Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
11/8/2025
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
Eliud Kipchoge Finishes the 2025 New York City Marathon in 2:14:36
Eliud Kipchoge, the greatest marathoner of all time, took on the challenging streets of New York City for the first time — and finished strong in 2:14:36. Known for his smooth efficiency and calm composure, Kipchoge tackled the hilly and tactical course with trademark focus, staying consistent through the early stages before the pace slowed slightly in the latter half.
His early splits showed controlled aggression: 15:12 at 5K, 30:25 at 10K, and 1:05:20 at halfway. Through 30K, he was still moving well in 1:33:02, but the final 10 kilometers through Central Park tested even the marathon master, bringing him home in 2:14:36.
Though not among his fastest times, this was a run filled with purpose and legacy. For Kipchoge, New York was never about breaking records — it was about embracing one of the sport’s most iconic stages and completing his journey across all six World Marathon Majors.
At 40 years old, the Kenyan legend has now conquered every major marathon city, further solidifying his place as the face of modern distance running. "Many at age 40 have run much faster but this is still very respectable," says KATA founder Bob Anderson.
(11/03/25) Views: 635Boris Baron
Benson Kipruto Wins a Thrilling 2025 New York City Marathon as Kipchoge and Bekele Fade
The streets of New York witnessed one of the most dramatic finishes in recent marathon history as Benson Kipruto of Kenya edged compatriot Alexander Mutiso by fractions of a second to win the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon. Both men were clocked at 2:08:09, with Kipruto leaning ahead in the final meters of Central Park to claim the title.
The victory marked a triumphant return to the top for Kipruto, who has previously won the Boston and Chicago Marathons. On a day when tactics mattered as much as fitness, he delivered a perfectly timed surge to secure the crown.
Alexander Mutiso finished a close second in 2:08:09, just 0.16 seconds behind, while 2021 New York champion Albert Korir completed the Kenyan sweep in third with a time of 2:08:57. Great Britain’s Patrick Dever ran a superb debut marathon to finish fourth in 2:08:58, and Swiss athlete Matthias Kyburz crossed the line fifth in 2:09:55.
All eyes were on Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic champion and marathon world record holder, making his long-awaited debut in New York. The legendary Kenyan started conservatively and remained in the lead pack through halfway, but the relentless climbs and bridges of the course eventually took their toll. Kipchoge finished 17th in 2:14:36, smiling as he crossed the line, suggesting this could be his final appearance at a World Marathon Major.
Ethiopian great Kenenisa Bekele also started among the favorites but faded after the 30-kilometer mark and did not finish the race. His withdrawal, along with Kipchoge’s struggles, highlighted the unique difficulty of New York’s course—one that tests strategy and strength more than sheer speed.
Despite the absence of a record-breaking time, the 2025 edition of the TCS New York City Marathon delivered unforgettable drama. The Kenyan trio’s podium sweep reaffirmed the country’s dominance in distance running, while thousands of runners from across the globe once again turned the streets of the five boroughs into a festival of endurance and inspiration.
Top 10 Men’s Results – 2025 TCS New York City Marathon:
1. Benson Kipruto (Kenya) – 2:08:09
2. Alexander Mutiso (Kenya) – 2:08:09
3. Albert Korir (Kenya) – 2:08:57
4. Patrick Dever (Great Britain) – 2:08:58
5. Matthias Kyburz (Switzerland) – 2:09:55
6. Joel Reichow (United States) – 2:09:56
7. Charles Hicks (United States) – 2:09:59
8. Sondre Moen (Norway) – 2:10:15
9. Tsegay Weldlibanos (Eritrea) – 2:10:36
10. Joe Klecker (United States) – 2:10:37
Eliud Kipchoge finished 17th in 2:14:36.
Kenenisa Bekele did not finish (DNF).
(11/02/25) Views: 399Boris Baron
Lucy Muritu: The Mother, Farmer, Coach, and Athlete Nurturing Nyandarua’s Next Generation
In the cool highlands of Nyandarua County, about 180 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, Lucy Muritu has built a life that seamlessly blends her passions for running, farming, and mentoring. Once based at the KATA Training Center in Thika, the seasoned road-running athlete has transformed her personal athletic journey into one of leadership, hard work, and community empowerment.
Born in Mukurweini, Nyeri County, Lucy grew up as the second of five children in a farming family. From a young age, she developed a deep respect for the land and a strong work ethic—values that continue to guide her today.
“Working in potato farming under the KATA program has been both rewarding and demanding,” she says. “The program provides valuable support like quality seeds, interest-free loans, and expert advice. These have helped me increase my yields and improve my farming practices. Through KATA, I’ve also met other farmers and taken part in competitions that keep me motivated to keep learning and growing.”
Her relocation to Nyandarua opened a new chapter, allowing her to merge her athletic discipline with agricultural entrepreneurship and youth development. “Balancing farming with training requires good time management and a strong support system,” she explains. “I plan my days carefully—mornings are for planting, weeding, or supervising workers, while afternoons and evenings are for running and workouts. It can be tough during planting seasons, but with determination and support from my family and team, I manage both. Staying active in both keeps me inspired and allows me to give back more to my community.”
Mentorship has become one of Lucy’s greatest sources of fulfillment. “I’m passionate about helping young and junior athletes,” she says. “By sharing what I’ve learned, I can help them reach their potential—not just in sports but in life. Growing up, mentors played a huge role in my journey, and I want to do the same for others, especially in rural areas where opportunities can be scarce.”
She beams when talking about the athletes she coaches. “Watching them grow in confidence, discipline, and skill is incredibly rewarding,” Lucy says. “I want them to understand that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their dreams—whether on the track, in the classroom, or in their communities.”
Lucy also carries a special message for women juggling multiple roles. “Believe in yourself and never underestimate your strength,” she says. “It’s not always easy to balance family, work, and personal dreams, but with determination, planning, and support, it’s possible to thrive in all areas. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and always take time for yourself. Every role you play—as a mother, professional, coach, or athlete—has its own value. Celebrate every achievement and keep pushing forward. By following your passion and setting a positive example, you’re showing young girls that they too can dream big and succeed.”
Lucy Muritu’s story is one of harmony—between nurturing crops and cultivating talent, between personal goals and community service. Her journey proves that true success doesn’t come from running away from your roots, but by running with them.
(11/01/25) Views: 239Robert Kibet
Ethiopians Dejene Debela and Tigst Getnet Lead the Elite Fields at the 2025 Istanbul Marathon
The 47th Türkiye İş Bankası Istanbul Marathon takes place this Sunday, November 2, 2025, drawing top international athletes to one of the world’s most scenic and competitive races. A World Athletics Gold Label event, the marathon is famous for its cross-continental course that starts in Asia, crosses the Bosphorus Bridge, and finishes in Europe.
Elite Headliners
Defending champion Dejene Debela and fellow Ethiopian Tigst Getnet lead this year’s elite fields. Debela’s personal best is 2:05:46, while Getnet’s stands at 2:23:17. Both are eager to add another title to Ethiopia’s long tradition of marathon dominance.
The men’s and women’s races are deep with talent. Half a dozen men have run between 2:05:30 and 2:09:00, and six women enter with times under 2:26:00. Around 6,000 marathoners will race the full distance, joined by tens of thousands more in shorter events — totaling over 42,000 runners.
“Since Istanbul is a candidate for the 2036 Olympic Games, our marathon has an important role to play,” said Race Director Bilge Donuk.
The Men’s Race
Dejene Debela returns to defend his title after winning in windy conditions last year. “It was very windy last year, so this time I hope for a much faster time,” he said. The 30-year-old Ethiopian, who trains in Addis Ababa, set his PB of 2:05:46 in Chicago (2019) and has since overcome injuries that slowed his progress.
Organizers expect pacemakers to target 63:30–63:45 at halfway — a pace Debela says fits his goal. He has raced sparingly this year, dropping out of the Wuxi Marathon in March as a precaution but now says he feels “ready to defend my title.”
Among his challengers are Rhonzas Kilimo (KEN, 2:06:09) and Ethiopia’s Sufaro Woliyi, just 22, who impressed with a 2:07:19 debut in Xiamen. Kenya’s Benard Kipkorir, fourth here last year, recently clocked 2:08:12 in Chongqing and could also contend.
Kenya’s Denis Chirchir was forced to withdraw with a stress fracture, while New Zealand’s Jake Robertson is sidelined by injury.
The Women’s Race
Two Ethiopian training partners — Tigst Getnet and Sofia Assefa — headline the women’s field. Both train under Kirubel Damtew in Addis Ababa. Getnet’s best is 2:23:17, while Assefa’s stands at 2:23:33.
Sofia Assefa, 37, is a former world-class steeplechaser who won Olympic silver in 2012 and World Championship bronze in 2013. After a promising marathon debut in Amsterdam, she placed second in Copenhagen this May with 2:26:21 and says she’s now in even better form.
Her training partner Tigst Getnet, 15 years younger, has already completed six marathons. Her debut in Dubai (2023) remains her best, and she’ll look to return to that level in Istanbul.
Other notable contenders include Yenenesh Tilahun Dinkesa (2:24:09), Letebrhan Gebreslasea (2:24:47), and Roman Gidey (2:25:22), who ran two strong marathons within two weeks in Guangzhou last year. Kenya’s rising 21-year-old Joan Kilimo (2:25:32 debut in Milan) leads the Kenyan challenge.
Defending champion Ruth Jebet has withdrawn to compete in the Islamic Solidarity Games next week in Riyadh.
Top Elite Runners and Personal Bests
Men
Dejene Debela (ETH) – 2:05:46
Rhonzas Kilimo (KEN) – 2:06:09
Sufaro Woliyi (ETH) – 2:07:19
Benard Kipkorir (KEN) – 2:08:12
Isaac Too (KEN) – 2:08:45
Charles Mneria (KEN) – 2:08:54
Hillary Kipchumba (KEN) – 2:09:53
Women
Tigst Getnet (ETH) – 2:23:17
Sofia Assefa (ETH) – 2:23:33
Yenenesh Tilahun Dinkesa (ETH) – 2:24:09
Letebrhan Gebreslasea (ETH) – 2:24:47
Roman Gidey (ETH) – 2:25:22
Joan Kilimo (KEN) – 2:25:32
(10/31/25) Views: 186Race News Service
Rhonzas Kilimo and Bizuager Aderra Triumph in Thrilling Istanbul Marathon
ISTANBUL, November 2, 2025 — Kenya’s Rhonzas Kilimo and Ethiopia’s Bizuager Aderra claimed sensational victories at the 47th Türkiye İş Bankası Istanbul Marathon, both securing the biggest wins of their careers and pocketing $50,000 each.
In warm, sunny conditions, 29-year-old Kilimo edged out defending champion Dejene Debela in a fierce uphill battle to the finish, clocking 2:10:12. Debela was just 11 seconds back in 2:10:23, with fellow Ethiopian Sufaro Woliyi third in 2:10:26.
The women’s race delivered the closest finish in the marathon’s history. 22-year-old Bizuager Aderraemerged as a surprise champion, breaking her personal best with 2:26:19 — just two seconds ahead of Olympic steeplechase silver medalist Sofia Assefa. Kenya’s Joan Kilimo, unrelated to the men’s winner, finished third in 2:26:36.
More than 6,000 runners competed in the marathon, with a total of 42,000 participants across all distances. The event holds a World Athletics Gold Label and is Turkey’s premier marathon.
Men’s Race: Kilimo Conquers the Hills
The men’s race began at an even pace, with the lead pack — including 16 athletes and four pacemakers — passing 10K in 30:41 and halfway in 1:04:41. Hopes of breaking the six-year-old course record (2:09:44 by Daniel Kibet) faded as the tempo dropped in the second half under 20°C heat.
As the runners approached the final mile-long climb, five men remained: Kilimo, Debela, Woliyi, Kenya’s Isaac Too, and Turkey’s Hüseyin Can. Too and Woliyi began to fade, leaving Kilimo and Debela to duel for victory.
“I had no clue about the uphill section at the end — it was a surprise to me,” Kilimo said afterward. “But I train in hilly areas around Iten, so I was ready.”
Kilimo, who ran a personal best of 2:06:09 in Seoul in 2024, crossed the line first in 2:10:12. “This was my biggest win so far,” he added. “My next goal is to run 2:03 on a fast course.”
Can delighted the home crowd by finishing fifth in a personal best of 2:10:58.
Women’s Race: Aderra’s Last-Minute Surge
The women’s field set an ambitious early pace — 33:38 at 10K and 1:11:22 at halfway — led by a pack of five: Ethiopians Bizuager Aderra, Sofia Assefa, Tigst Getnet, Gete Dukale, and Kenya’s Joan Kilimo.
As the temperature rose, the pace slowed. Assefa briefly fell behind but fought back, and with one kilometer to go, four women were still in contention. Assefa appeared to edge ahead, but Aderra responded with a decisive surge over the final 400 meters, sprinting into Sultan Ahmet Park to secure the win.
“This is the biggest win of my life — and a personal best,” said Aderra, whose previous mark was 2:28:27 from Rabat earlier this year. “My next goal is to go under 2:20.”
Top Results
Men
1. Rhonzas Kilimo (KEN) – 2:10:12
2. Dejene Debela (ETH) – 2:10:23
3. Sufaro Woliyi (ETH) – 2:10:26
4. Isaac Too (KEN) – 2:10:45
5. Hüseyin Can (TUR) – 2:10:58
6. Dickson Nyakundi (KEN) – 2:12:15
7. Charles Mneria (KEN) – 2:13:04
8. Dominik Bett (KEN) – 2:17:26
Women
1. Bizuager Aderra (ETH) – 2:26:19
2. Sofia Assefa (ETH) – 2:26:21
3. Joan Kilimo (KEN) – 2:26:36
4. Tigst Getnet (ETH) – 2:26:44
5. Gete Dukale (ETH) – 2:29:19
6. Roman Gidey (ETH) – 2:29:53
7. Rael Cherop (KEN) – 2:32:25
8. Yenenesh Tilahun Dinkesa (ETH) – 2:34:03
(11/02/25) Views: 161Race News Service
NYC Marathon Sets New World Record for Largest Number of Finishers
The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon has officially set a new world record for the largest number of finishers in a marathon, surpassing the mark set by the London Marathon earlier this year.
A total of 59,226 runners crossed the finish line in Central Park, eclipsing London’s 2025 record of 56,640 finishers achieved back in April. Last year, New York welcomed 55,643 finishers — making this year’s turnout an impressive increase of more than 3,500 participants.
This year’s field included 31,927 men, 27,156 women, and 143 non-binary runners, reflecting the marathon’s continued growth in global diversity and participation.
Average finish times:
• Men: 4:18:55
• Women: 4:48:11
• Non-binary: 4:43:59
• Overall: 4:32:25
The record underscores New York’s enduring status as one of the world’s most iconic marathons. Every November, the five-borough race captures the imagination of runners and fans alike, transforming the city into a global stage of endurance, determination, and celebration.
As one runner posted after finishing, “There’s nothing like New York — the crowd, the bridges, the skyline, and the feeling when you cross that line.”
With 59,226 finishers, the 2025 New York City Marathon is now not only the largest marathon in history but also a testament to the global passion for running that continues to grow stronger every year.
(11/05/25) Views: 141Boris Baron
KATA Kerenget Runners Excel in 10K Time Trial Despite Challenging Weather
Athletes at the KATA Kerenget Running Camp (ID K03), operated by Sammy Dismas, showcased their determination and talent during a 10K time trial held today under tough weather conditions. Despite the challenge, the event was a success, demonstrating the resilience and dedication that define the KATA spirit.
In the men’s 10K, Amos Kirui (Bib 076) claimed victory with an impressive time of 29:56, edging out Jackson Koech (Bib 069), who finished close behind in 30:01. Cosmas Mutai (Bib 070) secured third place in 30:20, while Benard Kibilo (Bib 071) and camp operator Sammy Dismas (Bib 077) followed in 30:32 and 30:51, respectively. Simon Toli (Bib 070) rounded out the top six with a strong 31:00 finish.
In the women’s 10K, Daphine Kiptoo (Bib 072) led from the front to take the win in 35:00, followed by Sharon Ndanu (Bib 074) in 35:40 and Mercy Chepngeno (Bib 073) in 36:15.
“Even though the weather was not favorable, we did our best to ensure everything went on well,” reported the Kerenget Camp team. Their commitment ensured another smooth and competitive trial for the KATA athletes.
The KATA Kerenget Running Camp is one of 31 KATA Running Camps, mostly located in Kenya’s Rift Valley, that help athletes reach their potential under the Kenyan Athletics Training Academy (KATA)program. With regular time trials like this, runners continue to refine their form and fitness as they prepare for upcoming races both locally and internationally.
(10/31/25) Views: 123Boris Baron
Eliud Kipchoge’s Final Quest: Chasing Meaning, Not Medals in New York
When the sun rises over Staten Island this Sunday, the world will witness something special — Eliud Kipchoge, the greatest marathoner of all time, running the TCS New York City Marathon for the first time. At 40, the Kenyan legend isn’t chasing records. He’s chasing completeness — the final chapter of a career that redefined endurance and possibility.
With two Olympic golds, 11 major marathon victories, and the historic sub-two-hour run, Kipchoge already stands alone. Yet New York remains the one missing jewel in his Abbott World Marathon Majors crown. “If I don’t complete all of them,” he says, “I feel like I am halfway. My legacy will be complete when I have a sixth star.”
But New York is no Berlin. Its hills and bridges test rhythm and resolve. Kipchoge faces a tough field, led by his former training partner and defending champion Abdi Nageeye, along with Benson Kipruto, Alexander Mutiso, and Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta. Nageeye, coming off a 2:04:20 in London, aims to defend his title and disrupt the legend’s farewell.
Still, for Kipchoge, this race is about purpose, not podiums. “My happiness is to see people getting interested in what I’m selling,” he says. “I’m selling the sport as a profession.” His mission now is to inspire — through running, mentorship, and his wellness platform Kotcha, which blends training, nutrition, and education. “We’re bringing knowledge to people’s fingertips,” he explains.
To him, running is a universal language. “All human beings are beautiful,” Kipchoge says. “The problem is ourselves — not using our knowledge.”
As 50,000 runners take on the five boroughs, Kipchoge’s presence turns the marathon into something larger — a meditation on effort, purpose, and legacy. His calm smile and relentless discipline remind the world that greatness isn’t about medals, but meaning.
On Sunday, as he strides through Central Park, Kipchoge won’t just be chasing a finish line. He’ll be closing a circle — running not for glory, but for the joy of fulfillment.
(11/01/25) Views: 122Robert Kibet for My Best Runs
Hellen Obiri Makes History in New York — First Woman to Break 2:20 in the Big Apple
NEW YORK CITY — Kenya’s Hellen Obiri produced a sensational performance at the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, reclaiming her crown and making history with a course-record run of 2:19:51.
Obiri became the first woman ever to break 2 hours 20 minutes on New York’s notoriously challenging course, smashing Margaret Okayo’s 2003 record of 2:22:31 by more than two and a half minutes.
The two-time Olympic silver medalist and double world 5,000 m champion ran a controlled race through the early boroughs before unleashing a decisive surge over the final miles through Central Park. Her combination of power and precision over the rolling terrain solidified her place among the all-time marathon greats.
“This victory means everything,” Obiri said after crossing the line. “New York is one of the toughest courses in the world, and to break 2:20 here feels unbelievable. I wanted to show that history can be made anywhere.”
The result capped a remarkable day for Kenya, which swept the women’s podium.
Top 3 Women – 2025 TCS New York City Marathon
1. Hellen Obiri (KEN) — 2:19:51 (Course Record)
2. Sharon Lokedi (KEN) — 2:20:07
3. Sheila Chepkirui (KEN) — 2:20:24
(11/02/25) Views: 114Boris Baron
Beatrice Chebet Named Kenya’s 2025 Female Long-Distance Athlete of the Year
Beatrice Chebet has been voted Kenya’s Female Long-Distance Athlete of the Year, receiving an overwhelming 67% of total fan votes in a nationwide poll conducted by Kenya Sports and Athletics Kenya.
Chebet’s 2025 season has been nothing short of historic. The 25-year-old claimed both the 5000mand 10,000m world titles, showcasing her dominance across the long-distance spectrum. She also shattered the 5000m world record, clocking a breathtaking 13:58.06, and became the first woman in history to break the 14-minute barrier.
Her remarkable achievements placed her far ahead of fellow Kenyan legends Hellen Obiri (12%) and Peres Jepchirchir (6%) in the fan voting.
Chebet’s versatility, strength, and consistency have redefined what’s possible for women’s distance running. Known for her calm confidence and powerful finishing kick, she has proven equally unstoppable on the track and the roads, inspiring a new generation of athletes around the world.
With a season marked by brilliance and history-making performances, Beatrice Chebet has firmly established herself among the all-time greats in athletics.
2025 Season Highlights
✅ 5000m World Champion
✅ 10,000m World Champion
✅ 5000m World Record – 13:58.06
Congratulations to Beatrice Chebet — a true champion of champions.
(11/03/25) Views: 114Boris Baron
