Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
4/12/2025
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
Boston Marathon Eliminates Qualifying Times for 2027-2028
If you’ve ever dreamed of running the Boston Marathon but felt shut out by strict qualifying standards, there’s exciting news on the horizon. In a sweeping and historic change, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) announced Tuesday morning that qualifying times will be eliminated for the 2027 and 2028 races—ushering in a new era of inclusivity for one of the world’s most iconic marathons.
For decades, qualifying times have been the cornerstone of the Boston Marathon. Introduced in 1970 to manage growing participation and maintain a high level of competition, these benchmarks have pushed runners to achieve excellence. Yet while they have inspired elite performances, they have also left countless passionate runners on the outside looking in.
The decision to remove qualifying times comes on the heels of a record-breaking applicant pool for the 2025 race. In a candid statement, B.A.A. officials explained that the change is driven not only by a commitment to making the event accessible to a broader audience but also by the undeniable demand from the running community. By opening the race to a wider field, the organization aims to celebrate the diverse spirit of marathon running and redefine what it means to be part of this legendary event.
Under the current system, prospective runners must meet stringent time standards based on their age group. For instance, the current qualifying benchmarks for the upcoming race season are as follows:
Men
• Ages 18–34: 2 hours 55 minutes
• Ages 35–39: 3 hours 00 minutes
• Ages 40–44: 3 hours 05 minutes
• Ages 45–49: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Ages 50–54: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Ages 55–59: 3 hours 35 minutes
• Ages 60–64: 3 hours 50 minutes
• Ages 65–69: 4 hours 05 minutes
• Ages 70–74: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Ages 75–79: 4 hours 35 minutes
• Ages 80 and over: 4 hours 50 minutes
Women
• Ages 18–34: 3 hours 25 minutes
• Ages 35–39: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Ages 40–44: 3 hours 35 minutes
• Ages 45–49: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Ages 50–54: 3 hours 50 minutes
• Ages 55–59: 4 hours 05 minutes
• Ages 60–64: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Ages 65–69: 4 hours 35 minutes
• Ages 70–74: 4 hours 50 minutes
• Ages 75–79: 5 hours 05 minutes
• Ages 80 and over: 5 hours 20 minutes
For many runners, these time cutoffs have represented nearly insurmountable hurdles, forcing them to either settle for smaller local races or abandon the dream entirely. With the new open-entry format, the Boston Marathon will no longer serve as an exclusive club for the fastest runners; instead, it will become a celebration of perseverance, community, and the sheer joy of running.
Critics have argued that removing qualifying times might dilute the race’s competitive legacy, while supporters contend that it will invigorate the event by welcoming a richer diversity of participants. The B.A.A. remains confident that this transformative change will not only boost participation but also cement the Boston Marathon’s status as a truly inclusive sporting event.
For runners who have long trained in vain to meet the rigid standards, this decision is a game changer—a symbolic moment that recognizes passion and perseverance over arbitrary numbers. As the running community braces for the upcoming races under this new model, one thing is clear: the Boston Marathon is set to redefine itself, embracing the idea that the spirit of competition can coexist with a commitment to accessibility.
Stay tuned to My Best Runs for further updates and in-depth coverage as we track the unfolding impact of this bold new chapter in marathon history.
(04/04/25) Views: 320Boris Baron
Beyond Heart Rate – Advanced Wearable Tech Analytics for Runners
For decades, runners have relied on heart rate monitors to guide training and gauge effort. Today, however, wearable technology delivers a wealth of data that can elevate your training to the next level. From stride dynamics and running power to detailed recovery insights, advanced wearables are revolutionizing how serious runners understand and improve performance.
The Evolution of Wearable Technology in Running
Early devices focused primarily on pace and heart rate. Now, innovations in sensor technology and data analytics allow for the tracking of:
• Heart Rate Variability (HRV): A measure of recovery and adaptability.
• Running Power: Quantifies the mechanical energy output independent of pace.
• Stride Dynamics: Details cadence, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation to assess efficiency.
• Additional Metrics: Such as skin temperature, sweat rate, and VO₂ max estimates.
This evolution means that runners are no longer limited to a single metric. Instead, integrating multiple data points creates a holistic picture of training, performance, and recovery.
Delving Into Advanced Metrics
Heart Rate Variability (HRV):
While heart rate tells you how fast your heart beats, HRV measures the variation between beats. Higher HRV typically indicates a well-recovered, resilient cardiovascular system. Tracking HRV over time provides insight into recovery status and helps tailor training to avoid overtraining.
Running Power:
A relatively new metric, running power measures the force you exert during your run. Its benefits include:
• Pacing Precision: Targeting a specific power output can lead to more consistent training sessions.
• Objective Performance Analysis: It helps assess the impact of fatigue, terrain, and form changes.
• Optimized Workouts: Training at designated power zones improves endurance, speed, and recovery.
Stride Dynamics and Running Form:
Advanced sensors in smart insoles or attached devices capture detailed gait information, including:
• Cadence: Steps per minute, an indicator of efficiency.
• Ground Contact Time: Shorter contact time generally reflects a more efficient stride.
• Vertical Oscillation: Less “bounce” means more energy is directed toward forward motion.
• Asymmetry Analysis: Identifying imbalances to reduce injury risk.
Integrating Data for Optimal Performance
The true strength of advanced wearables is their ability to integrate multiple metrics into actionable insights. Companion apps now not only record data but also provide personalized training recommendations based on your trends. For example:
• Training Recommendations: Apps suggest rest or targeted workouts based on HRV, pace, and power output.
• Performance Trends: Detailed analytics track improvements over time and pinpoint areas for optimization.
• Injury Prevention: Monitoring changes in stride dynamics and recovery can help detect early signs of fatigue or injury.
The Future of Running Analytics
As technology advances, wearables are becoming even more sophisticated. Integration with artificial intelligence and machine learning promises predictive insights, such as forecasting performance improvements or injury risks based on historical patterns. Increased data sharing within the running community may also lead to breakthroughs in personalized coaching and training strategies.
Some final thoughts
For serious runners looking to move beyond traditional metrics, advanced wearable tech analytics offer a new frontier of insights. By embracing a multi-dimensional approach to data, you can fine-tune training, optimize recovery, and ultimately run smarter. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or simply striving for greater efficiency, the future of running lies in the data—and it’s an exciting time to be part of this revolution.
Stay tuned to My Best Runs for more in-depth analysis, gear reviews, and expert advice to help you harness technology and take your running to new heights.
(04/05/25) Views: 285Boris Baron
Surprise Wins and Record Turnout at the Vienna City Marathon
The 42nd Vienna City Marathon delivered icy conditions, personal bests, and breakout victories for two rising stars: Haftamu Abadi of Ethiopia and Betty Chepkemoi of Kenya. Both marathoners were competing in only their second career marathon, and both crushed their previous bests in a race that saw record participation.
Abadi, just 21 years old, broke away late in the race to win in 2:08:28, improving by more than two minutes from his debut in Berlin last year. Kenya’s Mica Cheserek took second in 2:10:23, followed closely by Ethiopian debutant Mogos Tuemay in 2:10:33.
In the women’s race, Betty Chepkemoi made a massive leap forward, chopping over ten minutes off her personal best to win in 2:24:14. Fellow Kenyans Rebecca Tanui (2:25:18) and Catherine Cherotich (2:25:45) rounded out the podium, while Germany’s Fabienne Königstein placed fourth in 2:28:49, just weeks after her Nagoya Marathon performance.
Record-Breaking Participation
Despite near-freezing temperatures at the start — the coldest in race history since 1986 — the Vienna City Marathon attracted a record field of 46,083 participants from 146 nations, including 12,968 marathoners, the most ever for the event.
Challenging Conditions, Slower Pacing
The cold (just 2°C at the start, with a “feels like” of -5°C) prevented any record-breaking times. The men’s lead pack passed halfway in 63:32, staying within range of a 2:07–2:08 finish before Abadisurged away near 29K. Notably, Abadi ran in full cold-weather gear — gloves, ear protection, and a long-sleeved shirt — while the others opted for lighter kits.
“I had hoped to run 2:05–2:06, but that wasn’t possible today,” Abadi said. “I’m happy with the win and I know I can go faster in better conditions.”
The women’s race began cautiously, with a 5K split of 17:24 pointing toward a 2:27 finish. But the Kenyan trio pulled away before halfway and Chepkemoi made her move with 6K to go, running solo to the finish.
“I’m so happy,” she said. “It was cold, and there were no pacemakers after halfway, but I know I can go faster next time.”
5K City Race Shines on the Eve of the Marathon
Vienna’s growing 5K race, held the day before the marathon on the iconic Ringstraße, also saw standout performances. Timo Hinterndorfer battled strong winds to set a course record of 14:17, with Markus Reißelhuber (14:51) and Thys Moreau of Belgium (15:00) finishing second and third.
In the women’s 5K, Sophie Hicks of New Zealand topped a strong Austrian field in 16:20, followed by Cordula Lassacher (16:27) and defending champion Lena Millonig (16:35).
Top 8 Marathon Results
Men:
1. Haftamu Abadi (ETH) – 2:08:28
2. Mica Cheserek (KEN) – 2:10:23
3. Mogos Tuemay (ETH) – 2:10:33
4. Asbel Rutto (KEN) – 2:11:37
5. Edward Koonyo (KEN) – 2:12:29
6. Geoffrey Koech (KEN) – 2:12:31
7. Justus Kangogo (KEN) – 2:13:25
8. Felix Kurui (KEN) – 2:14:36
Women:
1. Betty Chepkemoi (KEN) – 2:24:14
2. Rebecca Tanui (KEN) – 2:25:18
3. Catherine Cherotich (KEN) – 2:25:45
4. Fabienne Königstein (GER) – 2:28:49
5. Faith Chepkoech (KEN) – 2:30:00
6. Nora Szabo (HUN) – 2:30:31
7. Risper Chebet (KEN) – 2:32:39
8. Eva Wutti (AUT) – 2:37:43
(04/06/25) Views: 260Race News Service
NN Marathon Rotterdam 2025: Elite Field, Course Details, and Event Highlights
The 44th edition of the NN Marathon Rotterdam is set for Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Renowned for its flat and fast course, the event attracts elite runners and enthusiasts aiming for personal bests.
Elite Field
As of April 6, 2025, the official list of elite participants has not been fully disclosed. However, notable athletes are expected to compete:
• Abdi Nageeye (Netherlands): The Dutch record holder and 2022 Rotterdam champion aims to reclaim his title and improve upon his personal best of 2:04:45, set in 2024.
• Bashir Abdi (Belgium): The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist and Rotterdam course record-holder (2:03:36) is anticipated to return, seeking to defend his record.
Course Overview
The NN Marathon Rotterdam is celebrated for its flat and fast course, making it one of the premier marathons globally. The race begins at the foot of the iconic Erasmus Bridge, leading runners through the city’s diverse neighborhoods and past notable landmarks such as Feijenoord Stadium and Ahoy. In the final kilometers, participants loop around the Kralingse Plas, passing Rotterdam icons like the Cube Houses and the Markthal, before finishing on the renowned Coolsingel.
Course Records
The current course records are:
• Men’s Record: 2:03:36, set by Bashir Abdi in 2021.
• Women’s Record: 2:18:58, set by Tiki Gelana in 2012.
Event Schedule
• Saturday, April 12, 2025:
• The Marathon Rotterdam Walk: Distances of 5K, 10K, and 15K.
• NN Kids Runs: 1K and 2.5K races for young runners.
• Sunday, April 13, 2025:
• NN Marathon Rotterdam: The main event featuring elite and amateur runners.
• The Last of Us 1/4 Marathon Rotterdam: A 10.55K race, newly titled through a partnership with the HBO series “The Last of Us.”
Recent Developments
• Sponsorships: Zalando has been announced as the official fashion and sports retailer, and Voltaren Emulgel joins as an official partner, offering muscle and joint care support.
• Registration: All 17,000 spots for the marathon distance sold out rapidly. Organizers aimed to expand to 30,000 participants but couldn’t achieve this for 2025. An official resale platform is available for secure transfer of entries.
Spectator Information
Due to anticipated road closures and increased traffic, spectators should plan their visit in advance. Details on optimal viewing spots and transportation are available on the official marathon website.
(04/06/25) Views: 247
Grand Slam Track League Aims to Revolutionize Track and Field
In an ambitious move to elevate professional track and field, sprinting legend Michael Johnson has launched the Grand Slam Track league. This innovative series promises athletes regular, high-stakes competitions against top-tier rivals, coupled with unprecedented financial incentives.
Unprecedented Financial Incentives
Grand Slam Track offers a substantial $12.6 million in prize money for its inaugural season. Athletes will compete in four major meets, with prize distributions as follows:
• 1st Place: $100,000
• 2nd Place: $50,000
• 3rd Place: $30,000
• 4th Place: $25,000
• 5th Place: $20,000
• 6th Place: $15,000
• 7th Place: $12,500
• 8th Place: $10,000
In contrast, the established Diamond League offers $10,000 for event winners and $1,000 for eighth place, highlighting Grand Slam Track’s commitment to elevating athlete compensation.
Season Schedule and Venues
The 2025 season features four high-profile meets:
1. Kingston, Jamaica – Independence Park: April 4–6
2. Miami, USA – Ansin Sports Complex: May 2–4
3. Philadelphia, USA – Franklin Field: May 30–June 1
4. Los Angeles, USA – Drake Stadium: June 27–29
These venues have been strategically selected to maximize global engagement and showcase the sport’s premier talents.
Elite Athlete Participation
The league has successfully attracted 48 elite athletes, known as “Grand Slam Racers,” who are contracted to compete in all four events. Notable participants include:
• Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone: Double Olympic champion in the 400m hurdles.
• Josh Kerr: 2023 world champion and 2024 Olympic silver medalist in the 1500m.
• Fred Kerley: World-renowned sprinter and Olympic medalist.
• Emmanuel Wanyonyi: Prominent middle-distance runner.
These athletes are poised to deliver thrilling head-to-head competitions, enhancing the sport’s appeal.
Visionary Leadership and Funding
Michael Johnson, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, spearheads the Grand Slam Track league. His vision is to create a platform that offers consistent, high-quality competitions and substantial financial rewards, addressing long-standing challenges in track and field.
The league has secured over $30 million in funding from private investments and strategic partnerships, including media rights deals with The CW Network and NBC Sports, ensuring extensive coverage and robust financial backing.
Broadcasting and Global Reach
Grand Slam Track has established broadcasting agreements with The CW Network and Peacock in the United States. Every event of each three-day meet will stream live on Peacock, with exclusive coverage of each Friday’s races, while The CW will air weekend coverage. NBC, whose parent company owns Peacock, will also air highlight specials.
The global broadcast team will be led by Steve Cram, Carrie Tollefson, and Anson Henry, with reporting from Radzi Chinyanganya and Taliyah Brooks. These collaborations aim to bring track and field to a broader audience, revitalizing interest in the sport.
With its innovative approach, substantial financial incentives, and commitment to showcasing elite talent, Grand Slam Track is set to redefine the landscape of professional track and field.
(04/04/25) Views: 188Boris Baron
Surviving the Sahara – Inside the Marathon des Sables, the World’s Toughest Footrace
Dubbed the toughest footrace on Earth, the Marathon des Sables (MdS) is a grueling multi-day ultramarathon that challenges participants to traverse approximately 250 kilometers across the unforgiving terrain of the Moroccan Sahara Desert. This annual event tests the limits of human endurance, self-sufficiency, and resilience.
A Brief History of a Brutal Race
The Marathon des Sables was conceived by Frenchman Patrick Bauer, who in 1984 embarked on a solo trek of 350 kilometers across the Sahara Desert. Inspired to share this transformative experience, Bauer organized the inaugural race in 1986 with just 23 participants. Since then, the MdS has grown exponentially, attracting over a thousand competitors annually from around the globe.
The Race Format – Six Days of Pain and Perseverance
The MdS spans six stages over seven days, covering diverse and challenging terrains:
• Stages 1–3: Medium-distance runs of 30–40 km each.
• Stage 4 (The Long Day): An arduous 80+ km stretch, often extending into the night.
• Stage 5: A standard marathon distance of 42.2 km.
• Stage 6: A non-competitive charity stage, approximately 10 km, fostering camaraderie among participants.
Competitors must be self-sufficient, carrying their own food, equipment, and personal belongings throughout the race. Water is rationed and provided at checkpoints, and communal Berber tents are set up at designated bivouac sites for overnight stays.
Training and Preparation – Building the Body and the Mind
Preparation for the MdS requires a comprehensive approach:
• Endurance Training: Incorporating high-mileage runs, often back-to-back, to simulate race conditions.
• Strength Conditioning: Focusing on core and lower-body strength to handle the added weight of the backpack.
• Heat Acclimatization: Training in heated environments or during peak temperatures to adapt to desert conditions.
• Mental Fortitude: Developing strategies to cope with isolation, fatigue, and the psychological demands of the race.
Many participants also engage in simulated self-sufficiency exercises, practicing with their race gear and nutrition plans to ensure efficiency and comfort during the event.
Gear and Packing Essentials – Living Out of a Backpack
Competitors are required to carry mandatory equipment, including:
• Sleeping bag
• Headlamp and spare batteries
• Compass and roadbook
• Emergency whistle and signaling mirror
• Minimum of 2,000 calories per day
• First-aid supplies, cooking equipment, and survival gear
Optional items often include gaiters to prevent sand ingress, specialized desert footwear, and comprehensive blister care kits. Balancing pack weight (typically between 6.5 to 15 kg) with essential supplies is crucial for performance and comfort.
The Daily Grind – Life in the Desert
Each day begins before dawn, with participants breaking camp and preparing for the day’s stage. The course presents a variety of challenges, from towering sand dunes to rocky jebels (mountains), under the relentless desert sun. Checkpoints provide rationed water and medical support, but the journey between them is a true test of endurance.
Evenings are spent at bivouac sites, where runners tend to injuries, share experiences, and rest under the starlit Sahara sky, fostering a unique sense of community and mutual support.
Famous Runners and Legendary Stories
The MdS has seen remarkable athletes:
• Rachid El Morabity: A Moroccan runner with multiple victories, renowned for his dominance in desert ultramarathons.
• Laurence Klein: A French athlete with several MdS wins, exemplifying endurance and resilience.
Inspirational tales abound, such as that of Mauro Prosperi, an Italian competitor who in 1994 survived nine days lost in the desert after a sandstorm veered him off course—drinking bat urine and eating lizards before eventually being rescued.
Why They Keep Coming Back
For many, one MdS is enough. For others, it becomes an annual pilgrimage. The appeal goes beyond running—it’s about testing your limits and discovering who you really are when stripped of all comfort.
The camaraderie, the solitude, the intensity, and the transformation draw people back. In a world filled with convenience, the MdS offers a rare crucible: a space where pain becomes purpose and exhaustion becomes transcendence.
(04/04/25) Views: 187Boris Baron
Why the Second Half of 2025 Could Be the Fastest Yet: Races, Records, and Rising Stars to Watch
The energy from the 2024 Paris Olympics hasn’t faded—if anything, it has fueled a fire that’s burning brighter than ever. As we move into the second half of 2025, the global running community is gearing up for one of the most exciting stretches in recent road racing history. From world record attempts to rising stars chasing breakthrough performances, the stage is set for something special.
The Fall Racing Boom
Major marathons like Berlin, Chicago, New York City, and Valencia are stacked with elite fields, deeper than we’ve seen in years. Berlin, known as the flattest and fastest, has quietly become a go-to course for record-chasers. Rumors are already swirling about a possible sub-2:00 marathon attempt under officially ratified conditions.
Valencia, with its blazing-fast course and near-perfect weather, is also primed for records—not just among elites but also among age-groupers and masters. If you’re looking to break your personal best, this fall might offer the best shot in years.
Rising Stars to Watch
Several names are emerging from training camps in Kenya and Ethiopia, and young runners from the U.S., Japan, and Europe are closing the gap quickly.
Cynthia Kiprotich (KEN), just 22 years old, finished 4th in Tokyo earlier this year and is targeting Chicago as her major breakthrough. Her stride and pacing discipline are reminiscent of a young Brigid Kosgei.
Eli Navarro (ESP) has quietly put together a string of 1:01 half marathons and recently clocked 27:45 for 10K on the roads. He’ll toe the line in Valencia with serious sub-2:05 intentions.
Katie Hensley (USA), a former NCAA standout, just won the Grandma’s Half in 1:08:30 and will debut in Berlin. Her aggressive style and fearless racing could make headlines.
Training to Peak This Fall
We spoke with Jimmy Muindi, 2:05 marathoner and head coach at KATA Portugal, about what it takes to time your peak for October or November.
“You’ve got to build strength now, not speed. July and August are about grinding, getting strong through hills and longer tempos,” Muindi advises. “In September, you sharpen. That’s how the Kenyans do it. We build the engine, then polish it.”
For those training through the heat of summer, Jimmy suggests early morning runs, easy doubles, and one hard workout per week to keep fitness progressing without overheating.
Age-Groupers on the Rise
It’s not just the elites aiming big this fall. Many age-group runners are setting ambitious goals, inspired by Olympic performances and the ever-growing community of masters athletes breaking new ground.
At My Best Runs, we’re tracking dozens of 40+, 50+, and 60+ runners targeting Berlin, Chicago, and Valencia as their “A” race. We’ve seen 55-year-olds run sub-3:00, 70-year-olds crack 3:30, and 77-year-olds (like myself) still pushing to go sub-53 for the 10K.
If you’re consistent, focused, and smart with your training, there’s no reason your next personal best can’t be set this year.
10 Fastest Fall Courses Left in 2025
1. Berlin Marathon (Germany)
2. Valencia Marathon (Spain)
3. Amsterdam Marathon (Netherlands)
4. Chicago Marathon (USA)
5. Frankfurt Marathon (Germany)
6. Lisbon Half Marathon (Portugal)
7. Toronto Waterfront Marathon (Canada)
8. Istanbul Half Marathon (Turkey)
9. New York City Marathon (USA) – challenging but iconic
10. Monterey Bay Half Marathon (USA) – for the scenery and cool temps
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing a world record or your own best time, the second half of 2025 offers a golden window. With smart training and the right race, you just might run faster than you ever thought possible.
(04/06/25) Views: 177Boris Baron
Kenyan Elites Eye Fast Times at Sunday’s Vienna City Marathon
The 42nd edition of the Vienna City Marathon, Austria’s premier road racing event and a World Athletics Elite Label race, is set to unfold this Sunday with over 45,000 participants—including a record 13,000 marathoners. A strong Kenyan contingent is expected to set a blistering pace as they aim for personal bests on the historic streets of Vienna.
Kenya’s Justus Kangogo (PB 2:05:57), Asbel Rutto (2:06:24), and Stanley Kurgat (2:07:05)headline a deep elite field. All three confirmed at Friday’s press conference that they’re not just here to win—they’re here to run fast.
“We have an interesting elite field that should provide a thrilling race,” said Johannes Langner, elite coordinator. “Our target for the lead group is a half marathon split between 62:30 and 62:45, with a second group about a minute behind.”
Though the forecast calls for dry but cold weather, with temperatures just above freezing at the 9 a.m. start, the elite field still has its sights set on the 2:05:08 course record.
Kangogo, who ran his PB in Berlin, said he’s eager to team up with Rutto: “I am a frontrunner as well, so we will work together. And once we finish, we will celebrate.”
Rutto made headlines with his course record victory in Rome last year, running solo to a 2:06:24 finish. “I am a frontrunner,” said the 23-year-old. “If you stay behind, you can’t win. On Sunday, I’m going for a personal best.”
Stanley Kurgat brings a strategic edge, having paced Vienna last year up to 32K. “Now I’ll go the full distance. I know this course, and even if it’s cold, it will still be a good race.”
Other strong contenders include Douglas Chebii (2:06:31), Charles Ndiema (2:08:12), and Benard Kimeli (2:08:34). Keep an eye on Bernard Muia, last year’s runner-up in Vienna, who comes in with a 2:09:17 PB from Munich. Meanwhile, Wisley Kibichii, a 59:57 half marathoner, will make his highly anticipated marathon debut.
Vienna City Marathon General Manager Dominik Konrad, son of longtime race director Wolfgang Konrad, emphasized the event’s growing impact: “We’re seeing another running boom. Entries came early and never stopped. This year’s marathon is not only a celebration of sport but also a huge boost to Vienna’s economy, with runners from 146 nations—a record.”
Top Men’s Elite Field – Personal Bests
• Justus Kangogo (KEN) – 2:05:57
• Asbel Rutto (KEN) – 2:06:24
• Douglas Chebii (KEN) – 2:06:31
• Stanley Kurgat (KEN) – 2:07:05
• Charles Ndiema (KEN) – 2:08:12
• Benard Kimeli (KEN) – 2:08:34
• Bernard Muia (KEN) – 2:09:17
• Mica Cheserek (KEN) – 2:09:26
• Kipsambu Kimakal (KEN) – 2:09:41
• Geoffrey Koech (KEN) – 2:10:12
• Haftamu Abadi (ETH) – 2:10:33
• Lemawork Ketema (AUT) – 2:10:44
• Gadisa Tajebe (ETH) – 2:11:02
• Edward Koonyo (KEN) – 2:11:24
• Evans Yego (KEN) – 2:12:56
• Henry Kichana (KEN) – 2:13:06
• Andreas Vojta (AUT) – 2:13:43
• Andrew Davies (GBR) – 2:14:23
• Daverso Ramos (PER) – 2:14:25
• Wisley Kibichii (KEN) – Debut
• Mogos Tuemay (ETH) – Debut
(04/04/25) Views: 159Race News Service
Grant Fisher Wins Grand Slam Track 5000m in Jamaica, Leading U.S. Sweep and Taking Home $100,000
The U.S. distance team dominated under the lights in Kingston, Jamaica April 4 as Grant Fisher captured the men’s 5000m title on opening night of the Grand Slam Track series, earning $100,000 and recording the biggest international outdoor win of his career.
Fisher surged to the front with 600 meters to go and never looked back, crossing the line in 13:00.25, a world-class season opener. He was followed by Cooper Teare, who finished second in 13:01.74, and Dylan Jacobs, who rounded out the American sweep with a time of 13:04.10.
“It felt good to get out and compete,” Fisher said post-race. “This series is something new, and it’s exciting to be part of something that brings big-time racing to new places. Jamaica was loud, fast, and fun.”
This was the debut event of the Grand Slam Track series, designed to bring elite track and field to new global venues with big prize money and a fan-first atmosphere. The Kingston crowd delivered with high energy, and the athletes responded with one of the fastest early-season 5000m races ever run on Jamaican soil.
Fisher, a two-time Olympian and former Stanford standout, walked away not just with a win, but with one of the largest single-race payouts in track distance running history—$100,000 for first place. The prize money is part of Grand Slam Track’s mission to elevate the sport and reward top-tier performances.
The U.S. sweep sends a powerful message heading into the heart of the 2025 season. With the next Grand Slam Track meet on the horizon, Fisher and his teammates have momentum—and the world is watching.
(04/05/25) Views: 153Boris Baron
Why Strides Still Matter: The Overlooked Secret to Race Day Speed
When it comes to serious training, most runners focus on mileage, tempo runs, intervals, and long runs. But one of the most effective tools for sharpening speed, improving form, and building race-day confidence takes just a few minutes and requires no extra gear or recovery: strides.
Too often overlooked or treated as an afterthought, strides are short accelerations—usually about 20 to 30 seconds—that are done at roughly 85–95% of maximum effort. They’re not sprints, but smooth, fast, controlled efforts designed to reinforce good mechanics and quick leg turnover.
What Makes Strides So Effective?
Strides activate fast-twitch muscle fibers, promote proper running form, and increase neuromuscular coordination. In short: they help your body remember how to run fast efficiently. For long-distance runners, this is especially important because most of your training is done at slower paces. Without strides, your body might forget how to shift gears.
Elite runners know this. You’ll rarely find a top athlete who doesn’t include strides several times per week. They may not log them in the training log as a “hard workout,” but they’re part of the secret sauce.
When and How to Do Strides
• After Easy Runs: Add 4–6 x 20–30 second strides at the end of an easy run, with full recovery (walk or jog) between.
• Before Workouts: A few strides can help prep your body and mind for faster work ahead.
• Before Races: Strides are a must before toeing the line. They help get your legs feeling sharp and ready to roll.
• Race Week: When tapering, strides are a great way to maintain speed without adding fatigue.
Tips for Making Strides Work for You
1. Focus on Form. Stay relaxed, upright, and quick off the ground.
2. Build, Don’t Blast. Ease into the stride, accelerating smoothly to 90% effort, then decelerate gradually.
3. Keep it Short. 80–100 meters or about 20–30 seconds is perfect.
4. Stay Consistent. Even twice a week can make a difference.
Real-World Example: KATA Portugal
At the KATA Portugal Retreat, Kenyan coach Jimmy Muindi builds strides into every runner’s week, whether they’re training for a 5K or a marathon. “You don’t need to hammer every session to get faster,” he says. “You just need to teach your body how to move fast with rhythm and flow.”
Coach Dennis adds, “Strides keep your engine ready. Especially as you taper or come off base training, they reintroduce speed without stress.”
Final Thought
Strides are simple, quick, and deceptively powerful. If you’re serious about running your best, whether you’re chasing a new 5K PR or lining up for Boston, don’t skip the strides. They might just be the missing link to your next breakthrough.
(04/10/25) Views: 117Bob Anderson
