Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
12/16/2023
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
Top US Spring Marathons to Get a 2024 Personal Best
Christmas, New Year, multiple parties, and family gatherings are just around the corner. With the holiday season and the cold weather, planning for your next spring marathon in 2024 is probably the last thing on your mind.
However, there’s no such thing as being too busy or too early when planning your next race. In fact, a solid 20-week-long marathon training plan with some breathing room requires around five months. That’s why “now” is the best time to prepare for your next spring marathon.
From World Majors and massive city marathons to trail runs and small-town races, there are a lot of marathons to choose from this coming spring. But we’ve got you covered. We’ve listed some of the must-try spring marathons across the United States. Check them out here.
In March, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina has an average temperature of 64 degrees, which might feel cool for swimming but is perfect for running a marathon. Hence, before the town gets busy with spring break, it hosts a race by the beach called Myrtle Beach Marathon. This year, it’ll be held on March 2, 2024.
Myrtle Beach Marathon is one of the best spring marathons in South Carolina that you can run all year. It’s a great choice for first-time marathon runners because the course is flat and follows the coast in a loop without many hills. The cool ocean winds also help you stay comfortable and prevent you from overheating while running.
Unlike most races that stick to simplicity, the Little Rock Marathon in Arizona goes all out to make their event extraordinary. They choose a theme every year to make their race as spectacular and entertaining as possible. In this coming race, the planned theme is a touch of prehistoric flair, so expect to see runners in Jurassic Park-themed gear on March 3, 2024.
Another unique feature of the race is their massive and extravagant finisher medals, some of the biggest in the business! Plus, the race will introduce a new course that’s a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. It’s one of the major races that allow betting from different sportsbooks like FanDuel Sportsbook.
While the Los Angeles Marathon may not have the same global recognition as New York, Boston, or Chicago marathons, it stands out as one of the finest city marathons in the USA. What’s more, the vast and diverse landscape of Los Angeles provides a fantastic backdrop for the race.
This race will be held on March 17, 2024. The course will begin at Dodgers Stadium, pass through iconic LA spots like Rodeo Drive and Hollywood Boulevard, and conclude on Santa Monica Boulevard. What makes this marathon even more exciting is the chance to run alongside celebrities who often participate in their hometown race.
The Newport, Rhode Island often has two races: one in spring and another in fall. Both promise a scenic and memorable experience, blending natural beauty with a touch of local charm. They offer breathtaking views of the town’s stunning mansions, windy beaches, and rocky coastline. However, they’re managed by different organizations.
The spring Newport Marathon, in particular, is well-known because it coincides with the city’s celebrated blooming of over one million golden yellow daffodils. This year, it’ll be held on April 13, 2024. After tackling the hilly course, you’ll also be treated to a finisher festival with plenty of goodies like a much-needed pizza.
Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon
Experience the thrill of racing through Churchill Downs, not just with horses but also as part of the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon. It will take place on April 27, 2023, a week before the renowned horse race. This allows you to run through Louisville, including a pass through the iconic home of the Kentucky Derby.
Since the marathon offers a blend of athleticism and the charm of the equestrian world, it’s recommended to turn your marathon into a full-fledged vacation. Consider staying for a week filled with events leading up to a lap around the famous track—a must-try experience for any avid runner!
Surprisingly, Eugene (not Seattle or Portland) hosts the largest marathon in the Pacific Northwest. This means you’ll be part of a sizable running community, enjoy the cheers of enthusiastic spectators, and receive ample support from dedicated volunteers throughout the race.
Next year, the Eugene Marathon will be held on April 28. Its back half takes you along the scenic Willamette River, offering beautiful natural landscapes to admire as you approach the finish line. Although it may sound hard, the race is beginner-friendly and a good start to getting a personal record (PR). It’s also a favorable choice to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
Finding the right race for you involves considering your skills, training needs, and personal preferences. While this highlights marathons offering unique experiences and challenges next spring, it’s incomplete. Take the time to explore various options, ensuring that the chosen marathon aligns with your abilities and allows for adequate training and rest.
(12/09/23) Views: 139
Homefield advantage leads Joseph Hale to second BMW Dallas Marathon win in three years
Home-field advantage played a crucial role in Joseph Hale’s victory in the 52nd running of the BMW Dallas Marathon on Sunday.
The 30-year-old resident of West Dallas made up half of a one-minute deficit at White Rock Lake, and three miles from the finish line made a final move to win for the second time in three years in 2 hours, 24 minutes and 53 seconds. All times are unofficial until certified.
“I’ve run that loop around White Rock so many times, so I know every single step,” said Hale, who grew up in Grapevine and attended Dallas Baptist.
“I knew it was downhill after Mile 23, and when I looked back a mile later, I couldn’t see anybody.”
Hale, the eighth consecutive American men’s winner, credits his sister Sarah for being the role model who influenced him to run.
“She ran in high school and I wanted to be like her," he said.
A week earlier, Hale ran a marathon in Sacramento, Calif., and was disappointed with his performance.
“I was hungry for more today,” he said.
Women’s marathon champion Jill Wolf manages to train every day despite owning a pet supply business with five locations, none of them closer to Dallas than 130 miles. That translates into a lot of travel time.
All of the training has helped Wolf whittle 50 minutes off her time since 2017, and led to a personal-best 2:51:47 on Sunday, almost eight minutes faster than the next runner.
Originally from Cleveland, Wolf has called Dallas home the last seven years and got married two months ago.
“I thought I might have a chance today," Wolf said. “The weather was the best we’ve had for running. I trained hard for it."
There was some confusion after the race because a time faster than Wolf’s had been electronically recorded, but after further investigation and some anxious moments Wolf was declared the winner.
(12/10/23) Views: 104
Chicago Marathon expands to 5000 runners in 2024
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is expanding next year, with 50,000 runners expected to cross the finish line.
Over 123,000 runners applied for a chance to participate in the race, according to a spokesperson for the marathon. The number of entry applications was up from 86,000 for the 2023 race and 80,000 in 2022.
Next year’s record-breaking field was announced by marathon organizers Thursday, the same day runners who entered the marathon’s drawing find out their selection status for next year.
Runners who are selected through the drawing will join those who guaranteed their spot during the four-week application window.
Guaranteed entries into the race include Chicago Marathon legacy finishers, time qualifiers, international tour group participants, charity runners, 2023 Bank of America Chicago Distance Series finishers and those who canceled their 2023 race entries, according to an announcement from the marathon.
Runners who did not receive an entry through the drawing can still sign up through the 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Program, which includes 200 nonprofit organizations raising money for such causes as education, youth development and social services. Anyone registering to run with an official charity is required to raise at least $1,750.
The expanded field comes after this year’s marathon raised a record $30.4 million.
“The 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon was record-setting across the board from historic performances and countless personal bests to record-breaking participation and charity fundraising,” said Carey Pinkowski, executive race director. “We look forward to welcoming a new field of participants in 2024 and once again putting on a race that unites the local and global running communities on the streets of Chicago.”
Marathon officials said 48,472 runners completed the 2023 race.
Kelvin Kiptum set a marathon world record with his time of 2:00:35 to win the men’s division of the 2023 marathon. Sifan Hassan, in her second marathon, set a course-record time of 2:13:44 to win the women’s division.
The 2022 race had a smaller field in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a marathon spokesperson said. That year, 39,387 runners crossed the finish line.
Next year’s race is scheduled for Oct. 13.
(12/08/23) Views: 91Mohammad Samra
Ugandan runner Prisca Chesang provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit
Ugandan runner faces provisional suspension by AIU for for the presence/use of a prohibited substance (Furosemide).
World U20 5000m bronze medalist Prisca Chesang has found herself in hot water with the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).
The 20-year-old Ugandan has been provisionally suspended by AIU for the Presence/Use of a Prohibited Substance (Furosemide), a clear violation of the World Anti-Doping rules.
Chesang, who made headlines as the fourth female Ugandan athlete to secure a medal at the junior championship, finds herself facing charges under Article 2.1 and Article 2.2 of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Chesang's remarkable journey began at the 2021 World Athletics U20 Championships in Nairobi, Kenya, and continued in Cali, Colombia last year, where she clinched the bronze medal.
She joined the ranks of Peruth Chemutai (2018), Annet Negesa (2010), and Dorcus Inzikuru (2000) as one of the few female Ugandan runners to achieve such a feat at the junior level.
"The AIU has provisionally suspended Prisca Chesang (Uganda) for the Presence/Use of a Prohibited Substance (Furosemide)," the AIU confirmed.
Chesang's suspension echoes a somber note in Ugandan running history, following the suspension and three-year ban of Janat Chemusto in November.
Prisca Chesang had been making remarkable strides in the senior division as well, finishing 7th overall at the World Cross Country Championships held in Bathurst, Australia, earlier this year.
However, it was her astonishing performance in the 10km race and her ranking at the World Cross Country Championships in 2023 that truly had the athletics world taking notice.
On New Year's Eve in 2022, Chesang emerged as the champion of the Madrid 10km with an incredible time of 30:19.
This achievement unofficially crowned her as the fastest junior athlete ever over the 10km distance.
Her exceptional performance ranked her 6th on the Senior World List for 2022 and placed her among the top 20 on the World All-Time list for the same distance.
(12/08/23) Views: 89Festus Chuma
Double delight for Kenya as Charles Mneria and Pamela Jepkosgei win men’s and women’s Malaga Marathon
Kenyan runners Charles Mneria and Pamela Jepkosgei triumph at the Malaga Marathon in Spain.
There was double delight for Kenya at the 2023 Malaga Marathon as Charles Mneria and Pamela Jepkosgei Rotich won the men’s and women’s races respectively.
Mneria entered the race with an impressive resume and did not disappoint.
With the second-fastest time on paper and a lifetime best of 2:09.07 achieved at the Münster-Marathon just months ago, Mneria was a force to be reckoned with from the start.
From the initial gun, Mneria led a formidable group of nine athletes, showcasing his impeccable form and race strategy.
They cruised through the 5km and 10km marks in a blistering 15:03 and 30:03, a pace that threatened the existing course record of 2:07.36 set two years prior.
However, it was at the 33km mark that Mneria unleashed his true potential.
With calculated precision, he made his move, leaving the leading pack behind and charging ahead solo for the remaining 9km.
The spectators watched in awe as Mneria crossed the finish line, securing not only the victory but also a new personal best of 2:08.54.
It was a stellar performance that added another title to the 27-year-old Nairobi Marathon champion ever-growing list of achievements.
Morocco's Abdelilah El Maimouni, the fastest athlete on the entry list with a time of 2:09.48, had to settle for second place.
Maimouni displayed remarkable determination but could not match Mneria's surge in the closing stages. Crossing the line in 2:09.48, he secured a hard-fought second place.
Musa Kiprop Mitei, another Kenyan talent, completed the podium, finishing third with a time of 2:11.31.
The race also featured top runners from around the world, with Jonathan Akankwasa of Tanzania and Spain's Ricardo Rosado Villaverde claiming fourth and fifth places in times of 2:12.34 and 2:14.23, respectively.
In the women's category, it was a Kenyan masterclass once again as Pamela Jepkosgei Rotich claimed the top spot with a time of 2:33:52.
Her performance was nothing short of extraordinary, as she exhibited unwavering determination throughout the grueling race.
Lilia Fisikovici of Moldova put up a fierce fight, finishing just seconds behind Rotich in 2:34:12, securing the second position.
Sweden's Hanna Lindholm displayed her prowess, capturing third place with a time of 2:34:50, while Vanessa Carvalho clocked 2:38:34 to secure fourth place.
Adding to Kenya's glory, Beatrice Jepkemei Cheburet crossed the finish line in fifth place with a commendable time of 2:42:47.
(12/11/23) Views: 86Festus Chuma
Solidify strength and speed with these go-to workouts for every runner
Running workouts don’t have to be complex to yield results. If you’re not in the mood for navigating through a workout with varying splits and paces, consider pulling one of these straightforward, go-to sessions from your arsenal.
Whether you’re new to running, or a seasoned athlete with a collection of medals, you can customize the interval lengths to match your skill level. If you’re looking for even more intensity, increase your effort or extend the duration of the more challenging segments, or alternatively, reduce the recovery periods.
Simple interval repeats
Warm up with five-10 minutes of easy running or fast walking, and insert some dynamic running drills after your legs are warm (all levels).
For beginners::
Run at a sustainable pace for one minute, followed by two minutes of brisk walking to recover (always feel free to extend the recovery time to three minutes, or shorten your running time to 30 seconds).
Repeat for 20-30 minutes.
Intermediate:
Run at a moderate pace for two minutes, followed by one minute of easy running.
Repeat for 20-30 minutes.
Advanced:
Run at a hard pace for three minutes, followed by one minute of easy recovery running,
Repeat for 20-30 minutes.
Cool down with five-10 minutes of easy running (all levels).
Heart-pounding hill workout
Warm up with five-10 minutes of easy running or brisk walking (all levels).
For beginners:
Find a gentle slope and briskly walk uphill for one minute, and walk downhill for recovery.
Repeat for 15 minutes.
Intermediate:
Run uphill for one minute at an effort that leaves you out of breath, and walk downhill to recover.
Repeat for 15 minutes.
Advanced:
Sprint uphill for 30 seconds, and jog or walk downhill for recovery.
Repeat for 15 minutes.
Cool down with five to 10 minutes of easy running or walking (all levels).
Everyone, from newbie to advanced, should follow a harder training day with a day of easy running or rest.
(12/11/23) Views: 85Keeley Milne
Jamaican hurdler Rushell Clayton eyes victory at Paris Olympics
The two-time 400m hurdles bronze medallist, seeks Olympic gold, driven by relentless determination, training hard, and setting lofty goals.
Two-time 400 metres hurdles World Championships bronze medallist Rushell Clayton is setting her sights on a golden achievement at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.
While she takes pride in her impressive professional athletic career, Clayton is determined to break free from the bronze cycle that has defined her major competition achievements.
At the age of 31, she is relentlessly pursuing the elusive gold medal.
"The goal is always to win the gold, so, for me, it's always getting into that top three," she said as per Jamaica Star.
Clayton, a member of the Elite Performance Track Club, had a stellar season marked by numerous personal best times.
She understands that to ascend to the highest step of the medal podium, she must continue to push herself to achieve better times.
With a personal best of 52.81 seconds, set at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, earlier this year, Clayton acknowledges that she might need to clock a time below 51 seconds to secure the coveted gold at the Paris Olympic Games in the next year.
To achieve her ambitious goal, Clayton is leaving no stone unturned, including the quest to dip below the national record of 52.42 seconds set by Melanie Walker.
"Personal records mean you're getting better, so it's always to run fast, and the faster you run, the more you get personal bests," she added.
While Clayton has a time goal in mind, she emphasizes that when it comes to the final race, it is not just about the clock; it is about the medal.
"The work never stops for Clayton," she affirms.
Clayton's hard work and outstanding performances during the last season have not gone unnoticed.
While Clayton has a time goal in mind, she emphasizes that when it comes to the final race, it is not just about the clock; it is about the medal.
"The work never stops for Clayton," she affirms.
Clayton's hard work and outstanding performances during the last season have not gone unnoticed.
(12/09/23) Views: 84Festus Chuma
A word from Kenenisa Bekele
I pushed my limits at the Valencia Marathon last weekend and thrilled to share the incredibly encouraging results! Finished 4th with a time of 2:04:18 filling me with hope for future races. Couldn't have done it without the amazing support of my fans – your encouragement means the world to me.
Big thank you to my sponsor ANTA for their support. Excited for what's to come!
Valencia, you've been an incredible host, and I never expected to have this much fun. Your warmth and energy have been truly inspiring, and I'm grateful beyond words.
The Valencia course is so comfortable, and I strongly believe it has the potential to witness the breaking of world records in the future.
Thank you all for being a part of this incredible journey. Your unwavering support keeps me going. Here's to aiming high and never giving up on our dreams!
(12/09/23) Views: 84Kenenisa Bekele
Kenya’s Bernard Kipkorir broke the course record at the 5th edition of the Mersin Marathon held on Sunday in Mersin, Turkey
The 27 year-old led a 1-2-3 Kenyan podium finish as he erased the old course time of 2:10.12 set five years ago by his compatriot Kenneth Kiplagat with a new course record of 2:09.33.
Kipkorir was followed in second place by Asbel Rutto who also ran under the old course in 2:09.46 with Hillary Kipchumba closing the podium three finishes in 2:10.11.
Hammington Kipchumba and Isaac Cheluko finished in fourth and fifth place in a time of 2:10.58 and 2:11.04 respectively.
(12/11/23) Views: 83John Vaselyne
Obiri, Kibet expected to defend titles as date for 2024 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is revealed
Kenyan champions prepare to defend titles in the 17th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, featuring new routes and 10km race.
The 17th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon has officially announced its date promising an electrifying event on February 24, 2024, against the stunning backdrop of the United Arab Emirates.
The prestigious event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, is set to make history this year with a new route on Al Marjan Island and the introduction of its inaugural 10km Road Race.
Hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), this renowned marathon will once again see elite long-distance athletes from around the globe, while also inviting thousands of passionate runners to participate in the associated 10km or 2km runs.
For the very first time in its illustrious history, the RAK Half Marathon will include a 10km race, a distance that serves as the perfect stepping stone for aspiring runners looking to prepare themselves for the ultimate challenge of a half marathon.
A significant change for this year's race is the introduction of a new route that will see the start and finish line located on Al Marjan Island.
Looking ahead to 2024, all three races will unfold on the scenic roads of this premier destination, a remarkable cluster of four coral-shaped islands within a stunning man-made archipelago.
As per Gulf News Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are very excited to announce the new date for the iconic RAK Half Marathon.
Since its inception 17 years ago, the event has carved its own niche on the global running stage, shining a bright spotlight on Ras Al Khaimah and attracting spectators and competitors of all skill levels. This annual race continues to produce world-class champions, while fostering a sense of unity between the local and international communities."
The news of the RAK Half Marathon's return has already captured the attention of world-class athletes who are eager to test their mettle in the ideal racing conditions provided by this event.
Many of them see this race as a crucial stepping stone as they prepare for prestigious competitions like the London Marathon and the Paris Olympics.
Reflecting on the previous edition, the 16th Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon witnessed a Kenyan double win, with Bernard Koech securing the men's elite title and Hellen Obiri dominating the women's event in impressive times of 58:45 and 1:05:05, respectively.
Obiri's victory this year marked a remarkable improvement from her runner-up position in the previous Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon.
Peter Connerton, Managing Director of Pace Events and Race Director of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, conveyed his honor and excitement, saying, "We are honored to have been entrusted with organizing the RAK Half Marathon, one of the most prominent sporting and social events in the UAE.
By introducing a 10km Road Race to the schedule as well as the option for team competition through the Corporate Challenge, we aim to make race day bigger and better than ever, while at the same time ensuring that the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon continues to attract the world's best distance runners."
The 2023 edition of the event attracted a star-studded lineup, including athletes like Seifu Tura, Daniel Mateiko, Kennedy Kimutai, Brigid Jepchirchir Kosgei, and Gotytom Gebreslase.
(12/09/23) Views: 80Festus Chuma
