News

Race news Orlen Prague Marathon

Prague course record under threat

Ethiopian runners may challenge Mutiso’s 2:05:09 time

Fri, 02 May 2025 14:32:00 +0000

The ORLEN Prague Marathon record may be in serious danger this Sunday. A strong field of elite runners is preparing to challenge the standing race record of 2:05:09, set two years ago by Alexander Mutiso.

Among the top contenders are two Ethiopian stars, both with personal bests under 2:05.

Gadisa Birhanu ranks among the world’s most experienced road runners. He ran his first marathon back in 2014 in Houston, and the following year he already took victory on that same course. His winning time back then was approximately 2:13—marking the start of what would become a long and successful career. Like many endurance runners, Gadisa reached his peak after turning 30. Two years ago in Seville, he won with a 2:04:59 finish, earning not only a victory but also his current personal best.

Originally from the Wellega region of Ethiopia, Gadisa began running seriously in the sixth grade at his village school in Tulu Chali. After graduating from high school, he moved to the town of Nekemte and joined the local athletics club. His talent soon earned him a spot on a major Addis Ababa-based club. “That was a key moment for my development as an athlete,” Gadisa recalls. “Marathon running has given me many unforgettable stories. My path in both life and athletics has had its challenges, but through all the ups and downs, I’ve always felt the support of God.”

Among the elite men lining up for the 2025 ORLEN Prague Marathon, Abdualem Belay stands out with the fastest recent personal best—2:04:44—set at the 2023 Berlin Marathon, where he finished sixth at one of the sport’s most prestigious Majors. Throughout his career, Belay has claimed victories at eight marathons across three continents, including three wins in Lisbon. He made an immediate impact in his debut marathon season, winning in Castellón, Spain.

Belay celebrated his 33rd birthday on April 5th, the same day as the Generali Prague Half Marathon. He comes from a small village in the Gojjam region of northwestern Ethiopia and is one of seven siblings—two sisters and four brothers. “I love Ethiopian culture and our cuisine,” says Abdualem, whose favorite dish is injera, the traditional sour flatbread made from teff flour. In his free time, he enjoys reading stories, novels, and religious texts. “It’s my first time in Prague and the Czech Republic, and I’m looking forward to exploring the rich culture here after the race,” he adds.

Another strong Ethiopian to watch is Lemi Berhanu Hayle, the 2016 Boston Marathon champion, who returns to Prague aiming to defend his title. With a personal best of 2:04:33—set nine years ago in Dubai—he holds the fastest time among all athletes in this year’s field.

Fans around the world can follow the action live on the RunCzech YouTube channel, with expert commentary by legendary broadcaster Tim Hutchings.

Race news Gifu Half Marathon

Dawit Wolde claims first title at Gifu Half

Janet Nyiva defeats 2022 world champion Gebreslase

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:41:00 +0000

Dawit Wolde of Ethiopia and Janet Nyiva of Kenya captured their first titles at the Gifu Half Marathon in Japan, clocking 1:00:06 and 1:07:37.

Founded by Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medalist and Gifu native Naoko Takahashi, this World Athletics Gold Label event was created to further promote the sport of athletics and give back to the local community. Under clear, early-summer skies, the 14th edition race featured thrilling head-to-head battles between seasoned veterans and promising newcomers.

The race began in favorable conditions of 15.7°C with a light 0.9 m/s breeze. In the men’s race, Wolde, a 33-year-old with a personal best of 59:58, led the front pack of five alongside debutant Sitonik Kiprono of Kenya and Yegon Vincent of Kenya. After passing the 10 km mark in 28:29, Wolde and Kiprono pulled away from the rest near the 12 km water station, setting up an intense duel. Approaching the 20 km point, Wolde surged ahead, gradually widening his lead until he crossed the finish line at Nagaragawa Stadium filled with the crowd’s cheers in 1:00:06. Reflecting on the race, he said, “Kiprono had great stamina, but I’m glad I could increase my speed at the end.” Kiprono finished second in 1:00:13, with Vincent taking third in 1:01:17.

In the women’s race, World Championships gold (2022) and silver (2023) medalist Gotytom Gebreslase of Ethiopia and 21-year-old debutant Janet Nyiva, who holds a 10000m best of 31:16.01, took the lead from the start. The former world champion and the young rising star ran side by side in a tense battle, but around the 18km mark, Janet surged ahead to break away and continued her charge to the finish, winning her half marathon debut in 1:07:37. Gebreslase placed second in 1:08:29, followed by Eunice Chebichii Chumba of Bahrain in 1:09:07.

The top Japanese woman was Kana Kobayashi, who has been selected to represent Japan in the marathon at this fall’s World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. She finished fourth with a time of 1:09:09, shaving nearly five minutes off her personal best. The top Japanese man was Tsubasa Ichiyama, who placed sixth with a time of 1:02:21.

In addition to the world’s top elite athletes, 8,952 runners from Japan and abroad took part in the Gifu Half Marathon 2025, enjoying the course that showcased Gifu’s charm—from the magnificent nature of the Nagara River to the historic scenery of Gifu Castle and the castle town, as well as the lively downtown around Gifu Station and Yanagase shopping arcade. Along the course, volunteers and local residents cheered enthusiastically to support the runners, and at the finish area, Race Chairperson Naoko herself welcomed finishers with smiles and high-fives, embodying the spirit of Gifu City coming together to help every runner cross the finish line.

Race Chairperson Naoko Takahashi comments: “In my competitive days, long-distance running was seen as a grueling sport that demanded endurance and sheer grit—something to watch, not to enjoy. After the 2000 Olympics, when I said in an interview, ‘It was such an enjoyable 42 kilometers,’ my comment was met with surprise. Now, seeing so many people sharing that same joy and enjoying running together makes me incredibly happy. Fourteen years since the race was founded, I feel that our original wish—to create an event that both top elites and amateur runners could enjoy the experience together—is finally becoming a reality.”

Date changes Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon

Race date for Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon (TPE) changed

Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon date change

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 11:21:16 +0000

The Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon (TPE) will take place on Sat 8 November 2025, not Sun 9 November 2025 as previously published.

Race news Haspa Marathon Hamburg

Amos Kipruto breaks Hamburg course record

Workenesh Edesa ahead of Brigid Kosgei

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:57:00 +0000

Amos Kipruto won the Haspa Marathon Hamburg with a superb 2:03:46 course record and clocked the first sub 2:04:00 time in the history of the race.

While Philemon Kiplimo ran 2:04:01 and was also inside the former record (2:04:09), third placed Erick Sang completed an all-Kenyan podium with 2:04:30. South Africa’s Elroy Gelant was fourth with a national record of 2:05:36 and Richard Ringer of Germany took seventh as the fastest European in 2:07:23.

Workenesh Edesa of Ethiopia won the women’s race with a world-class time of 2:17:55, which is the second fastest time in the history of the race. Kenya’s former world record holder Brigid Kosgei was second in 2:18:26 and Sichala Kumeshi followed in third place with 2:19:53. For the first time three women broke the 2:20:00 barrier in Hamburg. Norway’s debutant Karoline Grovdal dropped out before the 30k mark.

With regard to the winning times this was the best race in the history of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg which saw its 39th edition. “We are of course very happy with the course record and the three sub 2:20 times. These are stunning results. We now had course records in 2022, 2023 and 2025,“ said Chief Organiser Frank Thaleiser. Around 15,000 runners had entered Germany’s biggest spring marathon. Adding running events at shorter distances staged during the weekend the entry total was a record of over 38,000.

A big leading group ran at an extremely consistent pace. After a 10k split time of 29:20 twelve athletes reached the half marathon mark in 61:47. They were well on course to break the previous course record set by Kenyan Bernard Koech in 2023 with 2:04:09. Shortly after the 30k mark (1:28:09), there was a major move. Four athletes broke away: Amos Kipruto and Philemon Kiplimo, who are friends and shared a room in Hamburg, were joined by fellow-Kenyans Erick Sang and Felix Kibitok in the lead. Kibitok soon dropped back and Sang lost contact soon after 35k. “Philemon and I supported each other – that worked really well and we had planned to do so,“ said Amos Kipruto, who was then able to pull away from Philemon Kiplimo in the final kilometres. “The Hamburg Marathon is a fantastic race, the support of the spectators was a great motivation for me. I will be back next year,“ said the 32-year-old winner, who has a PB of 2:03:13 and ran inside 2:04:00 for the third time in his career.

Richard Ringer started the race much faster than planned. The European Marathon Champion from 2022 reached the 10k mark after 29:39 minutes which pointed towards a 2:05:10 finishing time. “A number of us started too fast, there was a certain euphoria due to the very good weather conditions,“ said Richard Ringer, who then reached the half marathon mark in 63:03. Despite running a slower second half the 36-year-old still achieved the third fastest marathon time of his career with 2:07:23 and the fastest ever by a German runner in Hamburg.

Five women were in the lead early on, running a course record pace for a long time. Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw is the record holder with 2:17:23 from 2022. Then three runners passed the half marathon mark together after 68:39: Brigid Kosgei, Sichala Kumeshi and Workenesh Edesa formed the leading group. Kumeshi then dropped back before the 25k mark. Almost ten kilometres later Workenesh Edesa made the decisive move: The Ethiopian, who had entered the race with a personal best of 2:18:51, pulled away and gradually increased her lead. “I am very happy. I deliberately didn’t run too fast in the first part to save some energy. I then could pick up the pace late in the race. From 30k onwards I knew I was going to win,“ said the 32-year-old Workenesh Edesa after improving her personal best by almost a minute to 2:17:55.

Karoline Grovdal was unlucky in her marathon debut. Last year’s Norwegian European half marathon champion was on course for Ingrid Kristiansen’s Norwegian record of 2:21:06 during the first half. But Grovdal had problems with her shoes and got blisters relatively early in the race, so she eventually dropped out before the 30k mark.

Race news Haspa Marathon Hamburg

Kosgei and Kipruto head Hamburg’s strongest ever field on Sunday

Karoline Grovdal chases famous national record

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 12:29:00 +0000

The strongest field in the history of the event will be at the start line for the 39th Haspa Marathon Hamburg on Sunday.

Kenyans Amos Kipruto and Kinde Atanaw feature personal bests of sub 2:04:00 while Brigid Kosgei is the fastest woman ever on a Hamburg start list. The Kenyan is the former world record holder with 2:14:04. Ethiopia’s Workenesh Edesa is another athlete who has run well under 2:20:00. Such a line-up of star runners is a novelty for the Haspa Marathon Hamburg. Germany’s Richard Ringer and Karoline Grovdal of Norway are the leading European runners.

15,000 runners have entered Germany’s biggest spring marathon. Including events staged parallel to the marathon organisers registered a record total of 38,000 entries. “We are experiencing another running boom and our event has developed strongly. This is also the case with regard to our elite races and it makes me very happy,“ said Chief Organiser Frank Thaleiser.

If the predicted very good weather conditions materialize, very fast races are possible on Sunday. The men might even attack the course record and chase a first sub 2:04:00 time in Hamburg. Kenya’s Bernard Koech established the current course record with 2:04:09 in 2023.

“I am well prepared and ready for a good, fast race. If I would have the choice, a personal best would be more important for me than a victory,” said Amos Kipruto during a press conference. The 32-year-old achieved his personal record of 2:03:13 in Tokyo 2022, finishing second behind Eliud Kipchoge. Together with fellow-Kenyan Emmanuel Mutai, who ran here in 2018 and also has a PB of 2:03:13, he is the fastest runner ever on a Hamburg start list.

“I know that the course is fast and that very good times have been run here time and again. The race is a great opportunity for me to achieve a top performance. If we work well together, it is possible to break the course record,” said Amos Kipruto, who is one of four runners who have run sub 2:05:00. While the Ethiopians Kinde Atanaw and Tsegaye Getachew are number two and three on the start list with best times of 2:03:51 and 2:04:49 respectively, Philemon Kiplimo also belongs to this top group. The Kenyan has a PB of 2:04:56. “I assume that we will run the first half in 62:00 minutes. I hope that I can then run the second half faster,” said Philemon Kiplimo, who finished third in Hamburg a year ago in a strong 2:05:37. “I know the course, which is an advantage.”

Richard Ringer, who sensationally won the marathon at the European Championships in Munich in 2022, knows the course as well. Two years ago he was sixth here with a personal best of 2:08:08. In the meantime he improved his PB to 2.05:46. "My goal is to improve my Hamburg result from 2023. A lot can happen in a marathon and I hope that I will be strong enough at the end to overtake a couple of runners,“ said Richard Ringer, who recently improved his half marathon PB to 60:51 in Berlin. “But it is not realistic to run a PB in every race. I intend to run sub 2:07:00 on Sunday.“

There were a few late changes on the elite start lists. While Ethiopians Guye Adola, Roza Dereje and Waganesh Mekesha had to cancel, Brigid Kosgei recently joined the field. The Kenyan had sensationally broken Paula Radcliffe’s world record in Chicago in 2019. With 2:14:04 she became the first woman to break the 2:15:00 barrier. With this PB she still is the fourth fastest of all times

“I actually wanted to run the Tokyo Marathon at the beginning of March, but I wasn’t in the right shape and decided not to go. I then looked for another race at a later time and I am happy to be able to run in Hamburg on Sunday,“ said Brigid Kosgei, who has not run a race since finishing fifth in the London Marathon a year ago with 2:19:02. "I had knee and hip problems – it was always back and forth. But now I am fit and I want to run a good race.“

While the very strong course record of 2:17:23 set by Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw in 2022 will be difficult to break, another sub 2:20:00 race is certainly possible in Hamburg. The Ethiopians Workenesh Edesa and Sichala Kumeshi could also achieve such a time. “I want to run faster on Sunday than when I won in Osaka,“ said Edesa, who clocked 2:21:00 in Japan in January. With her PB of 2:18:51, she is the second fastest runner on the start list. “After finishing eleventh here two years ago, I want to achieve much more this time. My goal is to win the race,“ said Sichala Kumeshi, who took the Houston Marathon in January with a personal best of 2:20:42 despite very cold conditions.

Karoline Grovdal is a debutant who could instantly produce a European top time. The Norwegian is a multiple European Champion who won the half marathon gold medal in Rome last year. „I think Hamburg could be a great start into my marathon career. I will try to break the Norwegian record on Sunday,“ said Karoline Grovdal. Norway’s running legend Ingrid Kristiansen still holds this famous mark. When she clocked 2:21:06 in London in 1985 it was a world record that stood for 13 years.

Race news Türkiye İş Bankası İstanbul Half Marathon

Istanbul half marathon to go ahead after earthquake

Excellent field assembled, say organisers

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:25:00 +0000

The 20th edition of the Türkiye Is Bankasi Istanbul Half Marathon will be staged on Sunday, four days after an earthquake hit the metropolis.

Spor Istanbul was one of very few race organisers worldwide that successfully continued with their major road running events during corona lockdowns, introducing all necessary safety regulations and by doing so setting an example and inspiring others to follow.

Now, a day after the earthquake, which did not take any casualties and only caused limited damage, there is no question: The tested and experienced organisation of Spor Istanbul goes ahead once more. Excellent fields have been assembled for the Türkiye Is Bankasi Istanbul Half Marathon, which is Türkiye’s premier road running event and a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race.

“Yesterday an earthquake occurred in Istanbul, and we are grateful that there were no casualties or significant damages as a result of that. In Türkiye, life continues to proceed as usual across all sectors, including sports. All sports events will take place as planned. This Sunday, we are proud to be hosting the 20th edition of the Türkiye Is Bankasi Istanbul Half Marathon with a record number of participants. We are pleased to proceed with our activities, as there is no cause for concern,“ said Race Director Renay Onur. Organisers are expecting a total of around 17,000 athletes to participate in Turkey’s fastest and biggest half. This includes runners who will compete in the 10k race staged parallel.

The race on Sunday will start at 9.15 am local time and a livestream with English commentary can be accessed at: https://www.istanbulyarimaratonu.com/en/

In the men’s race the course record of 59:15 will become a target. Two athletes who have shown great form recently are regarded favorites on Sunday. Ethiopia’s Haftu Teklu, who won the Seoul Marathon in March with 2:05:42, is the fastest runner on the start list with a personal bests of 59:06. The other one is Alex Matata of Kenya, who took the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in the United Arab Emirates in February in impressive fashion, clocking a PB of 59:20 despite windy conditions.

It was Alex Matata who asked the Istanbul organisers for a sub 59:00 pace on Sunday with the help of pacemakers. The 27 year-old Kenyan, who grew up in the capital Nairobi and now trains in Eldoret, was asked if he would move up to the marathon after his victory in Ras Al Khaimah. “Not for two years,“ Matata replied. “I still want to run faster at the half marathon, in the 58 and maybe 57 minutes.“ It will be in Istanbul on Sunday where he hopes to achieve the next big improvement with a time of sub 59:00.

Berehanu Tsegu is a third athlete on the start list with a PB of sub one hour. The Ethiopian ran 59:42 back in 2019 in Lisbon, but this year achieved a fine marathon time with 2:05:14 in Dubai in January. He was runner-up in this prestigious marathon and his performance suggests that he might be in form for a half marathon PB as well.

The women’s race might well feature a duel between the defending champion Sheila Chelangat and fellow-Kenyan Judy Kemboi. Since Winfridah Moseti of Kenya withdrew due to an injury they are the likely favourites. “I am ready for Istanbul,“ said Sheila Chelangat before adding: “Despite the weather!“ It was last year when there was some heavy rain which made the roads slippery. In these difficult conditions Sheila Chelangat still managed to improve her PB by almost three minutes to 66:47. It was one of four personal records she ran at the half marathon in 2024. In Valencia she clocked her current PB of 66:06 in October. “I am happy to return to Istanbul,“ said Chelangat, who will be pleased to know that weather conditions are most probably better than last year.

But the defending champion is not the fastest woman on the start list. Judy Kemboi is another athlete, who achieved her breakthrough in 2024. After a string of fine performances she improved to 65:43 when she was runner-up in Copenhagen in September. Judy Kemboi has shown strong form again this year in the half marathon, when she was second in Ras Al Khaimah with 66:34. Looking ahead to the Türkiye Is Bankasi Istanbul Half Marathon she said: “I am in good form and I will try to lower my PB.“ Judy Kemboi trained together with her fiancé Crispus Korir in Iten, Kenya. Korir will be her personal pacemaker in Istanbul on Sunday. With six more women on the start list with personal records of sub 67:00 the women’s field has great depth. However the course record of Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich, who broke the world record in Istanbul during the pandemic in 2021 with 64:02, will surely be out of reach.

Race news Orlen Prague Marathon

Marathon weekend in Prague attracts almost 13,000

30th anniversary edition reaches pre-Covid numbers

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:44:00 +0000

The first weekend of May has brought the Czech capital to life for three decades with a grand sports and social event – the international marathon.

With its new title sponsor, ORLEN, the event also serves as the Czech Republic’s national marathon championship and continues to be listed among the World Athletics “Elite Label” road races. Most importantly, it celebrates its 30th anniversary.

“This is a huge event. The Prague Marathon is the oldest race in the RunCzech series – we launched it in 1995,” recalled Carlo Capalbo, founder of the project and chairman of the RunCzech organizing committee.

With its scale and number of participants, the ORLEN Prague Marathon 2025 returnes to pre-COVID levels when the event reached gigantic proportions. Interest in running the Prague Marathon has been enormous, with the race almost fully booked. On Sunday, May 4, 10,000 runners will take to the main marathon course, with nearly 3,000 more joining accompanying races.

The Marathon Weekend will also include the dm family mile and the increasingly popular dm bambini run for the youngest runners at the Výstaviště exhibition grounds in Holešovice. On Saturday morning, Letná Park will host the active breakfast, where participants can enjoy a guided 4.2 km run (a symbolic tenth of a marathon) led by trainers from the Running Mall and marathon pacemakers.

While last year’s start list included representatives from 101 nationalities, this year’s marathon promises to be even more diverse. Before the elite list even closed, runners from 109 nationalities had already registered. “These are very satisfying numbers – we expect participation from more than 110 countries overall,” assures Carlo Capalbo. The ratio of local to international runners has remained stable in recent years – 46% are Czech and 54% foreign participants. Over 6% are from the UK, the largest foreign community on the start list. Women make up a quarter of all participants. The ORLEN Prague Marathon unites all generations – the youngest participant is 18-year-old Koju Chen from Taiwan, and the oldest is 79-year-old Jean-Michel Boiron from France.

The Prague event will also host the finals of the Junior Marathon Championship, one of the longest-running RunCzech events, held in three qualifying rounds and covering all regions of the Czech Republic. The Junior Marathon Championship began on April 1 and engaged around 10,000 students. The most successful high school teams will line up alongside world-class athletes during the ORLEN Prague Marathon.

The unique trophies for the Prague Marathon champions are once again crafted by Ajeto glassworks, also known for creating awards for the Tour de France.

The 30th anniversary of the Prague Marathon will also draw numerous celebrities from the sports and public spheres. One of them is Barbora Strýcová, two-time Wimbledon doubles champion. “Running has become part of my life – with two kids, it’s the easiest way for me to stay active. I just put on my sneakers and go running anywhere,” said the five-time Fed Cup champion. “Starting in Prague is special to me, which is why I chose it for my first marathon.” Representatives from major global marathons – including Chicago, Osaka, London, Brussels, and Hamburg – will also attend.

The Prague Marathon writes its 30th chapter, yet it still has its loyal heroes. Six runners who haven’t missed a single edition since 1995 will be at the start again this year.
Each has run the Prague Marathon 28 times, as the 2020 event was cancelled due to the pandemic and in 2021 it was held with strict limitations and only a few elite runners.
Television coverage of the ORLEN Prague Marathon will reach over 100 countries and nearly 60 million households. Czech Television, the official media partner of the RunCzech series, will provide local coverage.

The international audience will enjoy commentary by Tim Hutchings, renowned voice of the Diamond League and other top athletics events.

Prague will become a global running capital during the extended first weekend of May. The Marathon EXPO, along with accompanying races and a sports-social program, will open at Výstaviště Holešovice on Friday, May 2.

Ten thousand participants in the main event will line up for the start and finish on Old Town Square at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday.

Race news B.A.A. Boston Marathon

‘Memorable’ Boston Marathon plays out from start to finish

Sharon Lokedi smashes course record

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:38:00 +0000

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 21: Sharon Lokedi of Kenya crosses the finish line to win the 129th Boston Marathon Women's division on April 21, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Photo: Maddie Meyer
© 2025 Getty Images

A shattered course record, a monster move in the Newton Hills by a bib-less little brother and a sunrise surprise from a Boston legend: the 129th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America will go down as a day of speed, siblings and sentiment.

Speed: Sharon Lokedi of Kenya held off a late move by two-time defending champion Hellen Obiri to break the tape in 2:17:22, obliterating the course record of 2:19:59 set in 2014. Runner-up Obiri (2:17:41) and third-place finisher Yalemzerf Yehualaw of Ethiopia (2:18:06) all finished under the old record.

Siblings: Kenya’s John Korir, whose brother Wesley won here in 2012, laid waste to a pack of six when he took off at 20 miles, winning in 2:04:45 – the second-fastest winning time in race history.

Sentiment: 2018 champion Des Linden, via Instagram and a full-page ad in the Boston Globe, announced on race morning that this would be her last professional marathon. The 41-year-old went on to finish in 2:26:19, her fastest time in eight years, to win the master’s division and finish 17th among all pro women.

The day began with a nod to the 250th anniversary of Patriots’ Day, as Paul Revere and the National Lancers proclaimed the runners were coming, making their way down course from Hopkinton. They were quickly followed by a legendary tandem serving as Grand Marshals, 1975 champions Bob Hall and Bill Rodgers.

Soon after, in the wheelchair races, Marcel Hug of Switzerland took an early lead over Daniel Romanchuk of the U.S., going on to cross the line in 1:21:34 for his eighth win here. Romanchuk, a two-time Boston champion, would finish second in 1:25:58, with Jetze Plat of the Netherlands third in 1:30:16.

Hug was pleased that his victory came on the 50th anniversary of Bob Hall becoming the race’s first official wheelchair finisher,

“One of my first racing chairs was a Hall chair,” said Hug, who over the weekend got to meet the pioneer who went on to design them.

For the women, American Susannah Scaroni fell behind Eden Rainbow-Cooper of Great Britain and Manuela Schär and Catherine Debrunner of Switzerland early, playing catch-up until Mile 5. The quartet worked together for about 10 miles until Scaroni – a strong climber – surged just before the Newton Hills to her second Boston victory, in 1:35:20. In her debut here, 2024 Paralympic gold medalist Debrunner was second, in 1:37:26, with four-time Boston champion Schär third in 1:39:18.

“There was that tiny bit of worry,” said Scaroni, about making up that early deficit. “I had to tell myself, ‘I can do this, I can do this.’”

Korir’s day almost ended in the early meters of the race, when he fell after being clipped from behind.

“What came to my mind was, should I stay down, or should I wake up and go? Something told me to wake up and go, and that everything would be OK,” he said.

After tucking his detached race bib – which included his precious timing chip – into his shorts, Korir stuck with the lead pack until turning on the turbos near the top of Heartbreak Hill to leave everyone trying to close the sudden gap behind.

“We planned that, with my coach and my brother and everyone in my crew,” said the 29-year-old, who last fall won the Bank of America Chicago Marathon but finished fourth and ninth here in his previous two attempts. “We said that at 20 miles I will try and make the move. And I tried, and it worked well.”

In that lead pack all the way was Conner Mantz, who helped blast the pack to a 4:32 first mile, setting the stage for a fast race. For his efforts, the man who broke the American record in the half marathon a few months ago came within one spot of the podium after a three-way sprint down Boylston against runner-up Alphonce Felix Simbu of Tanzania (2:05:04), third place CyBrian Kotut of Kenya (2:05:04).

Mantz’s time of 2:05:08 was the second-fastest time by an American in race history.

“Getting outkicked for the last 300 meters is a little bitter, but it was still probably my best race I’ve had. And so I was very happy about that.”

For Lokedi, it was a role reversal from last year, when Obiri went on to victory after making a decisive move with one mile to go. Obiri tried exactly the same thing this year, but Lokedi was ready, willing and able to fend her off.

“I was like, ‘I’m not going to let her take it today from me, so I just wanted to fight as hard as I could,” said the 31-year-old Kenyan, who won the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon in her debut at the distance. “I’m glad that we had to tough it out together.”

Finishing seventh as top American in 2:22:43 was Jess McClain, who just missed making Team USA for Paris when she ended up fourth at the Olympic Marathon Trials.

“Today, it felt like a win to me,” she said.

For Linden, competing for the 12th time here, “the crowd was behind me and it really felt incredible. I’ll probably be a mess of tears the rest of the day. But that run was everything. Thank you.”

The top non-binary finisher was Whit Blair, finishing in 2:22:47. A total of 28,928 athletes started the race. Preliminary finisher totals will be available on Tuesday.

In the Para Athletics Divisions, the following champions were crowned:

T11/T12 (Vision impairment) – Joyce Cron, 4:09:08 / Wajdi Boukhili, 2:25:12

T13 (Vision impairment) – Lisa Thompson, 3:42:01 / Andrew Thorsen, 2:47:57

T20 (Intellectual impairment) – Montana Whiteley, 3:51:43 / Thomas Cantara, 2:37:35

T35-T38 (Coordination impairment) – Cristina Burbach, 3:46:05 / Joseph Drake, 4:11:17

T45/T46 (Upper-limb impairment) – Lisa Maciel, 4:06:19 / Atsbha Gebremeskel, 2:57:11

T61/T63/T43 (Lower-limb impairment) – Meghan Bradshaw, 3:58:15 / Richard Whitehead, 2:56:09

T62/T64; T42/T44 (Lower-limb impairment) – Kelly Bruno, 3:17:56 / Marko Cheseto Lemtukei, 2:46:24

Date changes Antarctic Ice Ultra

Race date for Antarctic Ice Ultra (ATA) changed

Antarctic Ice Ultra date change

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:42:23 +0000

The Antarctic Ice Ultra (ATA) will take place on Sat 8 November 2025, not Fri 7 November 2025 as previously published.

Race news PKO Poznań Halfmarathon

Record number of finishers in Poznań

12,619 take part in 17th half marathon

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 11:14:00 +0000

12,619 runners crossed the finish line of the 17th PKO Poznań Half Marathon — setting a new participation record for the running event in Poznań.

The winners of the race were Oqbe Kibrom Ruesom from Eritrea (01:02:23) in the men’s category and Viktoriia Kaliuzhna from Ukraine (01:12:05) among the women.

From the start, the men’s winner controlled the race and ran almost the entire distance accompanied only by his pacemaker, Kenyan Brian Limo, who finished second (01:02:30). The third to cross the finish line was Polish runner Kamil Jastrzębski, trailing the leading duo by nearly three minutes with a time of 01:05:16.

“Next year, I’ll try to come back to Poznań and fight for the win,” said Kamil Jastrzębski right after crossing the finish line.

A surprise came in the women’s race, where Viktoriia Kaliuzhna made an impressive comeback after chasing down Beatrice Chepkemoi Mutai for almost 15 kilometers. After a strong start, the Kenyan athlete faded and ultimately finished second (01:13:38). The women’s podium was completed by Ukrainian Maryna Nemchenko (01:14:55), while the top Polish finisher Sabina Jarząbek placed fourth.

For the first time in a long while, 11 wheelchair athletes returned to the half marathon course. The winner in this category was Witold Misztela with a time of 1:19:13.

The record number of runners was cheered on enthusiastically by Poznań’s ever-reliable crowd. Nineteen fan zones were set up along the course, with especially loud support at the start and finish near the iconic spire at the Poznań International Fairgrounds.

“A huge thank-you to the residents of our city for their incredible support. We asked for it before the race, and we were deeply moved by the response. Runners felt that energy at every kilometer,” said Łukasz Miadziołko, Director of the 17th PKO Poznań Half Marathon.

Runners from 36 countries participated in this year’s race. Nearly one in four finishers were first-timers, and 30% of participants were Poznań residents. We hope to see all runners and supporters again in future editions of the race.

Save the date! The 18th Poznań Half Marathon is scheduled for April 19, 2026.

Date changes OMT Beirut Marathon

Race date for OMT Beirut Marathon (LIB) changed

OMT Beirut Marathon date change

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 09:20:28 +0000

The OMT Beirut Marathon (LIB) will take place on Thu 1 May 2025, not Sun 4 May 2025 as previously published.

Race news Generali Berlin Half Marathon

Lottery opens for Berlin Half places

Starting places assigned by chance for the first time

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 09:14:00 +0000

SCC Berliner Halbmarathon, Berlin, Deutschland, 06.04.2025.
Photo: Sebastian Wells
© Sebastian Wells/OSTKREUZ

The lottery for places to run the 2026 edition of the Berlin Half Marathon is now open.

Organisers said: “With 40,721 runners from 135 nations, the 2025 edition was by far the biggest and most spectacular Generali Berlin Half Marathon ever. This makes it one of the biggest half marathons in the world.

“The 45th anniversary edition of the Generali Berlin Half Marathon on March 29 2026, is expected to attract a great deal of interest in participating. Thanks to the lottery system, all interested parties have an equal chance of getting a starting place during the registration period.”

Registration for the lottery for starting places is open from April 10 to May 22, 2025.

Registration for skaters, wheelchair users and handbikers also starts on April 10. Here, registration will take place without a lottery.

Race news Ravenna Marathon City of Art

Reasons to choose Ravenna

Culture, cuisine and a unique medal

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:36:00 +0000

The Ravenna Marathon in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy welcomes each runner with the typical warmth of the region.

The welcome of Romagna is only exceeded by the applause of the public. Along the route, the warmth and applause of the people will accompany all runners to the finish line.

Ravenna “City of Art” is a truly special destination with its eight monuments recognised by UNESCO as world heritage sites: Basilica of San Vitale, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Arian Baptistery, Neonian Baptistery, Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, Archiepiscopal Chapel, Mausoleum of Theodoric.

And the cuisine.

Romagna is a land of flavours and culinary traditions that warm the heart: local
delicacies such as cappeletti (filled pasta) and piadina flatbread.

Then there’s the mosaic medal for those who complete the distance.

The Ravenna Marathon’s custom medal is a jewel designed and handmade in Annafietta’s artisan workshop.

Runners can make their medal unique by having it personalised with name and run time.

Race news Sarmang Dehradun Marathon

Registrations open for fourth Sarmang Dehradun Marathon

Himalayan foothills course certified by AIMS

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 10:43:00 +0000

Registrations are now officially open for the Fourth Edition of the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, 05 October 2025.

Announced on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, the registration launch invites runners from across India and around the globe to be a part of this extraordinary racing experience.

Organized by Sarmang Society, a non-profit dedicated to promoting health, fitness, and endurance sports, the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon has steadily risen to prominence as a high-quality race in India’s running calendar. Held in the Himalayan foothills, the course offers breathtaking natural beauty paired with top-notch race management and runner experience.

The race course is certified by World Athletics and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), ensuring global recognition. It is also directed by a certified RRCA Race Director, upholding the highest international standards in marathon organization.

The Fourth Edition of the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon is also officially a qualifying race for the Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Rankings. This makes it an exceptional opportunity for Indian and international runners aiming to earn points and qualify for one of the most prestigious series in global distance running.

Set in the outskirts of Dehradun, the course meanders through lush forests, runs alongside a tranquil river, and showcases majestic hills in the backdrop. Far from the noise and congestion of urban marathons, this route offers participants a refreshing and rejuvenating experience in nature’s lap.

Race Director Anil Mohan shared, “We’ve designed the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon not just as a race, but as an experience. Running through the serenity of the Himalayan foothills, surrounded by nature, gives every participant something more than just a medal—it’s a memory for life. With global recognition and world-class standards, we’re excited to welcome runners from across the world to this hidden gem of India.”

The marathon includes a variety of race categories: the full marathon (42.195 KM), half marathon (21.097 KM), 10K, 5K, and a 2K fun run, catering to elite athletes, amateur runners, and families alike. Participants can expect a well-supported race day with aid stations, hydration points, medical support, and a festive atmosphere celebrating community, wellness, and the spirit of endurance.

With running culture growing rapidly in Indian metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai, and extending to emerging fitness cities such as Bhopal, Lucknow, and Kochi, the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon is becoming a must-run destination race. It’s not just a race—it’s an experience, set against the stunning natural canvas of the Himalayan foothills.

Registrations are now open at https://sarmangdehradunmarathon.sarmang.com . Whether you’re chasing a personal record or taking your first steps into the world of running, this is your invitation to run where the air is fresher, the path greener, and the spirit stronger.

Come for the challenge. Stay for the beauty. Run the Himalayan Foothills at the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon.

Race news Generali Prague Half Marathon

Rodrigue Kwizera becomes the King of Prague Half Marathon

First winner from Burundi

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:56:00 +0000

The Generali Prague Half Marathon men’s race was won by Rodrigue Kwizera in 58:54. In one of the most measured performances in the history of the race, he beat the main favourite, Kenyan Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi, by two seconds with a last minute surge past the long time leader for the win.

Very early from the start on the Bubenské nábřeží embankment in Prague Holešovice, the four men’s favourites broke away, supported by two pacemakers. In rather windy conditions, especially along the stretches beside the Vltava River, the split times in the middle of the course suggested that the bold plans to break the race record would not work out. However the final times of the leading athletes were still impressive.

Rodrigue Kwizera, the seventh man in the 2023 World Championships 10,000m, briefly lost ground to a trio of leading men midway through the course, but soon rejoined the front group. He saved his bid for the lead until the home straight in front of the Holešovice Market Hall and triumphed with a time of 58:54 min. “I am happy for this victory and also for the national record I ran, I think the conditions for an endurance race were quite good today,” said Kwizera, first competitor from Burundi to win the race, after the finish.

The domestic athletes also fought a thrilling battle until the very end. The local title was defended by Patrik Vebr, who with a time of 1:05:40 secured the position of first Czech finisher for the third time in a row ahead of Tomas Krivda.

16,000 runners took part in the Generali Prague Half Marathon 2025. Detailed information about the race is available on the official website of the series www.runczech.com.

Race news Vienna City Marathon

An ice cold surprise in Vienna

Haftamu Abadi and Betty Chepkemoi beat better known rivals in freezing conditions

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 10:09:00 +0000

Photo: JENIA SYMONDS
© JENIA SYMONDS

Haftamu Abadi and Betty Chepkemoi are the surprise winners of the 42nd Vienna City Marathon. Both achieved huge personal bests in almost freezing conditions, running only their second race at the classic distance.

Ethiopia’s Abadi clocked 2:08:28 and improved by over two minutes. Kenya’s Mica Cheserek was second in 2:10:23 and Ethiopia’s debutant Mogos Tuemay took third with 2:10:33. Betty Chepkemoi smashed her PB by over ten minutes when she won Austria’s major road running event in 2:24:14. Fellow Kenyans Rebecca Tanui and Catherine Cherotich took second and third with 2:25:18 and 2:25:45 respectively. Germany’s Fabienne Königstein was fourth in 2:28:49.

Organisers of the Vienna City Marathon, which is an World Athletics Elite Label Road Race, registered a record total of 46,083 athletes from 146 nations. Among them were 12,968 marathon runners which is the highest number in the history of the race as well.

With a temperature of two degrees Celsius at the start it was the coldest Vienna City Marathon for decades. Only once in the long history of the race has an even lower temperature been recorded: Back in 1986 it was just below zero. In 1996 there was snow, but it was still warmer than today.

Any hopes for records and fast times were ruined before the start. That showed early in the race when the men reached the 5k mark. Their 15:06 split time pointed towards a 2:07:20 finishing time. The pace stayed in the 2:07 to 2:08 region for large parts of the race. When the leading group came through the half marathon in 63:32 there were four runners still behind pacemaker Laban Chepkorom: Haftamu Abadi and fellow-Ethiopian Mogos Tuemay as well as the Kenyans Edward Koonyo and Asbel Rutto. Before the 25k mark Koonyo lost contact and around 28k the Ethiopian dropped Rutto as well. Abadi, who was the only one in the group to run with gloves, ear protection and a shirt with long sleeves, then moved ahead at 29k and quickly build a commanding lead.

“I had prepared well for this race and when I came here I hoped to be able to run a time in the region of 2:05 to 2:06. However it was not possible in this weather,” said 21 year-old Haftamu Abadi, who was the youngest runner in the elite field. The Ethiopian, who ran a 2:10:33 debut in Berlin last year, celebrated his biggest career win so far in Vienna. “I hope there will be no wind in my next marathon, then I can further improve my PB.”

The women were running much slower than originally planned as well. In the ice cold conditions – the temperature at the start felt like minus 5 Celsius – they passed 5k in 17:24, indicating a 2:27 finishing time. They did pick up the pace a bit from then on, but there was no chance to get anywhere near split times in the region of a sub 2:23 pace or even the 2:20:59 course record. Shortly before the half marathon point the Kenyan trio of Betty Chepkemoi, Rebecca Tanui and Catherine Cherotich had build a lead which they then increased. They stayed together until six kilometers from the finish, when Chepkemoi broke away and went on to win the race.

“I am of course very happy to have won and it is an impressive personal best for me,“ said Betty Chepkemoi, who ran her 2:34:52 marathon debut in Istanbul last year. “It was not easy in these cold conditions and without pacemakers during the second half. I think I will be able to run faster in the future.“

Fabienne Königstein produced a solid performance: Just four weeks after running 2:28:20 in Nagoya she clocked 2:28:49 for fourth place. “I have given everything, it was really tough. But I am happy and looking forward to an autumn marathon,“ said the German.

Vienna’s 5k race on the eve of the Vienna City Marathon continues to flourish. A record number of over 4,000 runners were registered for the third edition of the race which is staged on the Ringstrasse in the heart of the Austrian capital and has the same finish as the Vienna City Marathon.

Despite strong winds Timo Hinterndorfer broke the course record with a winning time of 14:17. Fellow Austrian Markus Reisselhuber took second with 14:51 and Thys Moreau of Belgium was third in 15:00. In the women’s race New Zealand’s Sophie Hicks beat a group of strong Austrian youngsters. Hicks crossed the line in 16:20, followed by Cordula Lassacher. The 21 year-old Austrian, who holds multiple records in the under 23 age group, clocked 16:27. Fellow Austrian Lena Millonig, who was the defending champion, took third in 16:35.

Running news

Connecting Europe’s iconic half marathons

Prague Half expects 16,000 runners

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:27:00 +0000

The SuperHalfs project is captivating the global running community, inviting runners from around the world to embark on a unique journey through six of Europe’s most picturesque and culturally rich cities.

Designed to inspire runners of all levels, SuperHalfs encourages participants to complete half marathons in Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff, and Valencia—all for the ultimate reward: the prestigious SuperMedal.

Founded by RunCzech, the SuperHalfs concept was created to inspire runners to explore new destinations while embracing the challenge of completing an exclusive race series. Since its launch, SuperHalfs has attracted thousands of dedicated runners who are not only pushing their limits but also immersing themselves in local cultures and sharing unforgettable experiences with fellow athletes.

Each year, thousands register to take on the challenge. Originally, participants had up to 60 months to complete all six races, but as of February 2025, this time limit has been removed, allowing runners to finish the series at their own pace.

This year’s SuperRace – the Generali Prague Half Marathon – will welcome an impressive 16,000 runners, reinforcing its status as one of the premier races in the SuperHalfs series. The numbers speak for themselves—tens of thousands of runners are already on their SuperJourney, with many more set to begin in the coming years. This steady rise in participation highlights the growing appeal of combining sport with travel, as more runners and their supporters turn each race into a memorable experience. With the continuous expansion of the SuperHalfs community, participation is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, bringing even more energy and excitement to each host city.

Although the SuperHalfs series is designed for everyday runners, the races also showcase world-class performances. Some of the fastest half marathon times in history have been recorded at these events. The 2024 season was particularly spectacular, beginning with Sabastian Sawe’s remarkable performance at the Prague Half Marathon (58:24), where he set the fastest time of the year. Later, in Copenhagen, he surpassed his own leading half marathon time for men (58:05).

This year, all eyes will be on the athlete who finished just five seconds behind Sawe in Copenhagen, securing third place – Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi (58:10) – the fourth-fastest half marathon time ever. He will headline the elite field, aiming to challenge Sawe’s race record in Prague.

For more information and to start your own SuperHalfs journey, visit superhalfs.com.

Race news Nationale-Nederlanden Warsaw Half Marathon

Record-breaking turnout in Warsaw

“Historic day for Polish running” say organisers

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:56:00 +0000

Spring arrived in spectacular way in the Polish capital, bringing with it a flurry of records and unforgettable moments. The 116 123. Warsaw Half Marathon officially became the largest half marathon in Polish history, with a record-breaking 14,720 participants at the starting line.

The accompanying New Balance High Five also drew an unprecedented crowd, and both races delivered top-tier performances from the winners. With tens of thousands of enthusiastic Warsaw residents cheering on every kilometer, March 30, 2025, will be remembered as a landmark date in Polish running history.

This year’s edition of the Warsaw Half Marathon was awarded the World Athletics Elite Label for the first time, attracting a strong international field and delivering a high level of competition.

The men’s race was won by Soufian Bouquantar of Morocco, who crossed the finish line in 1:02:24. Just four seconds behind him was fellow Moroccan Mohamed El Ghazouany (1:02:28), while Kenya’s Edwin Cheruiyot Soi secured third place with a time of 1:02:32. The top Polish runner, Adam Nowicki, finished just off the podium in fourth place, matching his personal best of 1:02:51. The battle for victory was fierce — by the 15-kilometer mark, a lead group of four had broken away from the pack, ultimately deciding the podium among themselves.

“Conditions were great out there today – the course was fast, and the weather couldn’t have been better. I didn’t feel quite as strong as I have in my recent races, but this was an important opportunity to test myself ahead of the European Championships in two weeks. Breaking the Polish record is definitely on my mind, but I know a lot of things have to come together for that to happen” said Adam Nowicki, the top Polish finisher at the 116 123. Warsaw Half Marathon.

“The crowd support was amazing – you could really feel the energy from the sidelines, and it gave me a big boost. I first ran this race ten years ago, and coming back now as a more experienced athlete, it’s incredibly satisfying to still be chasing my goals at this level” he added.

In the women’s race, Argentina’s Daiana Ocampo led from the front and never looked back, finishing first with an impressive time of 1:10:48. She set a fast early pace that proved unreachable for the rest of the field. Viktoriia Kaliuzhna of Ukraine took second place in 1:12:13, followed closely by Kenya’s Sylvia Mboga Medugu in third with a time of 1:12:20. The fastest Polish woman was Sabina Jarząbek, who claimed fourth place in 1:12:47.

A total of 14,720 runners took part in this year’s race, setting a new all-time Polish record for half marathon participation.

The New Balance Run for Five also saw record turnout, with 5375 finishers crossing the line. Mikołaj Czeronek won the men’s 5K in 14:34, while Elżbieta Glinka took the women’s title in 16:02.

An impressive 20,095 participants took to the streets of Warsaw across both the Half Marathon and the New Balance High Five – a truly remarkable turnout!

Once again, the Warsaw Half Marathon route offered both speed and scenery. Runners set off from Poniatowski Bridge, passed through key city landmarks including Aleje Jerozolimskie, Krakowskie Przedmieście, and Żoliborz, then crossed Gdański Bridge before finishing near the PGE Narodowy Stadium. Every part of the course reflected the dynamic character of the city and its undeniable energy.

“Today we achieved exactly what we set out to do. We wanted to create an event that would not only be the biggest in Poland but would also bring together top-tier athletes and showcase the spirit of Warsaw. And we succeeded. Record participation, World Athletics Elite Label, and fantastic results. But above all, what moved me most was the emotion – the thousands of fans, volunteers, and runners who made this day unforgettable. Today, Warsaw didn’t just host a race – it ran alongside us” – said Marek Tronina, CEO of the “Warsaw Marathon” Foundation.

From start to finish, the city embraced the race with open arms. Music and cheers filled the streets, and 29 official cheering zones were set up all along the course, keeping the energy high with everything from live orchestras and samba drums to family-friendly areas offering face painting and bubble fun. The finish zone near the PGE Narodowy Stadium was transformed into a vibrant Runner’s Village – a space for athletes and fans to relax, enjoy live music, and take part in activities promoting a healthy lifestyle. It was more than a race – it was a joyful celebration of community, movement, and positivity.

Among the thousands of participants, 1739 runners stood out in orange – the ambassadors of the #BiegamDobrze (Polish for “I run for good”) charity initiative. Together, they raised over 750,000 PLN (180,000 EUR) (and counting, with online donations open until April 4) for various non-profit organizations. Supported by foundation representatives on the route and at the finish line, these runners turned every step into a gesture of support and solidarity. For more than a decade, #BiegamDobrze has shown how running can go hand-in-hand with doing good, and this year was no exception.

The 116 123. Warsaw Half Marathon was a historic event – full of powerful performances, emotional moments, and an atmosphere like no other. The Warsaw Marathon Foundation would like to thank all participants, volunteers, fans, partners, and the people of Warsaw. Your energy and enthusiasm made this event truly extraordinary. For many, this was the start of a new running journey. For others, a moment of inspiration. Either way, we hope to see you at the next starting line. Until then – keep running, Warsaw!

AIMS Children’s Series

The future of running

AIMS Children’s Series 2025: Dhaka and Sherpur, Bangladesh

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 11:17:00 +0000

On 21 February 2025 (after several years hiatus post Covid) more than 500 happy and excited children in Dhaka stepped off the start line of the newest AIMS Childrens’ Series event.

AIMS provided a generous three-year sponsorship to RunBangla International (RBI), a local AIMS member race organiser, to create an event for children of all socio-economic backgrounds and abilities.

RBI worked closely with the community and received enormous support from the Mirpur Runners volunteers to create a festive day of running for children. The event was open to any child under age 13 willing to challenge themselves in one of three age-appropriate distances ranging from 100m to a kilometre. RBI worked with SOS Hermann Gmeiner College in Dhaka leasing a beautiful sports field for the event. Many local community and business supporters were involved for an afternoon filled with games and tasty treats for the children in addition to medals, shirts and finisher certificates. The event created memories for the children that will hopefully lead to lifelong enjoyment of the healthy lifestyle and the fitness benefits of the sport.

Under the management of Khandaker Rajib Hossain, RBI Chief Officer and AIMS Ambassador to Bangladesh, along with Race Director Obayedur Rahman the event was a complete success.

From the outset RBI was committed to outreach efforts to include as many girls and boys from underprivileged, marginalized and indigenous communities with a goal to make certain that all children be included.

With careful use of the budget afforded to RBI by AIMS, RBI, with support from Sherpur Runners, was able to create a second segment of the AIMS Children’s Series 2025 the following week on 26 February. At the Miriam Nagur Mission sports field located five hours north of Dhaka in Jhinaigati, a smaller but no less enthusiastic field of young runners sprinted off the start line.

“The future of running” is the AIMS slogan for the Children’s Series. That future was perfectly on display on two bright sunny days in Bangladesh this year, with anticipation expressed from all the children to return next year. RBI is already planning events for 2026.

Race news Vienna City Marathon

Strong fields could produce thrilling races in Vienna

No clear favourite as Kangogo and Rutto go head to head – Can Vibian Chepkirui land a third win?

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:48:00 +0000

Photo: Michael Kvick
© Michael Kvick

This year the Vienna City Marathon will be the first of the traditional major April races over the classic distance. Strong elite fields are expected to produce thrilling races on 6th April since there is no big favourite in either the men’s or women’s competition.

Kenyans Justus Kangogo and Vibian Chepkirui, who holds the course record in Vienna, head the start list with personal bests of 2:05:57 and 2:20:59 respectively.

Organisers of the 42nd edition of the Vienna City Marathon, which is a World Athletics Elite Label event, have registered a record total of more than 45,000 entries. 13,000 of them will run the classic distance, which is a record as well.

The personal bests of the top four men on the start list differ by just over one minute. This could point to a close race for victory. Justus Kangogo remains the leading runner on the list with his PB of 2:05:57 which he ran in Berlin 2023. Fellow-Kenyan Asbel Rutto is a late addition to the field. A year ago he established the current course record of the Rome Marathon with 2:06:24, was over three minutes faster than before and over one and a half minutes ahead of his nearest rival. The time is still Rutto’s personal best. Two other athletes are on Vienna’s start list who have run well below 2:08. Kenyans Douglas Chebii and Stanley Kurgat have personal records of 2:06:31 and 2:07:05 respectively.

While these four runners look the strongest on paper, there are another five men who have run below 2:10. A debutant who has the potential for a strong marathon time is Wisley Kibichii. The Kenyan has run the half marathon in 59:57.

With Vienna’s very strong 2:05:08 men’s course record from Kenya’s Samwel Mailu, the women’s mark is the more likely one to fall on 6th April. When Vibian Chepkirui defended her title in 2022 she smashed the course record with 2:20:59. The Kenyan now hopes to make it three starts and three victories at the Vienna City Marathon.

Fellow-Kenyans Rebecca Tanui and Catherine Cherotich are two strong challengers who may well be on the same level as Chepkirui. Tanui was third here a year ago before she ran a 2:21:08 PB and course record in Kosice. Cherotich made huge steps when she improved by over a quarter of an hour to 2:22:42 in Frankfurt last year. Germany’s Fabienne Königstein is the fastest European on the current start list with a PB of 2:25:48. She will be challenged by Nora Szabo of Hungary and Poland’s Aleksandra Brzezinska who have run times of 2:25:52 and 2:27:20.

Date changes 10km International de Marrakech

Race date for 10km International de Marrakech (MAR) changed

10km Int’l de Marrakech date change

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 15:16:39 +0000

The 10km International de Marrakech (MAR) will take place on Sun 5 October 2025, not Sun 4 May 2025 as previously published.

Race news StraLugano

StraLugano registrations are open

Distances for all ages and abilities

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 11:42:00 +0000

After the great success of the 18 years, the new edition of the most anticipated running event of the year is announced scheduled for the last weekend of September.

Registrations are open on the website www.stralugano.ch for the new edition of the queen running race of the Lugano lakeside. Now in its 19th edition, the StraLugano is ready to flood the weekend of 27 and 28 September with a multitude of runners who will compete in the various races designed to satisfy everyone’s age, tastes and athletic preparation.

Kicking off the event, on Saturday 27 September at 4:00 pm, there will be confirmation of the 2024 novelty: the FAMIGROS RUN&WIN, a non-competitive race dedicated to families that will allow you to win magnificent prizes. Also in the afternoon, at 4:45 p.m., the 5km FunRun will start, a race that winds for 5,000 m along the banks of Lake Ceresio and through Parco Ciani, dedicated to those who want to try their hand at a short-distance race suitable for everyone, even the less trained.

To close the day, at 6:15 p.m., the distance is doubled and the 10Km CityRun starts, a fascinating route that winds along the entire lakeside of Lugano and the streets of the city.

On Sunday 28 September, the first start at 9:30 a.m. is entrusted to the Monte Brè Run (from this year a stage of the ASTI cup): a 9 km panoramic route, with a difference in altitude of about 730 m. that will take you to the “roof” of Lugano.

At 10:00 the queen race will start, the 21km Half Marathon, the half marathon with a breathtaking view that touches the main points of the lakeside from Paradiso to the Ponte del Diavolo.

You can choose whether to run the 21 km alone or split the effort with 3 friends in the relay version of the 21Km HM RelayRun, ideal for strengthening synergies and improving teamwork.

For the more athletic, there is the possibility of competing in the StraCombinata, the race that combines the 10Km CityRun on Saturday evening with the Monte Brè Run on Sunday: a challenge for complete and determined athletes that offers incredible emotions.

At 1:45 pm the popular Run4Charity will take place, a 3 km non-competitive race accessible to everyone, in an environment of total solidarity to support the charitable organizations participating in the 4Charity program.

The children will close the event from 3:00 pm on the afternoon of Sunday 28 September with the KidsRun. A route with different distances depending on the age group, to offer all the kids the chance to compete with a smile.

Whatever the race chosen, no one will be without the eco-sustainable commemorative medal with a charming and colorful design and the rich race pack, with which each participant is honored with a magnificent technical T-shirt and several surprises.

Finally, we remind you that to reach the StraLugano, as has been the case for several years, it is worth using the free transport promotion with Swiss Runners Ticket (buses and trains) from any region of Switzerland and also usable by foreigners starting from the border station entering our country. For all participants in the timed races it will therefore be possible to leave the car at home and use public transport to and from their home.

Date changes Samarkand Marathon

Race date for Samarkand Marathon (UZB) changed

Samarkand Marathon date change

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:27:00 +0000

The Samarkand Marathon (UZB) will take place Sat 8 November—Sun 9 November 2025, not Sat 29 November—Sun 30 November 2025 as previously published.

Race news Generali Prague Half Marathon

Kenyan stars Lasoi and Rengeruk ready for Prague

Threat to existing course records expected

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:14:00 +0000

The Generali Prague Half Marathon is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary on Saturday, April 5, 2025, with a highly competitive field and the potential for record-breaking performances.

Among the top contenders are Kenyan runners Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk, both aiming for strong performances on Prague’s fast course.

Lasoi, 25, is set to make his RunCzech debut, aiming for victory and a potential race record. Ranked fourth globally in men’s road running by World Athletics, he has consistently finished under the one-hour mark in the half marathon for the past three seasons. His personal best of 58:10, achieved at the 2024 Copenhagen Half Marathon, was one of the fastest times in the world last year. In Prague, he will challenge the current race record of 58:24, set by Sebastian Sawe in 2024.

Lasoi has shown strong form this season, finishing fourth at the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in 59:26 despite challenging wind conditions. With his speed and consistency, he is expected to be a key contender in Prague.

In the women’s race, Lilian Kasait Rengeruk leads the elite field. The 27-year-old Kenyan had an impressive 2024 season, making a strong half marathon debut in Valencia, where she placed third with a time of 1:03:32 – currently the fourth-fastest mark in history. Ranked second in the world in women’s road running, Rengeruk has also excelled on the track, having run under 30 minutes for 10,000 meters. She will be aiming to better the Prague race record of 1:04:52, set by Joyceline Jepkosgei in 2017.

“The Prague Half Marathon course is known for its speed and ideal conditions for fast times,” said Carlo Capalbo, Chairman of the RunCzech Organizing Committee. “We are excited to welcome such talented athletes and look forward to an exciting race.”

Race news TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca

TUI extends sponsorship of Palma Marathon until 2030

Kumulus strengthens alliance with TUI to drive growth of the biggest running event in the Balearics

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 12:14:00 +0000

Photo: Rafa Babot

Kumulus, the race organizer company is pleased to announce that TUI, one of the world’s leading tourism groups, will continue its role as title sponsor of the biggest running event of the Balearic Islands until at least 2030.

After the successful TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca 2024 edition, when TUI returned as the role of title sponsor after ten years, both parties have extended their commitment until 2030.With this renewal, both organizations aim to drive further growth and reinforce their presence in sports, tourism and leisure.

The renewal of the sponsorship will also put a greater focus on sustainability, inclusion, local collaboration and innovation with the aim of positioning it as one of the major in the European running world.

“We are very proud to continue our collaboration with TUI and strengthen our relationship with the global leader in the tourism industry,” said David Thompson, CEO of Kumulus. “This extension not only demonstrates the success of the collaboration over last year, but also our shared vision to grow the TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca even further in the years to come. As organizers we are aligned with TUI in fundamental values as environment care and customer satisfaction”.

“For TUI, the combination of sports, tourism and sustainability is simply perfect. As the TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca attracts both local and international audiences, we are very proud to continue supporting this iconic event for the Balearics and all of Europe. Together with Kumulus and our many partners on the island, we will continue working to enhance the experience for participants and spectators, ensuring that the marathon remains leading in terms of quality, innovation, and environmental responsibility”, says Magnus Hüttenberend, the Group Director responsible for TUI’s sponsoring activities.

Over the past few years, the event has grown in terms of the diversity of represented countries, reaching 76 nationalities in the last edition. The addition of TUI, a globally recognized brand committed to quality and excellence in the tourism industry, will allow us to increase this international and multicultural participation that we seek as an organization. Kumulus reaffirms its commitment to excellence and the highest quality standards in the organization of sports events.

This year, the TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca will celebrate its 21st anniversary and will continue to highlight the unique charms that Mallorca and Palma have to offer to participants and spectators providing unique experiences.

In the past edition the race surpassed 8,000 registered participants across the 3 distances with an outstanding 43% female participation, an unprecedented figure in Europe. Additionally, it once again stood out as the most international event with over 80% of participants coming from abroad, representing 76 nationalities, including a significant 36% from Germany and 20% from the UK.

The TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca will continue to be a recreational and sporting event, aiming to showcase the island and especially the city of Palma not only to participants but also to their companions providing different activities throughout the weekend.

Registrations for the 2025 edition are up 60% compared to last year and female participation continues increasing having reached now 47%. Packages for the TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca can be booked in all TUI retail shops worldwide as well as online in the TUI app.

TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca is organized by Kumulus, with the title sponsorship of TUI, the support of the City Council of Palma, co-financed with the Sustainable Tourism Tax fund of the Government of the Balearic Islands, support of the the Mallorca Tourism Foundation and the Consell de Mallorca and the collaboration and of Zafiro Hotels, 361º, Fornes Logistics, Ports de Balears, among others.

Race news Generali Berlin Half Marathon

Almost time for Berlin

Lottery for entries to be introduced for 2026

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 14:28:00 +0000

© Sportograf Digital Solutions GmbH

With just under three weeks to go, the Generali Berlin Half Marathon 2025 will transform the capital city into excitement, joy and a huge party along the course.

The moment is approaching when runners’ training, discipline, ups and downs will pay off and they hope to reach their personal goals.

The Generali Berlin Half Marathon is growing in popularity, partly because it has been part of the coveted SuperHalfs series for the past year.

Next year, on March 29, 2026, the race celebrates its 45th edition and will allocate the race entries for runners through a lottery for the first time.

As is already usual for some events in the SuperHalfs series, race entries for runners will now be allocated by lottery due to the significant increase in interest. For 2026, we also expect a strong increase in the number of interested participants due to the 45th anniversary of the Generali Berlin Half Marathon.

This gives everyone an equal chance to secure a spot during the registration period. The registration for the lottery will take place from April 10 to May 22, 2025.

All participants in the draw will automatically receive their draw result by email on June 2, 2025 and can start planning their Generali Berlin Half Marathon on March 29, 2026 in good time.

As part of the Generali Berlin Half Marathon 2024, around 655 kg of clothing was collected in the start area. A whopping 98 percent of this could be reused and handed over to those in need. The Berlin City Mission and we as organizers are particularly pleased with the rate of usable clothing. In 2025, we want to pick up where we left off and do good together again – we’re counting on you!

The Generali Berlin Half Marathon will once again offer running and movement fun for the younger generation. This year, the Bambini Run – as part of the Bambini Run series presented by ADAC Berlin-Brandenburg – and Kids Skating will take place at the Berlin Messe fairgrounds – NOT, as in previous years, at the former Tempelhof Airport.

Race news Mainova Frankfurt Marathon

Organic fruit for Frankfurt runners

Sustainable partnership with a message

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 11:44:00 +0000

Providing all participants with organic products along the course and at the finish line will remain an important component of the outstanding quality of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon in 2025.

Thanks to the reaffirmed partnership with Querbeet Bio Frischvermarktungs GmbH, participants of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon will receive organic fruit along the course and at the finish line. With its 100% organic catering, Querbeet has been contributing to the Green Marathon commitment of Germany’s oldest city marathon since 2005.

“Marathon and organic,” says Querbeet Managing Director Thomas Wolff, “have a very good connection: Both only work sustainably.” This is also reflected in the “Bio Runner Rhein-Main” running team. In 2024, 68 athletes competed for the team, including 24 who completed the full marathon distance. But they don’t just run for themselves; they also carry an important message: “Healthy nutrition is crucial for sport. Those who eat a balanced, high-quality diet find it easier to overcome a demanding challenge like a marathon,” explains Wolff, a marathon runner himself and a member of the Frankfurt Marathon Club.

Querbeet is a cooperation partner of Bioland, a fruit sponsor of the regional Main-Lauf-Cup, a founding member and board member of the Konstablerwache Producers’ Market, and a member of the BioBoden cooperative. In 2013, the Pappelhof cooperative model received the “Federal Prize for Organic Farming.” Since 2018, Querbeet has also been certified organic by the Hessen Organic Seal of Approval. In addition to a wide selection of fruit and vegetables from its own organic farms, Querbeet offers its customers a full range of over 4,500 organic products in its online shop.

“We are pleased to continue offering runners fruit from certified organic farming. This organic catering is a central element of our Green Marathon initiatives. By using organic fruit, we have been able to reduce our carbon footprint fivefold,” explains Jo Schindler, Race Director of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon.

Every year, the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon becomes a little greener – with its numerous environmentally and climate-friendly measures, the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon is a pioneer among running events. The marathon’s organic catering has already been recognized as a “Best Practice” in the brochure “Green Champions for Sport and the Environment” published by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety and by the German Olympic Sports Confederation. In 2014, the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon was honored with the “Green Award” for the world’s most environmentally friendly marathon by AIMS, the Association of International Road Race Organizers, for its commitment. The organizers’ ultimate goal? The classic race is to become climate-neutral by 2030.

Race news PolarNight Marathon

Arctic experience in Tromsø

Runners under Aurora Borealis

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:51:00 +0000

Photo: Zoltan Tot ZT-Photography

Tromsø is the largest city in northern Norway and the administrative centre of Troms County. It’s a lively cultural city with a street scene, a midnight-sun marathon in June, a respected university, the hallowed Mack Brewery – and more pubs per capita than any other Norwegian city.

Its corona of snow-topped peaks provides arresting scenery, excellent hiking in summer, great skiing and dogsledding in winter.

Although the city lies almost 400km north of the Arctic Circle, its climate is pleasantly moderated by the Gulf Stream. The Polarnight season is offset by round-the-clock activity during the perpetually bright sunny days of summer.

The main part of city stretches along the east shore of the island of Tromsøya, linked to the mainland by a gracefully arched bridge.

With that being said, the PolarNight Marathon is the race to do!!

PolarNight Marathon is an annual running competition that has been organized since 2004 in Tromsø, Norway. It takes place in the beginning of January, during the Polar night-period, when the sun does not rise above the horizon. It is renowned for its torch-lit route and the chance of running underneath the Aurora Borealis.

You can choose between 42km, 21km, 10km and 5km. The marathon is not the race for beginners since you have to prove that you have done the distance less the 4 hours the last two years to sign up.

If you’re looking for that wild and unique challenge for your bucket list, this is it!! Runners from all over the world have discovered the Arctic and the city of Tromsø where Aurora Borealis is often up in the sky from September to end of March.

This year on the 4th January nearly two thousand runners had their first race for the 2025. Runners from over fifty countries took part in one of four distances during the PolarNight Marathon.

The weather in January can be unpredictable and the running conditions can be very hard with snow- and ice-covered roads. During the race the running conditions were the very best you could dream of in winter. With –10º Celsius and nice clear sky you could enjoy running. Many runners choose to run with spikes to avoid slipping on the ice.

Race news Vienna City Marathon

Kenyans aim to regain Vienna crown

Record 13,000 entries for mass race

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 13:08:00 +0000

Photo: Jenia Symonds
© Vienna City Marathon/Jenia Symonds

This year’s Vienna City Marathon will form a unique bond with the classical music Austria’s capital stands for. Celebrating Johann Strauss’ 200th birthday his Danube Waltz will be played before the start of the race.

While the music will be soft and flattering once the runners get on their way the battle for victory could be thrilling and fierce. There will be no major favourite. The Kenyan trio of Justus Kangogo, Douglas Chebii and Stanley Kurgat head the men’s elite field on 6th April. They feature personal best times in the region of 2:06 to 2:07 and another two athletes on the current start list have run below 2:09. Organisers of Austria’s major road race event today announced the men’s main contenders.

A record number of close to 13,000 entries was registered for the 42nd edition of the Vienna City Marathon which is a World Athletics Elite Label Race. Running events at shorter distances included, the total number of athletes will be well over 45,000.

It looks likely that Kenya’s elite male runners could be successful in regaining the Vienna City Marathon crown which they lost to Chala Regasa of Ethiopia last year. Before there were four Kenyan victories in a row in the men’s race, culminating in Samwel Mailu smashing the course record with 2:05:08 in 2023.

The fast trio of Kenyans have all shown strong performances or even run personal bests in recent marathons. Justus Kangogo clocked 2:06:45 for fourth place in Amsterdam last October. It was a year earlier when the 29 year-old smashed his personal record with a 2:05:57 performance in Berlin. Douglas Chebii has shown fine consistency during the past three years. It was in 2022 when the 31 year-old clocked his PB of 2:06:31 in Linz, Austria. He followed this up with a fine 2:07:11 in Sevilla in 2023 and then placed 7th in the competitive Dubai Marathon in 2024 with 2:08:15. Chebii was the fastest Kenyan in Dubai in that year. 25 year-old Stanley Kurgat is the youngest of the fast Kenyan trio and his PB has come just half a year ago. Running only his second marathon after a 2:11:50 debut in Valencia in 2023 he improved significantly to 2:07:05 in Berlin. While this was only good enough for 15th place in this competitive race he could be challenging for his biggest career win in Vienna. He has the advantage of knowing most of the course since he ran here as a pacemaker until the 30k point last year.

Fellow Kenyans Charles Ndiema and Benard Kimeli are the other two runners who are on the start list with personal bests of sub 2:09. Ndiema was fourth in Vienna in 2022 with 2:08:12 and Kimeli ran 2:08:34 in Tokyo last year. Bernard Muia is an athlete who could produce a surprise at the Vienna City Marathon. The Kenyan was runner-up here a year ago with 2:10:42. He moved from fourth to second place in the final two kilometres of the race, making up a deficit of 48 seconds. Bernard Muia ran his PB of 2:09:17 when he won the Munich Marathon in 2023.

Austrian record holder Peter Herzog, who ran 2:10:06 in the 2020 London Marathon, leads the national elite field. He will aim for a time of around 2:12. Former Austrian record holder Lemawork Ketema (2:10:44) hopes for a solid comeback race after a longer break due to an injury.

Race news BMW Berlin-Marathon

Berlin offers runners chance to ‘taste marathon spirit’

Run a 5K through the Brandenburg Gate

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 13:19:00 +0000

Organisers of the BMW Berlin Marathon are offering runners the chance to complete a 5K on the famously fast course – the same finish line once crossed by world record breakers such as Haile Gebrselassie and Eliud Kipchoge.

The Generali 5K run on Saturday 20th September shares the same last stretch as the marathon on the Sunday and the same iconic finish in front of the Brandenburg Gate.

Organisers say: “The day before the legendary BMW Berlin Marathon, you have the unique chance to run a 5K along the final kilometres of the official race course. Experience the unforgettable finish through the Brandenburg Gate, soak in the crowd’s energy, and claim your well-earned finisher medal.”

The start is at Potsdamer Platz and the finish on Strasse des 17. Juni after the Brandenburg Gate.

Race news Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend

Rory Linkletter to run in Ottawa

Second-fastest Canadian of all time

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 15:34:00 +0000

The organizing team of Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is thrilled to announce that notable Canadian marathon runner Rory Linkletter will be competing in the 2025 Tartan Ottawa International Marathon.

One of Canada’s most accomplished marathoners, Linkletter’s participation is set to enhance the atmosphere of an already highly anticipated weekend of racing, taking place on May 24-25, 2025.

Linkletter, a Canadian Olympian in 2024, has established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the international marathon stage. He competed in the marathon at the 2022 and 2023 World Athletics Championships, finishing inside the top 20 both times.

In February 2024, Linkletter qualified for the Paris Olympics at the Seville Marathon, finishing 13th with a personal best time of 2:08:01—making him the second-fastest Canadian marathoner ever, behind only national record holder Cam Levins. This year, he tackled two half marathons in just six days, racing the Kagawa Marugame Half Marathon in Japan, where he achieved a new personal best of 60:57, before going on to win the Mesa-Phoenix Half Marathon in Arizona with a time of 62:36. Linkletter is gearing up for the Boston Marathon alongside fellow elite runner CJ Albertson, with both athletes set to compete in Boston before taking on the Tartan Ottawa International Marathon.

His relentless determination and impressive performances in major races around the world have made him a fan favorite among the Canadian running community. Linkletter is no stranger to Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend having placed 2nd with a personal best of 28:40 in 2024, 7th in 2023 with a time of 29:51, and 2nd in 2022 with a time of 29:02, in the Ottawa 10K presented by Otto’s Ottawa, home of the Athletics Canada Canadian 10K Championships. “I have been in Ottawa for Tamarack Race weekend the past 3 years and it’s really become a highlight of each year,” says Linkletter. “This will be my first time stepping up to the Marathon distance, and it’ll be my first Marathon on Canadian soil in 3 years, and I can’t wait to relish this opportunity.”

The Tartan Ottawa International Marathon is a cornerstone event of Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, bringing together elite athletes, recreational runners, and enthusiastic spectators from across the globe. Recognized for its outstanding organization, vibrant atmosphere, and strong competitive field, the marathon offers participants an unforgettable racing experience in the heart of Canada’s capital region.

“I am grateful to Rory for his support of this race over the last few years,” says Stephen Andersen, Run Ottawa’s Elite Athlete Coordinator. “He is a constant and enthusiastic competitor in our 10K event and is now taking on the marathon. Rory is one of the premier marathoners on the world stage and we are very excited to watch CJ and him duel on our new, fast course.”

The 2025 Tartan Ottawa International Marathon will showcase elite international talent while celebrating the passion and perseverance of runners of all abilities. With Linkletter in the mix, spectators can expect a thrilling race and an inspiring display of Canadian talent.

Registration for the Tartan Ottawa International Marathon is currently open, with options for in-person, virtual, and Green Bib participation. Runners of all levels are encouraged to join and experience the unparalleled excitement of Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, Canada’s largest multi-day running event.

Race news Mainova Frankfurt Marathon

Frankfurt runners continue supporting last wishes

Long-standing partnership with Workers' Samaritan Federation continues in 2025 – Over 25,000 EUR collected last year

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 10:52:00 +0000

42.195 kilometres with a view of the skyline of the banking metropolis of Frankfurt at the oldest city marathon in Germany: For many runners, this is a big wish come true.

At the very latest, crossing the finish line on the red carpet in the festival hall is overwhelming and a memory that will last for a long time. The aim of the ASB Rhein-Main Wish Car is to fulfil a heartfelt wish for people in the last phase of their lives. The wishes are as different as the people who have them. The Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) makes these wishes come true. People who have little time left can use the ASB Wish Car to reach their dream destinations: one more time in the stadium, to attend their granddaughter’s wedding, a special concert – for beautiful, shared memories.

Driven by the great common goal of doing good, the participants of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon have again generated donations in 2024. During the Frankfurt Running Festival on the last weekend in October, the impressive sum of EUR 25,511.29 in donations for the ASB Rhein-Main Wish Car was raised around the event. This is the second-best donation result since the partnership began in 2017.

Race director Jo Schindler handed over the donation cheque on Wednesday in the regional office of the long-standing charity partner. Jo Schindler said: “It is fantastic to see year after year how much the participants in our event support the charity project and signal with their willingness to donate that the project is just as dear to their hearts as it is to us. This shows us the integrative power of sport in our society.”

The project, which is financed exclusively by donations and supported by volunteers, has been fulfilling last wishes in Hesse since 2017. The ASB Landesverband Hessen e.V. has been the charity partner of the oldest German city marathon with the project for just as long. Over the duration of the partnership, a total of EUR 131,848.23 in donations have already been generated at the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon for the ASB-Wünschewagen Rhein-Main and the “Wünschewagen – Last Wishes Dare” project.

Ludwig Frölich, 1st State Chairman of the ASB Hessen, said: “It is great that the ASB Wish Car Rhein-Main has been the official charity partner of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon for so many years and has received so much support. This commitment would not be possible without the impressive commitment of Jo Schindler and his great team – our special thanks go to them. We also owe our heartfelt thanks to the many volunteers at the ASB, who with their tireless efforts help us to fulfil the last wishes of seriously ill people. This support is priceless.”

“We are delighted to be taking part in the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon again in 2025 with the ASB Wish Car Rhein-Main and to support the runners with our volunteers in the post-finish area,” says Martina Roth, project manager of the ASB Wish Car Rhein-Main at the ASB Hessen. “The collaboration with motion events is not only very successful, but also a lot of fun.” Anyone who would like to support the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon charity project has the opportunity to do so all year round. The items from the exclusive charity collection are available for sale in the event’s online shop at www.frankfurt-marathon.com/shop/.

Further information on the partnership between the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon and the ASB Wish Car, as well as a direct donation option, can be found at: www.frankfurt-marathon.com/charity Information on the ASB Wish Car can be found at: www.wuenschewagen.de

Date changes Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon

Race date for Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon (TPE) changed

Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon date change

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 13:49:25 +0000

The Taiwan’s Rice Heaven Tianzhong Marathon (TPE) will take place on Sun 9 November 2025, not Sat 8 November 2025 as previously published.

Date changes Novi Sad Marathon

Novi Sad Marathon (SRB)

Correction

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:47:00 +0000

The Novi Sad Marathon (SRB) will take place on Sun 12 October 2025, not Sun 23 March 2025 as previously published.

Race news Generali Berlin Half Marathon

New developments at Berlin

Expo moves from old airport to exhibition centre

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:38:00 +0000

© steffenhartz@gmx.de

Organisers of the Generali Berlin Half Marathon have released a swathe of information about what is new at this year’s event.

Just under six weeks to go: the Generali Berlin Half Marathon 2025 is getting closer and the anticipation is growing. And there are a few new things you should know about. Get the most out of your training over the next few weeks and set the perfect tone for your unforgettable experience in the capital.

May we introduce our new Generali Berlin Half Marathon website: clear, user-friendly and informative. Here you will find everything about this unique event. From now on you will also find the Half Marathon Expo page and everything about inline skating here.

Inline skating places are still available. At the Generali Berlin Half Marathon, the inline skaters take to the new, attractive course immediately before the runners. Take the chance and experience a relaxed sightseeing tour through Berlin. Secure your starting place quickly and be there! You can find all the information on our new website.

Did you know the Half Marathon Expo will be held at the Messe Berlin exhibition centre this year? Unlike in previous years, it will NOT be held at the former airport in Tempelhof. You can look forward to everything to do with running, wellness and lifestyle, fitness, nutrition and sports medicine as well as the Inline Village and kids on the move. You can find all the important information directly on the new page.

Berlin Half is part of the SuperHalfs series, which offers runners a unique and challenging experience as they complete half marathons in the famous European cities of Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia. You now no longer have a time limit on completing the series. From the day of their first race, participants have unlimited time to complete this remarkable achievement and receive a very special medal.

SCC EVENTS and the Berlin City Mission have been working together for a good three years now. At both the Generali Berlin Half Marathon and the BMW Berlin Marathon, items of clothing and shoes are collected for the benefit of people in need, most of whom are homeless. Today, the project has developed into a permanent fixture: While only around five helpers were involved at the beginning, there are now more than 50 full-time and voluntary workers who lend a hand.

Race news Volksbank-Münster-Marathon

Free running seminars in Münster for everyone

Series of talks on running and health

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:21:00 +0000

Dr. Ralph Schomaker, Managing Director of the Center for Sports Medicine and also race doctor for the Volksbank Münster Marathon is starting a popular seminar series.

The general topic that is of interest to everyone: “Health – how does it work? Start instead of waiting: Effects of physical training on health and longevity” – a lecture that appeals to everyone.

This lecture is aimed at athletes, but also especially at non-athletes, who will certainly be encouraged to perhaps register for the free running course for complete beginners from March 26, 2025. Unfortunately, this time is marked by a worldwide wave of lifestyle-related diseases of civilization. This results in restrictions in quality of life and life expectancy that have never been seen before in the history of human development. What does a “life with style” look like and what does a health-promoting lifestyle change look like in concrete terms? How can each individual improve their quality of life and extend their healthy years through diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes?"

Date: Monday, March 10th at 7 p.m. (admission from 6.30 p.m.)

Venue: Westfälische Nachrichten office, WN Tickethop, Picassoplatz 3, 48143 Münster (There are no visitor parking spaces available on site. Public parking is available nearby.)

Regardless of participation in the Volksbank Münster Marathon, the 23rd edition of which starts on September 21st, the event is open to anyone interested. However, prior registration by email at info@volksbank-muenster-marathon.de is mandatory, as the participant limit is limited to 50 places.

Registrations will be considered in the order in which emails are received.

The other seminars, for which registrations are already being accepted, will take place as follows (each at 7 p.m. in the WN ticket shop):

April 7th: The successful path to the marathon: performance diagnostics and training planning for amateur athletes (speaker: Dr. med. Ralph Schomaker, ZfS Münster)

May 5th: The gastrointestinal tract in endurance running (speaker: chief physician PD Dr. med. Anton Gillessen, Herz Jesu Hospital Hiltrup)

June 2nd: Achilles tendon, heel spur & Co: tendon problems and their treatment (speaker: Dr. med. Gerrit Borgmann, ZfS Münster)

The organizers are looking forward to the continuation of the long-standing successful series of lectures, which is now being offered in person again, and hope for continued high participation.

Race news Swansea University Swansea Half Marathon

100 days until Wales’ biggest summer running festival

One day, four events in Swansea

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

In just 100 days, Wales’ biggest summer running festival will return – and organisers say it will be bigger, better, and more exciting than ever.

Taking place on Sunday, June 8, 2025, the festival will feature three events: the popular Swansea University Swansea Half Marathon, the Front Runner City 5 Miler, and the Freedom Leisure Family Run.

But that’s not all – this year’s event will also host the Masters Road International Championships, welcoming over 300 elite Masters athletes from Wales and England, raising the competition to a whole new level.

Tash Smith, Acting Managing Director of Front Runner Events, said: “We are beyond thrilled to bring Swansea’s biggest running celebration back this summer! From elite Masters athletes to first-time runners, from young kids to seasoned pros, this event is truly for everyone. It’s an incredible honour to host the Masters Championships while also welcoming families and teams to the start line. Running is for all – and that’s exactly what #RunSwansea represents.”

Thousands of athletes, fundraisers, wheelchair participants, and enthusiastic spectators will descend on Swansea for this festival of running. The event also includes the Team Challenge, where businesses and organisations can battle it out in some friendly competition.

The Swansea Half Marathon showcases some of the most stunning sights of the maritime city, home to the world’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Runners and wheelchair athletes will start beneath the Copr Bay Bridge, loop around Swansea University’s Singleton Campus, pass the historic Brangwyn Hall, and weave through the city past Swansea Castle. They’ll then take in the vibrant sights of the Waterfront Museum, head towards Mumbles, passing the home of Welsh music legend Bonnie Tyler, and enjoy breathtaking views of Mumbles Lighthouse.

The return journey along the famous promenade – formerly home to the world’s first passenger railway – offers unrivalled panoramic views of Swansea Bay before the big finish at Swansea Arena.

The Front Runner City 5 Miler+ follows the first four miles of the half marathon route before an exhilarating finish across Copr Bay Bridge and back to the finish line. Meanwhile, the Family Fun Run, a 2K flat route, allows participants of all abilities (including little ones in buggies) to enjoy a fun, inclusive race.

With just 100 days to go and over 65% of entries already sold, this event is expected to sell out fast. Tash Smith added: “We’re working hard to make this our biggest and best event yet! Whether you’re new to running or keen to start, #RunSwansea is for everyone so no matter your age or ability there’s an event for you! Join us, and let’s make 2025 a year to remember!”

Since its launch in 2014, the Swansea Half Marathon has raised millions for charity, supporting both official partner organisations and independent fundraisers. The event has also built a loyal following, including the #EverPresent gang, who have taken part every single year. One dedicated runner, Swansea-born Abi Morgan, returns from the Midlands year after year, no matter what. When asked why, she said: “Hiraeth! It sends shivers down my spine every time I hear the national anthem before the start. The support, especially at Mumbles, is incredible. I always glance up to see if Bonnie Tyler is waving from her balcony – sometimes she is!”

Race news Napoli City Half Marathon

Wafula dominates Napoli City Half Marathon

7,000 participants from 101 countries

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 12:15:00 +0000

A sunny day, clear blue skies, ideal temperatures, and no wind—perfect conditions for running in Naples.

A total of 7,000 runners from 101 countries came to cross the finish line at the much-anticipated 2025 Napoli City Half Marathon, confirming its status as a grand celebration and one of the world’s most significant races.

At the front of the race, the battle for victory delivered an exciting spectacle. The men’s race was won by Kenyan runner Emmanuel Wafula, who ran solo at an incredible pace, claiming victory in 59:42, a new personal best. Fellow Kenyan Simon Maywa took second place in 1:00:26, while Edward Koonyo finished third in 1:00:37. Italy’s Yohanes Chiappinelli put on a remarkable comeback from eighth place to finish fourth in 1:01:01, close to his personal best. However, he fell short of breaking the Italian half marathon record of 59:26, set by Yeman Crippa in 2022 on the same streets of Naples.

In the early stages of the race, the leading group included Israel’s Maru Teferi and Kenyans Simon Maywa and Emmanuel Waffula, closely followed by Chiappinelli and Edward Konana Koonyo, who took control around the 9 km mark, leaving Teferi behind. At the 10 km mark, runners Wafula, Maywa, and Koonyo clocked 28:03, ahead of the course record pace. Teferi followed in 28:11, with a compact chase group, including Ethiopia’s Baryau Teka Assefa and Kenyans Zacharia Krop and Andrew Lorot, all passing in 28:23. Chiappinelli, the first Italian, was eighth in 28:31, while Meucci and Mondazzi crossed in 29:39.

As the race reached Corso Umberto around km 12, Wafula surged ahead, dropping Koonyo, who reached km 13 in 36:30, further extending the gap on the course record. Around km 15, Chiappinelli began his comeback, using his strength on slight uphill sections to his advantage. Returning to the Lungomare Caracciolo, Wafula extended his lead and took on the tunnel climb in full control, eventually crossing the finish line solo. Chiappinelli’s strong push in the final kilometers secured him a fourth-place finish in 1:01:01. The top three Italian finishers were Mondazzi in 1:03:22 and Daniele Meucci in 1:03:24.

“The pace was fast right from the start—everyone went out really strong” said Yohanes Chiappinelli. “I tried to keep up, but I felt it was too fast for me, so I decided to stick to my own rhythm. I was running alone for most of the race, using the runners ahead as reference points. I finished in a respectable fourth place; I had hoped for a slightly better time, but I knew I wasn’t at my peak. I’m happy I finished strong, passing several competitors in the last two kilometers. I would have loved to deliver a great result for the fans and organizers, as the Napoli City Half Marathon is an important stepping stone for my season.”

The event featured the Staffetta Charity Program, where teams of two runners split the half marathon distance into 10 km + 11.0975 km segments. Boris Becker, acting as an ambassador for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, shared the organization’s mission, inspired by Nelson Mandela’s famous words: “Sport has the power to change the world.”

Race news Zurich Maratón de Sevilla

Barega makes a good debut in Seville

Another record edition with 14,000 runners

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:27:00 +0000

Photo: Raul Caro

The Zurich Maratón de Sevilla has celebrated its 40th edition meeting the expectations.

The absolute protagonist was the Olympic and World champion Selemon Barega who, in his debut over the distance, got the victory in the flattest course in Europe. The top contender for the triumph broke away alone from kilometre 22 to break the group of favourites, made up of up to 10 runners, pacers included.

Barega, 25 years old, tried to beat the record of the Zurich Maraton de Sevilla, set last year by Azmera Gebru, also Ethiopian, with 2h03:27. Finally, he finished in 2h05:15. After the Ethiopian star, the men’s podium was completed by another runner from the African country, Adisu Tesfahun Tafere (2h06:27), and the Moroccan Mohamed Reda El Aaraby (2h:06:45), who climbed up positions in the last kilometres to escort the champion in a race that once again demonstrated the ideal conditions of its route and high level. In fact, 17 athletes crossed the finish line under 2h08 and there were 28 under 2h10 and 45 under 2h15.

Among the Spanish athletes, the first classified was the debutant Ilias Fifa, member of the chasing group of the favourites during the first part of the race and 29th in the final classification with a time of 2h10:10.

In the wheelchair category, the victory went to Joaquín García (1h50:22), accompanied on the podium by Marco Antonio Baena (2h00:50) and Norberto Chávez (2h05:24). In the female category, Carmen Gimenez was the winner. (2h10:41)

The Zurich Maraton de Sevilla has once again surpassed itself in its 40th edition. In fact, the 14,000 available numbers, the new participation limit, were sold out six months earlier in an event which, apart from the 250 elite runners, has registered several significant records. This is confirmed by the 7,250 foreigners registered (51.6%) from more than 100 nationalities who took part in the Paseo de las Delicias, the 2,809 women participants (20%) and the 3,282 Andalusians present, 2,484 from Seville.

The Zurich Maraton de Sevilla is organised by the Seville City Council with the collaboration of Sport Life Ibérica and the main sponsorship of Zurich Seguros, Asics as technical sponsor and TotalEnergies as gold sponsor. Hyundai, CaixaBank, Carrefour, Apitox, 226ers, Powerade and ABC complete the list of sponsors.

Race news Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend

CJ Albertson to run in Ottawa

Top-10 US athlete in contention for title

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:43:00 +0000

Renowned American long-distance runner CJ (Clayton Jordan) Albertson has officially announced his participation in the upcoming Tartan Ottawa International Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, May 25, 2025, during Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend.

Albertson, celebrated for his world record finishing time of 2:38:43 at the 50-kilometer Ruth Anderson Memorial Endurance Run in San Francisco, brings significant excitement to this year’s event in Ottawa.

Albertson ran collegiately for Arizona State University. During his time there he broke the school’s indoor 5000m record, had four program top 10 results, and qualified for the 2016 NCAA Championships in the steeplechase. His impressive marathon career includes setting the world record for the Indoor Marathon at the Armory in New York City in April of 2019 with a time of 2:17:59.4, and achieving a personal best of 2:08:17 (7th place) at the 2024 Chicago Marathon.

His consistent top placements in the Abbott World Major marathons have established him as a formidable competitor on the international stage. In 2024 Albertson competed in the Boston Marathon where he finished in 7th place with a time of 2:09:53, the New York City Marathon finishing with a time of 2:10:57 for 10th place, and the Chicago Marathon where he placed 7th overall and was the first American finisher. He also took 5th place in the 2024 US Olympic Marathon Trials with a time of 2:10:07. He wrapped up 2024 with a 2:10:08 performance at the California International Marathon, finishing 2nd in what was his fifth competitive marathon of the year.

“I’m looking forward to my Canadian racing debut in Ottawa to kick off my summer”, says Albertson. ”This will be a great opportunity for me to run fast, compete against great competition and experience the city.”

The Tartan Ottawa International Marathon, a World Athletics Label Race, is known for its scenic course through Canada’s capital region and its vibrant atmosphere, attracting elite athletes and running enthusiasts from around the globe. This year participants can look forward to a new flatter and faster course that spans both the province of Ontario and Quebec in addition to serving as a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon.

Race organizers are thrilled to welcome Albertson to this year’s elite field, anticipating a competitive and memorable race. His participation underscores the marathon’s reputation as a premier event in the international running community.

“CJ is one of North America’s top distance runners in this generation,” says Stephen Andersen, Run Ottawa’s Elite Coordinator. His performance in Chicago in 2024 places him as one of the top-10 American men all-time in the marathon. We are excited to welcome CJ to Canada for the first time to race against what is shaping up to be a deep field and we expect CJ to be in contention for the 2025 title.”

In the history of the Tartan Ottawa International Marathon there have only been two first place finishes for American men, Greg Leroy in 1982 (2:21:04) and Ric Sayre in 1985 (2:16:18).

Registration for the Tartan Ottawa International Marathon is currently open, with options for in-person, virtual, and Green Bib participation. Runners of all levels are encouraged to join and experience the unparalleled excitement of Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend.

Race news EDP Lisbon Half Marathon

Berihu Aregawi chooses Lisbon for half marathon debut

5K world record holder tries 21K distance

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:52:00 +0000

One week after announcing the participation of world record holder Ruth Chep’ngetich, the Maratona Clube de Portugal now confirms Ethiopian Berihu Aregawi as the star of the men’s elite field in this year’s edition of the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon, scheduled for March 9.

Aregawi, 23, is the 5K world record holder (12:49, Barcelona 2021) and the third fastest athlete ever in both the 10K (26:33, Laredo 2023) and the 3,000 meters (7:21.28, Chorzów 2024). Now, he is set to make his half marathon debut in the Portuguese capital, after a breakthrough year in which he won the silver medal in the 10,000 meters at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The young Ethiopian believes this is the right time to take this step, following a dedicated training period.

“I’m excited to announce that I will make my debut in the distance on March 9 at the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon. I’ve trained well over the past few months to prepare for this race, and I can’t wait to run fast,” said Aregawi to the event organizers.

In addition to his Olympic silver medal in Paris 2024, Aregawi also finished 4th in the 10,000 meters at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, a position he repeated in the 2023 World Championships in Budapest. He is also a two-time silver medalist in the World Cross Country Championships (2023 and 2024).

With this announcement, Lisbon reaffirms its status as a premier destination for elite athletes and debutants looking for a fast, flat, and record-breaking course.

Race news Mainova Frankfurt Marathon

Powerbar joins Frankfurt sponsors

Protein and energy bar maker supports optimal nutrition on the course

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:47:00 +0000

Photo: Hansi Heckmair

The Munich company Powerbar, producer of sports nutrition products, is a new sponsor for the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon, which takes place on 26th October.

A three-year agreement has been signed with the race. “We are delighted to have Powerbar at our side as a new partner,” said Jo Schindler, the race director of the oldest German city marathon.

The renowned marathon of the metropolis on the river Main is known for its flat course, which attracts elite and hobby runners alike. The average time of all participants is slightly under the magic four-hour mark – making the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon the fastest mass-participation marathon in Germany.

Powerbar products will be available at various stations along the course and offer runners the opportunity to recharge. The products are developed to be easy to consume and digest while running. They enable the athlete to take on the optimal mix of nutrients at the right time and the right amount. Powerbar also supplies energy bars at the finish line for the optimal snack after the race.

“We are happy to support the runners of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon with power and expertise on their way to the marathon and during the race,” said Maria Henne, the event marketing manager of Active Nutrition International, the parent company of Powerbar.

Race news Košice Peace Marathon

Košice registration opens

Entries expected to sell out completely

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 13:59:00 +0000

Registration for this year’s Košice Peace Marathon, which is traditionally scheduled for the first Sunday in October, opened on the first day of the new year.

Around 25% of all race numbers have already been sold in the first month, and the organizers anticipate that, as in previous years, the total capacity of the marathon weekend – set at 17,000 runners – will be fully filled.

The most favorable starting fee of 50 euro is valid until March 31.

For those who do not feel ready to complete the full marathon distance of 42.195 km, there is the option of participating in a half marathon or a four-member relay race.

Running news

SuperHalfs changes challenge rules

Time limit removing to make completing the series easier

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:16:00 +0000

SuperHalfs, the European Half Marathon series, faced an enormous increase in participants in just three years – registering over 75,000 runners wishing to take on the SuperJourney.

At the same time, the six SuperRaces – Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff, and Valencia – are being ‘sold out’ in a blink of an eye.

The consequence of this unbelievable achievement? Runners eager to complete the series within the time limit are not able to do so anymore, simply because they can’t get hold of a race entry.

That’s why SuperHalfs is making a simple, but crucial change. The time limit that runners have to complete the series is removed – the SuperJourney goes from 60 months to no time limit.

We took out the 60-month race expiration time, so once you finish the race, it’ll never expire.

SuperHalfs will help runners to get a race registration and complete the series.

Furthermore, if runners are unable to register for any of their remaining races for two years, SuperHalfs will provide them with the opportunity to register for a race they haven’t run yet.

These changes will allow SuperHalfs runners to continue and complete their running journey and open the path for newcomers.

Meanwhile, the races are already working to implement new fairer registration systems in the near future, to make it less stressful for everyone trying to get a place.

The upcoming SuperHalfs races are as follows: EDP Lisbon Half Marathon – March 9; Generali Prague Half Marathon – April 5; Generali Berlin Half Marathon – April 6; Copenhagen Half Marathon – September 14; Cardiff Half Marathon – October 5; Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich – October 26.

Race news Napoli City Half Marathon

Julien Wanders returns to Naples

European running star aiming for a top performance

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:12:00 +0000

The European half marathon record holder, Swiss long-distance runner Julien Wanders, is returning to the prestigious Napoli City Half Marathon, which will be held on Sunday, 23 February.

Julien Wanders is an elite long-distance runner who holds the European record for the half marathon with a time of 59:13. He previously also held the European record for 10 km, with a time of 27:13. In 2022, Wanders delivered an impressive performance in Naples, finishing in 1:00:28, but this time he returns with even higher ambitions.

He has been training intensively in Kenya, aiming to reach the top level once again. Regarding his participation at the Napoli City Half Marathon 2025, Julien Wanders stated: “I have fond memories of Naples. This race holds a special place in my heart, and I see it as a crucial step in my journey back to the world’s top level. I am excited to return and will give my best performance.”

Organized by Napoli Running, the Napoli City Half Marathon traditionally opens the RunCzech running season and is known for its fast and flat course, which runs along the Gulf of Naples with breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius. Thanks to its record-breaking course, where both the men’s and women’s Italian national records have been set, Naples has established itself as Italy’s “capital city of half-marathon”, which attracts many international runners every year.

Race news Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival

Sunshine Coast introduces single-lap course

Change will “enhance race day experience”, say organisers

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:39:00 +0000

The EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival will mark its 13th year with a major course update with the introduction of a single-lap marathon.

Designed to enhance the race day experience for runners, the change cements the event’s standing as one of Australia’s favourite marathon events.

Taking place on Sunday, 3 August 2025, the marathon will start and finish at Alexandra Headland and take runners along a predominantly flat, fast, coastal route through Twin Waters and Mudjimba, crossing the Sunshine Motorway Bridge twice for panoramic water views.

Atlas Events Managing Director Jason Crowther said the move to a single-lap course reflects the festival’s ongoing commitment to its runners and the broader community. “This course has been designed to offer an enjoyable and seamless experience for everyone, from elite athletes chasing fast times to first-time marathoners taking on a personal challenge,” Crowther said.

“We understand what makes this event special, and this change ensures we continue delivering on that promise. Since launching in 2012, my vision has always been to create a single-lap course. Now, with the right numbers and the perfect route, we can finally bring that goal to life.”

“We’ve created a course that showcases the beauty of the Sunshine Coast and meets the needs of today’s runners, focusing on comfort, flow, and a great race day atmosphere.”

The EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival has become a cornerstone event for the region, attracting more than 12,000 participants in 2024 and generating significant economic benefits through tourism and community engagement. The single-lap design enables greater capacity, paving the way for continued growth as the 2025 event expects to host up to 15,000 runners in another sell-out event.

The existing course records – 2:16:18 set by Japanese marathoner Saeki Makino in 2019 and 2:37:07 set by Olympian Milly Clark in 2024 – are expected to be under serious threat with the introduction of the new, faster course.

“I’m confident the new course will push our elite runners to new levels, not just for our event but for their own personal bests. We expect to see some of the country’s top distance athletes step up to challenge those record times,” Crowther said.

“There’s been a remarkable rise in participation in recent years and we’re proud to provide a course that reflects that growth and love for this sport. Whether you’re here to push your limits or soak up the supportive atmosphere, this is an event that has something for everyone.”

In addition to enhancing the runner experience, the new course will hold international significance as an AIMS-certified course and a potential qualifier for World Marathon Majors, providing participants with the opportunity to achieve personal bests and global qualification standards.

The Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival has raised millions for local charities over the past 12 years across five different distances, while fostering a strong sense of community and inspiring thousands to achieve their running goals.

Race news eDreams Mitja Marató de Barcelona by Brooks

New half marathon world record

Jacob Kiplimo runs 56:42 in Barcelona

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 10:45:00 +0000

The Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo, for the second time in his sporting career, has set a new world record in the half marathon, 56:42.

He improved his own previous world record of 57:31 run in Lisbon in 2021, and takes back the title from Yomif Kejelcha (ETH), who ran 57:30 in Valencia in October 2024.

For her part, Joyciline Jepkosgei lowered the women’s course record, 01:04:11, setting a new one 18 seconds faster.

Barcelona enjoyed the best running and festive atmosphere on Sunday with the most crowded half marathon in Spain and the second largest in Europe, the 35th eDreams Mitja Marató Barcelona by Brooks.

From Thursday until Sunday evening, athletes, companions and the citizens of Barcelona enjoyed a true sporting festival in the Catalan capital. On Thursday 13 February, Friday 14 February and Saturday 15 February  there was a great atmosphere at the Expo Sports (Runner’s Fair), which has seen almost 60,000 visitors this 2025.

More than 38,000 runners, with  the highest participation rate in the history  of the race for the second consecutive year, took the  start on Passeig de Picasso  at 08:30, with a temperature of 11ºC and 85% humidity on a day of clouds and clear skies and no wind, perfect for running.

The race, organised by  Barcelona City Council and RPM Sports, also had a  record number of runners with more than 12,000 women, 40% of the total participants  and also 40% of  international runners, from up to 95 different nationalities. Likewise, the city of Barcelona has been involved in this event, cheering on the participants at up to 22 animation points (Hot Spots) along the more than 21 kilometres of the circuit and enjoying a spectacular start, which was enlivened by the  Piratas RumbVersions group .

Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo started out as the favourite and showed why. He led the race alone, leaving his pacesetter and rivals behind before the 5km mark (13:34), with a 15-second lead. He passed 10th in 26:46, almost a minute faster than the elite men’s pack, led by Kenyan and second-placed  Geoffrey Kamworor, who in the 10K did 27:40 alongside the third man, also Kenyan Samwel Mailu. Already at the 15km mark, Kiplimo was almost two minutes (01:58) faster than his pursuers to cross the finish line in 56:42, establishing a new world record, lowering the current record by 48 seconds. Kenyan Kamworor finished second, finishing in 58:44 and his compatriot Mailu completed the men’s podium (59:40).

Jacob Kiplimo said: “I didn’t expect to set a new world record, but it was the perfect race. I rode alone for the whole race and I felt really good.”

Second placed Geoffrey Kamworor said: “It was an amazing day, with my teammate Jacob breaking the world record. I am very happy with my second place.”

Samwel Mailu said: “I wanted to be on the podium and I did it. I prepared myself to achieve it. It is my fastest time this year and it suits me perfectly because in March I want to return to Barcelona for the Zurich Marató Barcelona.”

Date changes Scenic Half Marathon Krabi

Race date for Scenic Half Marathon Krabi (THA) changed

Scenic Half Marathon Krabi date change

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:25:37 +0000

The Scenic Half Marathon Krabi (THA) will be Sat 6 September 2025—Sun 7 September 2025, not Mon 8 September 2025—Mon 8 September 2025 as previously published.

Race news SwissCityMarathon – Lucerne

New route for Swiss City Marathon

New blue event t-shirt

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 10:11:00 +0000

In 2025 the SwissCityMarathon (42KM) course will feature a new route from Horw to Alpnachstad.

Key planning steps include coordination with local authorities, emergency services, and communities across the cantons of Lucerne, Nidwalden, and Obwalden.

Additionally, the official international course measurement is scheduled, along with traffic and road closure planning.

To improve race flow, we have adjusted start times:

CityRun 10KM & CharityRun 10KM in Horw will now start between 08:58 – 09:15 AM, ensuring a clear route all the way to the finish at the Verkehrshaus. Marathon runners will start earlier in Lucerne between 08:28 – 08:38 AM, followed by the Half Marathon from 09:58 – 12:00 PM.

These changes help optimize race day logistics, from arrival and on-course experience to the finish line and on your way home.

More than 8,000 runners have already registered for the SwissCityMarathon – Lucerne! Due to the high demand for half marathon spots, we have now opened an additional start slot at 12:00 PM. Don’t miss your chance to secure your spot and be part of the running highlight in October.

The 2025 Salomon Runner Shirt comes in a stylish blue granite color with a sleek, custom-designed SwissCityMarathon look. It’s breathable, ultra-light, and quick-drying – the perfect shirt for your run!

Designed in collaboration with our Official Partner Salomon, this premium shirt is included in the race entry fee for Marathon (42KM) and Half Marathon (21KM) participants. Runners in the CityRun 10KM and CharityRun 10KM have the option to add it to their registration for CHF 25.00.

Limited quantities and sizes are available – early registration is recommended!

Date changes Quito 15k Race

Race date for Quito 15k Race (ECU) changed

Quito 15k Race date change

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:35:37 +0000

The Quito 15k Race (ECU) will take place on Sun 8 June 2025, not Sun 1 June 2025 as previously published.

Race news Napoli City Half Marathon

Naples goes green

A major step towards sustainability

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 14:44:00 +0000

The Napoli City Half Marathon is embracing sustainability with a groundbreaking initiative to reduce plastic waste.

This year, all refreshment stations will use recyclable and eco-friendly Foopak cups, eliminating plastic bottles and cups from the event.

These sustainable cups are provided by APP (Asia Pulp & Paper), a global leader in sustainable paper production. Foopak Bio Natura is a sustainable product as it is made from PEFC-certified wood, ensuring responsible forest management. It is recyclable and can be reused in the production process, making it more eco-friendly than most plastic-coated cartons. Additionally, the cups are safe for food contact, as certified by the FDA and BfR, and can be recycled with paper waste.

Napoli Running also aims to raise awareness within the local community, working with official institutions to promote its commitment to sustainability. This initiative enhances the positive impact of the event by encouraging proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility.

Online registration is open until February 19, 2025, or until the race reaches full capacity.

With world-class athletes and a breathtaking racecourse, the Napoli City Half Marathon promises an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike. Beyond the thrill of competition, this year’s event takes a firm stand on sustainability, setting new standards for environmentally responsible racing. By eliminating plastic waste and embracing recyclable materials, Napoli Running together with co-organiser RunCzech are committed to reducing its ecological footprint while promoting a greener future for the running community.

Race news Volksbank-Münster-Marathon

Münster’s long run up to marathon day

Preparatory running courses start in March

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 14:40:00 +0000

The 23rd edition of the Volksbank Münster Marathon is already in full swing.

The number of entries is already as high as it usually is in June of each year. There are only free places left for the 6.2 km health run and the marathon distance. All other disciplines are fully booked.

“For the health run, we are focusing on running beginners who are only starting running courses in the spring,” says Roman Horsel, one of the managing directors of H+B technics in Münster, which gives the run its name. From Monday, March 26, the so-called Mintellity running course will be held again in Münster, for which a maximum of 40 participants can register informally by email to info@volksbank-muenster-marathon.de.

As in the last two years, Carolin Sube and Michael Brinkmann will accompany those interested in running for 11 weeks, although they should be real beginners. Thanks to the great support of Mintellity GmbH, this running course is also free and non-binding. The goal after 11 hours is to run a distance of 35-40 minutes at the 2nd Münster 1KOMMA5° Urban Run and then register for the H+B technics health run over 6.2 km on September 21st.

The premiere of the 1KOMMA5° Urban Run last year was a great success, organized as part of the nationwide Running Day, presented by Wecker Druckluft in Münster. However, only 300 participants were able to take part for the test, as the city of Münster also wanted to gain experience of how running through several buildings works. And everything went very well. This means that the way is now clear for a maximum of 1,000 participants for the 2nd edition of the 1KOMMA5° Urban Run in Münster, which will again take place on the national running day, on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The registration portal will open on February 12 at www.volksbank-muenster-marathon.de. The entry fee of EUR 19 includes a high-quality functional T-shirt, which was largely financed by 1KOMMA5°.

The running circuit will again consist of an inner-city course. The start and finish will remain at Stubengassenplatz in the heart of Münster. Via the Ludgeri shopping street and the finish area of ​​the marathon on the Prinzipalmarkt, the route then goes past Münster’s cathedral and right through the Museum of Art and Culture in Münster. From there, the route then leads along the shopping street to Münster’s green belt, the promenade, until the running route leads into the building of the Adolph Kolping vocational college, through whose long corridors you come out again almost at the end of the promenade.

Other highlights are the run through the Martini youth church, but also again through the town hall 1 in Münster and the underground car park shortly before the finish of the first lap. One lap is just under 4.5 km. A maximum of two laps can be run accompanied by running companions. The organizing team of Münster-Marathon e.V., as the organizer of the run, is already promising lots of fun with entertainment from artists and drum groups.

“The whole of Münster will be on the move this evening,” says the organizing team, looking forward to this wonderful fun run with such a great response, a good 3 ½ months before the start of the big Volksbank Münster Marathon, which is expected to attract over 11,000 participants from almost 60 nations this year.

Race news BMW Berlin-Marathon

No entry? No problem!

Charity entries for Berlin are still possible

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:44:00 +0000

Runners still have a chance to be part of the Berlin Marathon. Secure your spot through charities, our official travel partners, or by joining the inline skating race. But hurry – spots are limited!

Running the BMW Berlin-Marathon for a charity means making an impact far beyond your own race—whether for climate protection, children’s aid projects, or animal welfare. Find the cause that matters most to you and secure your guaranteed entry for 2025!

The day before the legendary BMW Berlin-Marathon, you have the unique chance to run a 5K along the final kilometers of the official race course. Experience the unforgettable finish through the Brandenburg Gate, soak in the crowd’s energy, and claim your well-earned finisher medal

Inline skaters hit the course one day before the runners—from recreational skaters to pros, everyone joins in to celebrate this global season highlight. Part of the race takes place on a loop, offering perfect cheering spots. And get ready for goosebumps as you glide through the Brandenburg Gate onto the final stretch!

Our official tour operators still have a few last race entries available for the BMW Berlin-Marathon! With all-inclusive packages covering your race entry, hotel, and flights, you can fully focus on your marathon adventure.

Race news Swiss Irontrail

Swiss Irontrail offers legendary mountains and lakes

Varied distances and routes

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 11:53:00 +0000

In the first few kilometers of the Swiss Irontrail you will pass the idyllic, turquoise-blue lake Caumasee, whose unique atmosphere enchants every visitor.

From there, the path leads you through the quiet surroundings of a dense, idyllic forest, which accompanies you on gently rising paths towards Naraus.

Further up you reach the Segnesboden, a real natural jewel in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sardona. Here you can admire the famous Tschingelhörner and the Martinsloch – fascinating geological highlights that will amaze you.

Via Nagens, the trail continues to Crap Masegn, where you can enjoy the impressive surroundings. The trail finally takes you to Crap Sogn Gion before you walk towards Falera.

After a descent you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

The varied route of the K43 offers you spectacular highlights and a challenge that you will not soon forget.

Race news Haspa Marathon Hamburg

Richard Ringer faces tough test in Hamburg

Strong challenge from Kipruto and Adola

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 14:50:00 +0000

European marathon champion Richard Ringer returns to the Haspa Marathon Hamburg on 27th April.

The German runner will therefore not defend his continental title at the championships held earlier in April in a new format. Ringer, who improved his marathon PB to 2:05:46 in Valencia last December and is the third fastest German runner ever at the classic distance, will face at least four athletes who have run considerably faster than him.

With a personal record of 2:03:13 the former London Marathon winner Amos Kipruto heads the current start list. The Kenyan is the joint fastest runner ever entered into Germany’s biggest spring marathon.

“We are still assembling the elite fields. But as it stands we can look forward to a fascinating men’s contest. With regard to the fastest runners on the start list we will have the strongest field in our history. Richard Ringer can not be considered the favorite, but as we know he has the ability to defy the odds and produce a surprise,” said chief organiser Frank Thaleiser during today’s press conference in Hamburg. 15,000 entries have been registered for the 39th edition of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg, the biggest number for many years.

For the first time Hamburg features three men with personal bests of sub 2:04. Besides Amos Kipruto the Ethiopians Guye Adola and Kinde Atanaw have also achieved such results. 32 year-old Kipruto ran his PB of 2:03:13 when he finished runner-up to Kenyan superstar Eliud Kipchoge in Tokyo 2022. Later that year he achieved his biggest career win when he took the London Marathon with 2:04:39. Kipruto ran sub 2:05 times in both 2023 and 2024. With his PB he is the joint fastest entrant in the history of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg. Back in 2018 fellow-Kenyan Emmanuel Mutai competed here with exactly the same personal record.

Guye Adola’s PB of 2:03:46 makes him the number two on the current start list. The Ethiopian ran this time in a brilliant debut performance in Berlin back in 2017, when he challenged Eliud Kipchoge. He led the great Kenyan until shortly before the 40k mark and then finished runner-up with an unofficial world debut record. His career was often hampered by injury and turned into a rollercoaster ride. Adola has not run in major races recently, but at the age of 34 he could still produce a strong performance.

While Kinde Atanaw ran his personal best of 2:03:51 back in 2019 when he took the Valencia Marathon, the strongest performances of Philemon Kiplimo came much more recently. Breaking 2:05 in Berlin in 2023 when he improved to 2:04:56 the Kenyan was third in last year’s Haspa Marathon Hamburg with a strong 2:05:37.

Richard Ringer prioritized competing in Germany’s major spring marathon instead of defending his European title at the continental championships in April. The 35 year-old returns with great memories to the Haspa Marathon Hamburg. It was here where he improved to 2:08:08 two years ago, just dipping under the Olympic qualifying time and taking a fine 6th place in a strong field. “The course and the atmosphere at the Haspa Marathon Hamburg are terrific. So opting to return to Hamburg was a straightforward decision for me. This time I will focus my training even more on this race to make sure that I will be in top form on the day,“ said Richard Ringer. “In the summer my goal is to run the marathon at the World Championships.” Ringer is an outstanding championship runner. Besides winning the European marathon title in Munich in 2022 he was Germany’s best runner in the Olympic Games marathons in 2021 and 2024, when he was 25th and 12th respectively.

Race news Napoli City Half Marathon

Boris Becker in Napoli City Half

Tennis legend to participate in family run

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:03:00 +0000

Boris Becker, one of the world’s most renowned tennis players and a former world No. 1, will participate in the Family Run & Friends on Saturday, February 22, during the Napoli City Half Marathon weekend.

The 2 km inclusive walk, organized by Napoli Running, promotes sports as a means of well-being and social connection. Becker, an Olympic doubles champion, three-time Wimbledon winner (and the youngest champion in the tournament’s history), and a member of the Laureus Academy, will also take a moment to speak to the youth and families in attendance before kicking off the walk.

“We are delighted to have Fondazione Laureus as our charity partner,” said Carlo Capalbo, President of Napoli Running. “We fully embrace the philosophy promoted by Fondazione Laureus, which believes that sport serves as a catalyst for growth, personal development, and social engagement—a means of overcoming daily challenges and an opportunity that all children and young people should have access to, thanks to the foundation’s work. Having a global sports icon like Boris Becker with us, as an ambassador of sport and well-being, confirms we are on the right track. Now, all that’s left is to have fun together on the streets of our beautiful city,” he concluded.

The Family Run & Friends welcomes participants of all ages, including seniors, children, and even pets. The event begins at 11 am from Mostra d’Oltremare, with registration open online and at the Expo Village.

On Sunday, February 23, the Napoli City Half Marathon will feature the Charity Relay Program, allowing participants to take part in a non-competitive relay, splitting the half marathon into two segments of 10 km and 11 km. Donations and registrations for the charity program can be made via the Rete del Dono website.

Registration for the half marathon is open until February 19, 2025, or until capacity is reached. A combined entry for Run Rome The Marathon on March 16, 2025, is also available.

Race news Ras al Khaimah Half Marathon

Alex Matata wins RAK Half Marathon

Ejgayehu Taye runs world leading time

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 11:24:00 +0000

Alex Matata of Kenya had the best win of his career in the 18th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon early today.

But strong winds on an unusually cool morning in one of the smaller of the United Arab Emirates meant that Ejgayehu Taye’s attempt at the women’s world record was going to be blown off course, even if she had not started too fast.

The breeze and lack of a pacemaker to split the field meant that the men’s race was relatively sedate as well as over-populated in the first 10k, with 20 men still in contention at 28min 34sec. But there was no mistaking Matata in the pack, channelling Michael Jackson with a pink glove on his right hand. ‘For wiping the sweat, that’s all,’ he explained afterwards. But when colleague and race favourite Isaia Lasoi, who’d been sharing the lead with him up to then started feeling a groin strain, Matata began to assume the initiative.

‘I realised at 14k that I was stronger than the others, so I thought I had a good chance of winning,’ he said. He raised the pace such that the computed finish outside 60min was soon transformed, and his relentless front-running dropped both his rivals and the time, and he ended up taking 17sec off his personal best with a win in 59min 20sec.

Lasoi hung in well, and looked to have second place sewn up, especially when Gemechu Dida suddenly dropped back with a kilometre to run; but the Ethiopian rallied and caught the Kenyan just before the line to get second and relegate Lasoi to the same third spot as last year. A stride can be costly in this sport. While Matata took home $20,000, Dida’s last gasp second place earned him $10,000, four thousand more than Lasoi.

Matata is something of an outlier in Kenya, coming from the capital Nairobi instead of the western highlands’ hotbeds of excellence; and also being a relatively late starter in his early twenties. But when he began running well with a 61.03 clocking in the Nairobi half-marathon in 2021, he was persuaded to move up to Eldoret, the heartland of national distance running. Now at 27, a regime of 150 kilometres a week has seen him transformed into a regular winner, with four victories and three sub-60min clockings in his five half-marathons last year. And now, he’s given himself a New Year’s present. But he’s not tempted to move up to the marathon yet. ‘Not for two years. I still want to run faster at the half-marathon, in the 58 minutes and maybe 57 minutes’.

In the women’s race, Ejgayehu Taye was so confident that she could run well that she even brought her own pacemaker, Wosinew Admasu with her. And a starting temperature of 12C (54F) felt good until she headed into the wind. Although the expected contest with her colleage Girmawit Gebrzihair did not materialise (the latter dropped out) things went to plan for the first five kilometres, which she covered in 14min 57sec. But the pace and wind took their toll and she fell further behind her schedule and was grateful to win in 65.52, exactly three minutes outside her target time. ‘I was expecting to run fast, even maybe get the world record, but the wind was too strong; I felt it was pushing me back. But I’m glad to win’. Her time is a world lead for 2025.

Race news Generali Berlin Half Marathon

Faster, flatter, right in the middle

New course through Brandenburg Gate

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 12:34:00 +0000

The Generali Berlin Half Marathon is known for its numerous highlights along the course – this year we’re going one better! With an optimized, faster course through the heart of the capital, a completely new experience awaits you.

The Generali Berlin Half Marathon has never been so attractive! The new course enables new best times and offers even more sights. These are the highlights.

- even flatter and straighter
- 2 km finish via Unter den Linden and through the Brandenburg Gate
- attractive loop passes the Berlin City Palace, Rotes Rathaus, TV Tower and Alexanderplatz twice
- even more cheering and cheering zones

At the Generali Berlin Half Marathon, you can achieve more than just your athletic goals!As a charity runner, you can make a real difference.Regardless of whether you want to support climate protection or social projects. And the best thing is: you still have the chance to take part in the Generali Berlin Half Marathon on April 6 through a charity!

Our tip for all those who don’t have a starting place yet!At the Generali Berlin Half Marathon, inline skaters take to the new, attractive course immediately before the runners.The race offers the best opportunities for a relaxed sightseeing tour. There are still places available here!

Race news

Comrades appoints new general manager

Acting race manager Alain Dalais confirmed in new role

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 14:00:00 +0000

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Alain Dalais as the new General Manager, effective immediately.

This appointment comes after Dalais served as the Acting Race and Operations Manager since July 2024.

Dalais brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, having worked with high-profile events and organizations throughout his career. His extensive background includes roles as a Supply Chain Practitioner at various Government Departments in KwaZulu-Natal, Marketing and Events Manager at Media24, Event Logistics Manager for the Absa Cape Epic and the FNB Wines2Whales, and Procurement Officer and Finish Procedure convenor at the Comrades Marathon Association.

CMA Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo praised Dalais for his professionalism and dedication during his acting tenure, stating, “We wish to thank all CMA staff for supporting Alain during his acting tenure. We look forward to all staff and our stakeholders continuing to give him their full support as we begin our countdown to race day.”

Dalais expressed his excitement about the new role, saying, “I am honoured to take on this position and look forward to working with the team to ensure a successful and memorable Comrades Marathon in 2025 and beyond.”

The CMA is confident that Dalais’ leadership will contribute to the continued success and growth of the world-renowned Comrades Marathon. The association looks forward to implementing its strategic plans under his guidance.

The 98th Comrades Marathon will start at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall at 5h30 and finish 12 hours later at Durban’s People’s Park on Sunday, 8 June 2025. This will be the 49th Down Run.

Race news Ras al Khaimah Half Marathon

Ejgayehu Taye and Isaia Lasoi with high hopes

Trainer: Taye’s goal is the world record

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 12:11:00 +0000

Ejgayehu Taye and Isaia Lasoi are leading contenders to follow a quartet of stars who have set world records in the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon.

The 18th edition takes place on Saturday, 1st February. Taye of Ethiopia and Lasoi of Kenya reckon that they are running into the sort of form that suggests fast times a week on Saturday.

World championships bronze medallist indoors and out, and a top eight finisher at the Olympic Games, Taye has rarely raced on the road, but if she can bring her track form to Ras Al Khaimah, she would clearly be a leading contender for victory in 2025; the more so since in her sole performance at the half marathon in Valencia three months ago, she finished ahead of last year’s RAK winner Tsigie Gebrselama.

Taye ran 64min 14sec in Valencia with what her manager reports was less than adequate preparation. Yonas Mekonnon says, ‘Taye decided to try for the world record based on her recent training. RAK ‘half’ will be her second half marathon and when she compared both training based on the quality and volume, the hope for RAK half is much better. She ran just over 64minutes in Valencia without good enough mileage. She was trained really for not more than six weeks after the track season was over and the longest training was 25km. However, this time she’s regularly been covering more than 28km with 3min 30sec pace at altitude. Her goal in this race is the world record’.

The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon has regularly returned world record times since Sammy Wanjiru of Kenya ran 58min 53sec in the inaugural event in 2007. The women then took over with luminaries like Mary Keitany, Peres Chepchirchir and Ababel Yeshaneh setting women’s records during the last decade. But such have been the advances in shoe technology and the boost of energy gels in the interim that the current men’s record is over a minute faster, with the 57:30 that Yomif Kejelcha clocked in Valencia three months ago. The women’s record is an equally formidable 62:52 set by his colleague Letesenbet Gidey at the same race over three years ago.

In contrast, the RAK record is eminently breachable, at least on the women’s side. As it happens, Taye’s debut 64:14 is exactly the same as the RAK course record time, set in 2022 by another colleague Girmawit Gebrzihair who runs again next weekend. Gebrzihair looks to be in prime form too, following a rapid 29:34 for the Valencia 10k on January 12.

In the men’s race, Lasoi is hoping to emulate recent top three finishers who returned to win the following year. Lasoi came through for third last year, and is nothing if not ambitious. He clocked 58:10 in Copenhagen last autumn, and stated badly afterwards, ‘Eager to run 57 minutes in half marathon in future’.

This is the second year that RAK half-marathon will be overseen by Pace Events, long time organiser of the neighbouring Dubai Marathon. Race Director Peter Connerton says, ‘We’re looking to build on the success of last year’s event, and continue to bring both fast, exciting elite racing to Ras Al Khaimah, in addition to a well-supported popular race, supported by the community’.

Date changes Samarkand Marathon

Race date for Samarkand Marathon (UZB) changed

Samarkand Marathon date change

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 10:52:48 +0000

The Samarkand Marathon (UZB) will be Sat 29 November 2025—Sun 30 November 2025, not Wed 26 November 2025—Thu 27 November 2025 as previously published.

Race news Napoli City Half Marathon

Stars set to compete at Napoli Half

Weekend promises new records

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 14:18:00 +0000

On Sunday, February 23, 2025, elite runners from across the globe will gather at the starting line of the Napoli City Half Marathon.

Among them are Italian marathon national record holders Yohanes Chiappinelli and Sofiia Yaremchuk. Spectators can look forward to witnessing numerous top athletes from Europe, Africa, and Asia aiming to shatter personal bests.

This prestigious race, renowned for its fast course and breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples, marks the opening of the 2025 RunCzech season. The event continues to attract a strong international field.

Italian runner Yohanes Chiappinelli, the national marathon record holder (2:05:24), is set to challenge the national half-marathon record. A bronze medalist in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at the 2018 European Championships, Chiappinelli will face stiff competition.

His main rivals include Kenyan Andrew Lorot, whose 59:54 makes him currently the fastest half-marathoner in the field, and Edward Konana Koonyo with a time of 1:00:00 in Gentbrugge, Ethiopia’s Haftamu Abadi Gebresilase (personal best: 1:00:27), and Israel’s Maru Teferi, the silver medalist in the marathon at the 2023 World Championships (personal best: 1:00:52). Other notable competitors include Italian Daniele Meucci, a 2014 European marathon champion and Olympian (personal best: 1:01:06), and Burundi’s national record holder, Therence Bizoza (personal best: 1:01:30).

Italian star Sofiia Yaremchuk, co-holder of the national half-marathon record (1:08:27) and national marathon record holder (2:23:16), headlines the women’s race. Fresh from competing at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Yaremchuk returns to Naples following her record-breaking performance last year.

Her challengers include Kenya’s Gladys Longari Cherop (personal best: 1:07:28) and Ethiopia’s Alemitu Olana Tariku, a former African U20 champion (personal best: 1:07:49).

Other contenders are Burundi’s Elvanie Nimbona (personal best: 1:10:32), aiming to replicate her career-best performance from 2018, and Poland’s Aleksandra Lisowska, the reigning European marathon champion (personal best: 1:12:06). Italy’s Aurora Bado, a bronze medalist in the 10,000 meters at the 2023 European Championships, will make her Naples debut with a half-marathon personal best of 1:12:33.

With such a strong lineup, the Napoli City Half Marathon promises fast times and thrilling competition.

The race weekend kicks off on Saturday, February 22, with the Family Run & Friends, a fun 2 km non-competitive event for all ages. Participants will receive a medal, a t-shirt, and refreshments, with free entry for children under 10.

The half-marathon follows on Sunday, February 23. Known for its flat and fast course, the event has helped many runners achieve personal bests. Participants can also opt for the Charity Relay program, sharing the half-marathon distance with a partner.

Online registration is open until February 19, 2025, or until the race reaches capacity. A special package is available for participants who also register for the Run Rome The Marathon on March 16, 2025. More information, including registration itself, is available at napolirunning.com.

The Napoli City Half Marathon offers runners a flat, fast course, with 16 of the 21 kilometers running along the Mediterranean coastline. Fans of football will appreciate the start and finish line at the iconic Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Favorable weather, with temperatures between 12°C and 15°C, provides ideal conditions for record-breaking performances.

Beyond the race, Naples boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and unique landmarks. Visitors can explore Europe’s largest UNESCO historic city center, marvel at the still-active Mount Vesuvius, and savor the world-famous Neapolitan pizza. With world-class athletes and a stunning racecourse, the Napoli City Half Marathon guarantees an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.

Race news Chevron Houston Marathon, Aramco Houston Half Marathon and We Are Houston 5K

American records fall again in Houston

Half marathon course record beaten by 26 seconds

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:53:00 +0000

Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Half Marathon January 19, 2025 Houston, Texas
Photo: Kevin Morris
© 2025 Kevin Morris

Known across the country and around the world for fast times and thrilling finishes, the Aramco Houston Half Marathon and Chevron Houston Marathon further bolstered its reputation on Sunday.

The event saw two American records and a course record shattered despite cold and windy conditions.

In the men’s half marathon, all eyes were on history. The 14-year old course record of 59:22 and 18-year-old American half marathon record of 59:43 were both under attack from the start. Aided by a pacer, a group of four men – two-time champion Jemal Yimer (ETH), Conner Mantz (USA), Gabriel Geay (TAN) and Addison Gobena (ETH) – set a blistering early pace. They passed the 10K point in 28:00, well-ahead of both marks.

After the pacer stepped off the course, the four alternated turns blocking the wind and setting the pace, getting far enough ahead of the records to account for impact of the headwind starting at mile 9. The winning move came in the final mile when Gobena and Mantz surged to the front In a scene reminiscent of the last two Aramco Houston Half Marathon finishes, the pair were side by side as they broke the tape in 59:17. Gobena edged Mantz for the victory by .04, setting a new course record while Mantz took runner-up, breaking Ryan Hall’s 18-year-old record by 26 seconds.

“The Aramco Houston Half Marathon is a race that will change my life,” said Gobena, who set a personal best by more than a minute and a half. “The course record, I wasn’t expecting it but I am very happy.”

“It hasn’t settled in just yet but it feels pretty good,” said Mantz who, despite getting the record, expressed some regret about not competing harder for the victory. “I took off a little too late. I didn’t know what pace we were on. I was doing some math in my head. I think I should have been more concerned about racing at that point in time because the American Record was going to come.”

The women’s half marathon was a three-woman competition from the early miles. Ethiopians Senayet Getachew and Buze Diriba along with American Weini Kelati tucked in with their male pacers at a five-minute per mile clip, putting more than one-minute on the chase pack. Kelati, a 2024 Olympian in the 10,000m, was looking to better her American record while Getachew, a junior World Cross Country champion, was hoping to make a statement on the roads at just 19-years-old. With a mile to go, Diriba had fallen back while Getachew and Kelati battled for the victory. Getachew was able to pull away with 200 meters to go and win in 1:06:05, four seconds ahead of Kelati.

“I am a track athlete, and I used my kick to finish here,” said Getachew who has the under-20 world record for 5,000m. ”As far as my future, I think I will train and work harder and run better.”

Kelati’s time of 1:06:09 lowered her American record by 16 seconds. It’s the fourth consecutive year that the women’s American half marathon record has been set here.

“I was just going for it. I knew I was in really good shape. I wasn’t going to let the weather slow me down,” said Kelati who said after the race that she battled more than just the cold and wind today. “However, I felt uncomfortable throughout the race because I had an upset stomach, and I just ran as hard as I could.”

History of another kind was made in the Chevron Houston Marathon men’s race where Haimro Aleme became the first winner from Israel in event history. Aleme was part of a pack of 10 men who ran together through 20 miles before he made a decisive move at mile 21. With a 4:35 mile, Aleme closed the door on everyone but Eritrean Olympian Yemane Haileslasse and Shadrick Kimining of Kenya. Aleme waited patiently until less than a thousand meters to go before moving to the front and sprinting to the finish.

“Around 21 miles, I knew I could win,” said Aleme whose winning time was 2:08:17. “It was very tough competition, but I was very careful to not lead too soon.”

In just his second marathon, Brigham Young alum Christian Allen was the top American finisher. His seventh place finish in 2:10:32 was a four-and-a-half minute personal best and the fastest time ever run here by an American man.

“I have a great support crew,” said Allen, who trains with Mantz and Olympic Marathoner Clayton Young. “I get to try and hold onto them in workouts. So if you can go half as fast as those two studs you can probably run a decent marathon.”

The women’s marathon thinned out much earlier with Ethiopia’s Kumeshi Sichala pulling away shortly after halfway. Relying on two male pacers to block the wind, Sichala increased her speed throughout the second half of the race to win in 2:20:54, the fourth fastest time in race history and more than two minutes ahead of second place.

“I wanted to improve my personal best and win and I am very grateful I was able to do both,” said Sichala whose last marathon victory came in 2019. “Out of all the great places I have run in the world, this one is special.”

More than USD 190,000 in prize money is awarded to the top finishers of the Chevron Houston Marathon and USD 70,000 is awarded for the top finishers in the Aramco Houston Half Marathon.

Running news

132,000 children introduced to sports

Spor İstanbul reviews the year

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 14:32:00 +0000

Istanbul’s municipal sports organisation Spor İstanbul had a good year. Guided by the unifying power of sports, its mission has been to make an active lifestyle a way of life for everyone in Istanbul.

İ. Renay Onur, Spor İstanbul General Manager explains: “This year, we proudly hosted over 30 major events, including the Türkiye İş Bankası 46th Istanbul Marathon, the ‘Istanbul Half Marathon’.”

“We’ve also invested in our future – our children,” says Onur. 132,000 children have been introduced to sports through Spor İstanbul sports schools and 156 talented students were helped to join professional clubs. Thousands of children experienced the joy of the outdoors and sports at the company’s Nature Camp, creating memories they’ll cherish forever. With 71 facilities across the city, Istanbul residents visited 12 million times, making sports more accessible for everyone. The ‘Yürü Be’ steps app logged 7 billion steps, proving that movement can indeed be fun.

To ensure sports is truly for everyone, access to facilities costs just 1 Turkish lira (0.03 Euro) to members aged 65+ and retirees, underlining the message that it’s never too late to stay active.

Race news Comrades Marathon

Comrades Expo offers ‘ultimate pre-race experience’

Over 50,000 visitors expected

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 11:46:00 +0000

The Comrades Marathon Expo, a highlight of the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon, is set to take place at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 5 – 7 June 2025.

This year’s expo promises to be an exciting and immersive experience for runners, supporters, and sports enthusiasts alike.

The Comrades Expo will feature a wide range of activities, including the official registration for the 2025 Comrades Marathon, race number collection, goodie bags, and the much-coveted race T-shirt. Visitors can also look forward to a vibrant atmosphere filled with the latest in lifestyle, sport, health, and nutrition.

The expo offers more than just a registration point for athletes; it serves as a one-stop shop for essential race-day gear; helps showcase the latest products in sports, health, and nutrition from various exhibitors; allows for visitors to participate in product sampling sessions, interactive displays, and more; as well as presents extensive networking opportunities.

The running public are able to connect with fellow athletes, coaches, supporters, and exhibitors in a dynamic environment. Renowned as Africa’s largest running exhibition, the Comrades Expo is expected to attract over 50,000 visitors over three days, making it the perfect platform for exhibitors to showcase their products and engage with a diverse and enthusiastic audience.

Entrance is free and opening hours are as follows:
- Thursday, 5 June: 10h00 – 19h00
- Friday, 6 June: 09h00 – 19h00
- Saturday, 7 June – 09h00 – 16h00

CMA Chairperson, Mqondisi Ngcobo says, “The Comrades Expo is an integral part of the Comrades Marathon experience. It not only provides runners and supporters with the essential tools and information they need for race day but also creates a vibrant community atmosphere. We are excited to welcome everyone to this year’s expo, where they can engage with exhibitors, learn from experts, and share in the spirit of camaraderie that defines the Comrades Marathon.”

For more information and to secure your spot as an exhibitor, please visit the official Comrades Marathon website or contact Liezle Bothma – liezle@hgexpo.co.za

Date changes EDP Lisbon Marathon

EDP Lisbon Marathon | Hyundai Half Marathon rescheduled

Marathon and half marathon on separate days

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:25:00 +0000

The EDP Lisbon Marathon | Hyundai Half Marathon (POR) will take place on 25th and 26th October.

Due to the anticipated local elections in Portugal at the beginning of October 2025, the Maratona Clube de Portugal has been compelled to reschedule the two races originally planned for October 12.

To avoid any potential overlap with election-related activities, the organisers have decided to move the events organised by the club to the end of October.

Notably, for the first time, the Marathon and Half Marathon will take place on separate days.

Race news Chevron Houston Marathon, Aramco Houston Half Marathon and We Are Houston 5K

Houston chases new American records

Elite fields include Yehaulaw and Kiptoo

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The 2025 road racing year will open with an exciting chase for American records at the Aramco Houston Half Marathon and course records at the Chevron Houston Marathon on Sunday, January 19.

The Houston Marathon Committee announced the professional fields for both races today, featuring returning champions and all-time top performers.

The women’s half marathon field is led by the fifth fastest woman in history, Yalemzerf Yehaulaw of Ethiopia who will race in North America for the first time. Yehaulaw, 25, holds two of the top ten all-time half marathon performances including her personal best of 1:03:51 from Valencia in 2021. In 2024, Yehaulaw set a new personal best time in the marathon, winning the Amsterdam Marathon in 2:16:52, a course record.

“It has always been my ambition to race in the United States and now the opportunity has finally come,” said Yehaulaw, the 2022 TCS London Marathon winner. “Running an early race means I get a chance to focus fully on the half marathon to go for a fast time. I am eager to win.”

The Aramco Houston Half Marathon women’s race also features the follow-up half marathon for the American record holder Weini Kelati. Kelati set the record of 1:06:25 in her debut half marathon here last year. She has not raced the distance since, instead focusing on the 10,000m in which she represented the United States at the 2024 Paris Games.

“I’m really excited to come back to Houston and run my second half marathon,” said Kelati, who finished fourth here in 2024. “Last year was great and I hope this year’s race will be even better. My training has been going well and I know the competition will be very good.”

The women’s professional field features 15 women who have run faster than 1:10 in the half marathon. Other top contenders include last year’s third place finisher Buze Diriba of Ethiopia; the third fastest British half marathoner in history, Jessica Warner-Judd, and fellow Brit and 2024 Olympic marathoner, Calli Hauger-Thackery. Hauger-Thackery won the California International Marathon last month.

The men’s competition will see a rematch of last year’s thrilling Aramco Houston Half Marathon. Wesley Kiptoo of Kenya who has been runner-up here for the past two years will again face off against Jemal Yimer of Ethiopia. Yimer outsprinted Kiptoo in 2024, beating him by just one second.

“I can’t wait to return to Houston to try to defend my 2024 title,” said Yimer, who also won here in 2020. “It’s a special place for me to kick off my 2025 road season.”

The pair will be joined by Tanzania Olympian and former Boston Marathon runner-up Gabriel Gaey who has a personal best of 59:42 from his seventh place finish here in 2020.

The men’s race will also see an attempt to finally topple the American half marathon record of 59:43 set here by Ryan Hall in 2007. Leading the chase on the 18-year-old record will be 2024 Olympic marathoners Conner Mantz and Clayton Young. Mantz and Young, who finished eighth and ninth in Paris, train together in Provo, Utah. In November, they were the top two American finishers in the TCS New York City Marathon with Mantz breaking the American course record. This will be Young’s Houston debut. Mantz last ran here in 2023, finishing in sixth place.

“I want to race the Aramco Houston Half Marathon because there are other fast Americans going for the American Record,” said Mantz, who also set the American record in the 10 mile last October. “The opportunities to race in a field like this, on a fast and record-eligible course are rare.”

Mantz and Young will face competition for a spot in the record books from Diego Estrada, the ninth fastest American in history and 2015 Houston champion who had a career-best performance here last year when he finished fifth in 1:00:49. Joe Klecker, an Olympian in the 10,000m, will look to play a factor in his half marathon debut along with his training partner Morgan Pearson, a two-time Olympic silver medalist in the triathlon with a personal best of 1:01:08. Klecker comes to Houston with family history. His mother Janis Klecker is the 1992 Houston Marathon champion.

The Chevron Houston Marathon features the return of two-time champion Dominic Ondoro of Kenya. Ondoro, who won here in 2017 and 2023, will be part of a field that includes two men who have run under Zouhair Talbi’s course record of 2:06:39 set in 2024: Haimro Alame (Israel, 2:06:04) and Ande Filmon (Eritrea, 2:06:38). The field also includes last year’s third place finisher, Hendrik Pfeiffer of Germany. Pfeiffer led nearly 22 miles of last year’s race and finished with a personal best of 2:07:14.

“Houston was the best marathon race in my career so far. I have great memories of the fast course and the impressive city,” said Pfeiffer, whose wife Esther is in the women’s half marathon elite field. “I have already experienced how it feels to lead the race for more than 35 kilometers and I‘m hungry for more. I will definitely try to chase a fast time again.“

A new winner will be crowned in the Chevron Houston Marathon women’s race. After making her half marathon debut here in 2023, Anna Dibaba will return to Houston to run just the second marathon of her career. The sister of Ethiopian legends Tirunesh, Ejegayehu and Genzebe, Dibaba ran 2:23:56 in her debut in Amsterdam last October.

“As I race in more marathons I am sure that I will understand better what I am capable of,” said Dibaba who placed fourth in the 2023 Aramco Houston Half Marathon. “You have to respect the distance of the marathon and it is not enough to be in shape. You must know how to interpret each race, the various courses and conditions. I am looking forward to seeing what I am now able to do in my next race in Houston."

There are two Ethiopian women who have run faster than Dibaba entered in the race. Tsigie Hailesale who has run 2:22:10 and has marathon victories in Stockholm and Cape Town is the fastest and Sifan Melaku, also a past winner in Stockholm with a 2:23:49 personal best.

American Erika Kemp will line up for only her second career marathon in Houston. Kemp, a two-time U.S. champion will look to build on her experience from the Boston Marathon last spring.

“In 2023 I learned what it was like to be out there competing for over two hours,” said Kemp, who runs for Brooks, the footwear and apparel sponsor of the Houston Marathon Weekend of Events. “I’m hoping to utilize the course karma I’ve built up in Houston to have a great marathon.”

“We are excited to see so many top runners kick off their 2025 racing season with us in Houston,” said Wade Morehead, Executive Director of the Houston Marathon Committee. “We are expecting a historic day that will add to this event’s reputation as one of the best races in the world.”

More than USD 190,000 in prize money and bonuses will be awarded to the top finishers of the Chevron Houston Marathon and USD 70,000 plus time bonuses for the top finishers in the Aramco Houston Half Marathon. The races will be broadcast live on ABC13 and feature commentary from Olympic Marathoner and Boston Marathon champion Des Linden.

Race news Comrades Marathon

Barry Holland co-opted onto Comrades Marathon board

Veteran runner has completed 49 consecutive races

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 11:56:00 +0000

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) is pleased to announce the co-option of Comrades Quadruple Green Number runner and race organiser, Barry Holland onto its Board. Barry Holland, a legendary figure in the Comrades Marathon community, brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the race.

Barry’s association with the Comrades Marathon spans over five decades, during which he has completed an incredible 49 consecutive races, a testament to his dedication and endurance. His extensive knowledge of the race and his commitment to the running community make him an invaluable addition to the CMA Board. He is a past Chairperson and Club Captain of both Jeppe Quondam and Dolphin Coast Striders and has organised many large-scale events including the well-known Balwin Sport Dolphin Coast Marathon.

Barry has been a prominent figure in the running community, not only as a participant but also as a mentor and advocate for the sport. His co-option onto the CMA Board is expected to bring fresh perspectives and enhance the strategic direction of the organization.

CMA Chairperson, Mqondisi Ngcobo says, “We are thrilled to welcome Barry Holland to the Board. His unparalleled experience and passion for the Comrades Marathon will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success and growth of the race.”

On his acceptance of the Board co-option, Barry says, “It is an honour to be co-opted onto the CMA Board. The Comrades Marathon has been a significant part of my life, and I look forward to contributing to its future and supporting the running community.”

Comrades Marathon 2025 will be a Down Run on Sunday, 8 June 2025. The race starts at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall at 05h30 and ends 12 hours later at Durban’s People’s Park, covering an approximately 89km distance. This will be the 49th Down Run.

Race news Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Marathon

Valencia Marathon raises 1m euro for flood relief

The money raised by the ‘Valencia runs 4 Valencia’ campaign is now being distributed

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:35:00 +0000

Photo: German Vidal
© www.germanvidal.com

The Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich 2024 has earmarked around 1,000,000 euro (1,040,000 USD) through its ‘Valencia runs 4 Valencia’ campaign to help the towns and people affected by the storm on 29 October to rebuild the areas and their lives.

The money raised has mainly been received in three ways. The first was the contribution from the race organisers themselves, who pledged to donate three euro for every runner who reached the finish line on 1 December, a total of 28,590 finishers. However, SD Correcaminos has made an additional commitment raising this initial figure to 227,000 euro.

In addition to this, the donations made by runners and supporters of the race through the number zero race bib amounted to 205,000 euro via a platform that received individual donations, transfers from other running clubs around the world, and even contributions from tour operators associated with the event.

And the third line is completed with the donation from New Balance. The sports brand associated with the race has been deeply involved following the flooding in the province of Valencia and has committed to donating a total amount exceeding EUR 600,000.

This total figure for the donations raised also includes the 15,062 EUR donated by HOSBEC, on behalf of the hotel sector; the 28,590 EUR (one euro per finisher) donated by race sponsor, Patatas Meléndez; the EUR 4,000 usually given in prizes from the ‘Shops also run’ campaign, which this year was added to the ‘Valencia runs 4 Valencia’ campaign; as well as the EUR 3,000 from the Running Fallero prizes, which the Trinidad Alfonso Foundation decided this year to donate to the six committees of the Junta Central Fallera de Valencia located in the city’s most affected districts.

The focus of the donations is on schools and running clubs as well as on providing money to affected local councils for the reconstruction of their sports facilities. Specifically, an agreement has been signed with the Valencian Community Athletics Federation, through which more than 62,000 euro have been given to the federated athletics clubs in Algemesí, Torrent, Catarroja and L’Om de Picassent. In addition, more than 7,000 euro have been donated to the clubs in Aldaia and Benetússer, both of which have athletics schools.

Similarly, more than 4,800 euro have been given to CEIP Lluís Vives infant and primary school in Massanassa for the purchase of a completely new set of sports equipment as parts of the school collapsed and the pupils have had to be moved to the former teacher training college in Valencia.

Furthermore, an agreement has been signed with Llombai Town Council to repair the changing rooms and the outdoor area around its athletics track for 60,000 euro and another in Requena for 12,000 euro to repair its track as well. Likewise, another significant grant is planned to restore the track in Torrent, with the renovation of the synthetic surface around the entire running track and in the long jump area, as well as the high jump and pole vault mats, amounting to more than 237,000 euro.

New Balance’s total contribution of 560,000 euro will go, through an agreement with the city council, to completely rebuild the synthetic track and the facilities associated with the athletics track in Guadassuar. In addition, the sports brand of the Valencia Marathon has also donated 40,000 euro to the NGO supporting Valencian firefighters, Bombers pel Món.

“The help given to the Valencian athletics family affected by the floods”, said Juan Manuel Botella, general director of the Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich, “shows that this 44th edition of the Marathon was one of the most important we have ever held. Going ahead the Marathon has made it possible to help people. We have to thank Valencia City Council, who saw the importance of holding the race, the Trinidad Alfonso Foundation for their support and example, and all our sponsors for their enormous commitment with the Valencians”.

“Miguel Pellicer and Toni Lastra would be happy to see us lending a hand to Valencian sport through this event which, together with so many other illustrious dreamers from Correcaminos, they first organised in 1981”, concluded Botella.

Race news Nepalgunj Marathon

Khadka and Santoshi champions at 10th Dhara Nepalgunj Marathon

Two runners beat course record

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 14:22:00 +0000

Tribhuvan Army Club athlete Khadka Bahadur Khadka claimed 10th Dhara Nepalgunj Marathon while Santoshi Shrestha clinched the women’s half marathon gold for a record fourth time in Banke, Nepalgunj.

Khadka clocked 2 hours 17 minutes 48 seconds to complete the 42.195 km distance. Khadka’s clubmates Rajan Rokaya and Sushil Kumar Shahi secured second and third positions respectively. Rokaya clocked 2:17:53 and Shahi took 2:21:45 to finish the distance. The top three finishers walked away with prizes of NPR 200,000 (1,457 USD), NPR 100,000 and NPR 50,000.

Winner Khadka and the runner up Rokaya also set a new course record at the marathon surpassing the previous best timing of 2:20:28 . The marathon organised by Creative Hands started from the gate of Nepalgunj Sub Metropolitan City and finished at the same point going through Kohalpur Municipality – Baniyabhar before turning back.

Khadka, who had finished eighth during his first attempt at the Nepalgunj at the first edition of the Nepalgunj marathon, said that he was delighted to secure the title for the second time. He had claimed the maiden Nepalgunj title in 2022.

Santosh Bikram Shahi secured fourth position while Rudra Budathoki finished fifth, Manakaran KC sixth, Nirmal Kunwar seventh, Khem Bahadur Shahi eighth, Bharat Kumar Shrestha ninth Mangal Tamang tenth places respectively. They all had their share of cash prizes.

Santoshi Shrestha, the winner of the women’s half marathon, took 1 hour 17 minutes 30 seconds to finish the half marathon. Pushpa Bhandari (1:19:12) and Bimala Karki (1:49:15) secured silver and bronze medals. The top three finishers in the women’s half marathon earned purses of NPR 75,000 (545 USD), NPR 50,000 and NPR 25,000 respectively.

Along with the men’s marathon and women’s half marathon, the event also featured school level 5km races for boys and girls, 5 km corporate run, 5km tricycle and 5km walkathon events and 500m kids run among others.

In the school boys event (outside Banke district) Bikash BK, Ajay Pandey Chhetri, and Ramesh Budha finished first, second and third respectively. In the school boys race for Banke district, Arbind Yadav, Amrit Shahi and Bijay Khadka earned top three spots respectively.

The kids 500m run for boys saw Rajan Tharu, Narayan Saud and Arun Khatik finish in top three positions respectively. In the kids 500m run for girls, Minakshi Saud, Pujan Birat and Anjali Sejuwal came in the top three positions respectively.

The corporate 5km race saw Yogesh Malla, Dr. RK Lamichhane and Madhu Sunar earn first, second and third spots respectively. Rajesh Harijan and Mina Kumari Nepali secured first and second positions respectively in the tricycle.

The Nepalgunj Marathon started to commemorate the comprehensive peace accord between the Government of Nepal and rebel Maoist on November 21, 2006, according to the marathon founder TS Thakuri.

Meanwhile, the event organizer Creative Hands also feted the individuals and the organisation that have been supporting the event since its inception with ‘Dasak Ratna Samman’.

According to Creative Hands’ president TS Thakuri, KL Dugar Group CEO Pradeep Chhajer, Angel’s School principal Bina Malla, Bright Land College principal Vijay Lama, Kantipur Television CEO Shishir Pachhai, Race Director Chandra Gurung, Nepalgunj Sub Metropolitan, Kohalpur Municipality, PABSON Banke and Dainik Nepalgunj editor Jhalak Gaire were feted during the closing ceremony. Meanwhile, senior actor Madan Krishna Shrestha was also given a civic felicitation and letter of appreciation.

Race news Dhaka 25K

Turaag Active renews sponsorship of Dhaka 25K

Announcement for 2025

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 11:40:00 +0000

Organisers of the Dhaka 25K have announced that Turaag Active will once again sponsor the event in 2025.

The race stated: “We are thrilled to share that Turaag Active has joined as the Title Sponsor for the Turaag Active Dhaka 25K 2025, the 2nd edition of our World Athletics-certified and AIMS-member event.”

This marks the continuation of the partnership, as Turaag Active was also the Title Sponsor of the inaugural edition, which hosted over 2,000 participants.

This year, an even greater turnout is anticipated with 2,500+ participants set to run on February 14th, 2025, at the scenic Hatirjheel in Dhaka.

Sajnan Mohammed, Race Director of Dhaka 25K, said: “As a leading activewear brand, Turaag Active embodies the spirit of health and wellness that our event promotes. Together, we celebrate running as a way to honor Dhaka’s heritage with the slogan ‘Run to Save Dhaka’s Heritage.’

“We look forward to seeing you on Sundarbans Day and World Valentine’s Day for one of the biggest community running festivals of the year! Let’s make this event unforgettable. See you at the start line!”