Sifan Hassan eyes breaking marathon barriers inspired by Ruth Chepng'etich

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.

Aga and Wolde run course records to win in Xiamen

Ruti Aga and Dawit Wolde achieved an Ethiopian double at the C&D Xiamen Marathon, both athletes setting course records to win the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on Sunday (5).

Aga and Wolde were the fastest athletes in their respective fields and Aga won the women’s race in 2:18:46, claiming a dominant victory ahead of her compatriot Gutemi Shone Imana in 2:23:11, while Wolde secured the men’s title in 2:06:06 ahead of Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, who ran a national record of 2:06:18.

Aga lined up as the Chinese all-comers' record-holder thanks to the PB of 2:18:09 she set in Dongying in 2023. The 30-year-old now owns the two fastest women’s marathon performances ever achieved in China, as she was just 37 seconds off that mark in Xiamen.

It was a return to winning ways for the 2019 Tokyo Marathon champion, who won the Daegu Marathon last April and then was runner-up in the Sydney Marathon in September.

Her time of 2:18:46 improved the previous course record by more than a minute. That course record of 2:19:52 had been set by Aga’s compatriot Mare Dibaba in 2015, the year in which she became the world marathon champion in Beijing.

Dibaba was also part of the field in Xiamen on Sunday and this time she ran 2:27:49 to finish fifth.

Behind Aga and Shone, Fikrte Wereta Admasu completed an Ethiopian sweep of the podium as she was third in 2:23:15, while Kenya’s Mercy Jerop Kwambai was fourth in 2:23:58.

While Aga was joined only by pacemakers in the final stages of the women’s race, Wolde still had three athletes for company as the men’s race reached the 40km mark.

But he managed to move away from his rivals to eventually claim a 12-second victory. Behind Wolde and Ramakongoana was Ethiopia’s defending champion Asefa Boki Kebebe, third in 2:06:32. His compatriot Chalu Deso Gelmisa was fourth in 2:06:45.

Ramakongoana’s performance took 1:40 off the national record he had set when finishing seventh at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Ethiopia's Champions Set to Defend Titles at Mumbai Marathon 2025

Ethiopian marathon champions, Hayle Lemi Berhanu and Aberash Minsewo, return to Mumbai Marathon 2025 aiming to retain their titles. With robust competition, the 20th edition promises excitement, especially with Berhanu eyeing a historic hat-trick. The event, a qualifier for World Championships, offers substantial prizes for top finishers and record breakers.

Ethiopia's marathon champions, Hayle Lemi Berhanu and Aberash Minsewo, are set to defend their titles at the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025, scheduled for January 19.

This prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Race sees Berhanu aiming for a historic hat-trick in the men's section following victories in 2023 and 2024.

In its 20-year history, the marathon has seen no male runner achieve a three-peat victory. Kenyan John Kelai had a chance in 2009 but finished third. Despite Ethiopian Mulu Seboka's triple wins, she skipped the 2007 race. This year's event offers podium prizes of up to USD 50,000 and record-breaking rewards of USD 15,000.

The competition is fierce with eleven men and six women boasting personal bests outstripping the course records. Top contenders include Kenyans Philemon Rono and Joyce Tele, and Bahrain's Shitaye Eshete. As the marathon also serves as a World Championships qualifier, the stakes are high for all participants.

Florian Bremm successfully defends his title at the 42nd Int. Raiffeisen New Year's Eve Run in Peuerbach

A great running festival was offered today to the 5,000 enthusiastic spectators in Peuerbach. At the 42nd Int. Raiffeisen New Year's Eve Run – one of the five largest New Year's Eve runs in Europe – a new record number of participants was set with 1,103 registrations and 1,007 finishers.

The focus of the event was the women's and men's ace race, which was staffed by world-class athletes. And in both competitions, Germany was able to win the title this year: In the men's race, the reigning German 5,000 meter champion Florian BREMM defended his previous year's title in a thrilling final sprint against the Kenyan relay cross world champion Reynold CHERUIYOT, in the women's race, Elena BURKARD was the first European since 2013 to enter the winners' list. Austria took 4th place with Sebastian FREY from Vienna and Lotte SEILER from Styria. "We experienced two extremely exciting races today, the atmosphere was unique again," said OC boss Carsten Eich. The commitment of 120 volunteers from IGLA long life makes the implementation of this sensational event possible in the first place.

Thrilling men's race with German winner

The run of the aces in the men's race was hard to beat in terms of excitement. The race over 6,800 meters was marked by a duel between the 2024 Cross Country World Champion Reynold CHERUIYOT and last year's German winner Florian BREMM. In the 6th of a total of 8 laps, the Kenyan attacked and looked like the sure winner in the meantime. But step by step, the 24-year-old from LCA Höchstadt/Aisch fought his way back and together the duo ran towards the finish line. On the home straight, Bremm had the better end for herself, as in the previous year, and won after 18:45.28 minutes with a 1.34-second lead. Sebastian Frey from DSG Wien was in 3rd place in the meantime and only had to admit defeat to the German Niklas BUCHHOLZ in the final sprint after 19:13.64 minutes. "The atmosphere in Peuerbach was simply outstanding, the crowd pushed me hard," Frey was very satisfied at the finish.

Elena Burkard wins in the women's aces race

In the women's race over 6 laps or 5,100 meters, the Ethiopian vice world champion over 1,500 meters Axumawit EMBAYE was the clear favorite. And from the beginning she took the lead of the 14-strong field, at the halfway point of the race the Ethiopian already had a seven-second lead over the two German athletes Elena BURKARD and Domenika MAYER. But the longer the race lasted, the closer Burkard got to the favorite and in the last lap the two opponents were on a par. In the last corner, the German attacked irresistibly and celebrated a much-acclaimed victory in Peuerbach after 15:57.41 minutes. This was the first victory by a European woman since 2013. A great performance was offered by Lotte Seiler from Kapfenberg, who secured 4th place in the final sprint against the strong Hungarian Lili Anna Vindics-Toth after 16:40.92.

Record field of participants at the start in nine competitions

With 1,103 registrations and 1,007 finishers, a new record number of participants was set at this year's New Year's Eve Run in Peuerbach, surpassing the record set in 2023 by 25 starters. "That was a wonderful running event in Peuerbach today, the atmosphere was simply great," says Marion Gierlinger from the organizing association IGLA long life. The Int. Raiffeisen New Year's Eve Run Peuerbach with its world-class athletes also offers the largest children's New Year's Eve run in Austria: Almost 500 boys and girls took part in the junior competitions alone, which opened the running day with starts every five minutes. Cheered on by parents and spectators, the stars of tomorrow ran from the sprint over 100 meters to the LONG LIFE mineral water mile over 1,700 meters. The Gebrüder Weiss Volkslauf over 6,800 meters was again a special experience this year, 420 starters in this and the other competitions made Peuerbach the capital of running.

Bekele runs course record, Battocletti retains title in Bolzano

Ethiopia’s Telahun Haile Bekele set a course record to win the men’s race, while Italy’s Nadia Battocletti retained her women’s race crown at the BOclassic Alto Adige, a World Athletics Label road race, on Tuesday (31).

Bekele ran 27:59 to become the first athlete to break 28 minutes for this 10km race and home favourite Battocletti clocked 15:31 to repeat her 5km victory from the previous year.

After the start at Waltherplatz, a group of five athletes remained together in the men’s race, with Bekele joined by Italy’s Yeman Crippa, Kenya’s Charles Rotich, South Africa’s Maxime Chaumeton and Morocco’s Soufiyan Bouqantar.

Bouqantar had to let his rivals go on the fourth lap and Chaumeton dropped out on the fifth loop. That left the trio of Bekele, Crippa and Rotich in contention. Bekele then attacked on the penultimate lap and built a lead, which he maintained on the last loop and final sprint. In the end, the 25-year-old Ethiopian set a record time of 27:59, one second faster than the mark by Sabastian Sawe in 2023. Bekele had already finished on the podium once before at the BOclassic Alto Adige as he came second in 2019.

Crippa was runner-up for the third time in a row, finishing just two seconds back. The 19-year-old Rotich completed the podium in 28:08, while Chaumeton finished fourth and two-time BOclassic winner Oscar Chelimo from Uganda finished fifth.

All eyes were on Battocletti in the women’s race. She led from start to finish, although the 20-year-old Aleshign Baweke of Ethiopia could not be shaken off and was only finally beaten on the home straight after an irresistible attack by Battocletti.

Battocletti's winning time was 15:31, four seconds faster than Baweke.

Third place went to Turkiye’s Yasemin Can who stayed on the heels of the leading duo for a long time, but had to let go on the final loop. Federica Del Buono finished in fourth place after a brilliant final lap, while Micol Majori finished in fifth place.

Leading results

Women

1 Nadia Battocletti (ITA) 15:31

2 Aleshign Baweke (ETH) 15:35

3 Yasemin Can (TUR) 16:05

4 Federica Del Buono (ITA) 16:07

5 Micol Majori (ITA) 16:11

Men

1⁠ ⁠Telahun Haile Bekele (ETH) 27:59

2 ⁠Yeman Crippa (ITA) 28:01

3⁠ ⁠Charles Rotich (KEN) 28:08

4 ⁠Maxime Chaumeton (RSA) 28:27

5 ⁠Oscar Chelimo (UGA) 28:43

Aregawi and Kiplimo take top spots, Garcia surprises Chepngetich in Madrid

Ethiopia’s Olympic 10,000m silver medalist Berihu Aregawi and Spain’s European 5000m bronze medalist Marta Garcia claimed respective victories at the San Silvestre Vallecana, a World Athletics Gold Label road race, in Madrid on Tuesday (31) evening.

While Aregawi and Uganda’s two-time world cross country champion Jacob Kiplimo crossed the finish line together without fighting for the win, Garcia became a surprise victor as she clearly defeated Kenya’s world marathon record-holder Chepngetich.

The men's race had been billed as a mouth-watering showdown between Aregawi and Kiplimo, both on the hunt for a second victory following their victories in 2018 (Kiplimo) and 2023 (Aregawi).

The race started with opening kilometers in the 2:40/2:42 region, taking advantage of the early downhill section. By then the lead group featured six athletes: Kiplimo, Aregawi, his fellow Ethiopian Nibret Kinde, France’s Felix Bour and the Spanish duo of Adel Mechaal and last year’s runner-up Aaron Las Heras.

It was shortly before the third kilometer when the Tokyo Olympic 10,000m bronze medalist Kiplimo and Aregawi broke away from the rest of the leading pack with incredible ease to go through that point in 8:01. Kiplimo took on most of the pacing duties but Aregawi remained very close to him throughout. That duo reached halfway in a brisk 13:07 following a frantic 5:06 2km split which suggested the course record of 26:41 was in jeopardy. Way back, Kinde travelled alone in third, 13 seconds in arrears, with Mechaal and Bour another three seconds adrift.

Over the second half of the race the leading pair maintained their blistering rhythm, covering the following kilometers at 2:36 pace to clock 20:58 by the eighth kilometer checkpoint, always with Kiplimo at the helm and Aregawi just behind.

When it became clear that a course record was on the cards, the large crowd assembled got ready for a thrilling sprint finish between the two distance stars. But once inside the Rayo Vallecano stadium, they looked at each other and decided not to battle for the win, instead crossing the finish line virtually even, the victory eventually going to Aregawi in 26:32, the same time as recorded by Kiplimo.

Their performances are not valid for record or ranking purposes since they had the benefit of a downhill circuit – 705m of altitude at the start, a lowest point of 610m at the eighth kilometer and an uphill final two kilometers to conclude at 650m.

The fight for the final podium place proved thrilling as the 34-year-old Mechaal overtook Kinde and Bour inside the closing 400m to take third in 27:39 to Bour’s 27:42 and Kinde’s 27:44.

Garcia prevails over Chepngetich

Held jointly with the men’s race, the women’s contest witnessed an early lead by the overwhelming pre-race favorite Chepngetich. The Kenyan ace had declared on the eve of the event that her target was to erase her compatriot Brigid Kosgei’s course record of 29:54 set in 2018. Yet the 30-year-old never traveled at that kind of rhythm, covering the early stages in around three minute kilometer pace.

The 2019 world marathon champion led by the third kilometer, reached in 9:09, but the in-form Spaniard Garcia – fresh from another win two days before in her native Leon – always seemed a serious threat as she only ran three seconds behind. Chepngetich went through the halfway mark in 15:06 to Garcia’s 15:08, while Paris Olympic 1500m finalist Agueda Marques and Carolina Robles traveled in third and fourth, 12 seconds behind their fellow Spaniard.

It was shortly after reaching the sixth kilometer when Garcia, on the eve of her 27th birthday, managed to catch Chepngetich. The pair shared the lead for one kilometer before the Kenyan could not follow Garcia’s pace. Despite slightly easing her pace over the flat kilometers before facing the uphill section, Garcia managed to build a sizeable advantage over the Kenyan to cover the closing stages being loudly cheered by the home crowd, about to enjoy the first Spanish win since 2008.

At the tape, Garcia was timed at 31:19 to Chepngetich’s 31:32, the world marathon record-holder holding off the late challenge provided by Marques, who was third thanks to a 31:34 performance.

“It’s my first time competing in this circuit and I’m impressed,” said Garcia, who recently completed a four-week training stint in South Africa.

“I didn’t feel tiredness over the closing kilometers because the spectators cheered a lot, it’s amazing. I’ll now focus on the short track season over 3000m.”

Leading results

Women

1 Marta Garcia (ESP) 31:19

2 Ruth Chepngetich (KEN) 31:32

3 Agueda Marques (ESP) 31:34

4 Carolina Robles (ESP) 31:58

5 Carla Gallardo (ESP) 32:10

6 Adawork Aberta (ETH) 32:16

7 Laura Priego (ESP) 32:20

8 Fatima Ouhaddou (ESP) 32:22

9 Risper Gesabwa (MEX) 32:35

10 Tugba Yenigun (TUR) 32:42

Men

1 Berihu Aregawi (ETH) 26:32

2 Jacob Kiplimo (UGA) 26:32

3 Adel Mechaal (ESP) 27:39

4 Felix Bour (FRA) 27:42

5 Nibret Kinde (ETH) 27:44

6 Jesus Ramos (ESP) 28:07

7 Aaron Las Heras (ESP) 28:12

8 Andreu Blanes (ESP) 28:50

9 David Cantero (ESP) 28:56

10 Adrian Ben (ESP) 28:57

The Distance Running Scene in 2024: A Year of Remarkable Achievements

The global distance running scene in 2024 was marked by incredible performances, new records, and innovative approaches to training and competition. From marathons in bustling city streets to ultramarathons through rugged terrains, the year showcased the resilience, determination, and evolution of athletes from all corners of the globe.

The World Marathon Majors—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York—continued to be the centerpiece of elite distance running, each event contributing to a year of unprecedented performances and milestones.

Tokyo Marathon witnessed a remarkable performance by Kenya's Ruth Chepngetich, who set a new women's marathon world record with a time of 2:11:24. This achievement sparked discussions about the rapid advancements in women's long-distance running and the influence of technology in the sport.

In the Boston Marathon, Ethiopia's Amane Beriso delivered a dominant performance, winning in 2:18:01. On the men's side, Kenya's Evans Chebet defended his title, highlighting Boston's reputation for tactical racing over sheer speed.

London Marathon saw Ethiopia's Tamirat Tola take the men's crown, besting the field with a strong tactical race. Eliud Kipchoge, despite high expectations, did not claim victory, signaling the growing competitiveness at the top of men’s marathoning. On the women's side, Kenya's Peres Jepchirchir triumphed, adding another major victory to her impressive resume.

The Berlin Marathon in 2024 showcased yet another extraordinary performance on its fast course, though it was Kelvin Kiptum’s world record from the 2023 Chicago Marathon (2:00:35) that remained untouched. In 2024, Berlin hosted strong fields but no records, leaving Kiptum’s achievement as the defining benchmark for men’s marathoning.

The Chicago Marathon was the highlight of the year, where Kenya's Ruth Chepngetich made history by becoming the first woman to run a marathon in under 2:10. She shattered the previous world record by nearly two minutes, finishing in 2:09:56. This groundbreaking achievement redefined the possibilities in women's distance running and underscored the remarkable progress in 2024. 

The New York City Marathon showcased the depth of talent in American distance running, with emerging athletes achieving podium finishes and signaling a resurgence on the global stage.

Each marathon in 2024 was marked by extraordinary performances, with athletes pushing the boundaries of human endurance and setting new benchmarks in the sport.

Olympic Preparations: Paris 2024 Looms Large

With the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris just around the corner, many athletes used the year to fine-tune their preparations. Qualifying events across the globe witnessed fierce competition as runners vied for spots on their national teams.

Countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Japan, and the United States showcased their depth, with surprising performances by athletes who emerged as dark horses. Japan’s marathon team, bolstered by its rigorous national selection process, entered the Olympic year as a force to be reckoned with, particularly in the men's race.

Ultramarathons: The Rise of the 100-Mile Phenomenon

The ultramarathon scene continued to grow in popularity, with races like the Western States 100, UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc), and Leadville 100 drawing record participation and attention.

Courtney Dauwalter, already a legend in the sport, extended her dominance with wins at both UTMB and the Western States 100, solidifying her reputation as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in ultrarunning.

On the men’s side, Spain’s Kilian Jornet returned to form after an injury-plagued 2023, capturing his fifth UTMB title. His performance was a masterclass in pacing and strategy, showcasing why he remains a fan favorite.

Notably, ultramarathons saw increased participation from younger runners and athletes transitioning from shorter distances. This shift signaled a growing interest in endurance challenges beyond the marathon.

Track and Road Records: Pushing the Limits

The year 2024 witnessed groundbreaking performances on both track and road, with athletes shattering previous records and setting new benchmarks in distance running.

Beatrice Chebet's Dominance: Kenya's Beatrice Chebet had an exceptional year, marked by multiple world records and championship titles.

10,000m World Record: In May, at the Prefontaine Classic, Chebet broke the women's 10,000m world record, becoming the first woman to run the distance in under 29 minutes, finishing in 28:54.14. 

Olympic Triumphs: At the Paris Olympics, Chebet secured gold in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events, showcasing her versatility and dominance across distances. 

5km World Record: Capping off her stellar year, on December 31, 2024, Chebet set a new women's 5km world record at the Cursa dels Nassos race in Barcelona, finishing in 13:54. This achievement made her the first woman to complete the 5km distance in under 14 minutes, breaking her previous record by 19 seconds. 

Faith Kipyegon's Excellence: Kenya's Faith Kipyegon continued her dominance in middle-distance running by breaking the world records in the 1500m and mile events, further cementing her legacy as one of the greatest athletes in history.

Joshua Cheptegei's 10,000m World Record: Uganda's Joshua Cheptegei reclaimed the men's 10,000m world record with a blistering time of 26:09.32, a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Half Marathon Records: The half marathon saw an explosion of fast times, with Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelchabreaking the men's world record, running 57:29 in Valencia. The women's record also fell, with Kenya’s Letesenbet Gidey clocking 1:02:35 in Copenhagen.

These achievements highlight the relentless pursuit of excellence by distance runners worldwide, continually pushing the boundaries of human performance.

The Role of Technology and Science

The impact of technology and sports science on distance running cannot be overstated in 2024. Advances in carbon-plated shoes, fueling strategies, and recovery protocols have continued to push the boundaries of human performance.

The debate over the fairness of super shoes reached new heights, with critics arguing that they provide an unfair advantage. However, proponents emphasized that such innovations are part of the natural evolution of sports equipment.

Data analytics and personalized training plans became the norm for elite runners. Wearable technology, including advanced GPS watches and heart rate monitors, allowed athletes and coaches to fine-tune training like never before.

Grassroots Running and Mass Participation

While elite performances stole the headlines, 2024 was also a banner year for grassroots running and mass participation events. After years of pandemic disruptions, global races saw record numbers of recreational runners.

Events like the Great North Run in the UK and the Marine Corps Marathon in the U.S. celebrated inclusivity, with participants from diverse backgrounds and abilities.

The popularity of running as a mental health outlet and community-building activity grew. Initiatives like parkrunand local running clubs played a pivotal role in introducing more people to the sport.

Diversity and Representation

Diversity and representation became central themes in distance running in 2024. Efforts to make the sport more inclusive saw tangible results:

More women and runners from underrepresented communities participated in major events. Notably, the Abbott World Marathon Majors launched a program to support female marathoners from emerging nations.

Trail and ultrarunning communities embraced initiatives to make races more accessible to runners from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite the many successes, 2024 was not without its challenges:

Doping Scandals: A few high-profile doping cases marred the sport, reigniting calls for stricter testing protocols and greater transparency.

Climate Change: Extreme weather conditions impacted several races, including the Boston Marathon, which experienced unusually warm temperatures. Organizers are increasingly focusing on sustainability and adapting to climate-related challenges.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As the year closes, the focus shifts to 2025, which promises to build on the momentum of 2024. Key storylines include:

The quest for a sub-2-hour marathon in a record-eligible race, with Kelvin Kiptum and Eliud Kipchoge at the forefront.

The continued growth of ultrarunning, with new records likely to fall as more athletes take up the challenge.

The evolution of distance running as a global sport, with greater inclusivity and innovation shaping its future.

Conclusion

The distance running scene in 2024 was a celebration of human potential, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of greatness. From record-breaking marathons to grueling ultramarathons, the year reminded us of the universal appeal of running. As the sport evolves, it continues to inspire millions worldwide, proving that the spirit of running transcends borders, ages, and abilities.

Beatrice Chebet Shatters 5K Road World Record in Barcelona

In a historic display of endurance and speed, Kenyan star Beatrice Chebet broke the women’s 5K road world record today at the Cursa dels Nassos in Barcelona, becoming the first woman in history to complete the distance in under 14 minutes. Chebet blazed across the finish line in a remarkable 13 minutes and 54 seconds, smashing her previous record of 14:13, which she set at the same event last year.  This is 4:28 per mile. 

A Year of Dominance

Chebet’s new world record caps off an extraordinary year for the 23-year-old, who dominated the long-distance running scene in 2024. Earlier this year, she achieved a rare double gold at the Paris Olympics, winning the 5,000m and 10,000m events. Her ability to excel on both the track and road has made her one of the most versatile and celebrated athletes of her generation.

In today’s race, Chebet showcased her tactical brilliance and unparalleled speed, pulling away from the competition early and maintaining a relentless pace throughout. Her achievement further cements her legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Young Talent on the Rise

Behind Chebet, Ethiopia’s Medina Eisa Kumanda delivered a stellar performance, finishing second in 14:23, a time that set a new world under-20 record. Uganda’s Belinda Chemutai rounded out the podium in 14:36, underscoring the depth of talent in women’s long-distance running.

Chebet’s record-breaking run comes as a fitting end to a year that saw her named World Athletics’ Female Athlete of the Year, a recognition of her consistent excellence across multiple platforms.

A Star with a Bright Future

Born in Kericho County, Kenya, Beatrice Chebet has steadily risen through the ranks since her early days as a promising junior athlete. She first gained international attention in 2018 when she won the World U20 Cross Country Championships. From there, she transitioned seamlessly to senior competition, with her Olympic triumphs and multiple Diamond League victories solidifying her place at the pinnacle of the sport.

Off the track, Chebet is known for her humility and dedication to her training. She often credits her success to the support of her family.  She trains in Londiani, Kericho County. She is nicknamed the "smiling assassin". 

A Record to Inspire

Chebet’s achievement in Barcelona is not just a personal milestone; it’s an inspiration to young athletes worldwide. By breaking the 14-minute barrier, she has redefined what is possible in women’s distance running, paving the way for future generations to dream bigger and aim higher.

As the athletics world celebrates this historic moment, all eyes will now turn to 2025, where Chebet will undoubtedly aim to build on her incredible legacy.

'I was thinking about him' - How Eliud Kipchoge fueled Tamirat Tola to Olympic title following late Ethiopian marathon team inclusion

Tamirat Tola on how constantly thinking about Eliud Kipchoge's threat helped him clinch the 2024 Olympic marathon title in Paris following his late inclusion into the Ethiopian team for the games.

Olympic marathon champion Tamirat Tola admits marathoner Eliud Kipchoge was his biggest headache heading into the Paris Olympics and was thinking about him following his late inclusion to the Ethiopian team.

The 2022 world marathon champion had just two weeks to prepare for the Olympics after his late inclusion, thanks to the injury sustained by compatriot Sisay Lema.

Tola, 33, said while he considered other marathoners as worthy opponents, it was Kipchoge he feared the most if his past achievements were anything to go by.

"When I got to Paris, I was thinking about how I could challenge (Eliud) Kipchoge and other athletes. I knew the main contenders. There were lots of talented athletes. But I reminded myself that I had worked hard. And when I got in front in the final kilometres, I knew I could win,” Tola told World Athletics.

Kipchoge is the 2016 and 2020 Olympic marathon champion, and was the world record holder in the marathon from 2018 to 2023, until that record was broken by Kelvin Kiptum at the 2023 Chicago Marathon.

Despite being a late entrant into the Ethiopian team, Tola said he was mentally prepared for the rigorous exercise having trained with his team mates for three months.

“For three months together with Kenenisa Bekele, Sisay Lemma, Deresa Geleta and I prepared for the national team. At that time my coach said, ‘prepare with them, and if you are not needed for Paris then go to do the New York City marathon’. When I heard the news that I was on the team, I was really excited for the following two weeks," Tola observed.

Tola who is the 2023 New York City marathon champion presumed that he had the blessings of Lemma and this too, gave him confidence to put his best foot forward. "For Sisay, it wasn’t an easy decision because it was for our country. We discussed it with him and he said, ‘It won’t be easy for me to run injured in Paris, so you go."

Osaka International Women's Marathon Elite Fields announced

The elite field for the Jan. 26 Osaka International Women's Marathon is out, and it's a really short list, especially given Osaka International's World Athletics platinum label status. There's last year's winner Workenesh Edesa, 3rd-placer Mizuki Matsuda, 7th-placer Natsumi Matsushita, 9th-placer Madoka Nakano and 12th-placer Kana Kobayashi, top Japanese Paris Olympic marathon placer Yuka Suzuki, veteran Kenyan-born Israeli Lonah Chemtai Salpeter, the debuting Nanaka Izawa, and that's about it.

Workenesh outran Honami Maeda last year, both going under 2:19 and Workenesh getting the win in 2:18:51. She has to be viewed as the favorite. Salpeter has run as fast as 2:17:45 before, but she hasn't run under 2:25 in the marathon or under 1:10 in the half marathon since 2022, so there's not much reason to think she's going to be competitive in a faster race here. Matsuda and Suzuki both ran PBs in their last marathons, Matsuda a 2:20:42 in Berlin this fall and Suzuki a 2:24:02 while finishing 6th in the Paris Olympics. Kobayashi and Izawa are interesting, Kobayashi having run 2:29:44 last year as a non-track team student at Waseda University and then winning Hofu at the beginning of December in a 2:24:59 CR, and Izawa fresh off a great 1:08:25 PB at the Sanyo Ladies Half Marathon this month.

The Osaka Half Marathon is also happening in parallel with the marathon, and the fields there are decently competitive as always. Yuka Ando won the women's race in Osaka last year in a 1:08:18 PB and is back this time, facing sub-70 runner Sakiho Tsutsui, Mongolian NR holder Khishigsaikhan Galbadrakh and more. 1:00:41 Ethiopian Gebrie Erikhun leads a domestic men's field that includes Japan-based Patrick Mathenge Wambui and a million 61-minute Japanese men.

44th Osaka International Women's Marathon

Elite Field Highlights

Lonah Chemtai Salpeter (Israel) - 2:18:45 (Nagoya 2022)

Workenesh Edesa (Ethiopia) - 2:18:51 (Osaka Women's 2024)

Mizuki Matsuda (Daihatsu) - 2:20:42 (Berlin 2024)

Natsumi Matsushita (Tenmaya) - 2:23:05 (Osaka Women's 2022)

Yuka Suzuki (Daiichi Seimei) - 2:24:02 (Paris Olympics 2024)

Kana Kobayashi (Otsuka Seiyaku) - 2:24:59 (Hofu 2024)

Yumi Yoshikawa (Chiba T&F Assoc.) - 2:25:20 (Osaka Women's 2023)

Chiharu Suzuki (Hitachi) - 2:25:59 (Osaka Women's 2023)

Madoka Nakano (Iwatani Sangyo) - 2:26:50 (Osaka Women's 2024)

Mao Kiyota (Suzuki) - 2:29:20 (Nagoya 2023)

Ayano Ikeuchi (Denso) - 2:32:26 (Seoul 2024)

Ayano Ikemitsu (Kagoshima Ginko) - 2:33:29 (Nagoya 2023)

Debut

Nanaka Izawa (Starts) - 1:08:25 (Sanyo Half 2024)

Rio Einaga (Osaka Gakuin Univ.) - 1:11:03 (National University Half 2023)

Kurumi Yoda (Osaka Gakuin Univ.) - 1:12:46 (Kansai University Half 2024)

Nanako Miwa (Kansai Gaikokugo Univ.) - 1:14:37 (Kansai University Half 2023)

Ruth Chepngetich leads the female participation in the San Silvestre Vallecana

The Nationale-Nederlanden San Silvestre Vallecana is once again dreaming of breaking records. Like the historic 2018, the end-of-year classic features a superlative squad, with great athletes who arrive in Vallecas with ambition and in excellent physical condition, the perfect mix that can lead athletics fans to experience a day for the history books on December 31.

In 2018, Kenyan Brigid Kosgei became the first athlete to break the 30-minute barrier at the Vallecana. Since then, the mark obtained remains unchanged as the top of the Nationale-Nederlanden San Silvestre Vallecana. But this year, an old acquaintance of the race, Kenyan Ruth Chepngetich, has decided to put the finishing touch to a 2024 to remember, and leave a mark of her quality on the streets of Madrid.

At the Chicago Marathon, Ruth Chepngetich lowered the world marathon record by almost 2 minutes (2:09:56), in a feat that left the athletics world speechless. After this heroic feat, Chepngetich arrives as the great female star of this Nationale-Nederlanden San Silvestre Vallecana, with the desire to achieve the victory that eluded her in her previous presence in the event (in 2020, when she was defeated by Yalemzerf Yehualaw) and challenge Kosgei's record.

In addition to her stratospheric marathon record, Chepngetich has a golden record with a world marathon title, and a triple of victories in the emblematic Chicago Marathon, as well as a best time in 10 kilometers on the road of 30:29, which she hopes to blow up in the Vallecana.

Alongside her, Ethiopian Adawork Aberta, from the always competitive NN Running Team, will seek to follow in the footsteps of other compatriots and team members who have triumphed in Vallecana, such as Yalemzerf Yehualaw herself. The 28-year-old athlete's best result was a seventh place in the Seville Marathon with 2:23:39 and has a personal best in 10K of 32:27. Meanwhile, the Mexican of Kenyan origin, Risper Besabwa, sixth in the 2023 Pan American Games in the marathon, will seek her personal best in 10K, which she has with 31:43, achieved in New Orleans (United States).

World out-of-stadium athlete of the year Tamirat Tola’s 2024 – in numbers

Tamirat Tola earned Ethiopia’s only gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics with an extraordinary performance in the men’s marathon.

On a uniquely testing course, and in gruelling conditions, he won gold in an Olympic record of 2:06:26 – a performance that was all the more remarkable for the fact that he had only been called into the team with two weeks’ notice as a replacement for his injured compatriot Sisay Lemma.

The 33-year-old, who earned Olympic bronze over 10,000m in 2016, thus added a second global marathon title to his collection after his victory at the 2022 World Athletics Championships.

Tola’s 2024 in numbers

With the hills, and the heat, it was tough enough to run on the Paris marathon course. But you set an Olympic record of 2:06:26. How did you manage this feat?

“It was a very difficult course in Paris. But the only thought in my mind was that I could not lose. Our country had won no gold medals on the track, and the marathon races were the last chance for us, so I needed to make the most of my talent.”

Many athletes found the steep hills and long descents of the Paris course the toughest they had faced, particularly around the 28km mark. Where did it hurt most for you?

“It was hardest from 27 to 30 kilometres, with the steep hill and the long drop. I wasn’t thinking about the time, but when I finished I had the Olympic record, which was another reason to be proud.

“My coach had told me that this was a very difficult course, so when I arrived in Paris I thought about how I could run my best on this course. I used this challenge as motivation, and thankfully I overcame it.

“In athletics, challenges are part of the sport. And we always have to do the best for our country.”

This was your second global marathon title following your success at the 2022 World Championships. How did the two victories compare?

“In 2022 it was not easy, all the champions were also there. In the past I had been concentrating on the 10,000m, which led to the Olympic bronze medal in 2016. After that I won the marathon silver at the 2017 World Championships in London.

“I improved my talent in 2022 to win the gold medal. I was happy at that time because after a long injury I was able to win for my country.

“In 2023 I lost that title because of a problem with my stomach. But that made it all the more amazing to fulfil my goals at the Olympics in Paris.”

You had just two weeks to prepare after being told you were running in the Olympic marathon following the withdrawal of Sisay Lemma, after which you stepped up as the third Ethiopian entrant alongside Deresa Geleta and Kenenisa Bekele. How did you manage this challenge?

“For three months together with Kenenisa, Lemma, Deresa and I prepared for the national team. At that time my coach said, ‘prepare with them, and if you are not needed for Paris then go to do the New York City marathon’.

“When I heard the news that I was on the team, I was really excited for the following two weeks. But for Sisay, it wasn’t an easy decision because it was for our country. We discussed it with him and he said, ‘It won’t be easy for me to run injured in Paris, so you go’.

“When I got to Paris, I was thinking about how I could challenge (Eliud) Kipchoge and other athletes. I knew the main contenders. There were lots of talented athletes.

“But I reminded myself that I had worked hard. And when I got in front in the final kilometres, I knew I could win.”

In Paris you became the fourth Ethiopian to win the Olympic marathon title after Abebe Bikila in 1960 and 1964, Mamo Wolde in 1968 and Gezahegne Abera in 2000. How proud are you to have done this, and what inspiration did you take from your victorious compatriots?

“I did not expect to win because I knew there were runners there like Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time winner. But once I got ahead, I knew I could do it.

“For a long time after Gezahegne, for 24 years, we were without an Ethiopian win in the men’s marathon at the Olympics. I was happy to attain this goal in a Games record and to join the other Olympic champions.

“It was Ethiopia’s only gold medal in Paris – I was able to provide happiness for our country.”

Beatrice Chebet will aim to break the 5K world record again at the Cursa dels Nassos

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

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

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

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

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

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

'When I race, I talk to myself' - Sifan Hassan reveals racing antics that have made her a distinguished racing machine

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.

Jack Rowe runs speedy 28:02 to win 10km in Telford

The British distance runner is now joint-fifth on the UK 10km all-time list after his run in the Shropshire town

Jack Rowe got the better of Phil Sesemann at the Telford 10km, shaving five seconds off his personal best with a time of 28:02 (December 14).

The Aldershot, Farnham & District athlete’s previous quickest mark was the 28:07 he clocked in Manchester three years ago.

Not only was Rowe’s 28:02 the fastest time by a Brit over 10km this season but it also put him joint-fifth on the UK all-time list over the distance.

This was Rowe’s fourth major win of the autumn road season after victories at the Big Half, Vitality London 10,000 and Manchester Half Marathon.

It’s been quite the season for Rowe, who’s recorded personal bests in the 1500m, 3000m, 5000m and 10,000m.

Sesemann meanwhile clocked 28:08 for second in Telford, just short of his 10km best of 28:26, set at the Corrida Pédestre Internationale de Houilles meet in France five years ago.

Kadar Omar was third in 28:34 with his Birchfield Harriers team-mate fourth Aron Gebremariam in 28:58.

It was Gebremariam’s first ever 10km and the English national cross-country junior champion performed well.

It was a much closer affair in the women’s field, with Amelia Quirk edging out Sarah Astin by just three seconds.

Quirk, who won the English national cross-country crown in 2020 and is a regular on British distance teams, clocked 32:40.

The Bracknell AC athlete races sparingly on the roads and this was only her second outing over 10km, with Quirk’s previous best mark being 31:53 from Valencia last year.

Natasha Phillips ran 32:56 for third place, a mark that put her top of the British under-20 rankings this season and fourth on the all-time junior list, after being pushed by Bournemouth based Ethiopian Atsede Gidey.

Teenager Holly Weedall also set a personal best of 33:21, improving on the 33:58 she clocked in Telford last year.

Olympic triathlon champ to make 42.2 debut at 2025 London Marathon

On Monday, the organizers of the TCS London Marathon announced there will be a new face headlining the 2025 race. Great Britain’s Alex Yee, the reigning Olympic triathlon champion from Paris 2024, will make his marathon debut on Sunday, April 27, in his hometown of London.

The 26-year-old, who has won four Olympic medals in triathlon, has a ton of experience in distance running, representing Great Britain in track and cross-country events internationally. He has a 5K personal best of 13 minutes and 26 seconds and has run under 28 minutes for 10,000 meters.

In triathlon, Yee is often regarded as the strongest runner in the sport. The reputation played in his favor earlier this summer in Paris when he caught New Zealand’s Hayden Wilde on the final lap of the Olympic triathlon to win gold. The strong field Yee will face at the 2025 TCS London Marathon will make it one of his biggest challenges to date. However, Yee will look to his home course advantage.

According to the press release, Yee raced the 2.6km Mini London Marathon five times during his junior career and grew up 15 minutes from the start line in Blackheath. “London Marathon day has been such a big part of my life growing up,” recalls Yee. “I remember racing the Mini London Marathon multiple times as a young athlete, and it was one of my biggest and most exciting races of the year. Taking part in a full marathon has always been an itch I’ve wanted to scratch, and there isn’t any other place than London where I would want to start that journey.”

For his London build-up, Yee plans to put his triathlon training on pause to focus solely on marathon training. “I will be focusing my training over the coming months on the marathon and am looking forward to seeing what I can do over the 26.2 miles,” he said.

Last year, Kenya’s Alexander Munyao won his first Abbott World Marathon Major in London, denying Ethiopian distance legend Kenenisa Bekele a hoped-for first London Marathon win with a time of 2:04:01. Bekele did, however, set a new masters marathon record with his time of 2:04:15. The top British finisher was Emile Cairess, who ran 2:06:46 finish third, making him the second-fastest British marathon runner of all time behind Mo Farah.

Yee is the first runner announced for the 2025 London Marathon elite field. The full elite field will be announced in the new year.

Kipkorir, Jemal win this year’s Taipei Marathon

Brimin Kipkorir of Kenya and Amid Fozya Jemal of Ethiopia won the men’s and the women’s categories, respectively, in the annual Taipei Marathon yesterday, which drew about 28,000 participants.

Kipkorir finished the 42.2km run in 2 hours, 11 minutes and 41 seconds, which was about 2.5 minutes off the event’s record of 2:09:18 set by his countryman Paul Lonyongata in 2020.

Meanwhile, Jemal — who also won the New Taipei Wan Jin Shi Marathon in March — finished with a first-place time of 2:32:47, about seven minutes behind the race’s women’s record of 2:25:55.

For winning the race, Kipkorir and Jemal will each receive a first-place prize of US$67,500, organizers said.

The fastest Taiwanese runner in the men’s category was Chou Ting-yin, who set a personal best time of 2:21:17.

In a post-race interview, Chou said he had fared poorly in the Chicago Marathon in October despite entering the race in peak condition.

After returning to Taiwan, he had struggled with training, only to surprise himself yesterday by setting a personal record, he said.

In the women’s category, Hsieh Chien-ho finished first among domestic competitors with a time of 2:51:12.

The Taipei Marathon was established in 1986, and, following a multiyear hiatus due to the construction of the Taipei Metro, has been held annually since 2001.

The marathon begins at Taipei City Hall and follows Renai Road west toward the Presidential Office and Ximen. It then continues up Zhongshan N Road and crosses the Keelung River, which it follows east to Nangang Exhibition Center, before looping back and ending at Taipei Municipal Stadium.

The marathon is one of two World Athletics Gold Label Road Races in Taiwan. The other is the New Taipei Wan Jin Shi Marathon.

Kebede retains 25km crown in Kolkata, Kissa beats Ebenyo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melak and Moseti win Bangsaen 21 Half Marathon

Ethiopia’s Nibret Melak and Kenya’s Winfridah Moraa Moseti were victorious at the Bangsaen21 Half Marathon, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, in Chon Buri in Thailand on Sunday (15).

Racing in humid conditions, Melak outkicked Alexander Mutiso Munyao and Geoffrey Toroitich in the closing stages to win in 1:02:32, while Moseti made her break earlier in the race to triumph in 1:10:01.

In the men’s race, eight athletes remained together as 10km was reached in 30:41, with Melak – who finished seventh in the half marathon at the World Road Running Championships last year – running towards the back of the pack. The pace picked up and the lead group was down to four by 15km, with Melak, Munyao and Toroitich joined by Leul Gebresilase as they passed that point in 45:07.

Toroitich, Melak and Munyao then made a break, with Toroitich leading the attack. The trio ran side-by-side with the finish line in sight, before Melak kicked again and created a clear gap to win by two seconds.

Kenya’s Munyao was second in 1:02:34, while his compatriot Toroitich was third in 1:02:36 and Ethiopia’s Gebresilase finished another three seconds back.

Hamburg Marathon runner-up Moseti was always among the leaders in the women’s race and was part of the group that reached 10km in 34:36, led by Kenya’s Gladys Chepkurui.Chepkurui and Moseti had Uganda’s Rebecca Chelangat and Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru for company at the 15km mark, reached in 50:44, but Chepkurui couldn’t maintain the pace as Moseti, Chelangat and Wanjiru made a break.

Moseti was clearly waiting for her moment to strike and she made a winning move, creating a gap on her rivals that would grow to 33 seconds by the finish line. She won in 1:10:01 ahead of Chelangat in 1:10:34, Wanjiru in 1:10:53 and Chepkurui in 1:11:11.

Tigist Assefa tipped for victory at Sunday’s Bangsaen21

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.