News

Women’s Running Comrades Marathon

100 years of female participation in the Comrades Marathon

First woman to complete race remembered

Wed, 24 May 2023 10:29:00 +0000

It may be only 48 years since women were allowed to officially run the Comrades Marathon but female trailblazers have been part and parcel of the world’s greatest footrace since its origins.

24 May 2023 marks a centenary of women’s participation in The Ultimate Human Race. Frances Hayward was the first woman to have unofficially completed the Comrades Marathon in 1923, during a time when the race was only open to white men.

Frances Elizabeth Hayward was born on the 14 August 1891 in Wiltshire, England. Her father was part of a fairly affluent woollen mill owning family and she grew up in a large English home and received a good education.

From a young age Frances showed a desire for independence, strong character and fortitude. At the age of 20, she worked as a church embroideress at the County Home in Stafford. While being an embroideress during the early 1900’s was a respectable job for a lady, working at the country home would have been considered scandalous for her station as it was a home designed to reform woman who had served time in prison and had no family support or work experience.

In a very bold move, on the 3rd of January 1914, she departed from Southampton for Cape Town, South Africa on The Galician, Union Castle Mail Steamship Company. During this period it was highly unusual for woman to travel alone, yet she was undeterred and the excitement of the colonies drew her to South Africa.

She found herself restless in Cape Town and wanted to travel and see more of South Africa. So in September 1921 and now qualified as a clerk, she boarded a steamer headed for Natal and travelled alone to Durban. She got a position as a typist and, living free of the usual restrictions her class would have held her to in England, enjoyed living a single, independent life.

At the age of 30, the intrigue of the Comrades Marathon had caught her attention and she sent a letter to Vic Clapham and applied to run in the 1923 race. Her entry left Clapham and the Athletics Association in a state of confusion as they had never had a woman applying to enter any male athletics events before. After considerable debate they refused to accept her entry. She sent an immediate response to the association and Vic that she was undaunted by their decision and would therefore run unofficially.

So, on only the third running of the race in 1923, she lined up outside the Pietermaritzburg City Hall with the 68 men who were competing that year. Dressed in a dark green gym suit and leather soled plimsoles, she started her journey along the road to Durban. Despite the general consensus that the distance would be too great for a woman, she was well supported by her fellow competitors and spectators alike.

Frances crossed the line in 11:35:00, in what would have been 28th position in a field of 30 finishers that year. The Natal Witness reported “Miss Hayward made a steady pace, dropping to a walk on the hills, and, at Thornybush, was last but one, a good mile behind the others. She looked cheerful and fit, having previously announced her intention of making Drummond by 11am. Miss Frances Hayward, got to Drummond in 11:14, not far astern of her intended schedule.”

The article ended with “another signal of women’s emancipation from the thraldom of good-natured disdain in which mere man has held her.” She had achieved what she set out to do – to be the first woman to attempt the race; and “to shock everybody.”

She stated, “I should have been content if I had beaten just one man!” She beat two who finished and 38 who dropped out.

Her run was not officially recognised due to the rejection of her entry, and she received no silver medal (as all finishers were awarded silver during the 1920’s), but the citizens of Durban were so impressed by her performance that they pooled together and presented her with a silver tea set and silver rose bowl as congratulations.

Race news Salzburg Marathon

Kenyans Njeri and Murkomen win 20th Salzburg Marathon

A summer’s day creates an inspiring atmosphere and slows down the times at the Running Festival in Mozart’s city

Mon, 22 May 2023 10:06:00 +0000

Simon-Kamau Njeri and Dorine-Jerop Murkomen from Kenya are the acclaimed winners of the 20th Salzburg Marathon.

Njeri triumphed after 2:22:55 hours in the historic centre of Mozart’s city ahead of Belgian Yohan Zaradzki and Felix Buck-Gramcko from Germany. Women’s winner Dorine-Jerop Murkomen took the victory in a dominant 2:38:27. Germans Monika Rausch and Martina Dannheimer took second and third place.

Runners gave their best in warm conditions. A cloudless summer day created a great atmosphere among the spectators. Faster times, however, were not feasible at temperatures above 24°C. So Murkomen could not make the dream of a course record come true. “The course is wonderful, but it was too hot,” she commented. After a spirited first half of the race in 1:14:21 hours, she had to back down as the race wore on. “I tried everything, but that was all I could do. I had to stop at kilometres 35 and 39. I am happy that I made it to the finish line as the winner.” Risper Kimayo’s Salzburg top time of 2:35:05 from 2011 thus remains in the record books.

Simon-Kamau Njeri celebrated his first victory in his second appearance in Salzburg after 2017. “I am happy about the success. The second placed runner from Belgium was not far behind. That was a push for me to keep my pace,” said Njeri, who has a best time of 2:14:21 from 2022.

4,500 runners had registered for Sunday’s events at the 20th Salzburg Marathon, close to 1,000 of them for the full marathon. The flair of Salzburg, world-famous for classical music and the historic city centre, attracted many international participants.

In the Sparkasse Half Marathon, the most popular event of the day, there were two Austrian winners, Mahdi Sareban in 1:12:08 and Anna Pabinger in 1:20:16. “I wanted to win the half marathon, it was high on my wish list,” said Sareban, a sports medicine physician from Salzburg. “The course is beautiful, I can only recommend this to everyone.”

Pabinger was happy to win despite a stop with cramps after 14 kilometres. “There was a lot of shade and many spectators – for me the most beautiful course I have run,” commented the general practitioner and mother of two children aged 1 and 3. Not far behind came Salzburg’s local hero Conny Stöckl-Moser in second place in a time of 1:20:49, back from a maternity running break.

At the Hervis 10K CityRun Markus Hartinger showed up with an Austrian season’s best time of 30:13 minutes. “I can be satisfied with that, it was a very nice running trip,” he said. Annika Leineweber was the fastest woman in a personal best time of 38:40 minutes. “It was my first 10km run in several years. The atmosphere and the course were great,” said the German, who has been studying medical biology in Salzburg since last year.

Over four days, Salzburg offered a wide range of running events with a speed hiking event on Thursday, the Salzburg Women’s Run over 5.5K on Friday, a breakfast run, kids’ races and a charity run – #OneMileForASmile – Inclusion Run by Coca-Cola on Saturday. Each event day had its special characteristics with the Sunday being the classical highlight in Salzburg’s running calendar. With its programme and initiatives, the Salzburg Marathon motivates people to lead a conscious, health-oriented lifestyle. This is reflected in the colourful running programme, which takes place in the heart of a beautiful city with the unique combination of sport and culture as well as a magnificent backdrop.

Running news

Registration open for Tokyo Legacy Half

Inspired by 2020 Olympics

Thu, 18 May 2023 10:38:00 +0000

Last year the Tokyo Marathon Foundation launched the “Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon” as a legacy event of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

The purpose was to create an opportunity to experience the lingering excitement of TOKYO 2020, while nourishing the city and enhancing the health of the people through running. The second edition of the Tokyo Legacy Half Marathon will be held on Sunday, 15 October 2023. The official website and finalized race Information is available and registration for charity runners opened from 28 April. (https://legacyhalf.tokyo/en/index.html); Tokyo residents’ entry will start on Wednesday, 17 May and the general entry will start on Thursday, 25 May.

The half marathon will start and finish at the Japan National Stadium and will be run on the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games marathon course. This race is designed to generate an extraordinary running experience for everyone. The Tokyo Marathon Foundation aims to create an inclusive event and a legacy that will contribute to resolving social issues through charitable works, support for sports people with disabilities, and the continuous training of volunteers and support for their activities.

The Marathon Grand Championship (MGC) will be held on the same day, organised by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF). The MGC will decide Japan’s national representatives for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The course will provide a rare opportunity to experience the same finish line as some of the Japan’s top athletes. Start times are 07.50, with the wheelchair athletes starting at 09.50. The wheelchair athletes follow a point to point course starting in the Japan National Stadium and finishing at Jinbocho.

Race news Göteborgsvarvet Half Marathon

Two Kenyan victories at Göteborgsvarvet

Kipngetich and Chembai top the field

Wed, 17 May 2023 13:32:00 +0000

Edmund Kipngetich, winner of the Göteborgsvarvet half marathon on 13 May 2023.
Photo: Glenn T Unger
© Glenn T Unger

Edmond Kipngetich and Susan Chembai – those are the names of the winners of the 42nd edition of Göteborgsvarvet.

“I didn’t expect to win, but I am really happy I did,” said Chembai, who crossed the finish line 20 seconds before the runner-up.

Four male and two female runners came to Sweden with personal bests under the current course records at Götebortsvarvet, but no new records were broken this day. However, Edmond Kipngetich finished first of the 40,000 participants and Susan Chembai was the first woman to reach Slottsskogsvallen.

Edmond Kipngetich, with a personal best an impressive 59:25 from last year, was in the lead at each of the split times and crossed the finish line at 1:01:46, 40 seconds before his fellow countryman Braved Kiprop and another 58 seconds before Alex Kibet, the runner in the starting field with the best personal best.

“It was tough today, but it felt great to win. The course was tougher than I thought and I had to fight hard, but was stronger than the others today,” he said.

First among the runners competing for Swedish clubs was Samuel Russom (Hässelby SK). The Eritrean citizen finished sixth at 1:04:04 and was the best non-Kenyan. David Nilsson from Högby IF was the best Swedish citizen, six seconds before Archie Casteel (Spårvägens FK).

In the women’s class four Kenyans and two Ethiopians took the first six positions. The best of them was Susan Chembai who was 20 seconds ahead of the runner up, finishing on 1;10:40. As predicted Hanna Lindholm was the best Swedish runner, finishing seventh, more than one minute and two positions in front of Johanna Larsson from Örgryte IS.

Date changes Quito Últimas Noticias 15k

Race date for Quito Últimas Noticias 15k (ECU) changed

Quito Últimas Noticias 15k date change

Wed, 17 May 2023 10:18:58 +0000

The Quito Últimas Noticias 15k (ECU) will take place on Sun 11 June 2023, not Sun 4 June 2023 as previously published.

Race news Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend

Canadian greats to clash in Ottawa

Moh Ahmed joins Cam Levins for 10K contest

Tue, 16 May 2023 11:37:00 +0000

Gold Coast- Day One- 2018 Commonwealth Games. April 8, 2018. Athletics. Photo: Claus Andersen
Photo: Claus Andersen

The two greatest Canadian male distance runners of all time will be going head-to-head at the Ottawa 10K presented by Otto’s Ottawa.

Cam Levins, who was previously announced for the race, will now be joined by Olympic and World Championship medalist Mohammed Ahmed.

Ahmed, who trains in Eugene, Oregon with the Bowerman Track Club, is the Canadian record holder over 10,000m and 5000m. His 5000m time of 12:47 is the 11th fastest of all time. The global running superstar also sports a pair of global medals: a silver from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze from the 2019 World Championships.

Ahmed, 32, was born in Somalia before moving to Kenya as a refugee. When he was 11 years old, his family settled in Ontario. He has since represented Canada at competitions across the world, including three Olympics (2012, 2016, 2020).

Ahmed will face Levins for the first time since Levins began his illustrious marathon career, setting up a showdown between the fastest Canadian marathoner and half marathoner of all-time with the fastest Canadian 10,000m and 5000m runner of all-time. It is safe to say, the current Canadian record of 28:11, held by the reigning Canadian 10K Champion – Ben Flanagan, will be in jeopardy in Ottawa.

Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend elite athlete coordinator, Dylan Wykes, is excited at the prospect, “We are excited to welcome Moh to the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. We always enjoy when Canadian greats race on Canadian soil in front of home fans.”

The Canadian 10K Championship are also excited to welcome back 2022 champion Natasha Wodak and 2021 champion Leslie Sexton.

Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is Canada’s biggest race weekend and will run on 27–28 May 2023.

Race news Great Egyptian River Nile International Marathon

400 runners from eight countries on River Nile

Pero Sompi runs his first marathon – and wins

Tue, 16 May 2023 11:18:00 +0000

Under the motto “Egypt, the gift of the Nile”, the partnership of inDrive and the Great Pharoahs Runners ran the 2023 Great Egyptian River Nile Marathon with more than 400 runners from eight countries.

A sensational result was achieved by Pero Sompi (DRC), who arrived in Egypt just four hours before the start of the race and was collected from the airport personally by race director Ahmed El-Nady. Running in his first ever full marathon, Pero Sompi finished in 2:53:19 and won gold for the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Zatara Ilunga Mande (DRC), who ran the Olympic Marathon in London in 2012, and Ahmed Noury (EGY) ran the half marathon together under the motto “Peace between Africans”, with Ahmed Noury winning out in 1:11:02.

In addition to the marathon, half marathon and 10k, inDrive also created the “inDrive 5k Youth Race” to support young runners under 16. The fastest runners in each category in this event were Mohamed Foley Mostafa Salem Suleiman (17:05) and Zainab Al-Hassan Al-Wardani Taher Sablah (19:24). All young participants went home with an official medal and running t-shirts and sports bags sponsored by inDrive.

The day concluded with a victory ceremony for all winners. The next Great River Nile Marathon will take place on 12 April 2024.

Race news Copenhagen Marathon

Kenyan runners dominate in Copenhagen

Tanui runs 2:23:14 to set new Danish record

Mon, 15 May 2023 15:35:00 +0000

Kenyan runners dominated Sunday’s marathon race in the Danish capital.

The Copenhagen Marathon on Sunday saw the fastest time ever run on Danish soil by a woman when Rodah Chepkorir Tanui crossed the finish line in 2:23:14. The performance crowned a perfect running event on a sunny day in the Danish capital with a total of 12,000 runners taking part.

“Everything was just perfect today. The pace was excellent, and I had prepared well,” the 32-year-old Tanui – who won by a margin of close to two minutes – said afterwards.

In the men’s race, the Kenyan dominance proved to be even stronger as Solomon Kirwa came in first in a time of 2:09:12 – with two compatriots following after him, all dipping under the 2:10-hour-mark.

To Kirwa, today’s victory was special. The 36-year-old Kenyan has won international half marathons in Udine and Rome-Ostia, but this was his first international triumph at the full distance.

“It means a lot to me finally to win a marathon race. I ran the Copenhagen Half Marathon three years ago, so I knew the route here is flat and fast. My training has been good, so of course I was hoping to win. We started out quite slow, but I felt good all the way and could speed up a little at the end of the race,” Kirwa said.

The race also included the National Championships, and here Jacob Sommer Simonsen and Karen Ehrenreich took the titles with 2:14:46 and 2:35:02 respectively.

Date changes UNICEF Charity Run Half Marathon & 10km

Race date for UNICEF Charity Run Half Marathon & 10km (HKG) changed

UNICEF Charity Run Half Marathon & 10km date change

Wed, 10 May 2023 14:47:13 +0000

The UNICEF Charity Run Half Marathon & 10km (HKG) will take place on Sun 5 November 2023, not Sun 26 November 2023 as previously published.

Race news NKolay İstanbul Half Marathon

Purity Komen upsets Ruth Chepngetich

Daniel Ebenyo wins men’s race in Istanbul

Wed, 10 May 2023 12:22:00 +0000

Purity Komen was the surprise winner of the N Kolay Istanbul Half Marathon.

Overtaking fellow-Kenyan and race favourite Ruth Chepngetich the 24 year-old stormed to her biggest career win with a personal best of 1:06:30. Course record holder Chepngetich followed in second with 1:07:18 while Evaline Chirchir made it an all-Kenyan podium with 1:07:31. Stella Rutto of Romania was the fastest European, finishing 10th with 1:10:05.

In partly windy conditions hopes for a course record faded in the men’s race as well after a fast first section. 27 year-old Daniel Ebenyo of Kenya was the winner of Turkey’s best quality road race with 59:52. Marokko’s Hicham Amghar took second place in 59:58 and Haftu Teklu clocked 1:00:03 for third. Britain’s Marc Scott was the best European runner in 1:03:17 for 12th place.

A record number of 12,300 runners competed in the 18th edition of the half marathon and the 10k race staged parallel. Many athletes ran for charity, collecting money for the victims of the devastating earthquake that shook southern Turkey earlier this year. “It was a nice race and especially the men’s elite was very competitive. We are happy that we continue to register record fields. It is always exciting to experience the historic atmosphere here in Istanbul and we are now inviting everyone to be back for our marathon on 5 November,” said Race Director Reynar Onur.

Ruth Chepngetich sped away from the field right after the start, passing the 5k mark in 15:16. The Kenyan was almost on course for breaking her Kenyan record and her Istanbul course record of 1:04:02 – which in 2021 was a world record as well. However once the 2019 Marathon World Champion came off Galata Bridge and had to run against the wind for almost 4km she slowed considerably. At the 10k point her 31:09 split time then indicated a 65:45 finish and her lead had shrunk to only four seconds. Purity Komen, Evaline Chirchir and Ethiopia’s Bosena Mulatie caught her up soon after. Komen, who had only been ranked ninth on the start list with a PB of 1:07:08, moved ahead before the 15km mark. Chepngetich tried to follow her in a bid to make it six wins from six races in Istanbul, but was unable to do so. Purity Komen won the race with 1:06:30 and became the first woman to beat Ruth Chepngetich on the historic roads of Istanbul.

“Maybe the race came a bit too soon after the Nagoya Marathon in March,” said Ruth Chepngetich. “I have not yet decided if I will run the World Championships marathon or an autumn race. The big goal is the Olympic Games next year and I hope to be selected for the team.” While Ruth Chepngetich is an experienced marathoner the victory in Istanbul may well have brought Purity Komen closer to her debut at the classic distance. “I was surprised when I suddenly saw Ruth in front of me and was then able to pass her,” said Komen. “I had hoped to achieve a 65 minutes’ time, but it was too windy today. I plan to run my marathon debut next year.”

The men’s race began very fast as well with the first couple of split times indicating a finishing time of around 58:00. But as in the women’s competition the pace then dropped once the leading group hit the wind. A group of around 10 athletes passed the 10km mark in 28:22 while Kenya’s Daniel Ebenyo and Hicham Amghar of Morocco were pushing the pace. Soon after the 15km (42:33) Ebenyo took the lead, covering the next kilometre in 2:46. Only Amghar was able to follow him, but when Ebenyo gestured to him to help with the pace the Moroccan stayed behind. Ebenyo then pressed ahead and opened up a decisive gap with around 4km to go.

“I am excited to have won this race. My aim was to run 59:00 minutes but it was too windy for that,“ said Ebenyo. “I will probably run my marathon debut next year. Maybe I will come back to Istanbul for that.”

Race news Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Marathon

Valencia Marathon sets a new record for registrations

33,000 places sold out – waiting list established

Wed, 10 May 2023 10:30:00 +0000

Photo: Toni Marín
© Toni Marin 2022

The Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso has sold out the 33,000 race bibs available for this year’s race on 3 December, almost seven months before it is due to take place.

The best race in Spain, according to the RFEA, thus achieves a new record number of registered participants and surpasses the record previous set by the Valencia Marathon as a milestone for a Spanish marathon. As of now, it will set up a waiting list to cover any cancellations that may occur due to injury or through the insurance runners may have taken out.

Among the 33,000 participants registered to take part in the Valencia Marathon, which is organised by SD Correcaminos and Valencia City Council, 54% will be foreigners, also the highest percentage in its history. Runners from the Comunitat Valenciana account for 25% and those from the rest of Spain the final 21%. Participation by women also increased as a percentage of the total and in absolute numbers, reaching 20% by the time registration closed (nine participants identified themselves as non-binary).

Another striking fact is that the course in Valencia Ciudad del Running is a good place for Marathon rookies, as the registration data shows that 21% of the participants will be running the distance of 42,195 m for the first time here. In addition, for 38% of the participants this will be their first time they will be taking part in the Valencia Marathon.

Anyone who has not yet registered but does not want to miss out on the 2023 race has the opportunity to get a race bib by joining the waiting list and waiting their turn. It is also possible to purchase a premium experience package, which includes, in addition to the race bib, numerous other perks such as access to the VIP area for the runner and their companion, race bibs for the Bimbo Breakfast Run, a premium locker and a photo at the finish line, among other benefits.

Race news Prague International Marathon

Alexander Mutiso dominates Prague Marathon

Kenyan athlete sets new course record

Mon, 08 May 2023 11:38:00 +0000

Kenyan Alexander Mutiso won the Prague Marathon and broke the course record with a time of 2:05:09.

Second place was taken by Ethiopian Sisay Lemma and third by the Kenyan Philemon Rono. “I am very happy to have broken the course record – that was my goal,” said Mutiso. In the women’s elite race Ethiopian Workenesh Edesa won in 2:20:42. Vít Pavlišta won his fourth domestic title, running under 2:20. The fastest Czech female was Moira Stewart but her 2:31:52 did not make the World Championship qualifying standard.

This year’s race, with around 10,000 runners, started from Wenceslas Square. The crowds were strong on both sides of the famous Charles Bridge. For the third time, the famous marathon was graced by the ‘Battle of the Teams’, which involved five teams.

A trio broke away from the rest of the elite field just before 25km: Sisay Lemma, Alexander Mutiso and the Kenyan peacemaker Stephen Kiprop. The latter stepped aside after completing his pacing duties at the 30km. At 35km, the leading duo were almost 50 seconds ahead of the chasing group and around 38km, Mutiso broke away from his rival. “It was my strategy because I wanted to run alone to the finish. I’m not strong in those final sprints where anything can happen. I’m glad it worked out,” said Mutiso, who ran 2:03:29 on his debut in Valencia last year.

This year, Mutiso in winning by a margin of 1:17, beat his compatriot Eliud Kiptanui’s course record of 2:05:39 from the 2010 Prague Marathon. Ethiopia’s Workenesh Edesa targeted the current women’s course record and run under 2:19. Her winning time was just short of a new record, but the champion did enjoy a winning margin of 3:10 over the runner-up Margaret Wangari of Kenyan.

Vít Pavlišta won the home title after a great performance, finishing in 2:19:14.

Moira Stewart won the Czech women’s title, her first home marathon title.

The President of the Republic Petr Pavel also arrived at the start and officially started the 27th edition of the Prague International Marathon. He lasted until the final run through the entire crowd. “Everyone who stood at the start has huge respect from me. Sports events of this kind are a huge opportunity to show our country to the world in the best light,” said President Pavel.

Race news BMW Berlin-Marathon

Christoph Kopp passed away in Berlin

Influential coordinator developed Berlin into one of the world’s leading races

Tue, 02 May 2023 09:42:00 +0000

Pressekonferenz
Photo: norbert wilhelmi
© www.wilhelmi-fotograf.de

Christoph Kopp, Germany’s most influential and experienced road running official and athlete manager, passed away at the age of 75 on Friday 28 April in his hometown Berlin after a short, severe illness. Kopp had a deserved reputation for his friendliness and reliability.

A former sprinter and decathlete he worked as a coach and later became head of athletics at the renowned Sports Club Charlottenburg. When big-city marathons started up in Europe the early 1980s Christoph Kopp became the voluntary Sporting Director and general manager of the Berlin-Marathon. He helped to develop the event into a high-class international race.

He was the President of the Berlin Athletics Federation from 1999-2004 and deeply involved in Berlin’s bids for the World Championships, which the city staged in 2009.

As an elite field coordinator he was the one who developed the Berlin Marathon into one of the world’s leading races. He did the same with the Frankfurt Marathon and the Berlin 25K race. Christoph Kopp organised the Berlin 25K race for several years. In 2010 he put together men’s and women’s fields which both produced world records in the one event. Recently he also worked for marathons in Hannover, Linz and Munich as well as road races in Paderborn, Berlin, Würzburg and Dresden.

In 2020 Christoph Kopp and his International SportService (ISS) Team organised the first elite races to be held in Germany during the Corona Pandemic and one of the first worldwide. He was then involved in most other German races during the lockdown. Christoph Kopp always had the courage to try something that did not seem possible.

Christoph Kopp managed many of Germany’s top marathon and road runners through his team International SportService which will now be continued by his son Philipp Kopp and his long-term employee Sandra Wolter.

Race news Generali Berlin Half Marathon

Registration opens for Berlin Half

First 2100 runners to get early-bird rate

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 09:59:00 +0000

Registration has opened for the Generali Berlin Half Marathon in 2024, organisers have announced.

The next race will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024. Early-bird rates are available for the first 2,100 registrants.

The event organisers, SCC Events, said “As is well known, after the Generali Berlin Half Marathon is before the next Generali Berlin Half Marathon. Next April is time for achieving goals, running best times, feeling enthusiastic, enjoying Berlin, experiencing pure running joy and much more.”

Race news Haspa Marathon Hamburg

Koech is fourth fastest of 2023

Hamburg course record broken with 2:04:09

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 10:13:00 +0000

Haspa Marathon Hamburg on April 23, 2023 in Hamburg, Germany. (Photo by Philipp Szyza / HOCH ZWEI)
Photo: Philipp Szyza
© Philipp Szyza / HOCH ZWEI

Bernard Koech of Kenya won the Haspa Marathon Hamburg with a course record of 2:04:09. The 35-year old tied his personal best and is now the fourth fastest runner in the world this year.

Fellow Kenyans Joshua Belet and Martin Kosgei took second and third with 2:04:33 and 2:06:18 respectively. Germany’s European Champion Richard Ringer finished in a strong sixth position with a personal best of 2:08:08 which is just inside the Olympic qualifying time.

Kenya’s Dorcas Tuitoek took the women’s race with 2:20:09 – the second fastest time ever run in Hamburg. Longtime race leader Tiruye Mesfin of Ethiopia struggled in the final section and even stumbled and fell. She finished second with 2:20:18. Third placed Stella Chesang clocked 2:20:23 in her debut and broke the Ugandan record. Giovanna Epis was the fastest European in sixth place with 2:23:46, missing the Italian record by just two seconds. Germany’s Fabienne Königstein took eighth with a strong PB of 2:25:48, well inside the 2:26:50 Olympic qualifying standard.

Organisers registered 12,000 runners for the 37th edition of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg. Including races at shorter distances the total was over 30,000.

In almost perfect conditions a leading group of 13 runners formed right after the start and stayed together until 27km. The half marathon mark was passed before in 1:02:32, slightly off the course record pace. But after 27km the pace of the leading group noticeably increased and the three Kenyans Bernard Koech, Martin Kosgei and Joshua Belet were able to break away from the group. Right before the 35km mark Martin Kosgei dropped back and then the decisive moment came when Bernard Koech left Joshua Belet behind.

Koech then built on his lead and with 2:04:09 he improved the course record by 38 seconds. Fellow-Kenyan Cybrian Kotut had won with 2:04:47 a year ago. With 2:04:33 for second place Joshua Belet was under the previous record as well. While Martin Kosgei followed in 2:06:18, Daniel do Nascimento from Brasil, who was among the pre-race favorites, finished fourth in 2:07:06. “I ran a good race and I knew that I probably had to run a time around my PB to win,” said Bernard Koech. “I spoke with Eliud Kipchoge about the course before I came here and he gave me some advice.” Kipchoge won his marathon debut in Hamburg back in 2013.

In his fifth marathon Richard Ringer gave another strong and convincing performance. Clocking 2:08:08 in sixth place the German European Champion was just two seconds inside the Olympic qualifying time. Improving his PB by 41 seconds he is now the second fastest German marathon runner ever behind Amanal Petros (2:06:27). “The race was going according to plan for me. I have to thank my pacemaker, who helped me achieve this result,” said Richard Ringer. Germany’s Haftom Welday ran with the leading group, but struggled badly in the last 10 km to finish eighth with 2:09:40.

As expected it was Ethiopia’s Tiruye Mesfin who took the lead in the women’s race early. With a half marathon split time of 1:09:46 she was however not as fast as she had planned. The 2:17:23 course record was out of reach, but at 35km Mesfin looked a certain winner. She was around a minute ahead of her rivals. But disaster struck in the final kilometre as the 20-year old slowed, stumbled and fell to the ground. Behind her Kenya’s Dorcas Tuitoek saw her opportunity She found another gear and passed Mesfin around 300m before the finish line.

“I was really surprised to win. I did not see when Tiruye Mesfin fell, I was just fully focused on myself. I still had enough energy,” said 25 year-old Tuitoek, who had a PB of 2:24:54 before the race. “I knew that I could probably run a 2:20 time. This course is really fast and good for records.”

Race news Vienna City Marathon

Samwel Mailu smashes Vienna course record

Over 30,000 runners in jubilee race

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Leo HAGEN
Photo: Leo HAGEN
© Leo HAGEN

Kenya’s Samwel Mailu smashed the nine year-old course record of the Vienna City Marathon when he stormed over the finish line at the Vienna Burgtheater in 2:05:08.

Austria’s President Alexander Van der Bellen held the finishing tape. Despite warm conditions during the second half of the race the 30-year old was 33 seconds quicker than the former course record holder Getu Feleke of Ethiopia who had clocked 2:05:41 back in 2014. Fellow Kenyans Bethwell Yegon and Titus Kimutai followed with 2:06:57 and 2:07:46 in second and third.

There was a Kenyan double triumph in the women’s race: Magdalyne Masai took the race with 2:24:12 from Agnes Keino, who ran 2:24:25. Ethiopia’s Gadise Mulu was third with 2:24:50. Austria’s Julia Mayer broke the national record by the tiniest of margins: With 2:30:42 she finished eighth and improved the time by one second.

Including events at shorter distances 39,871 athletes were registered for the 40th edition of the Vienna City Marathon, which is a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race. 9,218 of those were marathon runners.

With temperatures climbing to around 20 Celsius in unexpectedly sunny conditions during the second half of the 40th anniversary race the men’s leading group was running a consistently fast pace. After a 29:43 10k split time a group of 11 runners including three pacemakers reached half way in 62:43. The pace continued to be fast and the group then partly broke up between 26 and 28k in the Prater Park. When the leaders reached 30k in 1:29:13 there were six runners still in contention and it was an all-Kenyan affair: Bethwell Yegon, Samwel Mailu, Titus Kimutai, Joshua Kogo, Bernard Chepkwony and debutant Elvis Cheboi. The later two then lost contact while Mailu started to pull away. Between 32–33k he had a lead of around 10 metres over Kimutai and another 15m over Yegon. While these gaps grew considerably in the final 5km Yegon was able to overtake Kimutai for second place.

But there was no way of catching Mailu, who had run an unexpected marathon debut in Frankfurt last autumn. He was a pacemaker but then continued to run and finished second with 2:07:19. “The race in Frankfurt gave me a lot of motivation. For me today was a kind of another marathon debut. This was my biggest career win,” said Samwel Mailu.

Sondre Moen was the fastest European runner in Vienna in eighth position. But with a time of 2:10:23 the Norwegian missed his goal of a sub 2:10 finish. This was also the aim for Germany’s Sebastian Hendel who ran 2:11:29 for ninth place. There was more disappointment for Andreas Vojta of Austria. He lost contact to the group well before the 20k mark and finished in 14th position with 2:19:27.

In contrast the women never really started the planned attack on the course record. With slower split times than expected there were initially 11 runners in the first group, which reduced to seven at the 10k mark (33:48). Six women then reached half way in 72:04: Kenyans Viseline Jepkesho, Magdalyne Masai, Rebecca Tanui, Agnes Keino as well as Ethiopians Gadise Mulu and Nurit Shimels. Tanui and Shimels were then dropped while the other four passed the 30k mark in 1:41:58.

With little over 7km to go Agnes Keino made a move in the Prater Park. The winner of last year’s Munich Marathon was approximately 15m ahead of Magdalyne Masai, but Masai came back and overtook her Kenyan rival soon afterwards. “It was a perfect race for me. I ran well and had some energy left for the last couple of kilometers. I have prepared for the Vienna City Marathon since January. I am very happy to have won, but I would have liked to run a bit faster than 2:24,” said Magdalyne Masai, who is the younger sister of the 2009 World 10,000m Champion Linet Masai and of Moses Masai, the bronze medallist at these championships over 10,000 m.

Among the races staged parallel to the marathon there was a new 5k event which took place in the heart of Vienna on Saturday evening. Over 1800 runners participated in this event. While this is not designed as an elite race there were some fast times and even a national record: Women’s winner Klara Lukan clocked 15:32 and broke the Slovenian 5k record. 18-year-old Austrian talent Emil Bezecny took the men’s race with 14:57.

Race news Haspa Marathon Hamburg

Female runners hope to make headlines in Hamburg

Hamburg might be in for another Ethiopian marathon stunner

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 14:09:00 +0000

Another Ethiopian world-class runner could produce the headlines of the women’s race at the Haspa Marathon Hamburg on 23rd April.

A year ago Yalemzerf Yehualaw smashed the course record with a sensational time of 2:17:23 which was also an unofficial world debut record. This time youngster Tiruye Mesfin heads the women’s start list with a world-class personal best of 2:18:47. With this time the 20 year-old is the fastest woman marathon runner ever entered into the race. Among a group of athletes with personal bests between 2:22 and 2:25 is Italy’s Giovanna Epis, who might want to attack the Italian record on the fast Hamburg course.

Online registration for the 37th edition of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg is still possible at: www.haspa-marathon-hamburg.de

“After last year’s sensational race by Yalemzerf Yehualaw we are now looking forward to welcoming another super fast Ethiopian woman to Hamburg. It seems Tiruye Mesfin could produce something special here as well,” said chief organiser Frank Thaleiser.

At the age of just 20 Tiruye Mesfin ran one of the fastest marathon debuts ever in Valencia in early December last year. In an extraordinary strong field she was sixth with 2:18:47. With such a time she would have won most of all other international marathons. Additionally Tiruye Mesfin, who started competing internationally in autumn 2021, showed very promising form little over three weeks ago, when she was fourth in the Lisbon Half Marathon with a personal best of 66:31.

Tiruye Mesfin’s strongest rival in Hamburg could well be a fellow Ethiopian: Sintayehu Tilahun is still a newcomer to the international road running circuit as well. The Haspa Marathon Hamburg will be the third race over the classic distance for the 23 year-old. After a 2:45:06 debut win in a small Italian race near Udine in 2021 she ran the Milano Marathon a year ago, finishing second with a huge PB of 2:22:19.

It was in Valencia in December, when Giovanna Epis came agonizingly close to breaking the Italian marathon record. The 34 year-old improved to 2:23:54, missing the record of Valeria Straneo by just ten seconds. The Haspa Marathon Hamburg could be the race for Giovanna Epis to give it another try.

Stella Chesang will run her marathon debut in Hamburg on 23rd April. The multiple national record holder from Uganda has a half marathon PB of 68:11. The Commonwealth Games 10,000 m champion from 2018 has shown strong form recently, when she took tenth place at the World Cross Country Championships in Bathurst, Australia, in February. The Ugandan marathon record of 2:23:13 could be within reach for Stella Chesang.

Race news Vienna City Marathon

Moen and Jepkesho head Vienna’s jubilee start lists

Elite athletes named for 40th edition

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:14:00 +0000

HERBERT NEUBAUER
Photo: HERBERT NEUBAUER
© HERBERT NEUBAUER

Fine elite fields have been assembled for the Vienna City Marathon, which will be staged for the 40th time on 23rd April.

Norway’s Sondre Moen and Visiline Jepkesho of Kenya head the start lists of the jubilee edition. The Vienna City Marathon is Austria’s biggest one-day sporting event and the only road race in the country that features a World Athletics Elite Label. Including races at shorter distances organisers have now registered more than 38,000 entries. Over 9,000 of them will run the classic distance.

The men’s field includes eleven athletes with personal bests of sub 2:10. While Sondre Moen features the fastest personal best with a time of 2.05:48 the Norwegian former European record holder will concentrate on running a solid sub 2:10 race to come back from a less successful period. Therefore Abdi Fufa and Bethwel Yegon, who have both been added to the field in recent days, as well as Samwel Mailu and Titus Kimutai are more likely regarded as favorites.

Ethiopia’s Fufa has a PB of 2:05:57 from 2021 and knows the Vienna City Marathon well. He placed tenth here a year ago with 2:10:32. Bethwel Yegon is the fastest Kenyan on the start list and is said to be in fine form. He ran 2:06:14 in 2021 when he surprised with a second place in Berlin. Samwel Mailu looks well placed for a personal best. The Kenyan ran 2:07:19 in Frankfurt for the runner-up position last October. It was an unexpected marathon debut by Mailu since he was originally entered as a pacemaker. Fellow-Kenyan Titus Kimutai ran his marathon debut last autumn as well. He clocked 2:08:31 and was seventh in Linz, Austria. Germany’s Sebastian Hendel is among those athletes looking to break 2:10 for the first time. Andreas Vojta of Austria might also target such a result.

Kenya’s Charles Ndiema and Ser-Od Bat-Ochir of Mongolia as well as Ethiopia’s women only 5k world record holder Senbere Teferi had to withdraw from the race recently. However the women’s elite field of the Vienna City Marathon looks strong. Ten athletes have personal bests of sub 2:30 and four of them have already run faster than 2:23:30.

The former Paris and Rotterdam Marathon champion Visiline Jepkesho is the fastest woman in the field with a PB of 2:21:37. It looks likely that a Kenyan women will win the Vienna City Marathon for a sixth time in a row since the next couple of athletes on the entry list are also from Kenya. Magdalyne Masai (PB: 2:22:16), Rebecca Tanui (2:23:09) and Agnes Keino (2:23:26) should be among the contenders in Vienna. Fellow-Kenyan Caroline Jepchirchir hopes to improve her PB of 2:26:11 and could be among the top finishers. Poland’s Angelika Mach and Branna MacDougall of Canada are the fastest non-African runners on the list with PBs of 2:27:48 and 2:28:36 respectively. Julia Mayer of Austria is expected to perform well and might achieve a time of around 2:30:00.

Race news Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend

Malindi Elmore to compete in Ottawa

Former Canadian record holder will run her first Tartan Ottawa International Marathon

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 08:07:00 +0000

Malindi Elmore will be making her first appearance in the Tartan Ottawa International Marathon leading a star-studded field as part of the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend on 27–28 May.

Elmore, 43, debuted in the Athens Olympics in 2004 and returned to the Olympics Games in 2021 in Tokyo. In between, Elmore has won Canadian Championships, competed in triathlon, and had two children.

In her 1500m career Elmore won a bronze at the Pan American Games and at the World University Games. She is also 4x Canadian Champion over 1500m.

But Elmore found her stride in the marathon after her debut in Houston in 2019. She proceeded to break the Canadian record in 2020, running her personal best of 2:24:50. In another outstanding run, Elmore was 9th in the 2021 Olympic Games Marathon, the second highest-ever placing for a Canadian woman. She is also the defending Canadian Marathon Champion.

Elmore is running the Tartan Ottawa International Marathon as a stepping stone to a hopeful return to the Olympic Games next year in Paris.

“I can’t wait to see what Canada’s capital has in store for me,” said Elmore. “My goals for the race are to run competitively and finish strong! The marathon is a race that requires a lot of respect so if I can achieve those two goals, I will run fast!”

“We cannot wait to host Malindi in the nation’s capital for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend,” said Dylan Wykes, Elite Athlete Coordinator. “Malindi is such a great role model in our sport as a mom, a coach, and world class marathon runner.”

Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is Canada’s biggest race weekend and will run on May 27–28, 2023. You can learn more and register by visiting runottawa.ca.

Date changes Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon

Race date for Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon (HKG) changed

Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon date change

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:39:59 +0000

The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon (HKG) will take place on Sun 21 January 2024, not Thu 1 February 2024 as previously published.

Race news Great Egyptian River Nile International Marathon

Global ride-hailing giant partners with Great Pharaohs Runners Company

inDrive to support safety and medical improvements

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 10:53:00 +0000

inDrive, a global mobility platform operating in 47 countries and over 700 cities around the world, is working with the Great Pharaohs Runners Company around the Great Egyptian River Nile Marathon, scheduled to take place on 28 April 2023 in Cairo.

The engagement comes as part of the company’s wider effort to support running initiatives in its markets. The project operates under inDrive’s inVision hub, whereas the company goes beyond its core business to engage in non-commercial initiatives to support justice and equality in such areas as science, education, sports and arts.

The cooperation will cover safety improvement, arranged by closing roads and organizing medical support, branding and merchandise design. Additionally, inDrive’s support will be directed towards launching The inDrive 5K Youth Race, open to boys and girls under 14 and under 16 at a certified distance of 5 km, as well as a substantial prize fund for both general youth categories. The race will be free for young runners.

The company is expecting great turnout with athletes traveling from outside Egypt as well.

“There are plenty of opportunities to set new records with marathon, half marathon and 10 and 5 km races available for registration,” Anna Fedorchuk, the project lead at inDrive said.

Marathon founder Ahmed El-Nady and the organizing team send a heartfelt greeting to their new sponsor and say – welcome to Egypt, Land of Wonder.

Running news

Kenya: concerns about doping

“Serious threat”, says integrity body

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 10:50:00 +0000

Until recently doping offenders’ reactions to returning a positive test tended to be passive, and relatively few tried to mount a defence once an offence had been detected.

That seems to have changed now, with two recent tampering cases involving Kenyan athletes. The similarities between these two cases have led a disciplinary tribunal to believe that there has been a systematic attempt to help athletes cover up their doping offences. They go so far as to describe this as amounting to “criminal conduct” involving “frauds on the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).”

The two cases are those of middle-distance runner Eglay Nafuna Nalyanya, who has been banned by the AIU for eight years and long-distance runner Betty Lempus, who received a five-year ban. The disciplinary tribunal noted that similar explanations and evidence were submitted by both athletes. This included falsified medical documents and the listing of fictitious doctors.

The tribunal concluded, “It seems that elite Kenyan athletes are being assisted by a person or persons, including someone with considerable medical knowledge, to commit what amounts to criminal conduct involving frauds on the AIU, and that this is not limited to a single case but evidences a pattern of behaviour. We regard this conduct as a matter of the greatest possible concern and urge the AIU to take all possible steps to establish how this is occurring.”

Reacting to this news, AIU Chair David Howman said: “It is clear doping in Kenya is increasingly well organised and these cases underline the reality that medically-experienced personnel are involved. This is a serious threat to our sport.”

Race news B.A.A. Boston Marathon

Boston Marathon: in it for the long run

Bank of America to be new sponsor

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 10:47:00 +0000

The BAA Boston Marathon recently announced that their long-time sponsor, the John Hancock Insurance Company, will cease to sponsor the race following this year’s event on 17 April 2023.

Their place will be taken by the Bank of America which becomes the presenting partner of the Boston Marathon and other BAA events from 2024, with an agreement lasting for the following 10 years.

B.A.A. President and CEO Jack Fleming said, “We will work together to enhance one of the world’s great participatory sporting events. Bank of America will partner with us at every stage to grow, broaden and innovate new pathways in running.”

News from World Athletics

World Athletics ruling on transgender athletes

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 10:40:00 +0000

In a press release on 23 March World Athletics updated regulations on transgender athletes.

Transgender women who have passed through male puberty will be prohibited from participating in female World Rankings competitions starting from 31 March.

Currently there are no transgender athletes competing internationally in athletics. This means there is no athletics-specific evidence of the impact these athletes would have on the fairness of female competition in athletics.

In these circumstances, the Council decided to prioritise fairness and the integrity of female competition before inclusion. A Working Group will be set up for 12 months to further consider the issue of transgender inclusion.

Race news Halfmarathon Altötting

Altötting’s medal is one to watch

Working timepiece for all runners

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 09:01:00 +0000

The Altötting Half Marathon in Germany, to be held on 17 September 2023, is known for always coming up with something new when it comes to medals.

This year it’s something really extraordinary: a working battery-operated pocket watch with chain and hinged lid. The “medal” will be handed to all participants in the half marathon and the 6km race.

Altötting is this year again offering a free city tour and discounts on exhibitions (Playmobil, diorama show, panorama…). Altötting, located not far from Munich, is a world famous pilgrimage site and known as the “heart of Bavaria”.

The Altötting Half Marathon received 5 stars from the European Athletics Association, is considered one of the fastest half marathons in Germany and is mostly run through the forest on well-defined tracks.

AIMS Congress

Getting back on track

23rd AIMS World Congress in Osaka

By

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:57:00 +0000

The 23rd World Congress of AIMS was held in Osaka from 23–25 February, followed by the host race, the Osaka Marathon, on 26 February 2023.

It was the first time a Congress had been held since September 2018 when Tallinn Marathon (Estonia) hosted the 22nd AIMS World Congress.

AIMS President Paco Borao welcomed those attending. 103 member events appeared on the list of participants. In his welcoming report to Congress Mr Borao used graphs to show how difficult it had been over the last 4.5 years to keep track of which races were postponed and which were cancelled at times when very few races were being staged because of the physical restrictions in place.

He suggested that 2023 would still be spent chasing the race numbers of the peak year of 2019 of 496 Members compared to the current 402 and this would likely not be achieved until 2024.

The main agenda items after the welcome and future plans of AIMS President Paco Borao, were the financial report from Treasurer Al Boka, and the communication and marketing reports.

The keynote speaker of the whole congress was the lecture of Prof. Shinya Yamanaka (Japan), Director Emeritus, Kyoto University IPS Cell Research Institute. He is a 2012 Nobel Laureate in Medicine and Physiology. According to him, he is probably the only marathon running Nobel laureate.

Later in the morning Kathryn Widu gave a presentation on how the Vienna City Marathon had ‘bounced back’ from covid to become one of the first races to return to mass participation numbers. Unfortunately there had been recent cases of covid within her household and she had to deliver the presentation by video.

An interactive session took place in the afternoon where five groups separately discussed the subject of ‘Lessons learned from Covid’ among themselves before reporting back to the main session.

In the afternoon the candidates for election to the AIMS Board presented themselves.
Proposals from the Board were presented to change the statutes so that the Treasurer, like the General Secretary, is not elected by the members but is appointed by the Board.

In the evening there was the big welcome party with an elaborate show along with a delicious Japanese buffet at the conference hotel New Otani Osaka.

The second day of Congress started with the technical report by Dave Cundy,

Martha Morales then spoke to the AIMS report on the further development of the AIMS Children’s Races and especially on the promotion of the Women’s Run, where AIMS is planning a Women’s Run Conference.

Horst Milde, the AIMS Consultant for the AIMS Marathoneum in Berlin noted the most important new acquisitions in a multi-page brochure “Marathoneum Documents Nr. 6 Rarities and Acquistions from the AIMS Marathoneum“ with the presentation of a distance marker from the London Olympic Marathon 1908 that was acquired by AIMS,. There were also donated items from “Wim Verhoorn Collection“.

Distance Running publisher Frank Baillie had already called upon members to bring a T-shirt and a medal of their running event to the Tallinn Congress. This was an immediate success, Members also brought their race T-shirts and medals to Osaka and these were displayed on a wall in the conference hall.

T-shirts and medals, as well as memorabilia and souvenirs of the Osaka Marathon, will be sent by the Osaka Congress organisers to the AIMS Marathoneum in Berlin.

On the second day Mike Nishi of the Chicago Marathon shared his thoughts on the impact of Covid and what it would mean for future events. An exchange of views between Tad Hayano (Tokyo Marathon) and Fernando Jamarne (Santiago Marathon) revealed how severely covid had impacted on the finances of races which had been forced to cancel but that after the 2022 races had been held it had been possible to see a pathway to recovery over the next editions.

A part of the programme was devoted to AIMS partners making presentations to the delegates on the goods and services they provide, After this a plaque was awarded to Francis Kay of Marathon Photos to mark 20 years of co-operation with AIMS. Francis Kay later arranged the group photo which he has taken at all Congresses held since 2002.

Later in the afternoon Branislav Koniar of the Košice Peace Marathon described how, since his race was founded 100 years ago, it has been held every year thanks to the strong attachment it shares with the city. The robust working relationship has allowed a small city like Košice to achieve much more with its marathon than others of similar size.

Marathon Olympic Champion Mizuki Noguchi (Japan) put in a surprise appearance as a special guest. [Photo: Horst Milde]

Jun Takashina. Director & Deputy Secretary General, Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition OSAKA, then made a presentation on Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai Japan and Marathons

In the evening the AIMS-sponsored film “42.195 km“ was screened in the Congress Hall of the Hotel New Otani.

During the final session of Congress, on the morning of 25 February, a vote was taken to amend the Articles of Association of AIMS so that the position of Treasurer would cease to be an elected position (Board member) and become subject to appointment by the Board of Directors. The vote was carried by 89 votes to 17.

A second vote was held to elect four Board members from the nine that had been proposed and seconded.

The successful candidates were Mike Nishi (Chicago Marathon); Renna Nelis (Tallinn Marathon); Rut Jiroajvanichakorn (Bangsaen 21), and Branislav Koniar (Košice Peace Marathon).

Sunday 26. February 2023
Walk to the 09.15 start of the Osaka Marathon through the Osaka Castle Park), then back to see the finish – more than 32,000 people were expected to participate, including many male and female elite runners.

The organisers of the 23rd AIMS World Congress in Osaka were excellent hosts of a successful event that brought members from all over the world together again after the long years interrupted by the Coronavirus pandemic.

The hosts are to be thanked for an excellent organisation of all procedures, technology and the extremely friendly treatment by the many volunteers. The comfortable premises of the Congress Hotel New Otani Hotel also contributed to the successful event.

Race news Generali Berlin Half Marathon

Eilish McColgan smashes British record in Berlin

Sabastian Sawe is fastest man on the river Spree

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 11:30:00 +0000

Photo: TILO WIEDENSOHLER
© TILO WIEDENSOHLER

Smashing the British record, Eilish McColgan took the Generali Berlin Half Marathon with a time of 1:05:43.

The 32-year-old Scot improved her own national record time of 1:06:26 by 43 seconds and established a European lead. With around five kilometers to go Eilish McColgan, who will run her marathon debut in London later this month, overtook the leading Tsigie Gebreselama. The silver medallist from the World Cross Country Championships finished second in 1:06:13 while fellow Ethiopian Yalemget Yaregal took third in 1:06:27. Deborah Schöneborn, who competes for Marathon Team Berlin, was the fastest German with a time of 1:12:12.

The fastest runner on the start list was the winner at Brandenburg Gate: Sabastian Sawe finished in a strong 59:00 while fellow-Kenyan and defending champion Alex Kibet was second with 59:11. Surprisingly a pacemaker finished in third place: Bravin Kiprop of Kenya crossed the line in 59:22. Samuel Fitwi was the fasest German runner with a personal best of 1:01:44.

A total of 35,515 athletes from 131 countries entered the 42nd edition of the Generali Berlin Half Marathon. 34,458 runners competed in the half marathon, making it one of the world’s biggest races over this distance.

Like last year, there was a German double victory in the skaters, each won in the final sprint. Felix Rijhnen (Powerslide World Team) finished first in the men’s race (30:53 minutes), Josie Hofmann (Powerslide World Team) won the women’s race in 36:58 minutes.

Race news ADAC Marathon Hannover

Petros and Kostro triumph in Hannover

Both course records broken for the first time since 2013

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:53:00 +0000

Photo: norbert wilhelmi
© nw@wilhelmi-fotograf.de

Amanal Petros and Matea Parlov Kostro took the ADAC Marathon Hannover, smashing the course records and celebrating their biggest career wins.

In fine weather conditions Germany’s Amanal Petros triumphed with 2:07:02, improving the course best of 2:08:32 set by South Africa’s Lusapho April in 2013 by 90 seconds. The national record holder missed his PB by just 35 seconds but he is the first German to have run under the Olympic qualifying standard of 2:08:10. Kenyans Denis Chirchir and Frederick Kibii clocked personal bests of 2:07:17 and 2:08:09 respectively for second and third place. Croatia’s Matea Parlov Kostro dominated the women’s race and ran a huge personal best of 2:25:45. The marathon silver medallist from the European Championships in Munich 2022 improved the course record by 30 seconds and was well under the Olympic qualifying time for Paris 2024 (2:26:50). Four years ago Kenya’s Rachel Mutgaa ran 2:26:15 in Hannover. Pauline Thitu of Kenya clocked 2:29:25 and Mexico’s Risper Gesabwa finished in 2:29:49 for second and third places on Sunday.

It was the third time after 1992 and 2013 that both course records were broken in Hannover. Including races at shorter distances, organisers registered over 19,000 athletes from around 100 nations for the ADAC Hannover Marathon, which is a World Athletics Road Race Label event. Germany’s defending champion Hendrik Pfeiffer ran the half marathon event and won with 62:58. He is preparing for the Boston Marathon in April.

With the pace not as even as planned two pacemakers led a group of five runners through the half marathon mark in 63:30. Originally a split time of 63:00 was planned. The problem seemed to be that the runners right behind the pacers did not really go with their pace while Amanal Petros was at the end of the group. With a split time of 1:30:39 at 30k the German record of 2:06:27 was more or less out of reach. The pace at that stage pointed towards a 2:07:30 finish. When the pacemakers dropped back shortly after the 30k mark Amanal Petros took the lead. For a short period his training partner Denis Chirchir and Frederick Kibii could hold on but then they could no longer cope with the pace of the German, who was fourth in the European Championships’ marathon in 2022. The national record holder was able to increase the pace in the final quarter of the race, but his personal best was out of reach today. “Because of the uneven pace my muscles started to become tired earlier and I realized this at around 25k. But overall I came through very well,” said Amanal Petros. “It was the first time that I ran a German city marathon and this victory means a lot to me. It is a huge motivation for the next races.”

In the women’s race Matea Parlov Kostro ran 2:25 pace from the start. It was around the half way mark, which she passed in 72:34, when Pauline Thitu and Risper Gesabwa were no longer able to follow the Croatian. The gap constantly widened and the race for victory was more or less over a few kilometers later. While Matea Parlov Kostro, who became the first Croatian woman to win a European Championships’ medal in a running event in Munich last year, could not quite hold on to her pace she was ahead by more than a kilometer when she finished in 2:25:45 in front of the impressive Hannover townhall. “I am really happy with my personal best and with the qualification for the Olympic Games. Paris will be my second Olympics,” said Matea Parlov Kostro, who can be confident that her performance in Hannover will be good enough for Olympic selection. With her PB she moved up to second place behind Romania’s Delvine Meringor (2:20:49) in the current European season’s list. For Matea Parlov Kostro the victory was her first in a marathon. “While my biggest success was surely the silver medal at the European Championships this was my greatest career victory today.”

Date changes Scenic Half Marathon Krabi

Race date for Scenic Half Marathon Krabi (THA) changed

Scenic Half Marathon Krabi date change

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:22:01 +0000

The Scenic Half Marathon Krabi (THA) will take place on Sun 10 September 2023, not Thu 28 September 2023 as previously published.

Race news Zurich Marató de Barcelona

More than 15,000 participants register for Barcelona

Numbers grow by 50% compared to 2022 and international runners make up more than half

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 14:52:00 +0000

The Zurich Marató Barcelona’s 44th edition will take place with 15,127 registered participants, recovering pre-pandemic numbers and growing by 5,000 runners compared to the previous edition.

This Sunday 19th of March, the Marató also returns to its large number of participants coming from all over the world. Runners of 119 different nationalities have chosen Barcelona to live the best possible experience in the 42.195 km distance, in a renovated circuit in 2018, monumental and fast at the same time, with the ideal climate to run with thousands of participants and a powerful civic atmosphere.

In this sense, the Councillor for Sports of the Barcelona City Council, David Escudé, has highlighted that “this is the Barcelona’s Marathon of the recovery of numbers. We are very happy because this year the overall participation of the Zurich Marató Barcelona has grown by 50% compared to 2022, exceeding 15,000 registrations. We have also doubled the international participation compared to last year’s edition and more than half of the runners (55%, 8,319 in total) come to our city from other countries. The female participation is again 25%, equalling the highest percentage in our history (3,781 women participants). Without a doubt, this will be the great running festival that we are all looking forward to, with the streets full of people cheering and enjoying this sporting event”.

On the other hand, the director of the race, Mauro Llorens, explains that “we have everything ready and we are looking forward to starting a great edition of the Zurich Marató Barcelona where, for the first time, we will be a Gold Label Marathon awarded by World Athletics. In Spain only Barcelona has this label and, in Europe, only three more marathons has it. This means having a great line-up of elite athletes and first class services for runners. We will be looking for the two circuit records to position ourselves as one of the fastest marathons in Europe”.

The new feature of this year’s edition is that World Athletics has awarded the Zurich Marató Barcelona with the Gold Label for 2023. This is a distinctive label awarded to an event when it guarantees a high competitive level, as well as quality and comfort for the popular runners (official refreshment points, physiotherapy and recovery services, etc.). This distinction, which represents a qualitative leap for the Marató, reinforces the city of Barcelona’s capacity to organise large-scale, international sporting events, making it the only marathon in Spain and one of only three in Europe (along with the Rotterdam Marathon and the Istanbul Marathon) to have this label.

In addition, the slogan of this edition is Run In The World’s Best City because Barcelona has been considered the best city in the world according to the Telegraph Travel 2022 ranking. The course of the Zurich Marató Barcelona is ideal to enjoy: it runs through the heart of a cosmopolitan city, which has the great modernist legacy of Antonio Gaudí or the Pla Cerdà and the Camp Nou, Plaza España, the Arc de Triomf, the Sagrada Familia, the Forum or the Seafront as some of its main tourist attractions to enjoy the Catalan capital uniquely, running on a fast and magical route.

A competitive group of athletes from East Africa, with up to seven athletes with a Gold label, will take the start 19th of March to try to run under 02:04h. In terms of personal bests, the Turkish athlete Kaan Kigen Özbilen, Kenya’s 5000m champion at the age of 20, with a record that already predicted a promising athletics career, stands out in the first place to win the Zurich Marató Barcelona 2023.

As is usual for most long-distance runners, Kigen moved up the distance to concentrate on the marathon. In 2015 he became a naturalised Turkish citizen and in 2016 he won the European Half Marathon runner-up medal and his first international medal with his new country. From this point on, Özbilen concentrated on marathon, running 02:06h in the Dubai Marathon and improving his personal best in Valencia, where he has participated in the last three editions: 02:04:16h in 2019, 02:08:50h in 2020 and 02:04:36h in 2022. In this 44th edition of the Zurich Marató Barcelona, he will be, a priori, the athlete to follow, as he will start the race as the theoretical favourite as he will start with the best time of all the participants.

Five athletes with records in 02:05h are, on paper, Kigen’s strongest rivals and the most qualified ones, as they are lower or very close to the current race record (02:05:53h), achieved by the Ethiopian Yihunilign Adane last year, starting with Joel Kemboi Kimurer (Gold athlete) with 02:05:19h at the Milan Marathon 2021. Likewise, with the experience of his 35 years and having run 11 marathons, Kenyan Kemboi Kimurer and his 02:05:19h in the Milan Marathon two years ago, is also among the favourites to win in Barcelona. Another Kenyan, Marius Kimutai, is also among the favourites. He has been competing for Bahrain for the past two years and knows the Catalan capital’s circuit well, where he finished sixth in 2021 (02:06:54h).

On the other hand, Ethiopia’s athlete Takele Bikila achieved his best time at the Seville Marathon (02:05:52h) last season in his tenth 42km race, and Eritrea’s Kibrom Ruesom at the Valencia Marathon 2020 (02:05:53h) in his second marathon attempt. Closing the list is Ethiopia’s runner Kelkile Woldaregay time of 02:05:56h at the Rotterdam Marathon, which dates back to 2018.

Kaan Kigen Özbilen: “I want to thank the organisation for inviting me to run in the best city in the world. Eliud Kipchogue is my mentor and teammate and he has wished me luck for Sunday. I am coming to Barcelona to set the course record”.

Marius Kimutai: “Sunday I will return to a circuit I already know with the aim of improving my personal best and setting a new record”.

Two-time finalist at the World Half Marathon Championships in Valencia 2018 and Gdynia 2020, Zeineba Yimer Worku (Gold Label) is the only female participant with a personal best under 2 hours and 20 minutes and is the favourite to break the women’s record set last year by Ethiopian Meseret Gebre Dekebo (02:23:11h). A time achieved twice, both times at the Valencia Marathon, finishing in 02:19:28h in 2019 and 02:19:54h the year after.

As a personal best and among the five Gold Label female athletes who will run on 19th of March in Barcelona, Yimer is the favourite among a group that also includes her compatriot, Ethiopia’s athlete Azmera Gebru Hagos, a cross-country runner who won bronze at the World Cross Country Championships in Punta Umbria in 2011, more than a decade ago. At the age of 23, Hagos made her debut at the 2018 Amsterdam Marathon, finishing in 02:23h and the following year, on the same circuit, she achieved what is, for the moment, her personal best (02:20:48h).

Zenebu Fikadu Jebesa (Gold Label) also repeats in Barcelona. The Ethiopian runner, third on the podium in the last edition of the Zurich Marató Barcelona (02:25:11h), will enjoy a new opportunity in a circuit she already knows. A fourth Ethiopian runner, Tsegaye Melesech, also returns to Barcelona after finishing second in 2017 (02:26:44h).

In terms of international experience, Kenya’s Selly Chepyego Kaptich (Gold Label) is a strong contender to face the Ethiopian trio of favourites. Kaptich is the U18 World 3000m champion and bronze medalist at the World Half Marathon in Copenhagen in 2014, as well as having finished third in another major event, the Berlin Marathon 2019, which she finished setting her personal best of 02:21:06h.

Among the European athletes, the participation of Delvine Relin Meringor, Kenyan until 2021 and Romanian since then, after her naturalisation by the European country, stands out. Meringor was a solid cross-country runner in her early days as an athlete. She made her debut at the 2021 Siena Marathon in 02:24:32h and won the Los Angeles Marathon a year ago (02:25:04h).

Selly Chepyego Kaptich: “I’m prepared for the weather conditions in Barcelona and I’m confident to beat the women’s record.”

Race news Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Gerda Steyn signs with Phantane Athletics Club

Three-time Two Oceans winner will run in club colours

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 10:44:00 +0000

It was announced today that three-time Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon winner, Gerda Steyn, has joined the KZN-based Phantane Athletics Club.

Steyn, who is predominately based in Dubai, will be running in the club colours of Phantane for all of her races on South African soil in the coming months, including the 2023 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon on Saturday 15 April.

In 2022, Steyn broke Frith van der Merwe’s longstanding Two Oceans course record (3:30:36, set in 1989) when she clocked 3:29:42 for the 56km ultra as she won her third consecutive title in the event. She also won in 2018, clocking 3:39:31, and scored a repeat win in 2019 with a 3:31:28, finish, less a minute outside the then course record. (There race did not take place in 2020 or 2021 due to the COVID pandemic).

Steyn therefore currently has three wins, placing her joint second on the all-time list of Two Oceans winners alongside fellow three-time women’s winners Bev Malan (1982, 1983, 1985), Angelina Sephooa (1997, 1998, 1999) and Olesya Nugalieva (2008, 2010, 2011), as well as men’s winners Siphiwe Gqele (1983, 1984, 1985) and Marko Mambo (2004, 2005, 2008).

Only two athletes have won the race four times, and both are women: Monica Drögemöller (1988, 1990, 1991, 1992) and Elana Nugalieva (2004, 2005, 2009, 2021). If Steyn wins again in 2023, she will join them on four wins, but will also become the first athlete to post four consecutive wins in the event, and she will become the first athlete to win a fourth title while also being the course record-holder.

When asked about her decision to join the Phantane club, Steyn said, “It is such an honour to represent Phantane Athletics Club. The club prides itself on the development of athletes and to be part of the club feels incredible.”

On behalf of the club, the Club Manager, Mdu Khumalo, said that Gerda joining the club is a huge milestone for Phantane: “It is a privilege to have an elite runner like Gerda running in our colours.”

Date changes Jungfrau-Marathon

Race date for Jungfrau-Marathon (SUI) changed

Jungfrau-Marathon date change

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:27:10 +0000

The Jungfrau-Marathon (SUI) will take place on Sat 9 September 2023, not Fri 8 September 2023 as previously published.

Race news Copenhagen Marathon

Copenhagen Marathon has new route

Through picturesque quarters and hipster hoods

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:26:00 +0000

The Copenhagen Marathon is moving from this year’s start and finish area from Islands Brygge to Øster Allé, and this naturally calls for a corresponding change to the route. It is now ready.

The new marathon route naturally offers the best and most beautiful of Copenhagen. And you can look forward to running in all the bridge districts, on Frederiksberg and in Indre By and running past places such as Nyboder, Kongens Nytorv, Dronning Louises Bro and Tivoli.

AIMS Congress

Osaka Congress thanks

AIMS President thanks organisers and attendees of Osaka Congress for their work and positive input in delivering such a successful congress

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 12:56:00 +0000

All attendees to AIMS World Congress 2023 – Osaka, Japan

Dear friends,

Once all of us having returned home safely, I would like to thank you not only for your attendance to the subject AIMS World Congress, but for your positive participation along the three days where we hope you gave and received information on several aspects of our loved worldwide sport of marathon and other distance running competitions.

I would like also to give our deepest thanks to the whole Osaka Marathon Committee as well as the City Administration for the friendly and positive overall organization they supplied to this World Congress of AIMS along the time we spent in Osaka. I can assure you that all attendees went back home with a warm and grateful feeling from our Japanese experience.

I hope and wish you the deserved personal and professional success within your sportive projects, let’s all work towards a total healthy and safe marathons and distance races recovery towards the desired athletic wellbeing.

Receive my best friendly sportive regards for you, your families, and your teams

Paco Borao

President of AIMS

Race news ADAC Marathon Hannover

Top names head for Hannover

Petros, Wanders and Kostro head elite fields

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 10:59:00 +0000

Some of Europe’s top names in long distance running will compete at the ADAC Marathon Hannover on 26th March.

Germany’s multiple record holder Amanal Petros and European half marathon record holder Julien Wanders of Switzerland are on the start list for the traditional spring race while the European Championships’ silver medallist Matea Parlov Kostro of Serbia returns to the race where she clocked her personal best.

With a PB of 2:04:56 Kenya’s Jonathan Maiyo is currently the fastest athlete in the elite field while Rabea Schöneborn of Germany heads the women’s list with 2:27:03.

Organisers of the ADAC Marathon Hannover, who moved the race from the traditional April date to the end of March for the first time, expect to register over 20,000 runners for the 31st edition, including races at shorter distances. Last year’s Hannover marathon champion Hendrik Pfeiffer, who switched clubs recently and now competes for local club TK Hannover, will compete in the half marathon on 26th March since he will run the Boston Marathon on 17th April. The ADAC Marathon Hannover is a World Athletics Road Race Label event. Online entry for all races is still possible at: www.marathon-hannover.de

Amanal Petros recently became the first German male athlete in history to have broken the three main national road running records: He already held the best marks for the half marathon (60:09) and the marathon (2:06:27) and then added the 10k record with a time of 27:32 in Castellón, Spain. The 27 year-old, who was fourth in the European Championships’ marathon in Munich last summer, currently trains in Iten, Kenya. “I am looking really forward to run in Hannover for the first time. I am curious about the fast course,” said Amanal Petros, who is a training partner of Julien Wanders. “If my training continues to go well and weather conditions are good on the day I hope to run another personal best.” With such a result he would smash Hannover’s 2:08:32 course record.

Julien Wanders so far could not transform his enormous potential to the marathon distance. The 26 year-old European record holder at 10k (27:13) and in the half marathon (59:13) ran his debut in Paris in spring 2022. Suffering of stomach problems he had to stop three times but still finished in 2:11:52. Wanders then did not finish his second marathon in Valencia in December after running a first half of 63:22. With its flat course and very good pacemaking options the ADAC Marathon Hannover might well be the place where Julien Wanders can finally perform well in the marathon. “A time of sub 2:10 would be nice. I opted for Hannover after speaking with Amanal about the race,” said Julien Wanders.

It will be interesting to see what Jonathan Maiyo will be capable of in Hannover. The 34 year-old Kenyan clocked his personal record of 2:04:56 back in 2022 in Dubai. At that time it was a world-class time. Although Maiyo did not yet manage to run that fast again he showed a number of fine performances. In December he ran a solid 2:09:47 and took fourth place in Malaga.

Germany’s Rabea Schöneborn, the twin sister of Deborah Schöneborn, returns to the ADAC Marathon Hannover and currently is the fastest woman on the start list with a PB of 2:27:03. She was runner-up here a year ago with 2:27:35 and then showed a fine performance at the European Championships. Finishing in 12th position she won the European Cup with the German team in Munich.

The athlete who finished behind Rabea Schöneborn last year in Hannover then turned the tables at the European Championships and became a surprise silver medallist: Matea Parlov Kostro was third at the ADAC Marathon Hannover with a PB of 2:28:39 and then finished runner-up in soaring temperatures in Munich with 2:28:42. The 30 year-old recently improved her half marathon PB to 69:53 and could be in a position for a big personal best in Hannover.

With a PB of 2:27:05 Viktoriia Kaliuzhna of Ukraine is the second fastest woman on the start list. Due to the war in Ukraine she currently lives near Wroclaw in Poland. Kaliuzhna competed in the 2021 Olympic Games as well as the European Championships, but on both occasions did not finish in very high temperatures. She will now be eager to bounce back. Aleksandra Brzezinska will be full of confidence when she travels to Hannover. The Pole ran a PB of 2:28:09 in Valencia in December.

Race news Vienna City Marathon

Vienna features promising mix for jubilee race

Top runners hope for new course record

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 14:20:00 +0000

VCM 2021, 12.09.2021, Wien
Photo: Leo HAGEN
© VCM/Leo HAGEN

The men’s elite race of the Vienna City Marathon promises to present an interesting mix of athletes with different time goals on 23rd April.

While there will be a group of Africans who aim to break the long standing 2:05:41 course record, for a number of other runners the qualifying time for the World Championships this summer in Budapest is a major goal. 2:09:40 is the standard for the global championships and Norway’s Sondre Moen will be among those targeting this mark in Vienna.

Organisers of Austria’s biggest one-day sporting spectacle expect to register up to 35,000 entries for their event, including races at shorter distances staged parallel to the marathon. With such a figure the 40th edition of the Vienna City Marathon (VCM) will almost reach the dimensions of pre-pandemic years. Entry for the VCM, which is a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race and the only one in Austria that features such a high standard, is still possible at: www.vienna-marathon.com

There are hopes that the jubilee edition will be crowned by a course record. It was back in 2014 when Ethiopia’s Getu Feleke clocked 2:05:41. An athlete who could be capable of such a performance is Samwel Mailu, who ran his debut in last year’s Frankfurt Marathon although he was only entered into the race as a pacemaker. However the Kenyan carried on after leading for 30k and managed a fine 2:07:19 debut. He was runner-up in warm weather conditions. While Mailu will be running in Vienna for the first time, fellow-Kenyan Charles Ndiema returns to the Vienna City Marathon. He finished fourth here a year ago when he clocked his PB of 2:08:12. At least two other athletes are expected to join a leading group which targets the course record: Kenya’s Elvis Cheboi and Abe Gashahun of Ethiopia have run very fast half marathons of 59:14 and 59:46 respectively. While Cheboi will run his marathon debut in Vienna, Gashahun will be eager to improve his marathon PB of 2:09:25.

After a period with injuries and below par performances Sondre Moen intends to bounce back at the Vienna City Marathon. The main goal for the Norwegian record holder, who ran a European record of 2:05:48 when sensationally winning the Fukuoka Marathon in 2017, will be to qualify for the World Championships at the Vienna City Marathon. “I hope for a positive race in Vienna – physically as well as mentally“, said the 32 year-old Scandinavian. “I plan to run a controlled race with a negative split. Last year was one to forget because of injuries. Now I want to have a good race experience again.”

Another non-African runner who opted for the Vienna City Marathon to achieve the 2:09:40 qualifying time for the World Championships is Ser-Od Bat-Ochir from Mongolia. The 41-year-old multiple national record holder ran the Mongolian marathon record of 2:08:50 back in 2014 in Fukuoka, and he broke 2:10 again in Otsu (Japan) two years ago where he ran 2:09:26. Ser-Od Bat-Ochir, who lives in Japan with his family and is sponsored by the Shin Nihon Jusetsu company, has already participated at ten World Championships. He now wants to improve this record by qualifying for his eleventh start. Last year he finished 26th in Eugene. Ser-Od Bat-Ochir also has been an Olympic marathon runner five times, first competing at the Games in Athens in 2004. “I opted for Vienna because the race is known for producing fast times and the level of the elite field will suit me,” said the Mongolian.

Andreas Vojta could be among others who are expected to join Sondre Moen and Ser-Od Bat-Ochir in the chase for the World Championships’ qualifying time. There are high hopes in Vienna that the 33-year-old will establish himself as a top Austrian marathon runner on 23rd April. “I want to be 100 percent ready when I will at the starting line. And I am looking for a time of 2:10,“ said Andreas Vojta. The former middle distance runner, who competed in the 1,500 m at the London 2012 Olympics and at two outdoor World Championships, has an eye on the 2:09:40 standard as well. While he finished last year’s Vienna City Marathon in 2:23:21 after running as a pacemaker this will be his proper elite marathon debut.

Race news Mainova Frankfurt Marathon

Participants of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon run for good

EUR 17,925 raised for “Wishing car” project

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 14:09:00 +0000

The participants of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon have been doing good for a long time. At the 39th edition of the oldest city marathon in Germany, thousands of runners were finally able to run through the “donation gate” again after the corona-related forced break.

During the Frankfurt Running Festival at the end of October, the proud sum of 17,925.56 euro in donations for the project “Der Wünschewagen” (wishing car) from the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) was raised.

Racing director Jo Schindler handed over the donation cheque on Thursday to the ASB, long-time charity partner. Jo Schindler: “It was fantastic for us to see how many runners and spectators took to the streets when the Mainova Frankfurt returned. And their willingness to donate for our charity partnership with the ASB. This shows us the integrative power of sport in these difficult times in our society.”

The “Wünschewagen” wishing car project, which is funded exclusively by donations, has been fulfilling dying wishes of the terminally ill in Hesse since 2017. Often, seriously ill people in particular can no longer travel independently to achieve their remaining goals. This is exactly where the ASB comes in, and brings its passengers on their remaining visits in a vehicle specially converted for this purpose. For example, an older lady suffering from cancer has recently been baptised by her granddaughter. “We are happy to be able help the seriously ill and their relatives,” says race director Schindler.

Ludwig Frölich, chairman of the ASB in Hessen state, said: “It is great that the ASB Hessen wish car gets so much support from the runners of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon experiences so much encouragement. It’s an impressive commitment by Jo Schindler and his team who have been supporting the project with great dedication for many years. I would like to thank you from the heart.”

The classic race on the River Main and the ASB Hessen have been in partnership for six years of mutual support. Race director Jo Schindler announced that this strong connection will continue in the marathon’s anniversary year, 2023. So the ASB will be present once more at the 40th edition of the Frankfurt Marathon on October 29, with over 120 volunteers from all over Hesse.

The largest proportion of the donation amount was raised because numerous participants passed through the large “donation gate”, which specially constructed at the 7.5km and 39km points, and thus donated four euro each. For the first time, all runners who donated this way received a free souvenir photo – made possible by cooperation between ASB and the marathon partner and sporting goods manufacturer Hoka.

But there were also other ways to support the wishing car project. The charity bracelet “Wishlet” was available in the exhibition hall for five euro. Many runners also decided to donate the deposit for their time measurement chip. In addition, employees of another marathon partner, the airline Ana, were on the road on the race weekend in order to draw more attention to the great work of the ASB project.

For more information about the ASB, see: www.wuenschewagen.de, or make a direct donation at www.asb-hessen.de/wuenschenwagenrheinmain.

Race news Marine Corps Marathon

Registration opens for Marine Corps Marathon Weekend

Runners can register for live or virtual option of three main events

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 14:13:00 +0000

The Marine Corps Marathon Organization (MCMO) announced that registration for the 48th Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) Weekend will open to the public today at noon EST on marinemarathon.com. Entries will be available on a first come, first served basis.

The 48th MCM, MCM50K and MCM10K will run live and in-person on Sunday, October 29. The MCM is open to ages 14 and up and costs USD 200, while the MCM50K is USD 220 for ages 18 and up. MCM10K is USD 65 for ages 10 and up.

The Health & Fitness Expo and Packet Pick-up will be held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. With the return to the Gaylord, MCMO is able to offer a limited number of Four Star packages for interested participants. This stellar bundle of benefits includes a hotel stay, an entry or two, transportation and more, providing a VIP experience for runners.

Ambitious runners can once again compete for the Semper Fidelis Challenge, a three-event challenge including the Marine Corps 17.75K on March 25, the Marine Corps Historic Half on May 21 and the MCM in October. Entries for the Marine Corps 17.75K and Marine Corps Historic Half are still available on marinemarathon.com. Finishers will receive an exclusive Semper Fidelis Challenge medal, in addition to the individual race medals, upon completion of the MCM.

Additionally, MCM Weekend Events are now a part of the 2023 Distinguished Participant program. Runners who seek to earn this coveted title must complete a distance from each of MCMO’s live event weekends:

• Marine Corps 17.75K on March 25
• One of the Marine Corps Historic Half Events (half marathon, Semper 5ive or Devil Dog Double) on May 21
• Quantico 12K on August 26
• One of the MCM Weekend Events (MCM, MCM10K or MCM50K) on October 29
• Turkey Trot 10K on November 18

New this year, MCM will also include a Team-affiliated competition. Groups of runners can register as a team in a variety of categories as they complete their mission of finishing the 48th MCM. More information regarding Team registration is available here.

MCMO will once again be offering a limited number of virtual entries for all three events. Virtual entries for the MCM and MCM50K are USD 95 for domestic and USD 125 for international plus a processing fee. Virtual participants will have from October 1 to November 10, the Marine Corps birthday, to complete the distance. A virtual finish will not count toward Runners Club, Distinguished Participant or the Semper Fidelis Challenge.

The addition of virtual entries will once again allow runners to pursue the Trifecta, a unique opportunity to participate in and complete all three MCM Weekend distances within the designated timeframe.

Both live and virtual participants will receive a long sleeve technical shirt, stunning medal and more.

Date changes Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon

Race date for Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (MAS) changed

Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon date change

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 13:27:38 +0000

The Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (MAS) will be Sat 30 September 2023—Sun 1 October 2023, not Thu 31 August 2023—Fri 1 September 2023 as previously published.

AIMS news

AIMS Congress

First international congress since 2018

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 14:35:00 +0000

The 23rd World Congress of AIMS was held in Osaka from 23–25 February, followed by the host race, the Osaka Marathon, on 26 February.

It was the first time a Congress had been held since September 2018 when Tallinn Marathon hosted.

AIMS President Paco Borao welcomed those attending. 103 member events appeared on the list of participants. In his welcoming report to Congress Mr Borao used graphs to show how difficult it had been over the last 4.5 years to keep track of which races were postponed and which were cancelled at times when very few races were being staged because of the physical restrictions in place.

He suggested that 2023 would still be spent chasing the race numbers of the peak year of 2019 of 496 Members compared to the current 402 and this would likely not be achieved until 2024.

Later in the morning Kathryn Widu gave a presentation on how the Vienna City Marathon had ‘bounced back’ from covid to become one of the first races to return to mass participation numbers. Unfortunately there had been recent cases of covid within her household and she had to deliver the presentation by video.

An interactive session took place in the afternoon where five groups separately discussed the subject of ‘Lessons learned from Covid’ among themselves before reporting back to the main session.

On the second day Mike Nishi of the Chicago Marathon shared his thoughts on the impact of Covid and what it would mean for future events. An exchange of views between Tad Hayano (Tokyo Marathon) and Fernando Jamarne (Santiago Marathon) revealed how severely covid had impacted on the finances of races which had been forced to cancel but that after the 2022 races had been held it had been possible to see a pathway to recovery over the next editions.

A part of the programme was devoted to AIMS partners making presentations to the delegates on the goods and services they provide, After this a plaque was awarded to Francis Kay of Marathon Photos to mark 20 years of co-operation with AIMS. Francis Kay later arranged the group photo which he has taken at all Congresses held since 2002.

Later in the afternoon Branislav Koniar of the Košice Peace Marathon described how, since his race was founded 100 years ago, it has been held every year thanks to the strong attachment it shares with the city. The robust working relationship has allowed a small city like Košice to achieve much more with its marathon than others of similar size.

During the final session of Congress, on the morning of 25 February, a vote was taken to amend the Articles of Association of AIMS so that the position of Treasurer would cease to be an elected position (Board member) and become subject to appointment by the Board of Directors. The vote was carried by 89 votes to 17.

A second vote was held to elect four Board members from the nine that had been proposed and seconded. The successful candidates were Mike Nishi (Chicago Marathon); Renna Nelis (Tallinn Marathon); Rut Jiroajvanichakorn (Bangsaen 21), and Branislav Koniar (Košice Peace Marathon).

Race news Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Steyn hopes for a fourth win at Two Oceans

With 50 days to go to the “world’s most scenic race”, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon is shaping up to be an elite fest with a stellar field

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 16:32:00 +0000

With 50 days to go to the “world’s most scenic race”, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM) is shaping up to be an elite fest with a stellar field.

Once again, any athlete who breaks the record in the Men’s or Women’s Ultra Marathon Race can look forward to a record incentive of ZAR 250,000 (EUR 12,800) in cash.

With prize money for the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon at ZAR 250,000, any record-breaker could look forward to a massive ZAR 500,000 pay day on 15 April 2023.

Nkosikhona “Pitbull” Mhlakwana, who made a sensational Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon debut last year, lived up to his nickname showing tremendous tenacity finishing in a superb second place behind Ethiopia’s Endale Belachew, with Sboniso Sikhakhane coming in third.

As expected, the 30-year-old considers himself to be a bit stronger and wiser, and determined to do one better this year.

“My main goal is to improve my position from last year,” says Mhlakwana.

The Hollywood Athletic club athlete says he picked up invaluable experience last year and now knows what to expect.

Another epic battle for supremacy is expected this year in the women’s Ultra. Gerda Steyn and ASICS athlete, Irvette van Zyl, who both shattered Frith van der Merwe’s longstanding women’s 56km record of 3:30:36 set in 1989, have confirmed they will line up again this year.

Steyn (3:29:42) became the first woman to run the gruelling route in sub 3:30. The 32-year-old returns this year in a bid to be crowned champion for an unprecedented fourth consecutive time, while running as the current record-holder.

The three-time champion, who will be running in her permanent blue number, 6067, will, however, not have it all her own way, with the 34-year-old Van Zyl (3:30:31) finishing just a few seconds behind her last year. The purists can rest assured that Van Zyl will come out guns blazing and ready for another classic battle with Steyn.

Steyn says she is very excited to be preparing for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon again.

“This will be my fifth time running the race, and I am really hoping for a fourth win after taking the title three times in a row now. Last year was such a highlight for me. I am just hoping to repeat that experience and that win. The preparations until now have been going well, which makes me even more excited for the race,” she says.

With 50 days to go before Race Day, Steyn feels the next three to four weeks will be crucial to her preparations.

“Another very exciting aspect of this year’s Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon is that it will be the first time that I will be running in my permanent number in any race.

“Usually, one has to complete 10 Ultra Marathons, but I managed to win the race three times, therefore earned a blue number. This brings a very special touch for me. At the moment I am preparing for the Two Oceans in Johannesburg. The energy level and excitement is at an all-time high," adds Steyn before wishing all runners everything of the best with the final stretch of preparations.

If excitement levels are high for the Ultra on the Saturday, the battle for supremacy in the Half Marathon on Sunday, 16 April, will be even higher. The likes of previous winners Stephen Mokoka, Elroy Gelant, as well as Precious Mashele from the Boxer Athletic Clubs, have all confirmed their entries. Moses Tarakinyu from Zimbabwe is back to defend his title with Entsika’s Desmond Mokgobu also looking to improve on his third place from last year.

Last year’s winner, Fortunate Chidzivo, will not be lining up to defend her title in the women’s Half Marathon this year, which leaves the race wide open for a new champion to be crowned.

Date changes Maraton Varmex

Race date for Maraton Varmex (MEX) changed

Maraton Varmex date change

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:34:22 +0000

The Maraton Varmex (MEX) will take place on Sun 22 October 2023, not Thu 19 October 2023 as previously published.

Date changes San José Costa Rica 10K, Half & Marathon

Race date for San José Costa Rica 10K, Half & Marathon (CRC) changed

San José Costa Rica 10K, Half & Marathon date change

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:23:50 +0000

The San José Costa Rica 10K, Half & Marathon (CRC) will take place on Sun 26 November 2023, not Sun 3 December 2023 as previously published.

Date changes Athens Marathon. The Authentic

Race date for Athens Marathon. The Authentic (GRE) changed

Athens Marathon. The Authentic date change

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:00:29 +0000

The Athens Marathon. The Authentic (GRE) will take place on Sun 12 November 2023, not Sat 11 November 2023 as previously published.

Race news Tallinna Maraton, Half & 10k

Tallinn Marathon marks 105 years of Estonia

Baltic state established in 1918

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 13:08:00 +0000

Tallinn Marathon will be celebrating the 105th Anniversary of Estonia.

Prepare yourself for similar celebrations as in 2018 (for Estonia’s 100th anniversary) when a total of 23,940 runners and athletes from 67 countries took part and our blue-black-white national flag colours were proudly presented.

Can we beat the participant record from 2018?

Date changes Great Egyptian River Nile International Marathon

Race date for Great Egyptian River Nile International Marathon (EGY) changed

Great Egyptian River Nile International Marathon date change

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:56:19 +0000

The Great Egyptian River Nile International Marathon (EGY) will take place on Fri 28 April 2023, not Fri 17 March 2023 as previously published.

AIMS news

AIMS expresses sympathy for earthquake victims

Message from President Paco Borao

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 10:08:00 +0000

It is with great sadness that we received news of the devastating earthquake which struck the south eastern part of Turkey on 6 February.

There are no words to describe the scale of damage and the escalating number of fatalities that are being reported makes it certain that people from all over the country and beyond will be suffering from this tragedy.

On behalf of all members of our Association and through our member events the N Kolay Istanbul Marathon and the N Kolay Istanbul Half Marathon, I send our warmest greetings and sympathies to all those affected by this terribly distressing event.

Date changes Trento Half Marathon

Race date for Trento Half Marathon (ITA) changed

Trento Half Marathon date change

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 15:59:40 +0000

The Trento Half Marathon (ITA) will take place on Sun 1 October 2023, not Fri 1 September 2023 as previously published.

AIMS news

AIMS and Distance Running magazine awarded

“Best Active Tourism Product” from Aire Libre

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 13:27:00 +0000

The Spanish magazine Aire Libre, also well-known in South America, felicitated AIMS at the International Fair of Tourism (FITUR), held in Madrid in January, with their Sports Tourism Award under the category of ‘Best Active Tourism Product’.

The award was received by Sara Sanchez, administrative assistant to AIMS President Paco Borao.

Aire Libre, founded in 1993, is the leading magazine in its sector specializing in travel, culture, sports, nature, adventure, alternative tourism, rural and inland tourism and health. It has itself been recognised with the award for the Best Support for the diffusion of Active Tourism – PICOT 2017.

https://webairelibre.com/fitur/premios-airelibre-turismo-deportivo/

Date changes Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru

Race date for Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru (IND) changed

TCS World 10K Bengaluru date change

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 11:13:26 +0000

The Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru (IND) will take place on Sun 21 May 2023, not Sun 7 May 2023 as previously published.

Running news

SuperHalfs race series to drive mass participation

Mass races at World Athletics Road Running Championships in Riga

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 11:07:00 +0000

The SuperHalfs half-marathon series, comprising the leading half-marathon running events in Lisbon, Prague, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia, will reach out to runners globally and encourage them to take part in the mass races of the inaugural World Athletics Road Running Championships in Riga on 30 September – 1 October 2023.

The organisers of the Championships in Riga (WRRC Riga 23) are certain that the collaboration with the SuperHalfs half-marathon series will help recreational runners across the globe discover the opportunity to be part of the World Championships in Riga. Riga is preparing to welcome thousands of recreational runners from at least 100 countries to the World Athletics Road Running Championships, and the communications support from SuperHalfs will certainly help achieve this goal.

Sašo Belovski, managing director of SuperHalfs, comments: “Riga is fortunate not only to host the inaugural World Athletics Road Running Championships and mass races, but also to offer runners the opportunity to take part in three mass races over the championships weekend – half-marathon, 5km, and road mile. At SuperHalfs, we are all about encouraging runners to participate in beautiful running adventures, and the WRRC Riga 2023 will undoubtedly be an unmissable experience in 2023!”

The collaboration between WRRC Riga 23 and SuperHalfs will involve communications support through all of SuperHalfs and member races’ channels encouraging running at the World Championships in Riga.

Aigars Nords, the head of the Local Organizing Committee WRRC Riga 2023, commented: “The biggest challenge for us as the organizers of the inaugural World Athletics Road Running Championships is to help recreational runners get used to the idea that anybody can participate in a mass race at the world championships. We believe that our collaboration with SuperHalfs will help us get this message across and persuade running enthusiasts to come and test themselves in Riga in 2023!”

Any recreational runner can register for the road mile (1609m), 5km and half-marathon distances of the World Athletics Road Running Championships in Riga on the official website www.riga23.org.

A special promotional code RIGA23SUPERHALFS015 entitles you to 20% off the cost of entry valid until 28 February.

Race news Košice Peace Marathon

6,000 already registered for Košice in 100th year

Europe’s oldest marathon celebrates centenary

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 08:08:00 +0000

The oldest marathon in Europe is enjoying great interest in its upcoming 100th year.

In the first 50 days from the opening of registration, more than 6,000 runners have already signed up, which is about 50% of the entire planned capacity. There are still more than eight months left before the start, so it will be interesting to see how the numbers continue to develop.

Naturally, domestic runners play first fiddle, while on the other rungs, under the flags of dozens of countries, are mainly runners from Poland, the Czech Republic, France, Hungary, the UK and Germany.

In the meantime, the organisers have confirmed that all the main disciplines of the programme, i.e. the Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay, will take place together on Sunday, 1 October. One day earlier, on Saturday, 30 September, the programme will be dominated by the U.S. Steel Family Run.

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

New US record and photo finishes make for excitement in Houston

Gebrekiden first woman to run 1:06:28 on American soil

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 09:58:00 +0000

Thrilling sprint finishes for the men, dominant performances by the women and a new American half marathon record highlighted the Aramco Houston Half Marathon and Chevron Houston Marathon.

Hiwot Gebrekiden attacked the course early and alone, going through the five-mile mark well under record pace while Emily Sisson, aiming for an Amercan record stayed 30 seconds back, sharing the opening miles with South Africa’s Dominique Scott. By 10km both women were on their own. Gebrekiden’s pace slowed and the course record fell out of reach, but the gap she had opened up secured her the victory in 1:06:28. Sisson came through the finish chute seconds later as a roaring crowd cheered her to a second place finish in 1:06:52, shattering the record she set just nine months ago.

“I was soaking up the energy,” said Sisson who also holds the American record in the marathon, “I was happy with how I was able to finish today. Whenever I can pick it up in that last half mile, I know I have done it right.” En route to her record-breaking run Sisson tied the American record for 10 miles (50:52) and broke the American record for 20K (1:03:26).

While no records were set in the men’s half marathon, the finish was one of the closest and most exciting in race history. With one mile to go, Leul Gebresilase of Ethiopia and Wesley Kiptoo of Kenya had turned the race into a duel, trading surges going into the final turn. Kiptoo, a standout while at Iowa State, looked to have the advantage. But, just meters before the finish, Gebresilase slipped by to break the tape by less than a second 1:00:34 to 1:00:35.

“Today the competition was very good,” said Gebresilase, who told reporters he was aiming for the course record of 59:22. “I pushed at the end and my hamstring started cramping, but I am happy to be the winner.”

In the women’s marathon, Hitomi Niiya set out to break the Japanese women’s marathon record of 2:19:12, a time that is also the Chevron Houston Marathon course record. With the aid of a pacer, Niiya waited patiently as early leader Muliye Dekebo of Ehtiopia set a blistering early pace well below 2:17 through 15K. Niiya caught Dekebo at the halfway point and the pair ran side-by-side for the next five miles before Dekebo’s ambitious start caught up to her. From there, it was all Niiya and her pacer clicking off 5:20 per mile and inching dangerously close to the record. After the pacer stepped off the course, Niiya struggled and crossed the line in 2:19:24. Despite missing the Japanese record by 12 seconds, it was still a nearly two-minute personal best and the second fastest time in race history.

“Running by myself was a very powerful feeling,” said Niiya who set the Japanese Half Marathon record here in 2020, “but with cheering and support I was able to do it.”

Dekebo held on to second, finishing nearly six minutes back in 2:25:35.

The men’s marathon played out differently. Despite recruiting a pacer to run 2:07, a pack of seven men ran stride for stride through 30K at 2:10 pace. By 35K, it was down to five and just after 40K, it was a two-man race between Dominic Ondoro of Kenya and Tsedat Ayana of Ethiopia. Ayana looked to have the advantage as the marathon turned into a sprint with 400m to go. But, in a repeat of the half marathon just an hour earlier, Ondoro had one last surge, passing a flailing and visibly tired Ayana in the final seconds of the race. The winning time of 2:10:36 was just one second faster than second place and the closest finish since 1996. Teshome Mekonen who became a U.S. citizen in August of last year, was the top American finisher in third place (2:11:05.)

Race news Great Freedom Run Egypt’s Fastest Half Marathon

Yach Majok Koon sets half marathon record in Egypt

First winner from South Sudan

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 16:12:00 +0000

An inaugural Half Marathon record for South Sudan was set in this AIMS-certified event by winner Yach Majok Koon.

It was a day of friendship and happiness as Africans ran from Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia and South Sudan ran for peace on the fastest half marathon course in all Egypt and in good weather conditions.

Yach Majok Koon won the race with some brave front running after the 15km point. Judges from the Egyptian Athletic Federation were present at the start/finish line to ensure performances could be ratified. The women’s race was won by Sunia Farroog Hmdan Agago, who clocked 1:29:45. All winners were honoured with gold medals, incorporating the AIMS 40th logo as a good way for the Great Pharaohs Runners Company to celebrate the occasion. Race organiser Ahmed el Nady awarded official certificates to all finishers.

The next edition will be held on 29 Dec 2023. Registration will open from mid-March 2023 with good discounts for early bird registrations.

Date changes Gatorade Maratón de Santiago

Maratón de Santiago date change

National election causes week’s delay

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:07:00 +0000

The Gatorade Maratón de Santiago (CHI) will take place on Sun 14 May 2023, not Sun 7 May 2023 as previously published.

There will be an election in Chile on 7 May, which has forced the race organisers to change the date.

AIMS news

AIMS announces partnership with Always Advancing

Agreement to run for three years

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 10:59:00 +0000

AIMS has reached a partnership agreement with the medal producer Always Advancing which will run for the next three years.

Always Advancing, established in 2008, is a world renowned manufacturer of awards, apparel, and promotional products with a specialization in custom finisher medals and ribbons for endurance events. Always Advancing recognizes the hard work and dedication it takes to cross the finish line and strives to create a uniquely-designed product for each event which the athlete will appreciate and wear proudly.

Race news B.A.A. Boston Marathon

Edna Kiplagat declared winner of 2021 Boston Marathon

First runner over the line disqualified

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 15:13:00 +0000

Edna Kiplagat was second across the finish line in the 2021 Boston Marathon but has now been declared the winner of that race after the disqualification of the woman who finished ahead of her.

Diana Kipyogei tested positive for a performance enhancing drug and then contested the positive finding. The end result was that Kipyogei was banned for six years and will not be eligible to compete again until June 2028.

Kiplagat now becomes a two-time winner of the Boston Marathon having previously won the race in 2017. She also becomes the oldest-ever female winner of the race at 42 years and 5 months, surpassing the record of Miki Gorman, from the 1977 race, of 41 years and 8 months.

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

Houston announces elite field

Sisson to battle Dibaba for first place

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 16:10:00 +0000

The Houston Marathon Committee announced today (3 January) the elite athletes who will chase the USD 10,000 (EUR 9,430) first-place prize in this historically fast race.

American records in the half marathon and marathon were set in Houston last year, but by the end of 2022, Emily Sisson had broken them both. Houston will be Sisson’s first race since running 2:18:29 at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October, shattering Keira D’Amato’s record by 43 seconds. Earlier in the year, her 1:07:11 performance in Indianapolis shaved four seconds off Sara Hall’s half marathon record.

“I have really enjoyed racing here in the past and am excited to start my 2023 season in Houston,” said Sisson who finished fifth in the 2019 Aramco Houston Half Marathon. “I felt good coming out of Chicago and am really looking forward to another opportunity to race.”

Sisson will have to contend with one of the greatest distance runners of all time as Tirunesh Dibaba of Ethiopia makes a return to competition after a more than four-year hiatus. The three-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion has not raced since 2018 but says after giving birth to a second child in 2019 and then battling COVID-19, she is ready to add another chapter to her storied career.

“Houston is a famous race and my training has been going well,” said Dibaba, the 2017 Chicago Marathon Champion. “It seemed like the best way to test myself and see what could be next.”

Other top contenders in the women’s half marathon elite field include 2021 Berlin Marathon runner-up Hiwot Gebrekidan of Ethiopia and 2022 World Championship Marathon fourth-place finisher Nazret Weldu of Eritrea. Dom Scott will attempt to break the South African half marathon record of 1:06:44, after a 3rd place finish in Houston last year. The top Americans include 28-time U.S. Champion Molly Huddle who set the then-American record here in 2018, as well as World Champion and Olympic Bronze Medalist Jenny Simpson who will make her half marathon debut.

“All of the racers I am learning from speak so highly of their experience with the Aramco Houston Half Marathon,” said Simpson. “It’s the perfect place for me to make my half marathon debut because the timing, course and organization are so well tested.”

In the men’s race, Edward Cheserek of Kenya is coming off a 1:00:13 half marathon personal best in Valencia last month. “After Valencia this fall, I’ve trained harder and think sub-60 is possible,” said Cheserek, a 17-time NCAA Champion at the University of Oregon. “Houston is known for being a fast course and I want to have a chance at a personal best.”

Cheserek will face off against 2019 champion Shura Kitata of Ethiopia who lines up for his fourth Aramco Houston Half Marathon. With career marathon victories in London, Frankfurt and Rome, Kitata says he “feels home and comfortable in Houston.”

Other contenders to watch are Ethiopia’s Leul Gebresilase Aleme, runner up at last year’s London Marathon, and 2020 Olympian Mohamed El Aaraby of Morocco. The top American in the field is Conner Mantz of Utah. Mantz, the 2020 and 2021 NCAA Cross Country Champion at BYU, made his much-anticipated marathon debut in Chicago last October running 2:08:16, the fastest debut ever by an American-born runner.