At the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label road competition, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, on Saturday, Daniel Mateiko and Tsigie Gebreselama triumphed in an impressive feat of athletics. Mateiko, competing in Ras Al Khaimah for the third time, illuminated the misty morning with an outstanding performance, clocking in at a world-leading time of 58:45. His five-second lead over compatriot John Korir secured him the top spot, while Isaia Lasoi completed the Kenyan sweep by finishing third with a time of 58:55.
In a challenging showdown against formidable weather and a demanding course, Kenyan runners Paul Lonyangata and Cynthia Limo exhibited exceptional patience and strategic prowess to secure commanding victories at the 51st Honolulu Marathon. Known for its grueling conditions with high humidity, relentless winds, and notorious hills, this marathon tested the mettle of all participants, resulting in slower finish times despite their remarkable efforts.
New York, NY – Hellen Obiri of Kenya left a lasting impression in the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon, claiming victory with an awe-inspiring final mile of 4 minutes and 52 seconds, narrowly besting Ethiopia's Letesenbet Gidey. Obiri completed the marathon in 2 hours, 27 minutes, and 23 seconds. This year's race was distinguished by a slow start, resulting in Obiri's winning time becoming the slowest in 13 years. The elite women's field remained tightly packed for the initial 10 kilometers.
Sifan Hassan, the Dutch athlete who became an Olympic champion in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events, made a remarkable debut in the London Marathon, emerging as a surprise winner despite injury and near-accidents. Hassan gave a masterclass in breaking every rule in the marathon book, stopping twice to stretch an injured hip and almost pulling out. In the men's race, Kelvin Kiptum, a 23-year-old Kenyan, put up a remarkable performance, surging powerfully ahead with eight miles to go and leaving behind some of the fastest men in history.
In an eagerly awaited announcement, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon revealed a stellar cast of elite runners set to compete in this year's edition of the prestigious race. The list boasts an array of top-tier talent, featuring notable names like Ruth Chepngetich, the two-time defending champion from Kenya with an impressive personal best of 2:14:18 (#2 all-time). Joining her are Sifan Hassan, the reigning London Marathon champion, and Emily Sisson, the American record holder who blazed a trail with her remarkable time of 2:18:29 in Chicago last year. Mark October 8 on your calendars because this thrilling marathon promises an outstanding demonstration of athletic talents.
Jemal Yimer and Fikrte Wereta demonstrated Ethiopian competence on Sunday at the prestigious Seoul Marathon, winning the men's and women's races, respectively, in an amazing feat of performance.
Eliud Kipchoge will return to one of his favourite hunting grounds when he lines up once again at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON next Sunday, September 24. Kenya’s double Olympic champion has twice broken the world record there, bringing his own mark down to 2:01:09 last year. From his comments in the build-up to the race, Kipchoge is once more intending to run fast.
As the seasoned British distance runner, Andrew Butchart, transitions away from the track, he embarks on an exciting new challenge: his first-ever marathon. At 32 years of age, Butchart humbly refers to himself as a "novice" learning the ropes of marathon running.
As we approach the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, the running world is abuzz with excitement. Tigst Assefa's recent incredible achievement, completing the Berlin Marathon in just 2:11:53 a mere two weeks ago, has left everyone wondering: was it a unique feat or a sign of even greater accomplishments in the world of marathon running?
In an exhilarating showcase of athletic prowess, Sisay Lemma made marathon history at the renowned Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso, securing victory in record-breaking fashion with a phenomenal time of 2:01:48. His remarkable performance not only secured the top spot but also etched his name as the fourth fastest marathoner on the men's world all-time list, reaffirming the event's status as a World Athletics Elite Platinum Label.
