Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
10/24/2026
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
Hellen Obiri Returns To New York With History In Her Sights As Star-Studded Field Targets Marathon Glory
Kenyan marathon star Hellen Obiri is set to return to the streets of New York City on November 1, 2026, determined to defend her title at the TCS New York City Marathon and strengthen her place among the greatest women ever to grace the 26.2-mile distance.
The two-time Olympic bronze medallist produced a remarkable performance in 2025, winning in 2:19:51 and breaking the women's course record that had stood for 22 years. Her victory underlined her exceptional ability to combine speed, strength and tactical intelligence on one of the world's most demanding marathon courses.
Now, Obiri returns to a city where she has already established herself as a formidable force, carrying the pressure that comes with being the defending champion and the opportunity to achieve another historic milestone.
A third New York City Marathon victory would place the Kenyan among an elite group of women who have won the prestigious race three times, alongside legendary champions Grete Waitz, Mary Keitany and Paula Radcliffe. Such an achievement would further enhance a career that has already brought her Olympic medals, world titles and major marathon victories.
However, another triumph will not come easily. The women's field features several accomplished international athletes, each bringing a different set of strengths and ambitions to the race.
Fellow Kenyan Sheila Chepkirui will be among the leading challengers. The 2024 New York City Marathon champion returns with a personal best of 2:17:29, giving her the credentials to mount a serious challenge. Having already demonstrated that she can master the city's demanding course, Chepkirui will be eager to reclaim the title.
Ethiopian star Gotytom Gebreslase also adds considerable quality to the lineup. The 2022 world marathon champion owns a personal best of 2:18:11 and has the championship experience required to compete at the highest level. Her presence adds another layer of intrigue to a contest that could develop into a fierce battle among some of the world's leading marathon runners.
Kenya's Edna Kiplagat brings a wealth of experience to the field. A former world champion with an outstanding record on the international stage, the veteran remains a respected competitor whose patience and tactical awareness could prove valuable if the race develops into a closely contested affair.
Great Britain's Julia Paternain will also attract attention following her bronze-medal performance at the 2025 World Athletics Championships. Her championship credentials make her an interesting addition to a field in which experience, endurance and the ability to respond under pressure could determine the final outcome.
American hopes will be led by athletes including Weini Kelati and Jess McClain. Kelati is preparing to make her marathon debut after establishing herself among the leading American distance runners, while McClain will be looking to make her presence felt against a strong international opposition on home soil.
Beyond these prominent names, the depth of the women's lineup promises a competitive contest, with additional athletes hoping to upset the established favourites and seize their opportunity on one of marathon running's biggest stages.
The race will, however, proceed without two notable names. Dutch star Sifan Hassan and American Fiona O'Keeffe have withdrawn, removing two highly anticipated competitors from the women's contest.
Even with their absence, the defending champion faces a formidable challenge. New York's bridges, rolling terrain and late-race demands often reward runners who can manage their effort carefully and deliver when the decisive moments arrive.
For Obiri, the mission is clear: defend her crown, preserve her course record and move one victory closer to an exclusive place in the race's history. For Chepkirui, Gebreslase and the rest of the field, the objective is to prevent the Kenyan star from turning another appearance in New York into a celebration of her growing marathon legacy.
When the world's leading women line up on November 1, the spotlight will once again fall on Obiri. Yet the New York City Marathon rarely follows a predictable script, and the strength of this field suggests that the defending champion will have to earn every metre of her title defence.
One thing is certain: the battle for women's marathon supremacy in New York promises to deliver a compelling contest, with history within Obiri's reach and a determined group of challengers ready to stand in her way.
(10/17/26) Views: 364Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Lemi Berhanu Delivers Stunning 2:03:33 Victory After Thrilling Final-Kilometre Surge In Amsterdam
Ethiopian distance-running star Lemi Berhanu produced a sensational performance to win the 2026 TCS Amsterdam Marathon in a personal best of 2:03:33 on Sunday, overcoming fierce opposition from Kenya's Nicholas Kipkorir before unleashing a decisive finishing surge in the closing kilometre.
The 31-year-old's victory was a remarkable demonstration of endurance, tactical patience and determination. Having arrived in the Dutch capital with a previous personal best of 2:04:33, Berhanu improved his lifetime best by exactly one minute, delivering the fastest marathon of his career on one of the world's most renowned fast courses.
However, the victory was far from straightforward. Kenya's Kipkorir mounted a determined challenge in the closing stages, turning the contest into a gripping battle between two athletes determined to claim the Amsterdam crown.
With only a few kilometres remaining, Kipkorir surged towards the front, applying relentless pressure and forcing Berhanu to dig deep to remain in contention. The Kenyan's acceleration threatened to shift the balance of the race, creating an intense duel as the finish line drew closer.
Berhanu refused to surrender. Remaining composed under pressure, the Ethiopian stayed close to his rival, conserving enough energy to respond when the decisive moment arrived. Every stride carried enormous significance as the two leaders fought for supremacy in the closing kilometres.
Then came the final kilometre.
With victory hanging in the balance, Berhanu unleashed a devastating finishing surge, finding another gear when it mattered most. His acceleration proved decisive, allowing him to edge away from Kipkorir and secure a memorable victory. The Kenyan fought bravely to the finish, but Berhanu's perfectly timed move ultimately made the difference.
Kipkorir crossed the line in 2:03:39, just six seconds behind the winner with a huge personal best, while compatriot Patrick Mosin completed the podium in 2:03:58. Their performances underlined the extraordinary quality of the men's field, which produced remarkable depth and speed throughout the race.
Berhanu's winning time was also just three seconds outside the Amsterdam Marathon course record of 2:03:30, established by Kenya's Geoffrey Kipchumba in 2025. Kipchumba returned to defend his title, but it was Berhanu who stole the spotlight with a performance that combined tactical intelligence with an exceptional finishing kick.
The Ethiopian's triumph carries additional significance given his long journey in elite distance running. In 2016, at just 21 years old, he announced himself on the international stage by winning the prestigious Boston Marathon. That breakthrough established him as one of Ethiopia's promising marathon talents and appeared to herald a career filled with major international victories.
Over the following decade, Berhanu continued building his career through international competitions, including races in Mumbai and Prague. Now, ten years after his Boston breakthrough, he has delivered another defining performance, demonstrating that experience and persistence can still produce extraordinary results at the highest level.
His Amsterdam victory also reinforces the race's reputation as a destination for world-class marathon performances. Known for its predominantly flat course and competitive elite fields, the Dutch capital continues to attract athletes looking to challenge their personal bests and produce exceptional times.
The 2026 men's race provided further evidence of that reputation, with all 10 leading finishers recording times of 2:05:16 or faster. Kenyan runners occupied five of the top six positions, highlighting the country's formidable depth in international marathon running.
2026 Amsterdam Marathon Men's Top 10 Results
1. Lemi Berhanu (Ethiopia) — 2:03:33
2. Nicholas Kipkorir (Kenya) — 2:03:39
3. Patrick Mosin (Kenya) — 2:03:58
4. Kalipus Lomwai (Kenya) — 2:04:09
5. Sila Kiptoo (Kenya) — 2:04:13
6. Justus Kangogo (Kenya) — 2:04:24
7. Jonathan Korir (Kenya) — 2:04:53
8. Isaia Lasoi (Kenya) — 2:04:57
9. Yihunilign Adane (Ethiopia) — 2:05:16
10. Yohei Ikeda (Japan) — 2:05:16
For Berhanu, however, the numbers tell only part of the story. His victory was built on patience under pressure, the courage to withstand Kipkorir's late challenge and the strength to produce a decisive acceleration when the race was on the line. A minute faster than his previous best, he has transformed a memorable win into a personal milestone.
Amsterdam has once again delivered a spectacular marathon, raising an increasingly compelling question for the global running community: does a race capable of producing such depth, speed and drama deserve a place among the Abbott World Marathon Majors?
With another outstanding edition now complete, Berhanu's triumph has given the Dutch capital a compelling new chapter in its marathon history.
(10/18/26) Views: 353Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Elite Fields Unveiled For 2026 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon As Kenyan And Ethiopian Stars Prepare For Battle
The elite start lists for the 2026 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon have been unveiled, setting the stage for a compelling contest featuring some of the strongest distance runners from Kenya, Ethiopia and beyond.
Scheduled for October 18, the prestigious Indian road race has assembled a formidable international field, with established champions, proven half-marathon performers and ambitious debutants all preparing to take on the streets of New Delhi.
The men's race promises an intriguing showdown, led by Ethiopian star Birhanu Legese, whose personal best of 58:59 makes him one of the leading names on the entry list. Kenya's Samwel Chebolei Masai boasts an even faster personal best of 58:48, while compatriots Charles Mbatha Matata, Samwel Mailu and Robert Kiprop Koech bring impressive credentials, with personal bests of 59:15, 59:19 and 59:51 respectively.
The Kenyan challenge is particularly deep, with Samwel Chebolei Masai, Charles Mbatha Matata, Samwel Mailu, Robert Kiprop Koech, Jamal Kiprono, Peter Tuitoek and Stanley Waithaka among the athletes capable of making the contest highly competitive. Ethiopia will also be represented by Tesfaye Deriba, Melaku Belachew, Kasu Tsegaye and other experienced runners, while Tanzania's Daniel Sinda and Morocco's Abderrahmane Aferdi add further international depth to the men's field.
Attention will also be on Kenyan debutant Benson Kiplangat and Ethiopian newcomer Daniel Zewudu Bekele, both listed without a personal best. Their inclusion adds an element of uncertainty, as they prepare to test themselves against established performers on one of the world's prominent half-marathon stages.
The women's race is equally compelling, with Kenya's Irine Chepet Cheptai heading the entry list by personal best, having clocked 1:04:53. Her compatriot Cynthia Jerotich Limo follows with 1:06:04, narrowly ahead of Israel's Lonah Chemtai Salpeter, whose personal best stands at 1:06:09.
Kenya's Cynthia Chepkwony, with a personal best of 1:06:49, further strengthens the country's challenge, while Ethiopia brings a formidable group led by Asmarech Anley, who has run 1:07:01. Melal Siyoum Biratu, Sewareg Haymanot, Wudinesh Alemu and Kiros Muaz are among the other Ethiopian athletes expected to contribute to the depth of the women's contest.
The Kenyan women's contingent also includes Orba Chemurgor, Caren Chebet and Selah Buseinei, while Christine Njoki Nalimo and Beatrice Chepkoech are listed for their half-marathon debuts. Ethiopia's debutants include Silnat Bitwe, Wubrist Aschal and Worknesh Yehualaw, creating further intrigue around how the newcomers will perform against more experienced opposition.
With established names boasting personal bests around the 59-minute mark in the men's race and the 64-minute range in the women's contest, the stage is set for a high-quality display of endurance and tactical racing. However, personal bests alone will not determine the outcome, with race-day conditions, pacing and tactical decisions likely to play crucial roles.
The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon continues to attract leading international distance runners, bringing together athletes from different nations in a race where reputation must ultimately be matched by performance.
On October 18, the focus will shift from the names on the start lists to the athletes on the road, as Kenya and Ethiopia renew their rivalry in pursuit of victory in New Delhi.
(10/17/26) Views: 348Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Leonard Langat Leads Kenyan Clean Sweep With Title Defence At Toronto Waterfront Marathon
Kenya delivered a commanding performance at the 2026 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, as Leonard Langat successfully defended his title and led a remarkable Kenyan sweep of the men’s podium in Toronto, Canada.
Langat crossed the finish line in 2:06:51, confirming his dominance for a second consecutive year. The Kenyan distance runner once again demonstrated his strength and consistency over the 42.195-kilometre distance, retaining the crown he claimed in 2025.
Fellow Kenyan Noah Kipkemboi secured second place in an impressive 2:07:21, while Fanny Kiprotich completed the all-Kenyan podium, finishing third in 2:07:25. The narrow four-second gap between Kipkemboi and Kiprotich added further intrigue to an outstanding Kenyan display.
Kenya’s dominance extended beyond the podium, with Absel Rutto finishing fourth in 2:07:32 and Elvis Cheboi taking fifth. The top five positions were occupied entirely by Kenyan athletes, underlining the country's remarkable depth and continued strength in international marathon running.
Langat's successful title defence was the highlight of a memorable day for Kenya, with three compatriots securing the podium places and five finishing among the top five. The performance reinforced Kenya's reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running and demonstrated the country's ability to produce world-class marathoners.
The defending champion's victory was particularly significant given the competitive nature of the field, which featured accomplished marathon runners determined to challenge his supremacy. However, Langat rose to the occasion, producing another outstanding performance that demonstrated his ability to deliver under pressure on one of Canada's biggest road-running stages.
Meanwhile, Andrew Davies claimed the Canadian men's championship in 2:08:48. Davies delivered an impressive performance to become the leading Canadian finisher, earning national honours in a race that saw Kenyan athletes dominate the overall standings. His achievement provided a significant highlight for the home nation.
In the women's competition, Leah Jeruto emerged as the overall champion, crossing the finish line in 2:21:19 to secure victory at the 2026 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Her triumph added to Kenya's success at the event, making it another memorable outing for the country's distance-running contingent.
Jeruto faced strong competition from Ethiopia's Nigsti Haftu, who finished second in 2:21:34, just 15 seconds behind the winner. Fellow Ethiopian Ayinadis Teshome completed the women's podium in 2:22:51, while Biruktayit Degefa followed in fourth place with 2:24:07. Their performances highlighted the fierce rivalry between some of East Africa's leading marathon runners.
The women's race also demonstrated the remarkable depth of international marathon competition, with athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia and Canada producing impressive performances. Jeruto's victory, combined with Langat's successful title defence, ensured that Kenya celebrated a memorable double triumph in Toronto.
Canada also celebrated success in the women's national championship, with Dayna Pidhoresky taking the Canadian women's title in 2:26:02. Her performance highlighted the strength of the country's leading female distance runners and gave Canadian supporters another reason to celebrate at their home marathon.
Top 10 Men's Finishers – 2026 Toronto Waterfront Marathon
1. Leonard Langat (Kenya) – 2:06:51
2. Noah Kipkemboi (Kenya) – 2:07:21
3. Fanny Kiprotich (Kenya) – 2:07:25
4. Absel Rutto (Kenya) – 2:07:32
5. Elvis Cheboi (Kenya) – 2:07:37
6. Wesley Kiptoo (USA) – 2:08:08
7. Gizealew Ayana (Ethiopia) – 2:08:10
8. Yismaw Atinafu (Ethiopia) – 2:08:44
9. Andrew Davies (Canada) – 2:08:48
10. John Gay (Canada) – 2:13:01
Top 10 Women's Finishers – 2026 Toronto Waterfront Marathon
1. Leah Jeruto (Kenya) – 2:21:19
2. Nigsti Haftu (Ethiopia) – 2:21:34
3. Ayinadis Teshome (Ethiopia) – 2:22:51
4. Biruktayit Degefa (Ethiopia) – 2:24:07
5. Maritu Ketema (Kenya) – 2:24:45
6. Beatrice Cheserek (Kenya) – 2:24:54
7. Regina Cheptoo (Kenya) – 2:25:48
8. Dayna Pidhoresky (Canada) – 2:26:02
9. Betty Chepkorir (Canada) – 2:28:29
10. Florence Caron (Canada) – 2:29:37
Beyond the individual victories, the marathon once again demonstrated its importance as a major destination for elite distance runners seeking international recognition and competitive performances. The combination of established champions, emerging contenders and strong domestic representation contributed to another compelling edition of the prestigious Canadian road race.
With Langat defending his crown, Kenya sweeping the men's podium, Jeruto claiming the women's title, and Canadian champions Davies and Pidhoresky earning national honours, the 2026 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon delivered an impressive showcase of distance-running excellence. The event celebrated both international competition and domestic achievement, with Kenya's outstanding depth and Canada's leading runners sharing the spotlight.
(10/18/26) Views: 334Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Geoffrey Kamworor: The Lawyer He Never Became, The Distance Running Legend He Was Born To Be
Long before he conquered world cross-country championships, dominated the half-marathon distance and lifted the New York City Marathon trophy, Geoffrey Kamworor was a young Kenyan student with an ambitious dream that had little to do with running: becoming a lawyer.
Growing up in Keiyo South, Kamworor developed the discipline that would later define his extraordinary athletic career. His daily routine involved running approximately five kilometres to school and another five kilometres back home. What might have seemed like an ordinary journey for a schoolboy was quietly laying the foundation for a future in international distance running.
He attended Chepsamo Primary School before proceeding to Lelboinet Secondary School, where he combined his education with a growing passion for athletics. At the time, his ambitions extended beyond the track and roads. He wanted to pursue a career in law, and that dream eventually brought him an opportunity to study at a college in the United States.
However, the young Kenyan faced a defining decision: follow the academic path he had envisioned or commit himself fully to the sport that was beginning to reveal his remarkable potential. Kamworor chose athletics, a decision that would ultimately place his name among the most accomplished distance runners of his generation.
His transformation from a promising schoolboy into an international contender began gathering momentum in 2010, when he joined the GSC training camp in Kaptagat. His development accelerated rapidly, and within a short period, an opportunity to compete in Finland exposed him to a higher level of international competition.
Still only 17, he reportedly competed nine times during that trip, demonstrating an impressive ability to adapt to the demands of competitive racing. Breaking the eight-minute barrier for 3,000 metres was an early indication of the talent that would eventually carry him to the highest levels of distance running.
His breakthrough on the international stage followed in March 2011, when he captured the junior men's title at the World Cross Country Championships in Punta Umbría, Spain. That victory announced the arrival of a young athlete whose future would extend far beyond the junior ranks.
Kamworor was not simply a runner with speed. He possessed the endurance, tactical intelligence and competitive determination required to succeed across different distances and racing surfaces. As his career developed, those qualities became the hallmarks of an athlete capable of challenging the world's best.
Cross country became one of the foundations of Kamworor's international success. In 2015, he won the senior men's title at the World Cross Country Championships in Guiyang, China, confirming his status as one of the leading distance runners in the world. Two years later, he returned to the top of the podium in Kampala, Uganda, defending his senior world cross-country crown in front of a home crowd. Winning consecutive senior world titles placed him in an elite category and demonstrated his remarkable command of the demanding discipline.
On the roads, however, Kamworor established an equally impressive legacy. He won the World Half Marathon Championships in Copenhagen in 2014, Cardiff in 2016 and Valencia in 2018, becoming a three-time champion at the distance. His achievements reflected a rare combination of strength, speed and race management, enabling him to prevail against formidable international opposition.
The half marathon became one of his signature events, but Kamworor's ambitions were never confined to a single discipline. He continued to demonstrate his versatility on the track, winning silver in the men's 10,000 metres at the 2015 World Athletics Championships in Beijing, China. From the grass of cross-country courses to the roads of major international races and the track of a global championship, he repeatedly demonstrated that his talent could flourish wherever the competition took him.
Among Kamworor's most memorable achievements are his victories at the New York City Marathon in 2017 and 2019. Winning one of the world's most celebrated marathons requires exceptional endurance, but winning it twice demands much more: tactical patience, resilience and the ability to navigate a demanding course against a deep international field.
Kamworor demonstrated those qualities in both victories, establishing a special connection with the New York race and adding the marathon to an already remarkable collection of honours. His success in the American city also illustrated his ability to move successfully between distances. An athlete celebrated for his cross-country and half-marathon dominance had shown that he could also conquer the 42.195-kilometre marathon, one of the most demanding challenges in road racing.
Now, as he sets his sights on another New York campaign, the Kenyan star has an opportunity to strengthen his legacy further. A third men's open-division victory would place him among a very select group of athletes to have won the prestigious race three times. Such a milestone would be more than another addition to his trophy cabinet; it would reinforce the story of a runner whose competitive range has extended across nearly every major discipline in distance running.
Behind Kamworor's achievements lies a training environment built around discipline, consistency and high-level competition. Working under the guidance of renowned coach Patrick Sang, he has trained alongside some of Kenya's most celebrated athletes, including marathon great Eliud Kipchoge and middle- and long-distance superstar Faith Kipyegon.
Sharing a training environment with athletes of such calibre provides a demanding daily standard. Yet Kamworor has built his own identity through a career defined by major championship victories and sustained success across different racing distances. His journey has also included difficult periods and setbacks, reminding the running world that even the most accomplished champions must continually work to return to their best. His longevity at the elite level reflects the importance of patience, dedication and the willingness to keep pursuing new goals.
For aspiring athletes in Kenya, his story offers an important lesson: extraordinary achievements are often built through ordinary routines repeated consistently over many years. Those five-kilometre journeys to school and back were not glamorous. They did not come with cheering crowds, television cameras or medals. Yet they formed part of the foundation of a career that would eventually take him to the world's biggest running stages.
Kamworor's story is ultimately about a choice that changed the direction of his life. The young student who once imagined himself arguing cases in a courtroom instead built his reputation by answering the toughest questions on the running track and roads. His achievements speak for themselves: world cross-country titles, three world half-marathon crowns, a global 10,000-metre silver medal and two New York City Marathon victories.
He may never have pursued the legal career he once envisioned, but his athletic record tells a compelling story of ambition, sacrifice and extraordinary accomplishment. His pursuit of another New York triumph offers a fresh chapter in a career that has already crossed the boundaries between cross country, track and road racing.
For Geoffrey Kamworor, the courtroom was a dream he left behind. The world of distance running became the stage on which he built his name. And while the law lost a prospective lawyer, athletics gained a champion whose achievements have helped define an era of Kenyan distance running.
(10/16/26) Views: 323Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Cancer Survivor Brandon Throop Returns To Toronto Marathon In Hospital Gown For Third World Record Bid
For Brandon Throop, running a marathon in a hospital gown is about far more than chasing a place in the Guinness World Records. It is a deeply personal tribute to the medical team that helped save his life, a celebration of survival, and an opportunity to give back to the institution that stood beside him during one of the darkest chapters of his life.
In 2022, Throop was 35 years old, a father of two, and facing a life-changing diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. His journey soon led him to Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, Canada, where he underwent chemotherapy and began a difficult battle against the disease.
The treatment that helped him fight cancer also left him physically weakened. For someone who had spent much of his life running, even the simplest movements became unexpectedly challenging. After completing treatment, climbing a single flight of stairs could leave him coughing and struggling to catch his breath.
However, rather than allowing the experience to define the limits of his future, Throop began rebuilding his strength one small step at a time. He started by running once around his neighbourhood block before gradually increasing the distance as his body recovered. What began as a modest attempt to regain his fitness eventually developed into an extraordinary mission with a purpose extending far beyond the finish line.
Now, more than three years after becoming cancer-free, Throop is preparing to return to the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Sunday, October 18, 2026, for another attempt at the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon completed while wearing a hospital gown.
This will be his third attempt to claim the record, following two determined performances in previous editions of the Toronto race. In 2023, he completed the marathon in 2:55:59 before returning in 2024 to improve his time to 2:55:01. Despite his progress, the record remained just out of reach.
The current benchmark stands at 2:50:12, established by Evan Ubene at the same Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2022. To make history this time, Throop will need to improve significantly on his previous performances and take more than five minutes off his best hospital-gown marathon.
Yet the significance of Sunday's race cannot be measured by finishing time alone.
Throop's larger objective is to raise funds for the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, supporting the cancer research and care that played such an important role in his own recovery. He has already raised more than $137,000 toward his $150,000 fundraising target, bringing him within reach of a goal that could help support further advances in cancer treatment.
Every kilometre he covers in the distinctive hospital gown carries a message of gratitude to the people who cared for him and hope for patients whose journeys are only beginning. His challenge transforms a gruelling 42.195-kilometre race into a public expression of appreciation for the doctors, nurses, researchers and other healthcare professionals working to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
The timing of this year's marathon makes the occasion even more meaningful. The race falls just days from the anniversary of his first chemotherapy session in 2022, bringing him back to a period that profoundly changed his life. Returning to the streets of Toronto now, healthy enough to pursue another marathon, offers a powerful reminder of how far he has travelled since those difficult days.
For Throop, choosing Toronto has never been simply about finding the fastest course on which to break a record. Although other marathons might offer different racing conditions, the Toronto Waterfront Marathon holds a significance that no alternative venue could easily replace. The course takes him past Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, the institution where he received treatment, while family members and friends who supported him throughout his illness are there to witness his journey.
It is a route that connects his past to his present: the hospital where he fought for his health, the streets where he now tests his endurance, and the people who helped him keep moving forward when the road ahead was uncertain.
His hospital gown is therefore much more than an unusual racing outfit. It is a symbol of the vulnerability he experienced as a patient, the strength he rediscovered through running, and his determination to turn a deeply personal struggle into something that benefits others.
As he prepares for his third record attempt, the challenge remains considerable. The existing mark of 2:50:12 demands an average pace of approximately four minutes per kilometre, a formidable task even without the physical discomfort and practical challenges of racing in a hospital gown.
Nevertheless, Throop has already demonstrated that his mission can make a difference regardless of the result on the clock. His previous attempts brought attention to cancer care, while his ongoing fundraising efforts have generated substantial support for the foundation that represents an important part of his personal story.
On Sunday, he will once again take his place among thousands of runners, carrying a message that reaches well beyond the marathon course. Whether he finally breaks the world record or falls short for a third time, his presence will stand as a reminder that recovery can open doors to remarkable achievements and that gratitude can become a powerful force for helping others.
For Brandon Throop, the finish line represents more than a sporting ambition. It is an opportunity to honour the people who helped him survive, support the research that may give other families more time together, and show what can be possible after a life-altering diagnosis.
The record is still waiting. But with more than $137,000 already raised toward his fundraising goal, Throop has another reason to consider his mission a success before the starting gun even sounds.
On the streets of Toronto, the hospital gown is returning with a purpose: to celebrate survival, give back to the people who helped save a life, and turn every step into hope for someone else.
(10/16/26) Views: 320Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Filex Kibet Smashes Course Record as Netsanet Desta Claims Women’s Crown at Rome Half Marathon
Kenya’s Filex Kibet delivered a sensational performance at the 2026 Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon by Brooks, storming to victory in a remarkable 59:22 to establish a new men’s course record and headline an impressive display of distance running in the Italian capital.
The Kenyan produced a commanding performance over the 21.0975km distance, combining speed, endurance and tactical discipline to secure the prestigious title. His record-breaking achievement was the defining moment of an exciting competition that brought together some of the finest road-running talents from East Africa.
Kibet's winning time not only secured him a place in the event's history but also demonstrated his ability to compete at an exceptional level on the international road-running circuit. Breaking the one-hour barrier in a half marathon remains a significant benchmark in elite distance running, and his performance underlined the quality of the men's field.
Ethiopia's Selemon Atakiti Kidanu emerged as one of the standout performers of the day, producing an outstanding half-marathon debut to finish second in 59:38. Despite competing over the distance for the first time, the Ethiopian displayed remarkable composure and endurance, crossing the finish line just 16 seconds behind the eventual champion.
Kenya's Elisha Kiprop completed the men's podium after clocking 1:00:13, ensuring that two Kenyan athletes finished among the top three. His performance added further strength to Kenya's presence in a highly competitive race that saw the leading contenders produce impressive times on the streets of Rome.
While Kibet dominated the headlines in the men's competition, Ethiopia's Netsanet Desta delivered an equally impressive performance in the women's race, claiming victory in 1:07:26 to complete a memorable day of elite road racing.
Desta demonstrated exceptional consistency throughout the demanding half-marathon distance, maintaining the pace necessary to overcome a competitive field and secure the women's title. Her victory highlighted Ethiopia's continued strength in international distance running.
Kenya's Regina Wambui Ndungu mounted a strong challenge but ultimately settled for second place in 1:07:48, finishing 22 seconds behind the Ethiopian champion. Ndungu's performance ensured Kenya was represented on both the men's and women's podiums.
Ethiopia's Yalemget Yaregal rounded out the women's top three, crossing the finish line in 1:08:22 to complete an impressive Ethiopian showing in the women's competition.
The contrasting victories of Kibet and Desta provided the perfect storyline for an event that continues to attract accomplished distance runners to one of Europe's most historic cities. With athletes competing against the clock and one another, the race delivered both a new course record and an impressive collection of performances.
For Kibet, the achievement represents another significant milestone, with his name now attached to the men's course record. His 59:22 performance establishes a new standard for future competitors seeking success at the Rome Half Marathon.
Kidanu's impressive debut also offered a glimpse of his potential over the distance, while the strong performances of Kiprop, Ndungu and Yaregal further demonstrated the depth of talent competing at the event.
The 2026 edition will be remembered particularly for Kibet's record-breaking triumph, as the Kenyan's exceptional run added a new chapter to the race's history and reinforced Rome's growing reputation as a destination for elite international road racing.
With the men's course record rewritten and two deserving champions crowned, the Italian capital once again provided a memorable stage for some of the world's most accomplished distance-running talents.
(10/18/26) Views: 312Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Alexander Mutiso Munyao and Agnes Ngetich Rewrite Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon Records With Kenyan Double Victory
Kenyan distance runners Alexander Mutiso Munyao and Agnes Jebet Ngetich delivered outstanding performances at the 2026 Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon, securing victories in the men's and women's races while setting new course records in a memorable display of Kenyan endurance and speed.
The two athletes produced impressive runs to underline Kenya's continued strength in international road racing, with Mutiso winning the men's race in 59:51 and Ngetich dominating the women's contest in 1:04:23.
Mutiso led the men's race with an impressive performance, crossing the finish line in 59 minutes and 51 seconds to claim the title and establish a new course record. His time improved the previous course record by one second, marking a significant achievement on the streets of Tokyo.
The Kenyan demonstrated the speed and endurance required to excel over the half-marathon distance, completing the 21.0975-kilometre race in under one hour. His performance further highlighted his ability to compete at the highest level of international road running and added another notable result to his racing career.
In the women's race, Ngetich delivered a commanding performance, stopping the clock at 1:04:23 to secure victory and lower the existing course record. The Kenyan star demonstrated remarkable strength and consistency, separating herself from the chasing pack as she powered towards the finish line.
Fellow Kenyan Tabita Jeli Kamau finished second in 1:08:28, more than four minutes behind Ngetich. The substantial margin underlined Ngetich's dominance on the day, as she produced an exceptional performance to secure the women's title and establish a new benchmark for the course.
Ngetich's time of 1:04:23 was an impressive achievement over the half-marathon distance, reflecting the exceptional pace and endurance that have made her one of Kenya's leading distance-running talents. Her victory further strengthened the country's reputation for producing athletes capable of delivering outstanding performances on the international road-running circuit.
The double victory gave Kenya plenty to celebrate in Tokyo, with both Mutiso and Ngetich combining individual success with new course records. Their performances highlighted the depth of Kenyan talent in road running and the country's continued presence among the leading forces in international distance athletics.
Beyond the two victories, the results demonstrated Kenya's ability to excel in both the men's and women's competitions on the same international stage. With Mutiso breaking the men's record and Ngetich producing a commanding women's victory, the Kenyan athletes turned the 2026 Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon into a memorable occasion for their country and another notable chapter in their respective careers.
(10/18/26) Views: 300
Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Botswana Athletics Mourns Gaone ‘Lux’ Maotoanong, Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist And Former National Team Sprinter
Botswana’s athletics community is mourning the sudden death of former national team sprinter Gaone Leaname Maotoanong, affectionately known as “Lux,” who represented his country at major international championships and played a significant role in its relay success.
The Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) announced his passing in a bereavement notice issued on October 22, 2026, paying tribute to an athlete whose dedication, talent and commitment to excellence earned him respect across the athletics fraternity. Maotoanong was born in 1991 and died in 2026.
Throughout his career, Maotoanong proudly wore Botswana’s national colours on some of the biggest stages in athletics, contributing to the country’s growing reputation in the men’s 4x400m relay. His international achievements included competing at the Olympic Games, World Athletics Championships, Commonwealth Games, World Athletics Relays and continental championships.
One of the standout moments of his career came at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in Australia, where he was part of Botswana’s gold-medal-winning 4x400m relay team. The victory represented a major achievement for the southern African nation and reinforced its standing among the leading relay teams on the continent.
Maotoanong also represented Botswana at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, where the national 4x400m relay team reached the final and finished fifth. He subsequently featured in the country’s relay squad at the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Doha, Qatar, having also competed at the 2015 edition in Beijing, China.
His experience on the global stage extended to the World Athletics Relays in the Bahamas in 2015 and 2017, where Botswana’s 4x400m relay teams reached the finals. These appearances reflected his place within a generation of athletes helping Botswana establish itself as a consistent presence in international relay competition.
At continental level, Maotoanong enjoyed further success, winning gold in the 4x400m relay at the African Championships in Marrakech, Morocco, in 2014 and again in Durban, South Africa, in 2016. He also helped Botswana secure silver in the relay at the 2015 African Games in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo.
His achievements were not limited to relay racing. Maotoanong demonstrated his individual ability in the 400m by winning silver at the 2015 World University Games in Gwangju, South Korea, adding another significant accomplishment to his international career.
Beyond his appearances at major championships, he competed at the Commonwealth Games, African Games, African Championships, Diamond League meetings and numerous other international competitions, building a career defined by service to his country and commitment to athletics.
A Legacy Beyond The Track
Maotoanong’s contribution to Botswana athletics extended beyond competition. According to the BAA, he served as a member of the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) Athletes’ Commission from 2022 to 2025, where he contributed to efforts to advance athletes’ interests and welfare.
The role reflected another dimension of his involvement in sport, demonstrating a commitment to athlete representation and sports development beyond his own performances on the track.
In its tribute, the BAA remembered Maotoanong as an athlete, leader, mentor and friend whose contributions had left a lasting mark on Botswana athletics. The association also extended its condolences to his family, friends, teammates and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
His passing represents a profound loss for Botswana’s sporting community, particularly those who shared in the country’s relay achievements and witnessed his dedication to representing the national team. His legacy will remain part of the story of Botswana’s development as a force in African and international athletics.
As tributes emerge, Maotoanong will be remembered not only for the medals and championships he helped his country achieve, but also for his service to fellow athletes and his contribution to the wider sporting fraternity.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the Botswana Athletics Association in due course.
Gaone “Lux” Maotoanong’s name will endure in Botswana athletics as a reminder of a career spent representing his country with pride, both on the track and in service to the athletes who followed.
(10/22/26) Views: 299
Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
Charles Matata Breaks Course Record as Kenya Sweeps Men’s Podium While Ethiopia’s Wudinesh Alemu Shines in Delhi
The 2026 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon delivered a spectacular celebration of international distance running on Sunday, October 18, with Kenya dominating the men’s race and Ethiopia claiming victory in the women’s contest.
Kenya’s Charles Mbatha Matata produced the standout performance of the day, storming to victory in a provisional course-record time of 58:52. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s 19-year-old Wudinesh Alemu Keneni demonstrated remarkable composure to win the women’s race in 1:06:35, holding off a strong Kenyan challenge on the streets of New Delhi, India.
Matata’s triumph was particularly special because it continued a remarkable family story at the prestigious Indian road race. The Kenyan distance runner took control of the men’s contest and crossed the finish line in 58:52, lowering the previous course record of 58:53 set by Ethiopia’s Amedework Walelegn in 2020.
Beyond the record-breaking performance, Matata had another reason to celebrate. His twin brother, Alex Matata, won the same race in 2025, meaning the coveted Delhi title has remained in the family for two consecutive editions.
Different year, same family, and another moment of Kenyan glory. Charles has now joined his twin brother as a Delhi Half Marathon champion, creating a memorable chapter in the event’s history and highlighting the Matata family’s growing legacy in international road racing.
Charles’ achievement was complemented by a commanding Kenyan performance across the men’s field. Samwel Nyamai Mailu secured second place in 59:24, while Stanley Waithaka Mburu completed the podium in 59:33, giving Kenya a clean sweep of the top three positions.
Ethiopia’s Birhanu Legese Gurmesa was the leading non-Kenyan finisher, placing fourth in 1:00:33. He was followed closely by Kenya’s Samwel Chebolei Mosai, who clocked 1:00:34, while Ethiopia’s Negasa Dekeba Bikela completed the top six in 1:00:36.
The men’s race results underlined Kenya’s remarkable depth in distance running, with three athletes occupying the leading positions and Matata adding a course record to an already memorable victory.
In the women’s competition, Ethiopia’s Wudinesh Alemu Keneni emerged as the day’s champion, delivering an impressive performance to win in 1:06:35 at just 19 years old.
Alemu’s victory was a significant achievement for the young Ethiopian, who faced a competitive international field featuring several accomplished Kenyan athletes. Her ability to maintain her advantage and secure the title highlighted her considerable promise as one of the emerging talents in women’s distance running.
Kenya’s Selah Jepleting Busienei finished second in 1:07:01, while compatriot Cynthia Chelangat Chepkwony claimed third place in 1:07:32. Their performances secured Kenya two places on the women’s podium, although Alemu proved strongest on the day.
The battle for the remaining positions was equally competitive. Irene Chepet Cheptai finished fourth in 1:07:33, just one second behind Chepkwony, while Maryam Lufti Njoki placed fifth in 1:08:12. Ethiopia’s Meselech Alemayehu Gedefaw completed the top six in 1:09:04.
The leading finishers in the men’s race were Charles Mbatha Matata of Kenya in 58:52, Samwel Nyamai Mailu of Kenya in 59:24, Stanley Waithaka Mburu of Kenya in 59:33, Birhanu Legese Gurmesa of Ethiopia in 1:00:33, Samwel Chebolei Mosai of Kenya in 1:00:34, and Negasa Dekeba Bikela of Ethiopia in 1:00:36.
In the women’s race, Wudinesh Alemu Keneni of Ethiopia won in 1:06:35, followed by Selah Jepleting Busienei of Kenya in 1:07:01, Cynthia Chelangat Chepkwony of Kenya in 1:07:32, Irene Chepet Cheptai of Kenya in 1:07:33, Maryam Lufti Njoki of Kenya in 1:08:12, and Meselech Alemayehu Gedefaw of Ethiopia in 1:09:04.
The Delhi Half Marathon once again demonstrated why it remains an important fixture on the international road-racing calendar, bringing together established performers and emerging talents for a compelling day of competition.
For Charles Matata, the victory was about more than individual success. By following in the footsteps of his twin brother Alex, he ensured that the Delhi crown remained in the family while delivering a provisional course record and leading Kenya to a complete sweep of the men’s podium.
For Alemu, winning at just 19 represents a promising milestone in what could become an exciting distance-running career. Her triumph showed that Ethiopia’s next generation continues to emerge strongly on the international stage.
Together, their performances made the 2026 edition a memorable occasion, celebrating Kenyan dominance, Ethiopian excellence, family achievement and the continuing appeal of elite half-marathon racing.
(10/18/26) Views: 296Erick Cheruiyot for My Best Runs.
