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10/18/2025

Kenyans Matata and Rengeruk Capture Titles at Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon

Abhishek Pal and Seema Yadav lead Indian runners

New Delhi, October 12, 2025 — Kenya’s Alex Nzioka Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk delivered commanding performances to sweep the men’s and women’s crowns at the 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label event. It marked only the second Kenyan double in race history, the first coming in 2006.

Matata, runner-up in 2024, dominated from midway, running solo to victory in 59:50, his fifth half-marathon win of the year. The RAK Half Marathon champion, who boasts a 59:20 personal best, led through 10K in 28:43 alongside compatriot Reuben Rono before breaking clear. Ethiopia’s Bayelign Teshager (1:00:22) and Kenyan James Kipkogei (1:00:25) completed the podium.

“Last year I was number two, so my goal was to do better,” Matata said. “The weather was good, I knew the course, and I ran without pressure—just to win.”

In the women’s race, Rengeruk used her experience to outkick Ethiopia’s 19-year-old Melal Biratu in a thrilling sprint, clocking 1:07:20 to win by one second. Fellow Ethiopian Mulat Tekle took third in 1:07:28. The 2023 champion Alemaddis Eyayu finished seventh (1:10:51).

“It was tough, but I felt strong and told myself to stay patient and fight to the finish,” said Rengeruk, who recently returned from injury.

Biratu, pleased with her debut effort, added: “The humidity was higher than expected, but I’m happy with my personal best.”

Both winners earned US$27,000 from a total prize purse of US$260,000.

(10/12/25) Views: 357

Conner Mantz Breaks American Record as Kiplimo and Feysa Capture Chicago Marathon

The 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon delivered one of the most thrilling editions in its storied history on Sunday, October 12. Under cool, calm conditions ideal for fast running, Conner Mantz not only etched his name into American distance running history but did so amid dominant victories by Jacob Kiplimo and Hawi Feysa on the world stage.

Mantz Makes U.S. Marathon History

American marathon fans have waited more than two decades for this moment. Running with remarkable composure and confidence, Conner Mantz clocked an astonishing 2:04:43, smashing the long-standing U.S. men’s record of 2:05:38 set by Khalid Khannouchi in 2002—ironically, also in Chicago.

Mantz placed fourth overall in a deep international field but was the clear headline story for American distance running. The record capped off a remarkable season that already included a U.S. half-marathon record (59:17 in Houston) and a strong 2:05:08 run in Boston earlier this year.

“This has been my goal since I first ran Chicago,” Mantz said after the race. “To come back here and do it—it’s a dream realized.”

His coach, Ed Eyestone, called it “a masterclass in discipline and pacing,” noting that Mantz hit every target split almost to the second.

Kiplimo Commands the Men’s Race

While Mantz captured American hearts, Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo controlled the overall competition from start to finish. The world half-marathon record holder surged decisively at 30 kilometers and never looked back, winning in 2:02:23—the fastest time ever run on U.S. soil.

Kenya’s Amos Kipruto finished second in 2:03:54, and compatriot Alex Masai placed third in 2:04:37, rounding out a podium that showcased both experience and emerging talent.

Kiplimo’s victory solidifies his status as one of the sport’s brightest stars, adding a major-marathon title to his growing résumé that already includes world titles in the half marathon and cross country.

Feysa Dominates Women’s Field

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Hawi Feysa claimed her biggest career win in spectacular fashion. She broke away in the final 10 kilometers to take the title in 2:14:56, a personal best by more than two minutes.

Feysa’s countrywoman Megertu Alemu took second in 2:17:18, while Magdalena Shauri of Tanzania earned third in 2:18:03. Feysa’s victory margin and commanding finish underscored her potential as a future global contender.

“I felt strong all the way,” she said afterward. “Today, Chicago gave me my best race.”

A Day for the Record Books

 The 47th edition of the Chicago Marathon reaffirmed the city’s status as one of the fastest marathon courses in the world. With ideal weather, roaring crowds, and a record-breaking performance by Conner Mantz, the event once again proved to be a defining stage for greatness.

For Mantz, the day marked not just a new national standard but a signal to the world that American marathoners are back in the global conversation.

As he crossed the finish line, arms raised in disbelief, it was clear: October 12, 2025, will be remembered as the day an American finally ran with—and among—the very best.

(10/12/25) Views: 318
Boris Baron

Jackson Spencer Shatters 18-Year-Old Woodward Park Record with 14:16 Run

A new era in high school cross country has arrived. On October 11, 2025, at the ASICS Clovis Invitational in Fresno, California, Jackson Spencer of Utah delivered one of the most extraordinary performances in prep distance running history—clocking an astonishing 14:16 to break the revered Woodward Park course record.

 For 18 years, the 14:24 mark set by German Fernandez in 2007 had stood as the gold standard of high school cross country excellence. Fernandez’s time, achieved while representing Riverbank High, seemed untouchable—a performance that became legend. Yet Spencer, racing fearlessly from the start, made the impossible look effortless.

 A Race for the Ages

 On the cool Fresno morning, Spencer attacked the 5K course with precision and poise. He surged early to establish control, floated through the rolling middle mile, and powered up the final hill with clear intent. As he charged toward the finish, the crowd roared—the clock stopped at 14:16, a full eight seconds faster than one of the most celebrated records in California cross country history.

“This course has seen some of the best runners in the nation,” said one longtime coach. “But today, Jackson Spencer did something truly historic. You could feel it—this was a special run.”

The Legacy of Woodward Park

Woodward Park is not known for being easy. Its undulating terrain, challenging final climb, and tight turns have tested generations of champions. To go under 14:30 is rare; to break 14:20 is almost unthinkable. That’s why Fernandez’s record endured for nearly two decades.

Spencer’s new standard now joins the short list of monumental high school performances—proof that talent, discipline, and courage still redefine what’s possible on the trails of Fresno.

A New Benchmark

With this record-breaking run, Jackson Spencer has cemented his name among the greats of American high school distance running. As the postseason approaches, all eyes will be on the young runner from Utah to see just how far he can go.

One thing is certain: on October 11, 2025, at Woodward Park, history was rewritten.

(10/11/25) Views: 253
Boris Baron

Chicago’s Marathon Legacy — From Kiptum’s Perfection to Kiplimo’s Power

Two years apart, on the same streets of Chicago, two East African greats delivered marathon performances that will be remembered for generations.

 

In 2023, Kenya’s Kelvin Kiptum stunned the world with his 2:00:35 world record, a run that redefined endurance and perfection.

In 2025, Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, already the half marathon world record holder, returned to Chicago for his second career marathon and clocked 2:02:23 — his personal best and the seventh-fastest marathon ever run.

 

Split by Split — The Chicago Comparison

Distance	Kiptum (2023)	Kiplimo (2025)	Difference
5 km	14:26	13:58	−28 sec
10 km	28:42	28:25	−17 sec
15 km	43:09	42:40	−29 sec
20 km	57:39	57:05	−34 sec
Half	1:00:48	1:00:16	−32 sec
25 km	1:12:04	1:11:12	−52 sec
30 km	1:26:31	1:25:31	−60 sec
35 km	1:40:22	1:39:52	−30 sec
40 km	1:54:23	1:55:10	+47 sec
Finish	2:00:35 (World Record)	2:02:23	+1:48

How They Ran

 

Kelvin Kiptum (2023):

Kiptum ran one of the most perfectly executed marathons in history. After a steady opening half in 1:00:48, he unleashed a ferocious negative split of 59:47, the fastest second half ever recorded. His closing 10K in 27:52 sealed a new world record and forever changed how we think about the marathon.

 

Jacob Kiplimo (2025):

After finishing second in his marathon debut at the 2025 London Marathon, Kiplimo arrived in Chicago more prepared — and fearless. From the start, he attacked the course, opening in 13:58 for 5K, the fastest ever in Chicago. Through 30K, he was over a minute ahead of Kiptum’s world-record pace. Although he slowed slightly in the final 10K, his 2:02:23 finish was the fastest ever by an Ugandan and the 7th-fastest marathon in history.

 

⚖️ The Contrast

• Strategy: Kiptum’s patience vs. Kiplimo’s aggression.

• Halfway: Kiplimo led by 32 seconds at 21.1K.

• Closing Power: Kiptum’s final 7K (13:51 split) remains unmatched.

• Outcome: Kiplimo’s performance wasn’t a world record, but it confirmed his place among the greatest marathoners of his generation.

 

 

Legacy and Continuation

 

Tragically, Kelvin Kiptum was killed in a car accident in Kenya in February 2024, just months after his world-record run. His passing shocked the running world and ended the career of a man many believed would one day break two hours on a record-eligible course.

 

When Jacob Kiplimo returned to Chicago in 2025, it felt like a continuation of that story — a symbolic passing of the torch. Running on the same course where Kiptum made history, Kiplimo carried forward the East African legacy of excellence, courage, and speed.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Kiptum’s 2:00:35 remains the marathon’s gold standard — calm, controlled, and utterly brilliant.

Kiplimo’s 2:02:23 showed fearless front-running and a promise of what’s still to come.

 

Two men. Two races. One city.

Chicago — where the modern marathon’s greatest chapters continue to be written.

- - - 

The 9 Fastest Men’s Marathons of All Time (as of Oct 13, 2025)

Rank	Name	Time	Venue
1	Kelvin Kiptum (KEN)	2:00:35	Chicago 2023
2	Eliud Kipchoge (KEN)	2:01:09	Berlin 2022
3	Kenenisa Bekele (ETH)	2:01:41	Berlin 2019
4	Sisay Lemma (ETH)	2:01:48	Valencia 2023
5	Sebastian Sawe (KEN)	2:02:05	Valencia 2024
6	Benson Kipruto (KEN)	2:02:16	Tokyo 2024

(10/13/25) Views: 237
Bob Anderson

Meb Keflezighi: “The Stars May Align for Conner Mantz in Chicago”

As the running world turns its eyes toward the 2025 Chicago Marathon, American marathon legend Meb Keflezighi has shared a heartfelt message of support for rising U.S. star Conner Mantz—and a bold prediction.

“I am looking forward to seeing what Conner Mantz is going to do this weekend in Chicago,” Meb wrote on Facebook. “I believe it will be a special day for him, and if the stars align, we will have a new American record holder for the marathon when he crosses the finish line.”

The American men’s marathon record of 2:05:38, set by Khalid Khannouchi at the 2002 London Marathon, has stood for over two decades—a mark that was once the world record. Meb acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge but expressed full faith in Mantz’s ability and momentum.

Keflezighi also reflected on his long friendship with Mantz, noting they first met when Conner was still in high school competing at the Foot Locker Cross Country Championships.

“Conner and I have become good friends over the past few years,” Meb shared. “He once told me I was his dad’s favorite marathoner, and these days I am happy to be second in his book!”

Support for the Field and Team HAWI

Meb extended his encouragement to the entire elite field, especially John Korir, last year’s Chicago champion and the 2025 Boston Marathon winner.

“It’s hard to win back-to-back,” he wrote, “but John is a special athlete and I’m excited to see what he can do.”

Keflezighi also gave a proud shout-out to his brother Hawi Keflezighi, who represents nine elite athletes racing in Chicago under Team HAWI Management.

“We Are All Sharing the Same Road”

Meb closed with a message that captures the spirit of the marathon and why he continues to inspire runners of all levels.

“To everyone running the Chicago Marathon this weekend, remember, the beauty of sport is that we are all sharing the same road and taking on those 26.2 miles together. I hope you all have a great experience on the streets of Chicago.”

Photo: Meb Keflezighi, Olympic medalist and Boston Marathon champion, cheering on the next generation.

(10/10/25) Views: 155
Bob Anderson

Personal Bests Shine at KATA Time Trial #49 in Thika

October 15, 2025 | KATA Running Retreat, Thika

While turnout was limited due to Kenya Police recruitment activities and the upcoming National Masters Trials, the KATA Time Trial #49 at the Thika Retreat delivered outstanding performances and a string of new personal bests — a true reflection of dedication and progress among the athletes.

A total of 12 athletes — 8 men and 4 women — lined up for the 10K races, producing inspiring results that showcased the continued strength of the KATA program.

Men’s 10K

John Chege impressed once again, winning in 29:22, a personal best that lowered his previous time by 20 seconds. Chege, the Thika Camp team leader, said he had targeted a sub-29-minute finish but found himself running solo from the 2 km mark. His coach remains confident that milestone will come soon.

Kelvin Ragui followed in 30:21, with Boniface Mungai rounding out the podium in 30:44. Several athletes achieved season or lifetime bests, marking steady improvement across the men’s field.

Results – Men’s 10K

1. John Chege (20 22) – 29:22

2. Kelvin Ragui (24 02) – 30:21

3. Boniface Mungai (30 07) – 30:44

4. Joseph Kariuki (39 11) – 31:01

5. Charles Ndirangu (24 04) – 32:40

6. Ishmael Mburu (25 05) – 33:41

7. Paul Nganga (43 30) – 36:16

8. Charles Ndirangu (65 08) – 39:11

Women’s 10K

In the women’s division, Jacinta Kamau delivered a brilliant run, taking victory in 33:45, a new personal best by over a minute. Loise Kiarie was close behind in 34:22, also a personal best. Ruth Maina (38:04) and Agnes Wanjiru (41:15) rounded out the top four with commendable efforts.

Results – Women’s 10K

1. Jacinta Kamau (24 79) – 33:45

2. Loise Kiarie (24 78) – 34:22

3. Ruth Maina (22 80) – 38:04

4. Agnes Wanjiru (20 83) – 41:15

Director’s Message

“It is not always about a volume of runners. Our KATA Time Trial program is about improving your personal bests and clocking season’s bests. And that is what was done in Thika this morning. Well done team.”

— Bob Anderson, KATA Founder & Director

(10/15/25) Views: 124
Boris Baron

Chasing New York: What to Watch at the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon

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

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

The Big Picture

• Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Course Records

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

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

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

Men’s Elite Highlights

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

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

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

• Benson Kipruto (Kenya) – Chicago 2022 winner.

• Albert Korir (Kenya) – former NYC champion.

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

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

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

Women’s Elite Highlights

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

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

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

• Sheila Chepkirui (Kenya) – defending NYC champion.

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

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

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

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

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

What Makes New York Unique (and Brutal)

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

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

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

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

Storylines to Watch

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

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

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

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

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

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

For Runners and Coaches

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

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

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

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

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

The Bottom Line

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

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

(10/16/25) Views: 96
Boris Baron

KATA Satellite Time Trial #2 – Tingoro Camp (K26)

KATA’s second Satellite Time Trial brought impressive results from Tingoro Camp (K26)  Oct 15 under the leadership of Coach and Camp Operator Benard Rono. Both the women’s 5km and men’s 10km races showcased outstanding individual efforts, steady progress, and several new personal bests.

 

These results highlight the effectiveness of the KATA system — combining focused athletic training with sustainable farming — as athletes across Kenya continue to grow stronger through dedication and discipline.

 

women’s 5k 

Position	Name	Time	Age	Camp	Bib
1	Faith Cheplkenei	16:32.05	18	Tingoro	181
2	Linda Chebet	17:01.55	18	Tingoro	099
3	Naomi Wangare	17:07.77	17	Tingoro	098
4	Esther Chepkemoi	17:17.91	19	Tingoro	134
5	Sylvia Cheplelimo	18:20.34	17	Tingoro	132
6	Stella Cheplelimo	18:24.56	17	Tingoro	133
7	Joy Chepkemoi	—	—	Tingoro

Men’s 10k 

Position	Name	Time	Age	Camp	Bib
1	Kelvin Kilel	30:11.12	26	Tingoro	036
2	Kelvin Langat	30:13.49	17	Tingoro	095
3	Clinton Kipbet	30:41.14	19	Tingoro	137
4	Shadrack Bett	31:21.10	21	Tingoro	096
5	Silas Longwet	31:32.71	18	Tingoro	093

 

“Each of our KATA camps continues to build a culture of improvement and excellence. The performances at Tingoro today show that our approach is working. Congratulations to all the athletes, and to Coach Benard Rono for guiding the team so well.”

— Bob Anderson, KATA Founder & Director

 

(10/15/25) Views: 72
Boris Baron

KATA Time Trial #2 — Tenden KATA Running Camp (K09)

 

The Tenden KATA Running Camp (K09) held its second official KATA Time Trial on October 15, 2025. Despite challenging high-altitude conditions at 2,200 meters, athletes produced a series of solid performances that reflect the steady progress within the KATA system.

 

5 KM Men

1. Sammy Kwemoi — 16:20

2. Abraham Kibet — 17:01

3. Nickson Rana — 17:40

4. Emmanuel Kemboi — 18:17

5. Chrispine Korir — 18:33

 

10 KM Men

1. Duncan Kemei — 31:49

2. Ian Kimutai — 34:05

3. Ezekiel Kipksgei — 34:05

4. Clement Kipkoech — 36:59

 

Coach Philemon Kipruto, who oversees both the Kapcherop (K01) and Tenden (K09) KATA Camps, commended the group for their dedication and discipline, emphasizing how consistent time trials like this one serve as key benchmarks for future competition readiness.

 

Date: October 15, 2025

Altitude: 2,200 m

Location: Tenden, Kenya

 

Coach & Camp Operator: Philemon Kipruto

 

“Every KATA time trial gives us a clear picture of our athletes’ growth,” said Bob Anderson, Founder and Director of KATA. “Our goal is continuous improvement — pushing for better pacing, endurance, and execution. The Tenden camp is proving that focus and teamwork deliver results.”

 

The Tenden camp continues to develop a promising roster of young talent, supported by KATA’s integrated training-and-farming model, designed to empower athletes both on the track and in life.

(10/15/25) Views: 66
Boris Baron

KATA 07 Sachangwan Time Trial Produces Personal Bests in Perfect Conditions

Favorable weather and strong determination made today’s KATA 07 Sachangwan Time Trial October 15 is one to remember. Every athlete recorded a personal best on the challenging 10 km and 5 km routes, showing how much progress the camp has made under the leadership of Coach and Camp Operator Amos Chirchir.

Leading the men’s 10 km field, Weldon Langat delivered a superb run, crossing the line in 30 minutes 16 seconds — a new personal best. The 19-year-old improved by an impressive 32 seconds from his previous time trial on the Salgaa–Rongai route, demonstrating both consistency and growth. Hot on his heels, Vincent Kemboi finished second in 31:00, followed by Emmanuel Bor in 31:54 and Benjamin Kibet in 33:34.

 

All four men posted lifetime bests, a testament to their disciplined training and steady improvement.

In the women’s 5 km event, Elizabeth Wambui dominated with a powerful performance, clocking 17:35 at age 20 to claim victory in style. Her run capped a day of inspiration and motivation for the entire Sachangwan training group.

Official Results – KATA 07 Sachangwan Time Trial (October 15, 2025)

 

MEN – 10 KM

1. Weldon Langat – 30:16 (Age 19, Bib No. 024, 10 km)

2. Vincent Kemboi – 31:00 (Age 32, Bib No. 009, 10 km)

3. Emmanuel Bor – 31:54 (Age 25, Bib No. 010, 10 km)

4. Benjamin Kibet – 33:34 (Age 18, Bib No. 007, 10 km)

 

WOMEN – 5 KM

1. Elizabeth Wambui – 17:35 (Age 20, Bib No. 008, 5 km)

 

Coach Amos Chirchir praised his team’s progress, saying, “Every athlete achieved a personal best today. That shows the hard work and commitment behind our program. At KATA, we believe in developing champions through consistency, teamwork, and opportunity.”

He also expressed gratitude to KATA Founder and Director Bob Anderson and Catherine Anderson for their continued support, which has empowered athletes across Kenya through both training and farming initiatives.

The KATA 07 Sachangwan Camp continues to embody the KATA vision — Empowering Athletes. Growing Futures.

 

(10/15/25) Views: 62
Boris Baron