Running News Daily

Conner Mantz heads into Sunday’s TCS New York City Marathon with a clear ambition: to be right there with the leading pack when the race reaches its decisive stages.

The 29-year-old American is not simply hoping to survive the demanding New York course. He intends to remain among the strongest contenders deep into the race, and he already has a few names in mind when it comes to the athletes he expects to be alongside him.

One of them is Benson Kipruto, the reigning New York City Marathon champion and one of the most consistent marathoners in the world.

“Benson will be there,” Mantz said. “I feel like he’s always there.”

It is difficult to argue with that assessment. Kipruto has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to remain competitive deep into major marathons, making him one of the runners Mantz expects to see when the race begins to take shape.

Mantz also singled out Andreas Almgren, who will make his highly anticipated marathon debut in New York.

“It’s hard to bet against Almgren,” Mantz said, highlighting the Swedish star’s extraordinary range and strength as he steps up to the 42.195-kilometre distance for the first time.

Another athlete on Mantz’s radar is Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta, who has already established himself as a formidable force over the marathon distance.

“I imagine Deresa will be there,” Mantz added.

But the most intriguing matchup could involve another American: Zouhair Talbi.

Talbi arrives in New York with impressive credentials of his own. He was the top American at the Boston Marathon and has established himself as one of the fastest marathoners in U.S. history. Mantz, however, is hoping that when the race reaches its closing stages, he will once again have the edge over his compatriot.

“Hopefully I’m a little ahead of him at that point,” Mantz said.

There is already some history between the two Americans. In their previous race together, Mantz and Talbi remained locked together until roughly 600 metres from the finish, when the battle was finally decided. New York could provide another chapter in that developing rivalry, only this time with a major marathon title at stake.

Mantz’s credentials explain why he believes he belongs in the lead-pack conversation. He has already finished inside the top eight at an Olympic Games, won two national titles and recorded five top-eight finishes at major marathons. He has also represented the United States at the World Road Running Championships, giving him valuable experience on some of the biggest stages in the sport.

His marathon progression has been particularly impressive. On October 12, 2025, Mantz clocked 2:04:43 to set the American record and national record, confirming his status as one of the fastest marathoners the United States has ever produced. That breakthrough transformed him from a promising distance runner into a genuine contender on the global marathon stage.

His versatility extends well beyond the marathon, too. Mantz is ranked among the world’s leading athletes in the 10,000 metres and road running, while also sitting inside the global top 60 for the marathon. His combination of speed, endurance and championship experience makes him a dangerous competitor on a course as unpredictable and demanding as New York.

And that is precisely why Mantz is not looking merely to be part of the field on Sunday. He wants to be part of the race.

If his prediction proves correct, Mantz could find himself surrounded by Kipruto, Almgren, Geleta and Talbi as the marathon enters its most critical miles. From there, patience, positioning and the ability to handle the brutal closing stages of New York could determine who remains standing in the fight for victory.

For Mantz, the message is clear: he does not intend to wait for the race to come to him. He plans to be there when the battle begins. 

The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon is set to deliver a compelling men's contest on Sunday, November 1, with Sweden's Andreas Almgren preparing to make his marathon debut against defending champion Benson Kipruto of Kenya.

The two athletes arrive in New York with contrasting credentials but plenty of reasons to attract attention. Almgren has established himself as one of the world's leading distance runners on the track and roads, while Kipruto brings proven experience, tactical intelligence and a remarkable record of success at the highest level of marathon racing.

Almgren heads into the race in outstanding form following his victory at the World Athletics Road Running Championships half marathon in Copenhagen in September. The Swede clocked a European record of 58:06 to claim the global title, underlining his growing reputation as one of the most formidable distance runners in international athletics.

His speed was further demonstrated in January when he ran 26:45 over 10km in Valencia, setting a European record for the distance. He also holds the European 10,000m title, achievements that highlight his versatility and ability to compete against the world's best across different distances.

However, the biggest question surrounding Almgren is how effectively he can translate that speed and endurance into the marathon. New York will represent his first attempt at the classic 42.195km distance, presenting an entirely different challenge from the shorter races in which he has already excelled.

Standing in his way is Kipruto, one of Kenya's most accomplished marathoners and the reigning New York City Marathon champion. The 35-year-old produced a dramatic victory last year, edging compatriot Alexander Mutiso in a photo finish after both runners clocked 2:08:09. The margin between them was just 0.16 seconds, making it one of the closest finishes in the event's history.

Kipruto's experience extends far beyond New York. He owns a personal best of 2:02:16, recorded when he won the Tokyo Marathon in 2024, and has secured four major marathon victories, including triumphs in Boston in 2021, Chicago in 2022, Tokyo in 2024 and New York in 2025.

He also claimed the bronze medal in the marathon at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, confirming his ability to compete successfully on the sport's biggest stages. Earlier this year, Kipruto finished third at the Boston Marathon in 2:02:50, demonstrating that he remains a formidable contender among the world's elite marathoners.

The contrast between the two athletes makes their New York showdown particularly intriguing. Almgren possesses exceptional speed and arrives after a record-breaking season, but he must navigate the demands of his first marathon. Kipruto, meanwhile, knows what it takes to win a major race and has already demonstrated his ability to handle the pressure of a fiercely contested finish.

New York's demanding course, with its bridges, rolling terrain and challenging late stages, will test both runners' endurance, patience and tactical awareness. Unlike the flatter courses often associated with record attempts, the New York route frequently rewards athletes who manage their effort carefully and position themselves well for the decisive stages.

Although Almgren's recent performances make him an exciting prospect, Kipruto's experience gives him a significant advantage on paper. Nevertheless, the Swede's remarkable form means he cannot be overlooked as he prepares to test himself over the marathon distance for the first time.

With a strong international field assembled for the 50th edition of the race, the contest between Almgren and Kipruto offers one of the most compelling storylines of Sunday's men's race. Will the European distance-running star make an immediate impact on his marathon debut, or will Kenya's defending champion demonstrate once again why he is among the most successful marathoners of his generation?

The answers will emerge on the streets of New York, where ambition, experience and endurance will collide in one of the biggest races on the global road-running calendar.

Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami has long viewed running as much more than a way to stay physically fit. For the internationally acclaimed author, the sport has become an essential part of his daily life, helping him maintain the discipline, mental strength and concentration required to sustain a successful writing career.

Murakami, whose literary works have earned him a worldwide readership, developed his passion for running after making a life-changing decision to dedicate himself to writing full-time. Having previously operated a jazz bar in Tokyo, he chose a different path, embracing a quieter lifestyle centred on literature, personal discipline and a commitment to his craft.

The transition, however, came with a challenge. Spending long hours sitting at a desk made him increasingly aware of the importance of physical exercise. He recognised that maintaining his health and energy would be crucial if he wanted to continue writing consistently over many years. Running gradually became the answer, providing structure to his days and a reliable way to balance the demands of a largely sedentary profession.

What began as a practical decision eventually developed into a lifelong commitment. Murakami established a demanding routine, often running approximately 10 kilometres a day, six days a week, with a weekly target of around 60 kilometres. The consistency of this training reflects a philosophy that extends beyond athletics: meaningful progress comes from showing up regularly, embracing repetition and remaining committed even when motivation is limited.

Over the years, Murakami has also tested himself in competitive distance running, completing more than 25 marathons according to the information surrounding his running journey. His experiences include participation in prestigious races such as the Boston Marathon and the New York City Marathon, placing him among the notable literary figures who have embraced endurance sport as a serious personal pursuit.

Among the races he has discussed with particular affection is the Boston Marathon, celebrated for its historic course, distinctive atmosphere and enthusiastic spectators. The experience of running alongside thousands of other athletes offers a different kind of challenge from the solitary hours he spends writing, yet both pursuits demand patience, preparation and the determination to keep moving forward when the task becomes difficult.

Interestingly, Murakami does not approach running as an opportunity to solve writing problems with every stride. Instead, he often allows his mind to settle, enjoying the rhythm of movement without deliberately forcing himself to produce ideas. This mental space gives him an opportunity to step away from the demands of his work, allowing thoughts to emerge naturally rather than through constant concentration.

For Murakami, the connection between running and writing is rooted in the qualities both activities require. Completing a long-distance run demands sustained effort, while producing a novel requires the ability to concentrate for extended periods, work through uncertainty and remain dedicated to a project long after its initial excitement has faded.

His approach also highlights an important distinction between creativity and inspiration. Rather than relying entirely on moments of sudden brilliance, Murakami has built a lifestyle around consistency, creating the physical and mental conditions that allow him to continue working. Running has become one of the foundations of that routine, supporting the stamina necessary for a profession that often requires hours of uninterrupted thought.

Although writing and running may appear to occupy entirely different worlds, Murakami's experience demonstrates how closely they can be connected. Both require an individual to develop a personal rhythm, respect the process and accept that lasting achievements rarely happen overnight.

His story offers an inspiring reminder that physical activity can play a meaningful role in intellectual and creative life. Whether an individual is training for a marathon, pursuing an ambitious professional goal or working towards a personal dream, the principles of consistency, patience and self-discipline remain remarkably similar.

For Murakami, running is not simply something he does outside his writing career. It is part of the lifestyle that helps make that career sustainable. Through years of steady training and dedicated writing, the Japanese novelist has demonstrated how caring for the body can support the mind, proving that sometimes the strongest foundation for creative achievement begins with putting one foot in front of the other.

Kenyan distance running has been rocked by a major development after Peres Jepchirchir, the reigning world marathon champion and 2021 Olympic gold medallist, was provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) following an adverse analytical finding for erythropoietin (EPO).

The 33-year-old reportedly tested positive for the prohibited substance in an out-of-competition sample collected in Kenya before the Sydney Marathon on August 30, 2026. The development has cast uncertainty over the future of one of the most accomplished female marathon runners of her generation, whose impressive career includes Olympic gold, a world championship title and victories at three of the sport's most prestigious marathons.

Jepchirchir returned to marathon competition in Sydney after a stress fracture forced her to withdraw from the London Marathon in April. Her comeback initially appeared to be another triumphant chapter in her career, as she stormed to victory in 2:18:31, finishing 3:40 ahead of compatriot Irine Cheptai.

However, the reported adverse analytical finding has placed that achievement under scrutiny, with the possibility that her Sydney victory could eventually be annulled depending on the outcome of the anti-doping proceedings.

Under anti-doping rules, results can be disqualified from the date of an adverse analytical finding or another applicable date determined under the regulations. If the relevant results are annulled, Jepchirchir could lose the Sydney Marathon title, which would have given her victories at four different World Marathon Majors, following her previous triumphs in New York, Boston and London.

EPO is a prohibited substance that stimulates red blood cell production, increasing the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to working muscles. Its performance-enhancing potential makes it particularly significant in endurance sports, including marathon running.

The substance is prohibited under anti-doping regulations, and a confirmed violation can carry serious consequences. Under the World Anti-Doping Code, a first violation involving a non-specified substance such as EPO generally carries a four-year period of ineligibility when the applicable conditions are met, although the final sanction depends on the circumstances of the case.

Jepchirchir's provisional suspension, however, is not a final sanction and does not itself establish that an anti-doping rule violation has been conclusively proven. The case must proceed through the relevant process, during which the athlete has the opportunity to exercise her rights under the applicable rules.

As of the information available, Jepchirchir has not commented publicly on the matter.

The Sydney Marathon has also acknowledged the seriousness of the situation while emphasising the importance of a fair process. In a statement, the event said Jepchirchir “is entitled to due process, and we will make no further comment on the case until that process has concluded.”

The case has attracted considerable attention because of Jepchirchir's standing in international athletics. She won Olympic marathon gold at the Tokyo Games in 2021 before claiming victory at the New York City Marathon later that year. In 2022, she conquered the Boston Marathon, adding another prestigious title to her growing collection.

Her success continued in 2024 when she won the London Marathon, becoming one of the few women to capture victories at New York, Boston and London. She subsequently reached another career milestone at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where she won the women's marathon title by just two seconds in a dramatic finish against Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa.

Jepchirchir has also established herself among the fastest women in marathon history. Her personal best of 2:14:43 places her ninth on the all-time women's marathon list, underscoring the level of performance that has defined her career.

Beyond the immediate implications for her Sydney victory, the case could have wider consequences if an anti-doping rule violation is ultimately established. The World Marathon Majors' rules provide for lifetime exclusion from the series for athletes who receive a doping-related ban of three months or longer, meaning a sufficiently lengthy sanction could jeopardise Jepchirchir's future participation in all eight events.

For an athlete who has built her reputation through success on the sport's biggest stages, such an outcome would represent a significant setback. Nevertheless, any consequences for her results, eligibility or future participation will depend on the applicable rules and the final outcome of the proceedings.

The development also renews attention on Kenya's ongoing efforts to protect the integrity of distance running. The country has produced generations of exceptional marathon runners, but high-profile anti-doping cases continue to raise difficult questions about clean competition and the responsibility of athletes, coaches and support personnel.

For now, the focus remains on the AIU's proceedings and the evidence surrounding the reported finding. Jepchirchir's provisional suspension marks a serious moment in her career, but the distinction between an adverse analytical finding and a final ruling remains essential as the case moves forward.

Once celebrated for her Olympic triumph, world championship glory and victories in the world's most prestigious marathons, the Kenyan star now faces an uncertain period as the anti-doping process unfolds. The eventual outcome will determine whether her latest Sydney success remains part of her remarkable record or becomes one of the most consequential episodes of her career.

Ethiopian distance-running star Lemi Berhanu produced a sensational performance to win the 2026 TCS Amsterdam Marathon in a personal best of 2:03:33 on Sunday, overcoming fierce opposition from Kenya's Nicholas Kipkorir before unleashing a decisive finishing surge in the closing kilometre.

The 31-year-old's victory was a remarkable demonstration of endurance, tactical patience and determination. Having arrived in the Dutch capital with a previous personal best of 2:04:33, Berhanu improved his lifetime best by exactly one minute, delivering the fastest marathon of his career on one of the world's most renowned fast courses.

However, the victory was far from straightforward. Kenya's Kipkorir mounted a determined challenge in the closing stages, turning the contest into a gripping battle between two athletes determined to claim the Amsterdam crown.

With only a few kilometres remaining, Kipkorir surged towards the front, applying relentless pressure and forcing Berhanu to dig deep to remain in contention. The Kenyan's acceleration threatened to shift the balance of the race, creating an intense duel as the finish line drew closer.

Berhanu refused to surrender. Remaining composed under pressure, the Ethiopian stayed close to his rival, conserving enough energy to respond when the decisive moment arrived. Every stride carried enormous significance as the two leaders fought for supremacy in the closing kilometres.

Then came the final kilometre.

With victory hanging in the balance, Berhanu unleashed a devastating finishing surge, finding another gear when it mattered most. His acceleration proved decisive, allowing him to edge away from Kipkorir and secure a memorable victory. The Kenyan fought bravely to the finish, but Berhanu's perfectly timed move ultimately made the difference.

Kipkorir crossed the line in 2:03:39, just six seconds behind the winner with a huge personal best, while compatriot Patrick Mosin completed the podium in 2:03:58. Their performances underlined the extraordinary quality of the men's field, which produced remarkable depth and speed throughout the race.

Berhanu's winning time was also just three seconds outside the Amsterdam Marathon course record of 2:03:30, established by Kenya's Geoffrey Kipchumba in 2025. Kipchumba returned to defend his title, but it was Berhanu who stole the spotlight with a performance that combined tactical intelligence with an exceptional finishing kick.

The Ethiopian's triumph carries additional significance given his long journey in elite distance running. In 2016, at just 21 years old, he announced himself on the international stage by winning the prestigious Boston Marathon. That breakthrough established him as one of Ethiopia's promising marathon talents and appeared to herald a career filled with major international victories.

Over the following decade, Berhanu continued building his career through international competitions, including races in Mumbai and Prague. Now, ten years after his Boston breakthrough, he has delivered another defining performance, demonstrating that experience and persistence can still produce extraordinary results at the highest level.

His Amsterdam victory also reinforces the race's reputation as a destination for world-class marathon performances. Known for its predominantly flat course and competitive elite fields, the Dutch capital continues to attract athletes looking to challenge their personal bests and produce exceptional times.

The 2026 men's race provided further evidence of that reputation, with all 10 leading finishers recording times of 2:05:16 or faster. Kenyan runners occupied five of the top six positions, highlighting the country's formidable depth in international marathon running.

2026 Amsterdam Marathon Men's Top 10 Results

1. Lemi Berhanu (Ethiopia) — 2:03:33

2. Nicholas Kipkorir (Kenya) — 2:03:39

3. Patrick Mosin (Kenya) — 2:03:58

4. Kalipus Lomwai (Kenya) — 2:04:09

5. Sila Kiptoo (Kenya) — 2:04:13

6. Justus Kangogo (Kenya) — 2:04:24

7. Jonathan Korir (Kenya) — 2:04:53

8. Isaia Lasoi (Kenya) — 2:04:57

9. Yihunilign Adane (Ethiopia) — 2:05:16

10. Yohei Ikeda (Japan) — 2:05:16

For Berhanu, however, the numbers tell only part of the story. His victory was built on patience under pressure, the courage to withstand Kipkorir's late challenge and the strength to produce a decisive acceleration when the race was on the line. A minute faster than his previous best, he has transformed a memorable win into a personal milestone.

Amsterdam has once again delivered a spectacular marathon, raising an increasingly compelling question for the global running community: does a race capable of producing such depth, speed and drama deserve a place among the Abbott World Marathon Majors?

With another outstanding edition now complete, Berhanu's triumph has given the Dutch capital a compelling new chapter in its marathon history.

Chelsea Clinton, the daughter of former United States President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, completed the 2026 Chicago Marathon in 3:47:55 on Sunday, combining a major endurance challenge with her commitment to supporting maternal health.

The 46-year-old joined her friend Jen Koss for the 42.195-kilometre race, maintaining a consistent rhythm throughout the streets of Chicago. Clinton reached the halfway point in 1:53:10 before covering the second half in 1:54:45, demonstrating impressive pacing on her way to the finish.

However, beyond the clock and the physical demands of one of the world's most prestigious marathons, her participation carried a deeper purpose. Clinton ran to support Every Mother Counts, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to making pregnancy and childbirth safer for mothers around the world. Through her marathon effort, she helped raise funds and awareness for maternal health, turning every kilometre into an opportunity to advance a cause close to her heart.

The finish line also provided an emotional family moment, with her parents, Bill and Hillary Clinton, waiting to congratulate her after she completed the demanding race. Their presence added a personal touch to an achievement that went beyond the sporting arena.

Chicago represents another significant chapter in Clinton's growing marathon journey. Earlier in 2026, she completed the Boston Marathon in a personal-best time of 3:40:52, finishing ahead of her Chicago performance. She has also taken on the New York City Marathon four times, building a considerable record of participation in some of the world's most celebrated long-distance races.

Although her 3:47:55 finish in Chicago was not a personal best, the result marked another successful completion of the marathon distance while reinforcing the role running can play in supporting charitable causes.

For Clinton, the Chicago Marathon was about more than reaching the finish line. It was an opportunity to challenge herself physically, share the experience with a friend, celebrate a family moment and contribute to a mission aimed at improving maternal health.

Her performance serves as a reminder that a marathon can be measured in more than minutes and seconds. For some runners, the greatest achievement is not simply how quickly they cover 42.195 kilometres, but also the purpose they carry with them every step of the way.

For many marathoners, crossing the finish line of a World Marathon Major is the ultimate dream. But before you can worry about surviving 42.195 kilometres, there is another challenge: actually getting onto the starting line.

The six Abbott World Marathon Majors — Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York and Tokyo — do not use the same entry system, and some are considerably more difficult to access than others.

Boston is arguably the clearest example of how running fast does not always guarantee a place. Unlike the other majors, the Boston Marathon is built around qualifying standards. However, meeting the published standard only gives a runner the opportunity to apply. Because demand is so high, the fastest qualifiers are accepted first. This means a runner can achieve the official qualifying time and still miss out when the cut-off moves faster than expected.

London presents a completely different challenge. Its famous ballot is a random draw, making luck a major part of the process. However, runners have other avenues, including Good for Age, charity places and international tour operators. Even the Good for Age route can be highly competitive, with places allocated according to performance when demand exceeds the number of available spots.

New York City is another race where demand is enormous. The TCS New York City Marathon offers a general drawing alongside several guaranteed-entry routes, including qualifying times, charity places, international tour operators and other eligibility programmes. For serious runners, achieving the appropriate qualifying standard can be one of the most dependable ways to secure a place.

Chicago gives runners several ways to avoid relying entirely on the lottery. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon has a non-guaranteed drawing, but runners can also gain guaranteed entry through qualifying times, charity, tour operators and other eligible routes. For fast runners, meeting the published standard can provide a much more certain path to the start line.

Berlin is also heavily sought after. The BMW Berlin Marathon uses a lottery for the majority of runners, while qualifying performances can provide another route into the race. With its fast course and reputation for producing world-class times, demand remains enormous every year.

Tokyo adds another layer of difficulty, particularly for international runners. The race has a lottery as well as several other entry routes, including charity and performance-based options. International runners can also use official tour operators, although these packages generally cost more because they are tied to travel arrangements.

For runners chasing the Six Star Medal, the biggest lesson is simple: do not depend on the lottery alone.

Look closely at every possible route. Good-for-age standards, qualifying performances, charity programmes and official tour operators can all provide alternatives when the ballot does not go your way.

And then there is the reality every marathoner eventually discovers: sometimes getting rejected from a major marathon hurts almost as much as the race itself.

When that rejection email arrives, remember that parkrun is still free, happens every Saturday and does not require a lottery.

So, which World Marathon Major have you already completed — and which one is still at the top of your bucket list?

Two-time Boston Marathon champion Sharon Lokedi is entering the final phase of her preparations for what promises to be a highly anticipated Chicago Marathon debut on Sunday, October 11.

The Kenyan star has completed her demanding training blocks and has now turned her attention to tapering, allowing her body to recover and sharpen ahead of one of the biggest marathon showdowns of the year.

Lokedi will lead an impressive Kenyan women’s contingent in Chicago, bringing together a mixture of proven champions and elite marathon talent. Among those joining her are former world-record holder Brigid Kosgei, Brillian Kipkoech and Loice Chemnung, the runner-up at the 2026 Boston Marathon.

For Lokedi, Chicago represents another major opportunity to strengthen her reputation on the world marathon stage. After establishing herself as a two-time Boston champion, the Kenyan will now take on the famously fast streets of Chicago, where a deep international field is expected to produce an exceptionally competitive race.

However, the Kenyan challenge will face formidable opposition from Ethiopia, led by defending champion Hawi Feysa. The Ethiopian contingent arrives with considerable depth, setting the stage for another compelling Kenya-versus-Ethiopia battle over 42.195 kilometres.

The quality of the field is underlined by the presence of 12 women with personal bests faster than 2:20, highlighting just how fiercely contested the race is expected to be.

With Chicago’s flat course renowned for producing fast times, the conditions could provide the perfect setting for the leading contenders to test their limits. Every tactical decision, surge and late-race move could prove decisive as the elite women battle for victory.

All eyes will now turn to Chicago as Lokedi begins the final countdown to her debut. With her hard work already completed, the Kenyan star will be hoping that a successful taper translates into another memorable performance on one of the world’s fastest marathon stages.

April 19, 1982. The Boston Marathon unfolded under unusually warm, sunny conditions, and by the closing stages, the race had become a private battle between two very different American runners: Alberto Salazar, already one of the biggest names in distance running, and Dick Beardsley, the Minnesota runner who had emerged as a serious marathon contender.

For roughly nine miles, from the Newton Hills toward the finish, Beardsley did much of the leading, with Salazar tucked close behind. Neither man could shake the other. They ran deep into Boston locked together, trading surges and refusing to surrender an inch as the crowds along the course grew louder.

Salazar finally made his decisive move with less than a mile remaining. He opened a small gap, but Beardsley refused to disappear. The Minnesota runner chased him through the final streets, closing again as they approached the finish.

Then came the final sprint.

Salazar held his form and reached the finish first in 2:08:52, with Beardsley only two seconds behind in 2:08:54. It was an extraordinary result: both men broke 2:09 in the same Boston Marathon, and both shattered the previous course record.

The race became known as the “Duel in the Sun,” and it remains one of the most celebrated head-to-head battles in Boston Marathon history. Beardsley had not won, but his performance established him as one of America's elite marathoners.

For Salazar, however, victory came at an enormous physical cost. Immediately after crossing the finish line, he collapsed and required emergency treatment, including several litres of intravenous saline. The combination of heat, dehydration and an all-out effort had pushed his body to the limit.

Salazar's marathon career would never again produce quite the same kind of performance. His celebrated 1981 New York City Marathon victory had produced what was initially considered a world record, although the course was later found to be short. His Boston triumph therefore became one of the defining victories of his career.

Beardsley's story would take an even more difficult turn. Injuries disrupted his career, and after returning to the highest level, he suffered a devastating farm accident in 1989. Further accidents, surgeries and severe physical pain followed, eventually leading to a long battle with painkiller addiction.

He eventually overcame that struggle and transformed the darkest chapters of his life into a story of recovery, resilience and redemption.

That is what makes the 1982 Boston Marathon more than a two-second victory.

For one extraordinary afternoon, Salazar and Beardsley produced a marathon duel in which neither man was willing to give way. One crossed the finish line first. The other finished only two seconds behind him.

Two seconds separated them at Boston. Decades later, their legendary duel remains one of the greatest chapters in marathon history.

The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) has officially revealed the qualifying cut-off for the 131st Boston Marathon, with runners required to finish 5 minutes and 17 seconds faster than their respective qualifying standards to secure a place in the 2027 race.

In total, 25,630 qualified applicants have been accepted or are in the process of being accepted, while 8,019 qualifiers were not accepted, highlighting just how competitive entry to the iconic Boston Marathon has become.

For runners in the 18–34 age group, the numbers were particularly demanding. Men needed to run 2:49:43, while women and non-binary athletes needed 3:19:43 to make the cut.

The latest figures show that achieving the official Boston qualifying standard alone was not enough this time around. Thousands of runners managed to qualify under the published standards but were left outside the field because demand for places exceeded the available capacity.

The 5:17 cut-off also represents a significant margin for athletes chasing their Boston dreams. For many runners, the difference between qualifying and being accepted came down to several minutes after months or even years of training.

The figures also underline the growing depth of the marathon community, with a large number of athletes now capable of running times that would once have been comfortably inside the Boston field. As more runners target the historic race, the gap between simply achieving the qualifying standard and actually earning a bib continues to become an important part of the Boston experience.

For those who secured acceptance, the focus now shifts from qualification to preparation. With the race set for April 19, 2027, runners have the opportunity to build toward the famous 26.2-mile journey from Hopkinton to Boston and experience one of the most celebrated traditions in road racing.

The 131st Boston Marathon is scheduled for April 19, 2027, bringing together another highly competitive field of qualifiers from around the world. For those who made the cut, the next chapter is now about preparing for Patriots' Day and the historic journey from Hopkinton to Boston.

For the thousands who missed out despite achieving the qualifying standard, the result serves as another reminder of how difficult it has become to turn a Boston-qualifying time into an actual race entry.

Kenyan marathon star John Korir has offered a glimpse into the demanding preparation behind his pursuit of another major victory, revealing that he is covering an astonishing amount of mileage as he builds towards the 2026 Valencia Marathon.

Korir, who will return to Spain on December 6 for the prestigious Valencia Marathon, says his current training programme involves running between 45 and 48 kilometres a day, with his weekly mileage reaching between 250 and 270 kilometres.

“I do 45 to 48 kilometres a day and 250 to 270 kilometres per week,” Korir revealed in an exclusive interview with Teddy Mulei of The Star.

The remarkable workload highlights the level of endurance required at the very top of marathon running, with Korir combining substantial mileage with dedicated speed work as he prepares for another demanding championship-calibre race.

“I have been focusing on both speed and endurance,” he added.

Korir will head to Valencia with confidence after establishing himself as one of the leading marathoners on the global circuit. He won the 2025 Valencia Marathon in 2:02:24, delivering a controlled and powerful performance to claim the prestigious title.

His impressive form continued into 2026 when he produced one of the biggest performances of his career at the Boston Marathon. Korir stormed to victory in a course-record 2:01:52, lowering his personal best and further strengthening his reputation as one of Kenya’s leading marathon specialists.

The challenge in Valencia, however, is expected to be significantly tougher this time around, with a formidable international field taking shape.

Among the biggest names expected to line up is Ethiopian speedster Yomif Kejelcha, whose transition from the track and shorter road distances to the marathon has already produced remarkable results.

Kejelcha made headlines with a sensational 1:59:41 in London, becoming only the second man to break the two-hour barrier in an official marathon after Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe recorded the world-record 1:59:30 in the same race.

The Ethiopian also has a strong connection with Valencia. He previously set a world record in the half marathon on the Spanish course and has demonstrated repeatedly that he possesses the speed required to produce extraordinary times over longer distances.

For Korir, the upcoming Valencia Marathon will therefore represent more than simply a defence of his title. It will be another opportunity to measure himself against some of the fastest marathoners in the world.

Despite the excitement surrounding the race and the possibility of another exceptionally fast performance, Korir is choosing to remain measured about his specific target.

“For now I cannot talk about what I will be going for in Valencia, but I am praying to God for good health and to be injury-free,” he said.

That cautious approach reflects the unpredictable nature of marathon racing, where months of preparation can ultimately come down to how an athlete responds over the final kilometres.

With his massive training volume, renewed focus on speed and endurance, and growing experience at the highest level, Korir is laying the groundwork for another major performance.

When the elite field takes over the streets of Valencia on December 6, the defending champion will have the added motivation of protecting his crown against a group of rivals carrying ambitions of their own.

For Korir, the road to Valencia has already begun with thousands of kilometres of preparation. The next chapter will be written over 42.195 kilometres.

The Boston Marathon is about to make history in another way, with a record 215 nonprofit organizations selected to participate in the 2027 Official Charity Program.

The Boston Athletic Association announced the record field on Monday, confirming that the program has surpassed 200 organizations for the first time. Among the 215 selected charities, 22 are first-time partners, adding a new group of organizations to one of the most prominent charity programs in distance running.

The 131st Boston Marathon will take place on Monday, April 19, 2027, with charity runners expected to account for close to 10 percent of the overall field. That translates into thousands of athletes taking on the legendary 26.2-mile course while raising money for causes that extend far beyond the race itself.

The charities represent a wide range of missions, including hospitals and medical care, cancer research, veterans' services, youth development, disability advocacy and homelessness prevention. For the runners involved, the Boston Marathon becomes more than a personal challenge—it becomes a platform for giving back and bringing attention to causes close to their hearts.

The financial impact of the program has also reached record levels. Charity runners raised $57.3 million in 2026, setting a new single-year fundraising record. That was a 13.7 percent increase from the $50.4 million raised in 2025, showing just how rapidly the charitable side of the Boston Marathon continues to grow.

Since the official charity initiative began in 1989, more than $675 million has been raised through Boston Marathon fundraising efforts, providing significant support to nonprofit organizations over nearly four decades.

The growth in the number of participating charities is equally striking. The program featured 160 organizations in 2024, while the 2027 edition will have 215. That is an increase of 55 charities, or roughly 34 percent, in just three years.

But earning a charity place is not simply a shortcut to the Boston starting line. Runners who secure one of these coveted spots take on a major fundraising responsibility, with commitments generally ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, depending on the charity and its requirements.

For many runners, that means their Boston journey begins long before they arrive in Hopkinton. Training runs are accompanied by fundraising campaigns, community events and personal appeals as athletes work to reach their targets while preparing for one of the world's most demanding and prestigious marathons.

The charity route has also become an important pathway for runners who cannot enter through the traditional qualifying system. It gives them an opportunity to experience Boston while simultaneously turning their marathon journey into a fundraising mission.

With 215 organizations now preparing their teams for 2027, the Boston Marathon's charitable footprint has never been larger.

When the starting gun fires next April, thousands of runners will chase the famous finish line on Boylston Street—but they will also be running for something much bigger than themselves.

Registration for the 2027 Boston Marathon opened today, September 14, giving thousands of runners who have achieved the official qualifying standards their chance to apply for one of the most coveted places in road racing. The registration window will remain open through Friday, September 18, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

The 2027 edition of the Boston Marathon will bring a major change to the qualification process. For the first time, runners who meet their age-group qualifying standard but finish outside the eventual cut-off will have an additional opportunity to gain entry through a new Boston Qualifier Selection.

After registration closes, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) will verify performances and rank applicants according to how far they finished under their respective qualifying standards. The fastest qualifiers will be accepted first, with their performances determining the cut-off for each age and gender group.

But this time, missing that cut-off will not necessarily mean the end of the dream. Approximately 1,000 runners whose qualifying performances are not fast enough to secure automatic entry will be randomly selected through the Boston Qualifier Selection. Those athletes will automatically be included in the pool for the additional draw.

The new system comes as demand for Boston continues to outpace the number of available qualifying places. In recent years, simply achieving the published standard has increasingly failed to guarantee entry. For the 2025 Boston Marathon, 12,324 qualified applicants were not accepted, while another 8,887 missed out for the 2026 race after the qualifying field produced a cut-off of 4 minutes and 34 seconds faster than the applicable standard.

That reality has transformed Boston qualification into a race within the race. A runner may finish under the official standard and still need to be several minutes faster to secure a place, depending on the strength and size of the applicant pool.

The new random-selection component therefore offers a small but significant second chance to runners who have already done what Boston asks of them: beat the qualifying standard for their age and gender. The B.A.A. says the change reflects the increasingly fast pace of marathon running and the growing global demand for places in the historic race.

There is another important change for the 2027 registration cycle, and it could have a major impact on runners choosing where to chase their qualifying times.

The B.A.A. has introduced a net-downhill adjustment for qualifying performances. Any verified qualifying time recorded on a course with a net elevation drop of at least 1,500 feet will receive an adjustment when submitted for Boston consideration. Courses with a net drop of 1,500 to 2,999 feet will receive a five-minute addition, while courses dropping 3,000 to 5,999 feet will receive a 10-minute addition. A course with a net downhill of 6,000 feet or more will not be accepted as a Boston qualifying course.

The rule means a runner's official finishing time may not necessarily be the time ultimately used by Boston for qualification purposes. For example, a 2:45:30 performance on a course with a 2,000-foot net descent would be assessed as 2:50:30 after the five-minute adjustment.

The B.A.A. says the policy is intended to account for the significant advantage provided by courses with substantial net elevation loss and to create a more consistent standard for athletes qualifying around the world.

Despite the changes, the published 2027 qualifying standards remain unchanged. Men aged 18–34 must run 2:55:00, while women and non-binary runners in the same age group must run 3:25:00. The standards gradually increase across the older age groups, with runners aged 80 and above required to run 4:50:00 for men and 5:20:00 for women and non-binary athletes.

Importantly, qualifying standards are based on a runner's age on race day, April 19, 2027, and qualifying times must be official net times from eligible certified marathon courses. Meeting the standard still does not guarantee entry because the size of the qualifying field remains limited.

For runners chasing Boston, the message is clear: running under the standard remains the first hurdle, but running significantly faster can still make the difference between receiving a bib and watching from home. The new Boston Qualifier Selection, however, gives approximately 1,000 additional qualifiers a chance that did not previously exist.

The 131st Boston Marathon, will be held on Monday, April 19, 2027. Qualifier applicants are expected to receive their acceptance or non-acceptance notifications by early October.

Boston, long regarded as one of the hardest major marathons to enter through qualification, is changing with the times. As runners get faster and the global appetite for the race continues to grow, the road to Boylston Street is becoming more competitive—but for around 1,000 runners who fall just short of the cut-off, the dream will now remain alive a little longer.

Less than a year ago, Conner Mantz was rewriting American distance-running history. Now, after months of injury, rehabilitation and rebuilding, the American record holder is preparing for another major test — this time on the world stage in Copenhagen.

On October 12, 2025, Mantz produced the performance of his career at the Chicago Marathon, running 2:04:43 to break Khalid Khannouchi’s long-standing American record of 2:05:38, set in London in 2002. The performance made Mantz the fastest American marathoner in history and confirmed his place among the country’s elite distance runners.

But what followed was far removed from the glory of Chicago.

Only weeks after the marathon, Mantz began experiencing hip pain that was eventually diagnosed as a sacral stress fracture. The injury forced him away from running for 12 weeks and disrupted what had been shaping up to be another important season. He ultimately withdrew from the 2026 Boston Marathon during race week after acknowledging that his fitness had not returned sufficiently.

Rather than forcing the comeback, Mantz had to rebuild from the ground up.

Swimming became a major part of that process. Long sessions in the pool gradually became faster, with his pace progressing from around 1:43 per 100 yards to below 1:30. Some sessions stretched close to three hours. Cycling also became part of his training, while running was carefully introduced whenever his body allowed it — and stopped whenever the injury demanded caution.

For an athlete accustomed to racing at the highest level, it was a frustrating period of patience.

Mantz finally returned to competition at the ASICS Falmouth Road Race in August, almost ten months after his historic Chicago performance. He finished as the second American, a result that may not have been the comeback statement he wanted, but was nevertheless an important step forward.

Now comes a much bigger examination.

On Sunday, September 20, Mantz will line up in Copenhagen for the men's half marathon at the 2026 World Athletics Road Running Championships. It will be his first global championship appearance since the Paris 2024 Olympics.

And Mantz is not arriving merely as another member of the American team. He is the reigning American record holder in the half marathon.

That record came in 2025, when he ran 59:17 in Houston to erase Ryan Hall's 59:43 American record, which had stood for 18 years.

In the same year, Mantz would go on to claim the American marathon record as well.

Two national records. One extraordinary season. Then an injury that forced him to step away from the racing world for months.

Now, the question is no longer simply how fast Mantz can run on his best day. It is about what remains after everything he has been through.

Copenhagen offers the perfect stage for that answer. With the world's best runners gathered for a global title, Mantz will have the opportunity to measure himself against the strongest competition while continuing his journey back to his best.

He has already shown that he can break records. He has already shown that he can compete with the world's best.

This time, he is simply trying to rediscover the runner who did it.

Records can redefine the ceiling. Injuries can force an athlete to rediscover the foundation. On Sunday in Copenhagen, we will find out just how much of the old Conner Mantz is back — and how much stronger the journey has made him.

For thousands of marathon runners around the world, qualifying for the Boston Marathon is more than a race goal — it is a badge of honour, a symbol that months and sometimes years of disciplined training have finally paid off.

But there is an important distinction every aspiring Boston runner needs to understand: running under the official Boston qualifying standard does not automatically guarantee a place on the starting line.

That reality has caught out countless runners who believed that crossing the finish line a few seconds inside their qualifying mark meant their Boston dream was secured.

It does not.

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) sets qualifying standards according to age and gender, but the race also has a limit on the number of participants. When the number of qualified applicants exceeds the available places, the fastest runners within the qualifying pool are given priority. In other words, simply achieving the published standard gives you the opportunity to apply — it does not guarantee acceptance.

The Cutoff Is The Number That Really Matters

This is where the famous Boston “cutoff” comes into play.

The cutoff represents how much faster than the official qualifying standard a runner needed to be in order to gain entry that particular year. And it can change significantly depending on how many runners apply and how fast the qualifying field is.

The numbers tell the story.

For the 2024 Boston Marathon, the cutoff was 5:29. For 2025, it climbed sharply to 6:51. For the 2026 race, the cutoff settled at 4:34, meaning accepted qualifiers needed to be at least four minutes and 34 seconds faster than their applicable age- and gender-based standard.

That means a runner who finishes a marathon just 30 seconds under the published qualifying standard can technically be a Boston qualifier — yet still miss out on an actual place.

And that is where the heartbreak begins.

Imagine spending months building mileage, sacrificing weekends, surviving brutal workouts and finally producing the race of your life. You cross the line, look at your watch and discover that you have beaten the Boston standard.

For a moment, you believe you are going to Boston.

Then registration closes.

And you discover that the field was faster than expected.

Don't Train For The Bare Minimum

For runners serious about making the journey to Hopkinton, Massachusetts, the lesson is straightforward: don't make the official qualifying standard your ultimate target.

Make it your starting point.

If your age-group standard is 3:00:00, for example, training specifically to run 2:59:59 may leave almost no margin for the realities of Boston qualification. A stronger strategy is to set a substantially faster personal target, giving yourself a buffer against an unpredictable cutoff.

A five-minute cushion is often discussed among Boston hopefuls as a sensible ambition, but runners should understand that there is no guaranteed “safe” buffer. The cutoff is determined after registration based on the qualifying pool, and even a five-minute margin cannot promise entry in every year.

The smartest approach is therefore to aim as far under your standard as your training and ability realistically allow.

Boston Is Getting Faster

The growing difficulty of earning a place reflects the popularity and competitiveness of the marathon.

The B.A.A. has acknowledged that demand for Boston has increased while marathoners have continued to get faster. For the 2026 race, the organisation tightened qualifying standards by five minutes for runners aged 18–59, yet the race still received far more qualifying applications than available places.

For the 2026 Boston Marathon, the B.A.A. received 33,249 qualifier applications. Of those, 8,887 applicants were ultimately not accepted, despite having achieved the official qualifying standard.

Those numbers provide a powerful reminder: Boston qualification is no longer simply about beating a published time. It is about beating it by enough.

And There Is Another Detail Runners Must Watch

For the 2027 Boston Marathon, the B.A.A. has also introduced time-index adjustments for qualifying performances on courses with more than 1,500 feet of net elevation drop.

Depending on the amount of net downhill, a qualifying performance can receive a five- or ten-minute adjustment during the registration review process. That makes course selection an increasingly important part of the Boston qualification strategy.

So runners chasing Boston should not only ask, “Can I run the qualifying time?”

They should also ask:

“Can I run significantly faster than it — on a course that meets Boston's qualification rules?”

The Dream Is Boston. The Goal Should Be Faster Than Boston.

Qualifying for Boston remains one of the most prestigious achievements in recreational marathon running. But the difference between qualifying and getting accepted is now more important than ever.

The official standard gets you into the conversation.

Your margin gets you closer to the starting line.

So if Boston is the dream, don't build your entire training cycle around scraping under the qualifying mark by a few seconds. Give yourself room. Chase a faster marathon. Choose your qualifying race carefully. Prepare for the possibility that the cutoff may move.

Because the ultimate goal isn't simply to say:

“I qualified for Boston.”

It is to wake up on Patriots' Day, make your way to Hopkinton, and finally hear the words every Boston hopeful has dreamed about:

“You're going to Boston.” 

Ali Anderson produced one of the most remarkable performances of the Sydney Marathon on Sunday, becoming one of the rare women to break three hours for the marathon while 32 weeks into pregnancy.

The 29-year-old American from Oklahoma crossed the finish line in 2:59:43, completing the 26.2-mile journey from North Sydney to the Sydney Opera House with just 17 seconds to spare under the three-hour barrier. Her performance came as part of a record field of around 40,000 runners and marked her seventh marathon, as well as her fourth World Marathon Major.

Anderson had entered the Sydney Marathon before discovering she was pregnant. Rather than withdraw, she decided to continue preparing for the race after consulting her doctor, who told her there was no medical reason to stop her normal training, provided she was no longer pursuing a personal-best effort.

The Sydney performance was particularly striking when compared with her previous marathon earlier in the year. At the Boston Marathon in April, Anderson was just 13 weeks pregnant when she clocked a spectacular 2:41:58, establishing her personal best. Nineteen weeks later in Sydney, the physical demands of late pregnancy were naturally reflected in her pace, but she still managed to produce a sub-three-hour performance.

Her Boston average pace was approximately 6:11 per mile, compared with around 6:52 per mile in Sydney — a difference of roughly 41 seconds per mile. Yet despite the slower pace and the additional demands of carrying a pregnancy into the third trimester, Anderson maintained enough control to finish inside three hours.

Speaking after the race, Anderson acknowledged that the hills felt considerably tougher because of her increased weight, but said she felt good throughout the marathon and was careful not to push herself beyond her limits.

“I'm obviously heavier, so the hills were a little bit more intense. But I felt really good, and I wasn't pushing too hard,” she said.

There was also another challenge that required careful planning: bathroom stops. With pregnancy adding an extra logistical consideration to an already demanding marathon, Anderson had to manage her race differently from a conventional marathon preparation and execution.

Her decision to race came after seeking medical advice. Anderson said her doctor reassured her that she could continue running, while making it clear that the objective should not be chasing another personal best.

Her performance also comes against a growing body of evidence suggesting that exercise during pregnancy can be safe for many women when appropriately managed. Research has generally found reassuring outcomes for continued physical activity during pregnancy, although evidence specifically examining competitive marathon racing in late pregnancy remains much more limited. Individual medical circumstances can vary significantly, making professional medical guidance essential.

Anderson also had the option of postponing her Sydney Marathon entry. The event's rules allowed pregnant runners to defer their places to 2027, 2028 or 2029 with a doctor's letter. She chose not to take that route.

The Sydney Marathon was therefore more than another race on Anderson's résumé. It became a test of how she could adapt her ambitions to an extraordinary stage of her life — maintaining her passion for distance running while putting performance goals into perspective.

Her original plans extended beyond Sydney. She had another marathon scheduled for December and had hoped to pursue the 2:37:00 qualifying standard for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. Her Boston personal best of 2:41:58 currently leaves her 4 minutes and 58 seconds outside that mark.

For now, however, Anderson's achievement in Sydney stands on its own.

A 2:59:43 marathon is impressive under any circumstances. Doing it at 32 weeks pregnant makes Anderson's Sydney Marathon one of the most extraordinary distance-running stories of the year.

At an age when many athletes have long since stepped away from competition, Joan Benoit Samuelson continues to remind the running world that the finish line is never defined by a number.

On Sunday in Lima, Peru, the pioneering American distance runner lined up for the 10K at the 117th KIA Media Maratón de Lima & 10K, and at 69 years old, she crossed the finish line in an impressive 47:49 — averaging approximately 7:43 per mile.

It was another chapter in a remarkable running life that has stretched across more than four decades, taking Samuelson from the roads of New England to Olympic history and, now, to the streets of Lima.

The first Olympic women's marathon champion, Samuelson was in Peru as part of a Nike-backed trip, experiencing a race course that links Lima's historic heart with its modern districts. The event attracted around 21,000 runners, creating a spectacular celebration of running in one of South America's most historic cities.

The half marathon accompanying the 10K carries an extraordinary legacy of its own. First staged in 1909, the race is billed as the world's oldest half marathon, adding another layer of history to Samuelson's appearance.

But Samuelson herself needs little introduction when it comes to the history of women's distance running.

Her career helped redefine what was possible for women on the marathon course. She won the Boston Marathon in 1979 and again in 1983, then produced a stunning American record of 2:22:43 in her marathon debut that same year.

A year later, she reached the summit of the sport.

At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Samuelson captured gold in the inaugural women's Olympic marathon, running 2:24:52 and finishing 1 minute 26 seconds ahead of legendary Norwegian Grete Waitz. It was a victory that became one of the defining moments in the history of women's athletics.

And she was far from finished.

In 1985, Samuelson won the Chicago Marathon in 2:21:21, setting another American record that remained untouched for 18 years. Her achievements became part of the foundation upon which the modern era of women's distance running was built.

Yet perhaps the most remarkable part of her story is not what she accomplished four decades ago, but the fact that she is still curious, still competing and still eager to learn from the sport.

Before Sunday's race, Samuelson praised the growing strength of Peruvian distance running, telling local media: “Runners from Peru are starting to show up on the world stage, and they are doing it very well.”

Those words capture something that has defined her journey for generations: a belief that running is not simply about records, medals or victories. It is about discovery, connection and the endless possibility of seeing how far the human spirit can go.

Four decades after making history in Los Angeles, Samuelson is still answering the starting gun.

At 69, the Olympic champion is no longer chasing the clock she once conquered. She is chasing something far more enduring — the joy of running itself.

And in Lima, thousands of runners had the privilege of watching a living legend continue to do what she has always done best: inspire people to keep moving forward.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — August 30, 2026

Sydney is preparing for a spectacular morning of marathon racing as reigning world champions Peres Jepchirchir of Kenya and Alphonce Simbu of Tanzania headline a world-class elite field at the TCS Sydney Marathon on Sunday, August 30.

The race is set to provide another defining moment for Australian distance running, with more than 40,000 participants expected to take on the streets of Sydney and a remarkable collection of elite athletes competing for victory on one of the world's newest Abbott World Marathon Majors.

Jepchirchir and Simbu will bring an added layer of prestige to the occasion as the reigning women's and men's world marathon champions. Their presence ensures that the spotlight will be firmly fixed on Sydney as some of the world's finest distance runners battle for one of the most coveted titles on the international marathon calendar.

There will also be records in the crosshairs. The men's course record stands at 2:06:06, while the women's benchmark is 2:18:22, meaning the quality of the field has created genuine anticipation that both marks could come under threat.

In the men's race, Simbu arrives with considerable confidence and an ambitious target. The Tanzanian produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, holding off Germany's Amanal Petros to claim the world title. With a personal best of 2:02:47, Simbu has the speed, championship experience and belief to challenge the very best, and he has made no secret of his desire to attack Sydney's course record.

However, standing in his way is an elite group led by Ethiopia's Sisay Lemma, whose outstanding 2:01:48 personal best makes him the fastest entrant in the field. A former London and Boston Marathon champion, Lemma brings a wealth of experience at the highest level and will be one of the principal threats to Simbu's ambitions.

Kenya will also have a strong presence, with Timothy Kiplagat and Vincent Ngetich adding further firepower to an already formidable men's lineup.

Perhaps the most intriguing storyline, however, belongs to Ethiopian track star Hagos Gebrhiwet, who is set to make his highly anticipated marathon debut. A former Olympic 5,000m medallist and one of the world's fastest track distance runners, Gebrhiwet has already shown extraordinary endurance over shorter distances, including a 57:41 half-marathon personal best. His transition to the marathon will be closely watched, with fans eager to discover whether his world-class track speed can be converted into success over 42.195 kilometres.

The depth of the men's field is remarkable. No fewer than 25 athletes have broken 2:10, while 19 have already recorded times faster than Sydney's existing course record, setting the stage for a race that could develop into a battle of extraordinary pace and tactics.

The women's contest promises just as much drama, with Jepchirchir leading the way. The Kenyan superstar arrives in Sydney as the reigning world champion and Olympic champion, carrying a 2:14:43 personal best, the fastest among the women entered.

Yet victory will not come easily. Jepchirchir faces a powerful Kenyan challenge from Irine Cheptai, who owns a 2:17:51 personal best and has already established herself as a major force on the international marathon circuit.

Tanzania's Magdalena Shauri, the country's national record holder with a personal best of 2:18:03, will provide another serious threat, while the experienced Vivian Cheruiyot of Kenya adds further championship pedigree to an already impressive women's field.

Ethiopian stars Shure Demise and Haven Hailu, alongside Uganda's Stella Chesang, will also be looking to make their mark as the race unfolds through Sydney's iconic streets.

The setting could hardly be more spectacular. Starting in North Sydney, the marathon takes runners across the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge before heading towards the unforgettable finish at the Sydney Opera House. With the city providing a breathtaking backdrop, the race has all the ingredients for another historic chapter in its rapid rise on the global marathon scene.

For the elite athletes, however, the beauty of Sydney will quickly become secondary once the gun goes off.

The champions will be chasing victory. The record hunters will be chasing history. And for Gebrhiwet, an entirely new chapter of his career will begin.

Two reigning world champions. Multiple sub-2:05 contenders. A world-class women's field. A highly anticipated marathon debut. And course records that could be under serious threat.

Everything is in place for an unforgettable Sunday in Sydney.

Will Alphonce Simbu turn his ambition into a new course record?

 Can Sisay Lemma's 2:01:48 experience carry him to victory?

Will Hagos Gebrhiwet announce himself as a future marathon superstar?

 And can Peres Jepchirchir add the Sydney Marathon crown to her already extraordinary list of achievements?

Sydney is ready.

The champions have arrived. The records are waiting. The stage is set for a spectacular showdown.

The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated editions in recent history, with New York Road Runners unveiling a remarkable men’s professional field that brings together the two fastest American marathoners ever on the same starting line.

The race, scheduled for November 1, will feature American record-holder Conner Mantz (2:04:43) and Zouhair Talbi (2:03:45), whose performance at the 2026 Boston Marathon is the fastest marathon ever run by an American by clock time. However, because Boston is not a record-eligible course, Talbi’s mark does not replace Mantz’s official American record.

Mantz established the American record with his 2:04:43 fourth-place finish at the 2025 Chicago Marathon, breaking a national record that had stood since 2002. Talbi went even faster in Boston in April, crossing the line fifth in 2:03:45 and adding another extraordinary chapter to the rapid evolution of American marathon running.

That makes New York particularly intriguing. For the first time, the two men who occupy the top two positions on the all-time American marathon performance list will have the opportunity to race each other over a record-eligible course, with the streets of New York providing the stage.

And the American showdown will be only one part of a much bigger battle.

The international challenge is formidable. Defending champion Benson Kipruto (2:02:16) leads the field, followed by Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta (2:02:38) and Kenya’s CyBrian Kotut (2:03:22). The lineup also includes the Netherlands’ Abdi Nageeye (2:04:20), Kenya’s Geoffrey Kamworor (2:04:23), Italy’s Iliass Aouani (2:04:26) and Ethiopia’s Huseydin Mohamed Esa (2:04:39).

Just behind that group is Japan’s Kengo Suzuki (2:04:56), Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa (2:05:18), Kenya’s Edward Cheserek (2:05:24) and Japan’s Ryota Kondo (2:05:39). Ireland’s Peter Lynch (2:06:08), Great Britain’s Patrick Dever (2:06:18), Australia’s Haftu Strintzos (2:06:20) and Britain’s Jack Rowe (2:07:47) further strengthen a field that possesses extraordinary depth.

The American contingent is just as fascinating. Alongside Mantz and Talbi are Ryan Ford (2:05:46), Joe Klecker (2:05:56), Casey Clinger (2:08:43), Sam Chelanga (2:08:50), JP Flavin (2:09:17), Jared Ward (2:09:25), Turner Wiley (2:09:27), Andrew Colley (2:09:33), Robert Miranda (2:09:40) and Joel Reichow (2:09:56).

The depth continues with Aidan Troutner (2:10:23), JP Trojan (2:10:39), Paul Chelimo (2:10:55), Stephen Jones (2:11:17), Mo Bati (2:12:29), Aidan Reed (2:13:58), Owen Ritz (2:14:19), Merga Gemeda (2:15:12), Alec Baldwin (2:15:38) and Ryan Cutter (2:17:24). Australia’s James Nipperess (2:15:03) and Lesotho’s Kamohelo Mofolo (2:08:50) are also on the start list.

Three athletes will make their marathon debuts in New York: Sweden’s Andreas Almgren, Kenya’s Patrick Kiprop and American Ahmed Muhumed. Almgren, in particular, brings tremendous track credentials into his first attempt at 26.2 miles after winning the European 10,000m title in Birmingham in a championship-record 27:23.44.

The numbers tell the story of just how deep this field is. Ten men have personal bests faster than the existing New York City Marathon course record of 2:04:58, set by Tamirat Tola in 2023. Remarkably, Tola himself is not entered, nor is Alexander Mutiso, who finished runner-up to Kipruto in last year’s dramatic race.

For Mantz and Talbi, however, the stakes extend beyond the American record books. No American man has won the New York City Marathon since Meb Keflezighi in 2009, meaning the American contingent will arrive carrying a 17-year wait for another homegrown champion. Mantz and Talbi will have to overcome a formidable international field if either is to end that drought.

New York’s course will add another layer of difficulty. The bridges, sharp turns, rolling sections and notoriously demanding final miles toward Central Park have humbled some of the world’s fastest marathoners. Raw personal-best times will matter, but so will patience, positioning, tactical intelligence and the ability to produce a decisive move when the race reaches its most unforgiving stages.

With the official American record-holder, the fastest American by clock time, a defending champion, multiple 2:04 marathoners and a host of world-class contenders all converging on the Big Apple, the 2026 New York City Marathon has the ingredients of a classic.

On November 1, the streets of New York could become the setting for another extraordinary chapter in marathon history.

On August 9, 1936, Sohn Kee-chung crossed the finish line of the Olympic marathon in Berlin in 2:29:19.2, becoming the first Korean to win an Olympic gold medal.

But there was a painful contradiction behind the triumph.

The scoreboard did not identify him as Sohn Kee-chung. It listed him as Kitei Son — the Japanese pronunciation of his Korean name. And instead of competing for Korea, he was officially entered as a member of the Japanese delegation because Korea had been under Japanese colonial rule since 1910.

Sohn was born in 1912 near Sinuiju, in what is now North Pyongan Province, and emerged as one of the outstanding distance runners of his generation. His talent became impossible to ignore in the 1930s, and in November 1935 he ran 2:26:42 in Tokyo to set a world marathon record.

By the time he arrived in Berlin, Sohn was already a world-class marathoner. Yet his greatest sporting achievement would unfold under an identity that had been imposed upon him.

He was not permitted to compete under his Korean name. He was not permitted to carry the Korean flag. His uniform bore the Japanese emblem.

And even after winning Olympic gold, he could not celebrate as a Korean champion.

Sohn won the marathon ahead of Britain's Ernie Harper, while another Korean, Nam Sung-yong, claimed bronze. Sohn became the first Olympic marathoner to break the 2:30 barrier, with his 2:29:19.2 Olympic record standing as a remarkable achievement. Importantly, however, his Berlin time was not a world record — his world-best mark had come the previous year in Tokyo.

The medal ceremony became one of the most haunting images in Olympic history.

As the Japanese flag was raised and the Japanese anthem played, Sohn stood on the top step of the podium with his head lowered. Nam Sung-yong stood beside him on the third step. Neither athlete was able to represent the nation from which they came.

Sohn held the laurel wreath he had received for winning the marathon across his chest, concealing the Japanese flag on his uniform.

The gesture was silent.

But the message was powerful.

He had won the race for himself and for Korea, even though the official ceremony claimed him for Japan.

Back home, Koreans celebrated his victory with enormous pride. For many, Sohn's success was a rare moment of national affirmation during colonial rule. Yet the emotions were complicated. Some Korean nationalists viewed participation in the Japanese team as a painful compromise, while others saw Sohn's victory as a powerful act of resistance against the colonial claim that Koreans were inferior.

The reaction of the Korean press became another chapter in the story.

On August 25, 1936, the Dong-A Ilbo published the famous photograph of Sohn on the podium with the Japanese flag removed from his uniform. The newspaper's journalists had deliberately erased the emblem — an act of defiance against Japan's colonial authorities. The incident triggered a major crackdown. Multiple journalists were arrested, and the newspaper was forced to suspend publication for months. Historical accounts record that eight people involved were imprisoned and that the paper was suspended for roughly nine months.

The photograph became more than an image of an Olympic champion.

It became an image of a nation trying to preserve its identity.

After Korea was liberated in 1945, Sohn's life took a new direction. He became an influential coach and helped develop the next generation of Korean distance runners. Among those he guided were Suh Yun-bok, who won the Boston Marathon in 1947, and Ham Ki-yong, the 1950 Boston Marathon champion. Sohn also served in various athletic organizations in South Korea.

In 1948, he carried the flag for the newly independent Republic of Korea at the London Olympics — another deeply symbolic moment in a life that had begun with his identity being taken from him on an Olympic starting line.

Decades later, Sohn returned to Germany and, in 1972, attended the Munich Olympics. There, he was reunited with filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl, whose film Olympia had documented the 1936 Berlin Games.

Today, Sohn Kee-chung’s legacy is also preserved in Seoul, South Korea, where a statue of the legendary marathoner stands at Sohn Kee-chung Athletic Park, near the memorial hall named in his honor. The memorial site includes a bronze head statue created in 1990, depicting Sohn in his later years, with scenes from his historic 1936 Berlin victory engraved below. Another statue, unveiled in 2016 to mark the 80th anniversary of his Olympic triumph, portrays the young Sohn proudly holding the Olympic trophy — this time with the South Korean flag in place of the Japanese emblem that had appeared on his uniform in Berlin.

But perhaps the most emotional chapter came in Seoul.

On September 17, 1988, 52 years after his Berlin triumph, the 76-year-old Sohn Kee-chung carried the Olympic torch into the stadium at the opening ceremony of the Seoul Olympics.

Think about what that moment represented.

In Berlin in 1936, he had stood on the Olympic podium beneath a foreign flag, unable to openly celebrate his victory as a Korean.

In Seoul in 1988, he entered an Olympic stadium carrying the flame for his own country.

The symbolism was almost impossible to miss.

The young runner who had once been forced to compete under the name Kitei Son was now an elderly Korean national hero, carrying the Olympic flame before his people.

He had spent more than five decades watching history slowly return his name to him.

Sohn Kee-chung died in November 15, 2002, aged 90, in Seoul, South Korea leaving behind far more than an Olympic medal. He left a story about athletic greatness, identity, dignity and resistance — a story in which a marathon victory became inseparable from the history of an entire nation.

His Berlin gold medal may have been officially recorded under Japan's name.

But in Korea, the champion was always Sohn Kee-chung.

And perhaps that is why the photograph of him standing on the podium, head bowed and the laurel wreath covering the Japanese emblem, remains so powerful.

He won the race in Berlin. But the world took decades to understand who had actually won it.

History was made on Sunday morning, August 16, 2026, as Eritrea’s Habtom Samuel produced a breathtaking performance at the Falmouth Road Race, becoming the first athlete in the event’s history to break the 31-minute barrier.

The 22-year-old Samuel, competing in his first Falmouth Road Race and only his second professional road race, turned an already remarkable debut into a piece of history. The former University of New Mexico standout completed his transition to the professional ranks following an undefeated collegiate season and has now opened his professional career with two victories.

The men’s race unfolded at a ferocious pace from the opening miles, with the leaders threatening the long-standing course record almost immediately. By the fifth mile, the contest had narrowed to a two-man duel between Samuel and Kenya’s Edwin Kurgat.

The pair remained together from the end of Surf Drive until around the turn onto Falmouth Heights Road, matching each other stride for stride as the race entered its decisive stages.

Then Samuel found another gear.

With roughly a mile remaining, the Eritrean surged decisively away from Kurgat and never looked back. He powered toward the finish with authority, creating an 11-second winning margin and stopping the clock in 30:54.

His performance shattered the previous course record of 31:08 and made him the first athlete ever to dip under 31 minutes at Falmouth.

The record had stood for more than two decades. Kenya’s Gilbert Okari first established the 31:08 mark in 2004, while compatriot Wesley Kiptoo equalled it in 2023. Samuel’s extraordinary run finally moved the benchmark into a new era.

“Breaking this course record in this amazing historical road race is awesome,” Samuel said. “I’m so proud of myself and I’m glad to be the first person able to run under 31 minutes.”

Samuel’s victory also continues a remarkable start to his professional career. After completing an undefeated campaign at the University of New Mexico, he made his road-racing debut at the Beach to Beacon 10K in Maine in July, where he immediately claimed victory. His Falmouth triumph now makes it two wins from two professional road races.

Kurgat, meanwhile, produced a performance that would have been enough to win every previous edition of the Falmouth Road Race. The 2019 champion crossed the line in a remarkable 31:04, finishing comfortably inside the former course-record mark despite being unable to match Samuel’s decisive late surge.

The American men also delivered a memorable battle behind the leading pair.

Zouhair Talbi, the American course-record holder at the Boston Marathon, and Conner Mantz, the American record holder in both the half marathon and marathon, spent much of the race locked together as they battled for the top American position.

Talbi ultimately prevailed, finishing third overall in 31:17 and setting a new American course record for the Falmouth course. It marked his best finish at the race, improving on last year’s fifth-place result.

Mantz followed closely in 31:19, also running faster than the previous American course record.

The result was a spectacular morning on Cape Cod, with the race producing a new overall course record, a historic first sub-31-minute performance and four men finishing faster than the previous 31:08 benchmark.

But above them all stood Samuel, whose remarkable surge in the final stages transformed a closely fought road race into one of the defining performances in Falmouth Road Race history.

World record holder Sabastian Sawe is set to return to the BMW Berlin Marathon on September 27, where the Kenyan superstar will defend his title and attempt to add another remarkable chapter to his already extraordinary marathon career.

Sawe arrives in Berlin with unprecedented confidence after his sensational 1:59:30 performance in London, which made him the first athlete to officially break the two-hour barrier in the marathon. That landmark achievement has elevated expectations for his return to the German capital, where he will once again line up on one of the fastest marathon courses in the world.

The Kenyan won the 2025 Berlin Marathon in 2:02:16 despite warm conditions, demonstrating his ability to produce a world-class performance even when circumstances are far from ideal. This time, he returns as the defending champion and world-record holder, with the famously flat Berlin course providing another opportunity to test the limits of what is possible over 42.195km.

Berlin has a remarkable history of producing record-breaking performances, and Sawe's presence immediately raises the possibility of another extraordinary race. The question now is whether the 31-year-old can go beyond his own 1:59:30 world record and take the marathon to an even higher level.

However, Sawe will face formidable opposition.

Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay has joined the elite field, bringing a personal best of 2:03:00 set in Valencia in 2022. The 29-year-old Tanzanian record holder established himself among the world’s leading marathoners with that performance and further underlined his credentials by finishing runner-up at the 2023 Boston Marathon.

Ethiopia’s Guye Adola will also return to Berlin, the scene of some of the most memorable moments of his marathon career. In 2017, Adola stunned the athletics world on his marathon debut, pushing Eliud Kipchoge deep into the race before finishing second in a remarkable 2:03:46. Four years later, on September 26, 2021, Adola returned to Berlin and claimed victory in 2:05:45, adding another significant chapter to his association with the iconic German marathon. Now, after his recent return to top form, he will once again line up on the streets where he has already made history.

Now 35, Adola has endured injury setbacks in recent years, but his victory at the Rotterdam Marathon in 2:03:54 this spring proved that he remains a major force on the international marathon circuit.

The addition of Geay and Adola adds further quality to a field already packed with athletes capable of running at an extraordinary pace. With Sawe leading the charge, Berlin is shaping up to deliver another thrilling battle among some of the world's finest marathoners.

The depth of the field extends well beyond the leading contenders, with Ethiopia boasting an imposing group of marathoners. Getaneh Molla (2:03:34), Shura Kitata (2:03:59), Dejene Hailu (2:04:15), Selemon Barega (2:05:00), Taresa Tolosa (2:05:17), Tadu Abate (2:05:38), Asefa Boki (2:05:40) and Andamlak Belihu (2:06:40) will all bring proven credentials and the ambition to challenge for fast times in Berlin.

Japan, meanwhile, has assembled a particularly deep contingent, led by Kenya Sonota (2:05:59), Tsubasa Ichiyama (2:06:00), Kyoto Hirabayashi (2:06:14), Yuhei Urano (2:06:23), Hidekazu Hijikata (2:06:26), Yusuke Nishiyama (2:06:31), Naoki Koyama (2:06:33), Kazuya Nishiyama (2:06:45), Daisuke Uekado (2:06:54) and Shin Kimura (2:07:34). China’s Jie He (2:06:57) and Kenya’s Richard Yator (2:07:36) complete a remarkably deep field, setting the stage for a race where the battle for victory could be accompanied by a long list of outstanding personal performances.

For Sawe, though, the challenge goes beyond defending his Berlin crown. Having already broken the two-hour barrier, he now has an opportunity to chase an even more remarkable achievement on a course renowned for producing marathon history.

Can Sabastian Sawe lower his own 1:59:30 world record in Berlin on September 27?

The countdown is on, and if the conditions are right, the defending champion could once again have the marathon world watching every step.

All eyes will be on Amanal Petros when the men’s marathon takes centre stage at the 2026 European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, with the German star chasing the major championship title that has repeatedly slipped through his fingers.

Petros arrives with one of the strongest résumés in the field and the credentials to challenge for gold. At 2:04:03, he is the third-fastest European marathoner of all time, behind Belgium’s Bashir Abdi (2:03:36) and France’s Morhad Amdouni (2:03:47). That level of performance underlines Petros’ ability to compete with the very best, although his career has also been marked by agonisingly narrow defeats on the biggest stages.

His most recent heartbreak came at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where Tanzania’s Alphonce Simbu edged him out by just 0.03 seconds in one of the closest finishes in championship history. That defeat underlined both Petros’ quality and the fine margins that have prevented him from claiming an individual global title.

The European Championships have also brought frustration. At the 2024 European Athletics Championships, Petros took bronze in the half marathon after being beaten in a three-way finish by Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa. Two years earlier in Munich, he was unable to stay with the medal contenders during the decisive stages of the marathon.

Now Birmingham presents another opportunity—and Petros has every reason to believe this could finally be his moment.

His season-best of 2:08:31 does not tell the full story. At the London Marathon, Petros passed halfway in a blistering 61:16, initially targeting Bashir Abdi’s European record of 2:03:36, before easing during the latter stages. His 2:04:03 runner-up performance at the Valencia Marathon last December is arguably a much better indication of his true potential.

Standing in his way will be a strong German contingent, led alongside Petros by defending European champion Richard Ringer. Ringer produced one of the most memorable performances of the 2022 championships in Munich, unleashing a dramatic late surge during the final kilometre to overtake three athletes—including Petros—and snatch a remarkable victory.

At 37, Ringer continues to compete at an exceptional level. He produced the fastest marathon of his career in April, running 2:04:47 at the Boston Marathon to finish eighth overall while recording the fastest European time in the race.

Germany’s strength does not end there. Samuel Fitwi has been even faster in 2026, recording a personal best of 2:04:45 when finishing second at the Hamburg Marathon. That performance makes him the fastest athlete on the Birmingham entry list based on season’s bests.

With Petros, Ringer and Fitwi forming a formidable German trio, the team will have serious ambitions of collecting individual medals while also challenging for the team title. Their depth could prove particularly valuable in a championship marathon, where tactical racing and team strength can be just as important as raw personal-best times.

France’s Emmanuel Roudolff is among the principal threats to the German challenge. He established a personal best of 2:05:58 when finishing sixth at the Paris Marathon and has the speed to remain in contention if the race develops into a fast affair.

Veteran Kaan Kigen Özbilen will also bring considerable experience to the starting line. The Kenyan-born Turkish athlete, who once held the European record with 2:04:16, remains capable of competing at the highest level. He ran 2:05:59 for fifth in Barcelona earlier this year.

Israel will also arrive with a strong team, having won the marathon team title in Munich four years ago. Maru Teferi and Gashau Ayale, who claimed silver and bronze respectively in Munich, return with valuable championship experience and will hope to challenge for more medals in Birmingham.

Italy’s hopes will centre on Pietro Riva. With Crippa focusing on the 10,000m and Iliass Aouani sidelined by shin problems, Riva becomes Italy’s leading marathon contender. He finished second behind Crippa and ahead of Petros in the half marathon at the 2024 European Championships, giving him another opportunity to challenge the German favourite on the European stage.

For the home crowd, one of the most intriguing stories will be Mahamed Mahamed, who could give Britain a realistic shot at its first men’s European marathon medal in decades.

Great Britain has not won a men’s marathon medal at these championships since Ian Thompson claimed gold in Rome in 1974. Mahamed has emerged as a genuine contender after producing a lifetime best of 2:06:14 at the London Marathon in April. That performance made him the second-fastest British marathoner in history behind Mo Farah, while also placing him fourth among the Birmingham entrants based on 2026 season’s bests.

With a home crowd behind him and confidence gained from his breakthrough performance in London, Mahamed could become one of the most dangerous outsiders in the field.

Birmingham therefore promises a fascinating battle between proven championship performers, emerging German strength and a collection of experienced international challengers. Petros, however, remains the man at the centre of the story.

He has already come agonisingly close to major championship glory. He possesses the speed, experience and proven ability to run under 2:05. What remains is to produce the decisive performance when the medals are on the line.

After years of near misses, Birmingham could finally be the stage where Amanal Petros turns silver and heartbreak into European gold.

Seven years after producing one of the most extraordinary performances the marathon has ever witnessed, Brigid Kosgei is heading back to the streets where she etched her name into athletics history. The Kenyan distance-running icon will return to the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 11, 2026, rekindling memories of her breathtaking triumph in 2019 that transformed the sport forever.

Chicago was the stage where Kosgei delivered a performance for the ages, crossing the finish line in an astonishing 2:14:04 to erase Paula Radcliffe's 16-year-old women's marathon world record. That unforgettable run remains one of the greatest achievements in long-distance running and cemented her place among the finest marathoners in history.

Her return comes at the perfect moment. Kosgei arrives in exceptional form after capturing victory at the 2026 Tokyo Marathon, where she stormed to a course-record 2:14:29, proving she is once again among the world's most dangerous marathon competitors. With renewed confidence and outstanding fitness, she will be aiming to conquer Chicago for another memorable chapter in her remarkable career.

However, victory will be anything but straightforward. The 2026 women's race features one of the deepest and strongest marathon fields ever assembled, setting the stage for a spectacular battle between some of the sport's biggest names.

Defending champion Hawi Feysa returns determined to protect her Chicago crown after establishing herself among the world's elite. Ethiopia's Sutume Kebede and Megertu Alemu add further strength to an already formidable lineup, while Kenya's Brillian Kipkoech, Loice Chemnung, Joan Kilimo, Magdalyne Masai, and Mary Ngugi Cooper ensure the East African rivalry will be as fierce as ever.

Another athlete attracting enormous attention is Boston Marathon champion Sharon Lokedi, who will make her highly anticipated Chicago Marathon debut. Having already proven herself on the biggest stages, Lokedi adds another exciting dimension to a race packed with championship pedigree and world-class talent.

The international field is equally impressive, with Ethiopia's Degitu Azimeraw and Fantu Worku joining Japan's Yuka Ando, Australia's Isobel Batt-Doyle, and American standouts Sara Hall, Susanna Sullivan, Des Linden, and Natosha Rogers in pursuit of marathon glory.

With a former world-record holder returning to her most historic venue, a defending champion eager to retain her title, and several major marathon winners chasing one of the sport's most prestigious crowns, the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon promises to deliver a thrilling contest from start to finish. Every indication suggests this could become one of the most memorable women's marathon races in recent history.

As the countdown to October 11 continues, anticipation is rapidly building. Can Brigid Kosgei recreate the magic that changed marathon history, or will a new champion rise on the streets of Chicago? One thing is certain—the world will be watching as an exceptional field battles for one of road running's most coveted titles.

For generations, earning a place at the Boston Marathon has been one of the toughest achievements in distance running. Unlike most of the world's major marathons, Boston has always stood by one uncompromising principle: meet the qualifying standard—and beat everyone else who qualified—or miss out. That long-standing tradition is now evolving.

In a landmark announcement, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) has confirmed that the 2027 Boston Marathon will introduce a new lottery system, giving approximately 1,000 runners who achieve a Boston qualifying time—but narrowly miss the annual entry cut-off—a second opportunity to reach the iconic starting line in Hopkinton.

The move marks one of the most significant changes to Boston's qualification process in decades, while preserving the race's elite qualifying standards.

The new system will not replace Boston's traditional selection process. Instead, all applicants will continue to be ranked according to how much they exceeded the official qualifying standard for their respective age group and gender. After race times are verified, the fastest qualifiers will receive guaranteed entry until the field reaches capacity, establishing the annual cut-off time.

What changes in 2027 is what happens next.

Rather than ending the process there, the B.A.A. will randomly select around 1,000 additional runners from the pool of qualified athletes who fell below the cut-off. Any runner who meets the qualifying standard but is not initially accepted will automatically be entered into the draw, with no separate application required.

The announcement comes after several years of record-breaking demand.

More than 11,000 qualified runners were denied entry for both the 2024 and 2025 editions despite posting official qualifying performances. In 2024, 11,039 qualifiers missed out, while that number climbed to a record 12,324 for the 2025 race. Even for the 2026 Boston Marathon, approximately 8,900 qualified applicants were left disappointed after 33,249 runners applied for just 24,362 available places.

Under the new format, the additional 1,000 lottery entries would have provided an opportunity to roughly one in every nine to twelve rejected qualifiers based on recent registration figures.

B.A.A. President and Chief Executive Officer Jack Fleming said the initiative reflects the increasingly competitive nature of marathon running.

"With the increasingly fast times in our sport, our random Boston Qualifier Selection gives all those who have met the standard for their age group a chance to run Boston," Fleming said.

The decision also brings Boston closer to the registration models used by its fellow Abbott World Marathon Majors. While Boston has traditionally relied almost exclusively on qualifying performances, races such as London, New York City, and Chicago have long allocated significant portions of their fields through public lotteries.

Alongside the lottery announcement, the B.A.A. also confirmed another notable update for the 2027 qualifying process. For the first time, qualifying performances achieved on courses with more than 1,500 feet (457 metres) of net elevation loss will be adjusted through a downhill indexing system, ensuring a more consistent comparison of performances across different marathon courses.

Registration for qualified runners will take place from September 14–18, 2026, with all applicants expected to receive their acceptance status in early October.

While Boston's qualifying standards remain among the most demanding in the sport, the introduction of a lottery offers hope to thousands of runners whose dreams have previously been decided by mere seconds. For the first time in the race's storied history, qualifying alone may no longer guarantee disappointment for those who narrowly miss the cut—because chance will now have a place alongside speed on the road to Boston.

Defending a title at the Boston Marathon demands far more than exceptional fitness—it requires resilience, composure, and the ability to draw strength from the most unexpected places. For Kenya's Sharon Lokedi, her unforgettable victory on April 20, 2026, was powered not only by months of relentless preparation but also by a simple voice from the roadside that reminded her why the sport means so much.

As Lokedi surged toward a successful defense of her Boston Marathon crown, more than 800,000 spectators lined the iconic 26.2-mile course, creating one of the most electrifying atmospheres in world athletics. From the famous "Scream Tunnel" in Wellesley, where college students filled the air with deafening cheers, to the legendary Newton Hills, where generations of families returned to their traditional viewing spots, Boston once again delivered the unmatched energy that has made it one of the world's most celebrated marathons.

While the race demanded tactical brilliance and unwavering determination, it was not the roar of the massive crowd that remained etched in Lokedi's memory. Instead, one small but powerful moment stood above everything else.

"I heard this little girl yell out, 'You got this, ladies!' It was so cute—and that's what it's all about."

Those heartfelt words, spoken by an unknown young spectator, became an emotional highlight of Lokedi's race. Amid the physical exhaustion and relentless pace of elite marathon competition, a child's innocent encouragement cut through the noise and reminded the champion that running is about far more than medals, records, or prize money.

Elite marathoners often speak about how races eventually blur together, with every mile blending into the next under immense physical strain. Yet the moments they carry with them are often deeply personal—a handwritten sign, a smiling child, or a single voice offering encouragement at exactly the right time. For Lokedi, that brief interaction became one of the defining memories of her remarkable day in Boston.

Her reflection also captured the unique spirit of marathon racing. Unlike many sporting events, marathons bring athletes and spectators together in an intimate way, where complete strangers become part of an athlete's journey. On one of the biggest stages in distance running, the fastest woman on the streets of Boston found inspiration not from the clock or the competition, but from a young girl she may never meet.

That simple exchange perfectly illustrated why the Boston Marathon continues to hold such a special place in the hearts of runners around the world. Beyond the fierce competition and historic achievements, it is the shared human connection between athletes and fans that transforms the race into something unforgettable. Sharon Lokedi defended her title with the heart of a champion, but her most cherished memory came from a reminder that the greatest victories are often measured not only by crossing the finish line first, but by the lives touched along the way.

The 2026 Valencia Marathon is already shaping up to be one of the most eagerly anticipated races of the year, with an exceptional men's field confirmed for 6 December. As the countdown begins, one question is capturing the imagination of athletics fans worldwide: Can John Korir become the next man to break the two-hour barrier in an official marathon?

Korir returns to Valencia as the defending champion, having stormed to victory in 2025 with a then-personal best of 2:02:24. Since that triumph, the Kenyan has elevated his career to another level. On 20 April 2026, he delivered a sensational performance at the Boston Marathon, smashing the course record and lowering his lifetime best to 2:01:52. That remarkable run confirmed his status as one of the fastest and most dangerous marathoners in the world.

With his confidence soaring and his form peaking, Korir now heads back to the Spanish city where he first announced himself as a Valencia champion. The course's flat profile, cool December conditions and reputation for producing exceptionally fast times make it an ideal venue for another historic performance.

Standing in his way is Ethiopia's Yomif Kejelcha, whose marathon career has begun in spectacular fashion. In April, Kejelcha stunned the athletics world by clocking 1:59:41 on his 26.2-mile debut in London, becoming only the second athlete in history to cover the marathon distance in under two hours. His arrival in Valencia immediately raises the prospect of another record-breaking performance.

Kejelcha is no stranger to success on Valencia's streets. In 2024, he produced a then-world-record 57:30 to win the Valencia Half Marathon, demonstrating just how perfectly the course suits his aggressive racing style. That previous success makes him one of the leading contenders for marathon victory.

Adding even greater quality to the field is fellow Kenyan Alexander Mutiso, the 2024 London Marathon champion, who owns a personal best of 2:03:11. With three proven world-class athletes lining up, the men's race promises to be one of the strongest marathon contests of the season.

While breaking the two-hour barrier in an official marathon remains one of the greatest challenges in athletics, Valencia has built a reputation as a stage where extraordinary performances become reality. If the pace is relentless and the weather cooperates, fans could witness one of the fastest marathons ever run.

On 6 December, the streets of Valencia will host far more than a battle for victory. They will provide the stage for a fascinating showdown between defending champion John Korir, the explosive Yomif Kejelcha, and Alexander Mutiso—a clash that could redefine the limits of marathon running.

In a sport filled with record breakers, Olympic champions, and marathon legends, few people have shaped the running world as profoundly as Hal Higdon. This week, the iconic coach, author, and lifelong runner celebrated his 95th birthday—a milestone that offers the global running community a chance to reflect on an extraordinary legacy that continues to inspire runners of every level.

For countless marathoners, Higdon's name is instantly familiar. Long before training apps and smartwatches became the norm, aspiring runners were printing out his training plans, pinning them to refrigerators, and following them mile by mile toward goals they once thought impossible. His programs transformed marathon preparation from something reserved for elite athletes into a journey that ordinary people could embrace with confidence.

Born and raised in Chicago, Higdon's relationship with running stretches back nearly eight decades. He began competing in 1947 and built a remarkable competitive career that included eight appearances at the U.S. Olympic Trials. His achievements on the roads were equally impressive. A regular competitor at the prestigious Boston Marathon, Higdon delivered one of his finest performances in 1964, finishing fifth overall in 2:21:55 and emerging as the top American finisher.

Yet what makes his story truly remarkable is not simply the races he ran, but the longevity and passion with which he pursued them. Over the course of his life, Higdon completed 111 marathons. Even approaching his 70th birthday, he demonstrated the same determination that defined his younger years by running seven marathons in seven consecutive months.

While his accomplishments as an athlete earned admiration, it was his work as a writer and coach that cemented his place in running history. Over the years, he authored more than three dozen books and became one of the most trusted voices in the sport through his extensive work with Runner's World. His landmark publication, Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide, now in its fifth edition, remains a trusted companion for first-time marathoners around the world.

What sets Higdon apart is his ability to make the marathon feel achievable. His training philosophy emphasized consistency, patience, and gradual progress rather than intimidating mileage or complex workouts. Through simple, structured plans, he helped generations of runners discover that the marathon was not reserved for a select few—it was a challenge that anyone willing to commit could conquer.

Perhaps the most remarkable part of the story is that his influence remains active today. His training plans continue to be freely available online, reaching new runners every year. The family business remains strong, supported by his children and grandchildren, ensuring that his guidance continues to inspire future generations.

Many lifetime achievement awards serve as a final chapter in a distinguished career. Hal Higdon's story is different. At 95, he remains engaged, writing, teaching, and encouraging runners across the globe. His impact is measured not only in races completed or books sold, but in the millions of lives he has touched through the simple belief that ordinary people are capable of extraordinary things.

As runners around the world shared their stories and gratitude in celebration of his birthday, one message rang clear: the sport owes Hal Higdon far more than applause. It owes him generations of first miles, first finish lines, and first marathons.

At 95, the legendary coach is still inspiring runners to take the next step forward—and that may be his greatest achievement of all.

British marathon star Calli Hauger-Thackery has become the latest elite athlete to join UCAN, announcing a new sponsorship agreement while navigating one of the most significant chapters of her life — pregnancy.

The 33-year-old Olympian revealed the partnership on Instagram this week, describing the nutrition brand as a key part of her recent training and racing success. Hauger-Thackery said she relied on UCAN's slow-release carbohydrate products throughout her preparation for the Boston Marathon and during the race itself, crediting the brand for helping her manage the demands of elite competition.

“UCAN has literally been a saviour during this time for me,” she wrote, sharing the news with her followers.

The announcement comes at a remarkable stage in Hauger-Thackery's career. Despite being pregnant, she remains one of Britain's most accomplished distance runners. Her personal best of 2:21:24 makes her the second-fastest British woman in marathon history, trailing only legendary marathon world-record holder Paula Radcliffe.

Recent months have highlighted her outstanding form. Hauger-Thackery claimed victory at the JAL Honolulu Marathon in December before following it up with another impressive win at the Chevron Houston Marathon in January, cementing her place among the world's leading marathoners.

Yet the sponsorship news arrives against a backdrop that has already placed UCAN under public scrutiny.

Earlier this year, American marathon star Emma Bates publicly alleged that the company ended their three-year partnership shortly after she informed them she was pregnant. The claim sparked widespread discussion across the running community about athlete sponsorship, maternity protections, and the challenges female athletes often face when starting families while pursuing professional careers.

UCAN disputed Bates' account and rejected suggestions that her pregnancy influenced the decision. Bates has since moved on, signing a sponsorship agreement with sports nutrition company NeverSecond.

Neither Hauger-Thackery nor UCAN referenced the controversy when announcing their new partnership. Instead, the focus remained on performance, trust, and the athlete's positive experience with the products.

Still, the timing of the announcement inevitably draws attention. In a sport that continues to examine how pregnancy and motherhood intersect with professional athletics, the signing of a pregnant elite marathoner by a company recently involved in a high-profile maternity-related dispute is likely to generate discussion.

For Hauger-Thackery, however, the story is currently about a new partnership and the next phase of an already remarkable journey. As one of Britain's greatest marathon talents balances elite competition with impending motherhood, her latest sponsorship deal adds another compelling chapter to a career that continues to break barriers both on and off the road.

Long before women's distance running received the recognition it deserved, a young girl from the historic streets of Porto was quietly preparing to change the sport forever.

Born in the Foz Velha district of Portugal's second-largest city, Rosa Mota grew up battling asthma and sciatica—two conditions that might have convinced many that elite athletics was an impossible dream. In an era when opportunities for female athletes were scarce and expectations even lower, she was often reminded of her supposed limitations.

Rosa chose not to listen.

Instead, she ran.

She ran beyond the boundaries others placed around her. She ran beyond pain. She ran beyond doubt. And in doing so, she became one of the greatest marathon runners the world has ever known.

When the inaugural women's marathon was introduced at the 1982 European Championships in Athens, few outside Portugal expected Rosa Mota to be a contender. The race featured some of the finest distance runners of the era, including Norway's legendary Ingrid Kristiansen.

By the end of the race, expectations had been shattered.

Mota stormed to victory, announcing herself on the international stage and beginning a reign that would redefine women's marathon running. It was not merely a breakthrough win—it was the arrival of a champion whose influence would extend far beyond medals and records.

What made Rosa extraordinary was not overwhelming physical dominance. Her greatness stemmed from something deeper: an unbreakable resilience, remarkable tactical intelligence, and an ability to perform under the highest pressure. She carried herself with calm confidence, but beneath that calm was an iron determination that competitors found impossible to match.

Over the next decade, Mota assembled one of the most remarkable résumés in athletics history.

She became European champion, World champion, and Olympic champion—a combination no other woman has ever held simultaneously in the marathon. Her crowning achievement arrived at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, where she produced a masterclass in championship racing.

With just two kilometres remaining, Mota launched a perfectly timed surge that left her rivals with no answer. She crossed the finish line 13 seconds clear of the field, securing Olympic gold and becoming the first Portuguese woman in history to win an Olympic title.

The victory elevated her from national hero to global icon.

Her success did not stop there.

In 1990, she captured her third Boston Marathon title, further cementing her status among the sport's elite. Later that same year, she defended her European Championship crown in Split in dramatic fashion. After building a commanding lead, she was gradually reeled in by Soviet athlete Valentina Yegorova. Yet when the race entered its decisive moments, Mota found another gear and held on to win by five seconds.

The triumph made history.

No athlete—male or female—had ever won three European marathon titles. Rosa Mota became the first.

Numbers alone illustrate the scale of her dominance. During a remarkable ten-year period, she contested 21 marathons and won 14 of them. Consistency at such a level is almost unheard of, particularly in an event as demanding as the marathon.

The sport itself eventually delivered its verdict.

The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races honoured Mota as the greatest female marathon runner of all time, a distinction reflecting not only her achievements but also the profound impact she had on the development of women's distance running worldwide.

Yet despite her accomplishments, her name is not always mentioned as frequently as some of her male contemporaries. It is one of the lingering injustices of sporting history: many pioneering women achieved greatness equal to any champion, yet their stories often received far less attention.

Rosa Mota deserves to be remembered among the sport's immortals.

Even after retiring from elite competition, she never drifted far from running. She carried the Olympic flame through Athens in 2004, received the prestigious Abebe Bikila Award for her contributions to long-distance running, and continued competing well into her sixties.

Remarkably, age did little to slow her down.

She won the Macau Mini Marathon multiple times and later set a world record for the women's 65–69 age category over 10,000 metres, proving that the spirit which drove her to Olympic glory never faded.

Today, a sports pavilion in Porto proudly bears her name—a fitting tribute to a woman whose achievements transcended generations.

Rosa Mota's story is not simply about medals, records, or championships. It is a story of perseverance. A story of breaking barriers when few believed they should be broken. A story of showing up, year after year, race after race, regardless of the obstacles.

Some champions are remembered because they were loud.

Others are remembered because they changed history.

Rosa Mota did both through the power of her performances alone.

She was a pioneer. She was a trailblazer. She was an Olympic champion.

And for many, she remains the greatest female marathon runner the sport has ever seen.

The California International Marathon is preparing for one of the most significant transformations in its history, with organizers confirming plans to dramatically expand the race beginning in 2027. Long regarded as one of America's premier marathon courses, CIM will nearly double its capacity while giving runners more time to reach the finish line, opening the door for thousands of additional participants.

The announcement follows a new agreement involving Union Pacific, whose freight rail operations have historically influenced race-day logistics along the course. Under the new arrangement, trains will be held for a longer period, allowing organizers to extend road closures and accommodate a much larger field than ever before.

As a result, participation is expected to grow from approximately 10,000 runners to nearly 20,000 through the introduction of a second starting wave. The expansion marks a major milestone for a race that has steadily increased in popularity among both elite competitors and recreational marathoners.

Perhaps the most welcome change for many runners is the extension of the race cutoff time. For years, CIM enforced a strict six-hour limit, largely because the course needed to reopen before scheduled rail operations resumed. Beginning in 2027, that deadline will be extended to at least six hours and 45 minutes, with race organizers gaining an additional 45 minutes to an hour of road-closure time.

The revised cutoff creates new opportunities for participants who may have previously struggled to finish within the existing time restriction. More runners will now be able to complete the marathon experience without the pressure of an unusually demanding cutoff clock.

Despite the expansion, the California International Marathon will retain the characteristics that have made it one of the world's most respected marathon courses. The point-to-point route from Folsom to downtown Sacramento remains unchanged, featuring a net elevation drop of 366 feet while staying comfortably within Boston Marathon qualifying standards for downhill courses.

Combined with Northern California's typically cool early-December conditions, the course has earned a reputation as one of the fastest and most reliable venues for athletes chasing personal bests and Boston Marathon qualification marks.

That reputation is supported by impressive numbers. In 2025, more than 30 percent of CIM finishers achieved Boston-qualifying times, an extraordinary statistic that highlights the race's appeal among serious marathoners. With Boston Marathon qualifying standards becoming five minutes faster for most age groups beginning in 2026, fast and athlete-friendly courses such as CIM are expected to become even more sought after.

For runners planning their next marathon, there is no immediate change. The 2026 edition will operate under the same format that has defined the event for more than four decades. The landmark expansion—including the larger field and extended cutoff time—will officially debut in 2027.

As the California International Marathon enters a new era, organizers are balancing growth with tradition, ensuring that one of America's most celebrated road races remains both accessible and competitive. For thousands of future participants, the message is clear: there will soon be more room on the start line and more opportunity at the finish.

Age may slow the clock, but it does not have to limit ambition. At 90 years old, Bill Schwarz has achieved something many runners spend a lifetime pursuing—completing his first marathon.

On May 31, Schwarz took on the full 26.2-mile challenge at the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon, embarking on a journey that was never about pace, rankings, or finishing inside the official cutoff time. For him, there was only one goal: cover the entire distance.

More than nine hours after starting, Schwarz was still moving forward. While the official race clock had long stopped, he continued until his watch confirmed he had completed every mile of the marathon course. That was the achievement that mattered most.

Schwarz’s remarkable accomplishment is made even more inspiring by the life he has led. A retired engineer, he once contributed to the Apollo space program, helping design components that played a role in humanity’s journey to the moon. Decades later, he is still proving that exploration and perseverance know no age limit.

Unlike many people in their later years, Schwarz takes no medication and has never undergone a joint replacement. Running first entered his life in the 1950s when he was a high school student. What began as a practical way to balance his interests eventually became something much deeper. Over the years, he stepped away from the sport and returned to it several times, describing running as a form of meditation that brings clarity and peace.

The marathon dream gained new meaning following the loss of his wife, Janice, two and a half years ago. Searching for purpose and direction during a difficult period, Schwarz registered for a local 5K race. That single event reignited his passion for movement and personal challenge.

One race led to another. A 5K became a half marathon. Then another half marathon. Soon, he had completed five. Last year, he walked and ran 60 miles along Spain’s historic Camino de Santiago over six days. The experience convinced him that his body was capable of tackling an even greater challenge—the marathon.

Determined to give himself every opportunity to succeed, Schwarz committed fully to preparation. He trained approximately ten hours each week with the support of a strength coach, running coach, stretch trainer, and Pilates instructor. Along the way, he lost 40 pounds and embraced a data-driven approach to training, monitoring his effort through heart-rate zones and using modern technology to help plan his nutrition strategy.

On race day, he was not alone. A friend of his daughter accompanied him throughout the entire journey, providing encouragement and companionship over every mile of the demanding course.

Yet, despite finally conquering his first marathon at an age when most people have long retired from athletic pursuits, Schwarz is not finished dreaming.

His sights are already set on the next challenge: the Boston Marathon. The oldest official finisher in the race’s storied history was 84 years old, meaning Schwarz could potentially rewrite the record books if he reaches the starting line and completes the course.

Before taking on San Diego, he summed up his philosophy with a simple but powerful statement:

"My objective is to finish. And whatever time it takes, it's going to be wonderful."

That mindset carried him through 26.2 miles and into marathon history. More importantly, it delivered a message that resonates far beyond running: goals do not have an expiration date, and it is never too late to pursue a dream.

The city of Boston is set to welcome back one of its most celebrated champions as Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi headlines a world-class field for the 2026 B.A.A. 10K presented by Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute on June 21.

Fresh from another remarkable victory at the Boston Marathon in April, Lokedi returns to the streets of Boston and Cambridge carrying both momentum and confidence as she aims to defend the title she captured in dominant fashion last year.

The two-time Boston Marathon champion has developed a special connection with the historic race city. In 2025, she produced a course-record performance of 2:17:22 to win the Boston Marathon before returning this year to claim another victory in 2:18:51, the second-fastest winning time in the event’s storied history. Her success has cemented her status as one of the premier road runners in the world.

Lokedi will be making her first competitive appearance since her marathon triumph and arrives as the reigning B.A.A. 10K champion after clocking 31:39 over the challenging 6.2-mile course in 2025.

“Boston has become a very special place for me,” Lokedi said ahead of the race. “The atmosphere created by the fans and the community is unlike anywhere else. I’m excited to return and give everything I have to defend my title.”

The women’s race promises to be highly competitive. American Olympian Rachel Smith, who finished second at the Boston 5K in April, leads the domestic challenge. Kenya’s strong contingent includes African 10,000m champion Gladys Kwamboka, former B.A.A. 10K runner-up Stacy Ndiwa, and experienced road racer Viola Cheptoo. British Olympian Jessica Warner-Judd adds further international depth to a field packed with proven performers.

The men’s race is equally impressive, featuring elite athletes from 13 nations.

Ethiopia’s Dawit Seare enters as one of the leading contenders after capturing the 2025 Boston 5K title and bringing the fastest 10K personal best in the field at 27:21. Kenya will be represented by an accomplished group led by Alexander Mutiso, winner of the 2024 London Marathon and runner-up at last year’s New York City Marathon.

Patrick Kiprop also arrives in outstanding form after securing victory at the prestigious BolderBoulder 10K on Memorial Day, while Alex Masai returns looking to continue his strong record in Boston. Masai recently finished ninth at the Boston Marathon and has earned three top-ten finishes at the B.A.A. 10K.

Among the international stars making their mark is South Africa’s Adriaan Wildschutt, who makes his race debut after an impressive season highlighted by victory at the NYC Half Marathon in 59:30. Ethiopia’s Olympic bronze medallist Hagos Gebrhiwet adds further quality to the field, bringing a wealth of championship experience and previous success in Boston.

Canadian national 10K champion Andrew Alexander, two-time U.S. Olympian Hillary Bor, marathon standout Ryan Ford, and reigning USA 25K champion Andrew Colley complete a field stacked with talent and depth.

With defending champions, Olympic finalists, national champions and rising stars all converging on Boston, the 2026 B.A.A. 10K is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions in recent memory. For Sharon Lokedi, however, the mission is simple: return to the city where she has repeatedly excelled and add another memorable chapter to her growing Boston legacy.

The streets of Central Park are once again preparing for a spectacle of speed, rivalry, and history as the 54th edition of the iconic Mastercard New York Mini 10K returns on Saturday, June 6. Widely celebrated as the world’s original women-only road race, the event has assembled one of the strongest fields ever seen in global road running, headlined by Olympic champions, world record holders, and national icons ready to ignite New York City.

At the center of attention will be Kenya’s marathon queen Hellen Obiri, who returns to defend her crown after establishing herself as one of the most dominant athletes on the New York Road Runners circuit. Obiri already owns an extraordinary NYRR triple crown, having conquered the Mini 10K, the NYC Half, and the New York City Marathon, and now faces another major test against a world-class lineup hungry to dethrone her.

Standing directly in her path is fellow Kenyan sensation Agnes Ngetich, the reigning world 10K record holder whose astonishing 28:46 performance rewrote history and made her the first woman ever to break the 29-minute barrier on the roads. Ngetich arrives in New York carrying immense momentum after capturing victory at the 2026 World Cross Country Championships, and her Mini 10K debut immediately elevates the race into must-watch territory.

The highly anticipated clash becomes even more compelling with the return of Sharon Lokedi. Fresh from cementing her status as a two-time Boston Marathon champion, Lokedi is eager to improve on last year’s runner-up finish in New York. Her recent rivalry with Obiri has already captivated the distance running world, and fans who were left wanting more after their dramatic Boston battle will now witness another thrilling chapter unfold in Central Park.

Adding further international firepower is Slovenia’s Klara Lukan, who continues to redefine European distance running standards. Lukan recently became the first European woman in history to run under 30 minutes for 10 kilometers, and her NYRR debut introduces yet another dangerous contender capable of shaking up the podium.

The American challenge is equally formidable. Leading the home contingent is Weini Kelati, the fastest American woman ever over 10 kilometers and the newly crowned American half marathon record holder following her brilliant 1:06:04 run in Barcelona. Kelati’s rise has positioned her among the world’s elite, and racing on home soil could provide the perfect stage for another breakthrough performance.

Jess McClain also enters with confidence soaring after finishing as the top American at the 2026 Boston Marathon while simultaneously breaking the women’s course record. Emma Grace Hurley, the American 8K record holder and two-time national champion, further strengthens the domestic lineup alongside notable names such as Annie Frisbie, Dakotah Popehn, Ednah Kurgat, and Amanda Vestri.

With Olympic pedigree, world records, national milestones, and fierce rivalries all converging in one race, the 2026 Mastercard New York Mini 10K promises far more than a traditional road event. It is shaping up to be a celebration of women’s distance running at its absolute highest level — a race where legends defend their legacy and rising stars chase history beneath the iconic skyline of New York City.

For the second consecutive year, Rory Linkletter has proven that resilience, consistency, and courage still define the soul of marathon running.

The Canadian distance star once again embraced one of the toughest challenges in elite road racing — competing at both the Boston Marathon and the Ottawa Marathon within the span of a single month — and once again delivered performances that placed him among the very best.

In 2025, Linkletter stunned the marathon world by clocking a remarkable 2:07:02 to finish sixth in Boston before returning weeks later to take second place in Ottawa with another elite performance of 2:08:31. Rather than treating the back-to-back races as a one-time experiment, he returned in 2026 and repeated the demanding double with equal determination.

This year, the Canadian standout crossed the line in 2:06:04 at Boston against one of the deepest marathon fields assembled, finishing 14th in a brutally competitive race. Many athletes would have ended their spring season there, but Linkletter chose to push further. In Ottawa, he once again demonstrated his remarkable endurance and competitive spirit, battling his way to third place in 2:09:43.

Running two world-class marathons within weeks is an enormous physical and mental undertaking, especially at such elite speeds. Yet Linkletter has built a reputation around embracing difficult challenges and showing up fearlessly against the world’s strongest fields. His ability to recover quickly and still produce championship-level performances speaks volumes about both his preparation and mindset.

Beyond the finishing times and podium places, Linkletter’s humility continues to resonate with fans across the running world. Reflecting on his demanding back-to-back marathon campaigns, he offered a simple but heartfelt message:

“Just thankful for everyone in my corner.”

That gratitude has become part of what makes his journey so compelling. While marathon running often celebrates records and victories, Linkletter’s story highlights another side of the sport — perseverance, loyalty to the process, and appreciation for the people who make success possible.

In an era where many athletes carefully limit their racing schedules, Rory Linkletter continues to embrace the grind, proving that toughness and consistency remain among the marathon’s most admirable qualities.

Germany’s top marathoners Richard Ringer and Samuel Fitwi will headline the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon on October 25, setting up what could become one of the most exciting marathons ever staged on German soil.

Currently ranked No. 2 and No. 3 on Germany’s all-time marathon list, Samuel Fitwi and Richard Ringer have their eyes firmly set on the national record of 2:04:03 held by Amanal Petros. Fitwi ran 2:04:45 in Hamburg earlier this year, while Ringer clocked 2:04:47 in Boston in April on the famously difficult and non-record-eligible course.

The Mainova Frankfurt Marathon, one of Europe’s fastest courses and an Elite Label Road Race of World Athletics, has long been known for producing breakthrough performances. Organizers are expecting tremendous interest this year and are increasing the race capacity from 18,500 to 20,000 runners.

“Samuel and Richard running here is proof of the strong position and appeal of the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon,” said Race Director Jo Schindler. “We expect a spectacular race and will provide the best possible set-up for their races. Perhaps, as we did in 2015 with Arne Gabius, we can produce another piece of German marathon history.”

Frankfurt was the site of Gabius’s historic 2:08:33 national record performance in 2015, ending a 27-year-old mark held by Jörg Peter.

For Richard Ringer, Frankfurt holds special meaning. Although this will be his first time racing the marathon there, he previously served as a pacemaker at the event in 2018 for Arne Gabius. The race helped launch his eventual move toward the marathon.

“I have fond memories of Frankfurt and am very much looking forward to racing there on October 25,” said the 37-year-old Ringer, who won marathon gold at the 2022 European Championships in Munich. “If we can win a medal in Birmingham, then run 2:04 and maybe even win Frankfurt, we would have done everything right.”

Both Ringer and Fitwi are expected to compete at the European Championships in Birmingham in August before turning their full focus toward Frankfurt. Ringer believes the championship course may actually help his preparation.

“With the hilly course in Birmingham, I do not expect an especially fast race there,” he said. “It could feel more like a long training run with a fast final 10K.”

Samuel Fitwi enters Frankfurt in the best form of his career. His runner-up finish in Hamburg made him the first German man since Carsten Eich in 1999 to finish on the podium there.

“Frankfurt is a super-fast course,” said the 30-year-old Fitwi. “I want to improve my personal best again. Of course I always want to win and ideally break the national record. But even a PB and a podium finish would be a superb result.”

Richard Ringer also produced a landmark performance this spring when he finished eighth at the Boston Marathon, becoming the first German man in nearly 100 years to place in the top 10 of the iconic race. The last German to accomplish something comparable was Paul de Bruyn, who won Boston in 1932.

With two of Europe’s fastest marathoners lining up on one of the world’s quickest courses, Frankfurt could become the stage for another historic chapter in German distance running.

Not every sporting legend arrives wrapped in noise and spectacle. Some emerge gradually, almost unnoticed at first, built not on flamboyance but on resilience, discipline, and an unshakable belief in endurance. That was the essence of Gelindo Bordin — a man whose greatness unfolded not in dramatic declarations, but stride by stride across the unforgiving roads of marathon racing.

Long before Olympic glory found him, Bordin was simply a determined young runner from Vicenza, training with little indication that history was quietly preparing a place for his name. There was nothing theatrical about his rise. His running carried a calm rhythm, patient and controlled, yet beneath that composure lived a relentless competitive spirit waiting for the right stage to reveal itself.

That revelation began in earnest at the 1986 European Championships in Stuttgart. The marathon unfolded like a battle of endurance against fatigue, and Bordin mastered it with remarkable maturity. He did not dominate through reckless aggression; instead, he absorbed the suffering better than everyone else. As rivals faded in the closing stages, the Italian surged toward gold, announcing himself as one of the finest marathon runners of his generation.

A year later came another defining examination at the 1987 World Championships in Rome. The brutal heat transformed the race into a test of survival, punishing every tactical mistake. While others attacked too early, Bordin ran with restraint and intelligence, conserving both energy and composure for the decisive final kilometres. When exhaustion consumed the field after 35 kilometres, he moved forward with clinical precision, earning a hard-fought bronze medal that showcased not only physical strength, but extraordinary patience and tactical discipline.

Yet it was at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul where Gelindo Bordin elevated himself from elite athlete to eternal icon.

The Olympic marathon began cautiously, with Bordin sitting quietly among the leading pack, unreadable and composed. As the race intensified beyond the halfway mark, the contenders gradually separated themselves from the rest. By the closing stages, only three men appeared capable of winning Olympic gold: Bordin, Kenya’s Douglas Wakiihuri, and Djibouti’s Ahmed Salah.

Then came the moment that seemed to decide the race.

Ahmed Salah launched a ferocious acceleration, dragging Wakiihuri with him and opening a painful gap on the Italian. The marathon appeared settled. Spectators believed Bordin was fading toward bronze, honourable but beaten. The leaders looked gone.

But greatness often reveals itself in the darkest kilometres of a marathon.

Somewhere inside the agony of those final moments, Bordin discovered reserves that defied logic. He began clawing his way back with astonishing determination, reducing the gap metre by metre. First he reeled in Wakiihuri. Then he hunted down Salah himself. And once he surged into the lead, there was no hesitation left in him.

With less than a kilometre remaining, Gelindo Bordin was no longer merely competing for victory — he was running into history.

He crossed the finish line as Olympic champion, becoming the first Italian ever to win Olympic gold in the marathon. It remains one of the most courageous comeback victories the event has ever witnessed, a masterpiece forged through patience, timing, and refusal to surrender.

Bordin’s excellence did not end in Seoul. In 1990, he defended his European marathon title, becoming the first athlete in history to achieve that feat. That same year, he conquered the legendary Boston Marathon, a triumph he later described as the second-greatest performance of his career. Battling cold winds and the relentless demands of the Boston course, he delivered another unforgettable display of strength and tactical brilliance.

To this day, Gelindo Bordin remains the only athlete ever to win both the Olympic marathon and the Boston Marathon — a distinction that elevates his legacy into truly rare territory.

Like every great endurance athlete, however, his journey eventually encountered heartbreak. Tokyo brought disappointment. Barcelona in 1992 brought something even more painful: a groin injury that shattered his hopes of defending his Olympic crown midway through the race. Soon after, Bordin stepped away from professional competition.

His retirement carried the same quiet dignity that had defined his running career. He did not leave the sport defeated. He left it complete.

What endures most about Gelindo Bordin is not merely the medals or records, but the spirit behind them. His story is a timeless reminder that patience can become a weapon, that resilience often matters more than spectacle, and that the calmest competitors sometimes produce the loudest echoes in sporting history.

In an era that often celebrates noise, Gelindo Bordin proved that true greatness can still arrive in silence — and run straight into immortality.

For decades, women were pushed to the margins of competitive distance running, denied opportunities in races that today define the pinnacle of endurance sport. The idea of women conquering extreme distances was once dismissed entirely by sporting authorities who believed the female body was incapable of enduring such physical punishment.

The history is impossible to ignore.

The legendary Boston Marathon did not officially allow female entrants until 1972, despite women proving for years that they could compete at the highest level. Even more striking, the Olympic marathon remained closed to women until the 1984 Games, a staggering reminder of how recently barriers still existed in elite running.

Now, decades later, the sport has witnessed another groundbreaking chapter — one that perfectly captures how dramatically the landscape has changed.

While men may generally possess advantages in raw speed and physical strength, endurance science has increasingly highlighted areas where women excel — particularly in prolonged fatigue resistance, energy efficiency, and the remarkable ability to tolerate physical suffering over extreme durations. Few performances in recent memory have illustrated that reality more powerfully than what unfolded this week in the Arizona wilderness.

On the brutal and unforgiving trails of the Cocodona 250, Rachel Entrekin produced one of the greatest ultramarathon performances ever witnessed, defeating the entire field outright to claim her third consecutive title in spectacular fashion.

The American endurance star conquered the staggering 254-mile course in an astonishing 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 48 seconds — the fastest time ever recorded over the distance by any athlete.

Male or female.

Across punishing mountain climbs, endless desert trails, technical terrain, and crushing exhaustion, Entrekin remained relentless from start to finish. Even more astonishing was the physical sacrifice behind the achievement: she reportedly completed the entire race on just 15 minutes of sleep.

In a contest where most athletes battle hallucinations, muscle failure, and severe mental fatigue, Entrekin somehow maintained elite-level pace and composure for more than two continuous days of running. The performance did not merely secure victory — it completely shattered assumptions about the limits of human endurance.

The Cocodona 250 is widely regarded as one of the most grueling ultramarathons on Earth. Stretching across Arizona’s harsh backcountry, the race tests athletes through sleep deprivation, brutal elevation gain, extreme temperatures, and relentless physical punishment that pushes even the world’s strongest runners to collapse.

Yet Entrekin appeared almost untouchable.

Adding another fascinating layer to the historic achievement was the footwear behind the run. Entrekin covered the entire course wearing the unreleased norda 055, a highly anticipated trail shoe expected to launch in the summer of 2026. Her extraordinary performance has already generated massive curiosity within the global running community, with many eager to learn more about the shoe that carried her through one of ultrarunning’s greatest displays of dominance.

More importantly, however, her victory symbolizes something far bigger than records, technology, or trophies.

It represents the evolution of women’s distance running itself — from exclusion and doubt to complete mastery on the sport’s most demanding stages. What was once considered impossible has now become undeniable reality.

And deep in the deserts and mountains of Arizona, Rachel Entrekin did more than simply win a race.

She delivered a performance that may forever redefine the boundaries of endurance sport.

The stage is set for an unforgettable day of road racing as the Rimi Riga Marathon prepares to host one of the strongest elite half marathon fields in its history on May 17, 2026. With international stars from Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, Germany, and Japan confirmed for the 21km showdown, the streets of Riga are expected to witness a breathtaking display of endurance, tactical brilliance, and raw speed.

The men’s field is packed with proven sub-one-hour performers capable of producing a blistering pace from the opening kilometers. Kenya’s Robert Kiprop Koech and James Kipkogei headline a powerful Kenyan challenge after recording personal bests of 59:51 and 59:31 respectively. Both athletes arrive in Riga carrying the reputation of fearless racers with the ability to dominate fast-paced road contests.

Tanzania’s Gabriel Gerald Geay adds even greater depth to the lineup. With a personal best of 59:18 and years of experience competing against the world’s best, Geay remains one of the strongest contenders for victory. Kenya's Alfred Kipchirchir Mukche and Charles Mbatha Matata are also expected to play major roles, while Japan’s Tomoya Ogikubo brings international flair and tactical discipline to the elite contest.

Equally captivating will be the women’s race, where some of the world’s finest distance runners are preparing for a fierce battle over 21 kilometers. Leading the field is Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, the two-time Boston Marathon champion whose rise among the sport’s elite has been extraordinary. Renowned for her calm racing style and devastating finishing kick, Lokedi enters Riga as one of the headline attractions of the entire event.

Ethiopia’s challenge will be spearheaded by Ejgayehu Taye, the World Road Running Championships bronze medallist who previously impressed in Riga during the 2023 championships. Her ability to sustain relentless pace deep into races makes her a major threat for the title. Ethiopia will also rely on rising stars Diniya Abaraya and Bertukan Welde, two athletes widely regarded as future stars of global road running.

Uganda’s Stella Chesang further strengthens the women’s lineup with her championship pedigree and proven consistency on both the track and roads. Meanwhile, Germany’s Domenika Mayer will carry European hopes as the defending Riga Marathon champion and national record holder. Her experience on the Riga course could provide a crucial advantage against such a deep international field.

With elite champions, global medallists, and emerging talents all converging in Latvia, anticipation for the 2026 Rimi Riga Half Marathon continues to soar. Both the men’s and women’s races promise uncompromising competition where every second will matter, and where victory may only be decided in the dramatic closing stages.

As race day approaches, Riga is preparing not just for another marathon weekend, but for a landmark celebration of world-class road running that could deliver some of the fastest and most memorable performances of the season.

Challa Gossa of Ethiopia and Kenya’s Stacy Ndiwa denied the defending champions at the Cali Marathon in Colombia on Sunday, overcoming tough conditions of heat, humidity, and altitude to take impressive victories.

Warm temperatures above 20°C, high humidity, and an elevation of around 1,000 meters made fast times difficult and ended hopes of course records. Still, the races produced exciting finishes in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

In the men’s race, Challa Gossa surged past defending champion Evans Mayaka with just 250 meters remaining to win in 2:11:49. Mayaka, who set the course record of 2:11:04 last year, finished just five seconds back in 2:11:54, with Ethiopia’s Habtamu Birlew close behind in 2:11:56. The top four runners all broke 2:12 in a tightly contested finish.

The early pace was aggressive, with a group of ten passing 10K in 30:23, well on course-record pace. However, the humid conditions took their toll as the race progressed. By halfway (65:00), a lead pack of six runners and two pacemakers remained, including Mayaka, Birlew, Gossa, and Uganda’s Martin Musau.

After the pacemakers stepped aside and the pace slowed, the leading group stayed together deep into the race. Mayaka made a move shortly after 40K, but could not break clear. Gossa then unleashed his finishing speed in the closing meters to take his first marathon victory.

“The conditions were very difficult, so I stayed with the group and relied on my finishing speed,” said 25-year-old Gossa, who was runner-up in Frankfurt in 2024 and owns a personal best of 2:07:32.

Mayaka admitted the weather played a major role: “After the pacers stopped, I tried several times to increase the pace, but my body was too tired. The humidity and conditions were much harder than last year.”

Kenya’s Eric Kiptanui, who has a 2:05:47 personal best, dropped off the lead group before 15K but ran much of the race alone to finish sixth in 2:16:27.

In the women’s race, Stacy Ndiwa ran a controlled and confident race to win in 2:29:55, pulling away from defending champion Emmah Ndiwa with about 8 kilometers remaining. Emmah Ndiwa finished second in 2:31:01, followed by Gladys Chesir in 2:33:59. 

An early lead group of five included both Ndiwas, Chesir, Nazret Weldu, and Ethiopia’s Sadiya Awel. The pace quickened after 10K (34:35), and by halfway (73:18), three runners remained.

As in the men’s race, the second half slowed significantly due to the humidity. Awel briefly lost contact after stopping at a refreshment table at 25K and was unable to regain her position.

Stacy Ndiwa made her decisive move after 35K. “My training had gone well, and I was confident,” she said. “We were on pace early, but I began to tire, so we slowed down. When I saw Emmah struggling, I pushed harder and was able to break away.”

The 33-year-old Kenyan, who finished ninth at the Boston Marathon last year with a personal best of 2:23:29, held her lead comfortably to the finish.

The Cali Marathon continues to grow rapidly, with more than 20,000 athletes from 49 nations registered across all race distances—nearly double the number from its inaugural edition. Over 3,000 runners competed in the marathon, which holds World Athletics Elite Label status.

Men:

Challa Gossa (ETH) – 2:11:49

Evans Mayaka (KEN) – 2:11:54

Habtamu Birlew (ETH) – 2:11:56

Martin Musau (UGA) – 2:11:59

Ezra Kering (KEN) – 2:12:20

Eric Kiptanui (KEN) – 2:16:27

Carlos Mario Patiño (COL) – 2:18:38

Santiago Zerda (COL) – 2:18:38

Women:

Stacy Ndiwa (KEN) – 2:29:55

Emmah Ndiwa (KEN) – 2:31:01

Gladys Chesir (KEN) – 2:33:59

Sadiya Awel (ETH) – 2:34:25

Cynthia Kosgei (KEN) – 2:35:22

Nazret Weldu (ERI) – 2:37:49

Mildrey Echavarría (COL) – 2:40:45

Kellys Arias (COL) – 2:41:50

In a sport defined by endurance, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of limits, few stories capture the imagination quite like that of Calli Hauger-Thackery at the Boston Marathon. On a day when the world’s finest distance runners converged on the historic course, the British athlete delivered a performance that transcended competition itself.

At 22 weeks pregnant and expecting her first child—a baby boy due later this August—Hauger-Thackery stepped onto the start line with a different kind of strength. While many would understandably step back from elite racing under such circumstances, she chose to lean in, embracing both the physical and emotional demands of the moment.

What followed was nothing short of extraordinary.

Navigating the famously challenging Boston course, she crossed the finish line in 2:43:58, securing 65th place in a highly competitive field. It was not just the time that stood out, but the context—running at a sustained pace of approximately 3:53 per kilometre while balancing the physiological demands of pregnancy.

Her performance speaks to a broader narrative within modern athletics: one where motherhood and elite sport are no longer seen as mutually exclusive. In recent years, more athletes have redefined what is possible during and after pregnancy, but Hauger-Thackery’s Boston run adds a powerful new chapter to that evolving story.

Beyond the statistics lies something more compelling—the quiet resilience required to train, prepare, and ultimately compete at such a level while carrying new life. It is a reminder that elite athletes are not only competitors, but individuals navigating complex, deeply personal journeys alongside their professional ambitions.

For Hauger-Thackery, this was not about chasing podiums or headlines. It was about showing up, testing her limits responsibly, and proving—both to herself and to the wider sporting world—that strength can take many forms.

As she now turns her focus toward motherhood, her Boston Marathon performance will linger as a defining moment—not just of athletic achievement, but of courage, balance, and redefining possibility.

On a day steeped in history and relentless competition, Boston Marathon 2026 witnessed a performance that will echo across American distance running for years to come. Jess McClain delivered a race of rare precision and courage, surging to a remarkable fifth-place finish while carving her name into the record books as the fastest American woman ever on the iconic Boston course.

Clocking an extraordinary 2:20:49, McClain did more than simply lead her compatriots—she obliterated the long-standing American course record previously held by Shalane Flanagan, whose 2:22:02 from 2014 had stood as a benchmark of excellence for over a decade. By slicing more than a minute off that mark, McClain elevated the standard and signaled a new era of American competitiveness on one of the sport’s most demanding stages.

Her performance was not a solitary breakthrough but the continuation of a powerful upward trajectory. Having run 2:22:43 just a year prior, McClain’s near two-minute personal best reflects a runner evolving with intent—stronger, sharper, and increasingly fearless against elite global competition. The progression from seventh place in 2025 to fifth in 2026 underscores not just improvement, but a growing authority in the marathon ranks.

Beyond individual brilliance, McClain’s run spearheaded an impressive resurgence for American women. In a field stacked with international heavyweights, four U.S. athletes surged into the top ten—a collective statement of depth and ambition that has been years in the making. At the forefront stood McClain, composed and commanding, leading by example on the unforgiving Boston course.

What made the performance even more compelling was its context. The Boston Marathon is not a race that yields easily to records, with its rolling hills and tactical unpredictability. Yet McClain navigated it with remarkable efficiency, balancing aggression and control to produce a run that felt both calculated and fearless.

Back-to-back years as the top American finisher in Boston now cement her status as a cornerstone of U.S. marathoning. But more than titles or statistics, this was a statement—of arrival, of intent, and of possibility.

In Boston, where legends are forged mile by mile, Jess McClain didn’t just compete—she transformed expectation into achievement, and achievement into history.

Just two days after celebrating her 43rd birthday, Sara Hall delivered a performance that transcended age and expectation, seizing the spotlight at the Boston Marathon 2026 with a commanding victory in the women’s masters division.

On a cool April morning in Boston, Hall demonstrated the rare blend of experience, tactical intelligence, and unyielding determination that has defined her career. Crossing the finish line in an impressive 2:31:55, she not only secured first place among athletes over 40 but also placed an outstanding 21st overall in a fiercely competitive elite women’s field—many of whom were decades younger.

From the early stages of the race, Hall asserted her authority. Setting a confident tempo, she distanced herself from her masters rivals with calculated precision, maintaining her rhythm across Boston’s demanding course. Her performance was not merely a victory; it was a statement—one that reaffirmed her status as a perennial force in American distance running.

The achievement also carried tangible reward, as Hall finished as the fastest runner over 40, earning eligibility for the masters prize purse. Yet beyond accolades and financial incentives, it was the symbolism of the moment that resonated most deeply. Competing at such a high level in her forties, Hall continues to challenge conventional limits in endurance sport.

In an era often defined by youth, Hall’s run stands as a compelling reminder that excellence is not bound by age, but by commitment, resilience, and passion. Her 2:31:55 in Boston is more than a time on the clock—it is a testament to longevity at the highest level.

For Sara Hall, greatness is not a phase. It is a standard she continues to uphold, stride after remarkable stride.

On a cool  20th of April morning at the Boston Marathon, history did not merely repeat itself—it was emphatically rewritten. Kenya’s John Korir delivered a performance of rare authority and precision, storming to victory in 2:01:52 and erasing a record that had stood untouched for over a decade. In doing so, he eclipsed the legendary 2:03:02 set by fellow Kenyan Geoffrey Mutai in 2011—by a staggering 70 seconds.

This was no ordinary win. It was a calculated dismantling of one of the most revered course records in marathon history, achieved not through reckless speed, but through a perfectly judged rhythm that crescendoed into a devastating second-half surge.

From the opening kilometers, Korir signaled intent. By 5K, he was already 15 seconds ahead of Mutai’s historic pace, clocking 14:20. Though the margins fluctuated slightly—Mutai briefly edging ahead around 20K—the race remained delicately poised through the halfway mark, with Korir passing in 1:01:50, eight seconds faster than the 2011 benchmark.

But it was beyond 25K that the race transformed.

With a decisive injection of pace, Korir began to stretch the field and history alike. By 30K, he had carved out a remarkable 45-second advantage over Mutai’s split. What followed was a masterclass in endurance and controlled aggression. At 35K, the gap widened further, and by 40K, Korir was a full minute ahead of the legendary schedule.

The defining moment came on the unforgiving slopes of Heartbreak Hill. Where races are often lost, Korir surged. His astonishing 4:42 mile over this iconic segment was not just fast—it was defiant. In a section where fatigue typically dictates caution, Korir attacked, turning the course’s greatest challenge into his platform for separation.

From there, the outcome was inevitable.

He crossed the finish line in 2:01:52, sealing the fastest time ever recorded on this storied course and completing the fastest second half in Boston Marathon history—an extraordinary 1:00:02 for the final 13.1 miles.

Context only deepens the brilliance of the performance. Mutai’s 2011 run benefited from a powerful 21 mph tailwind, widely regarded as one of the most favorable conditions the race has seen. Korir, by contrast, navigated a more modest 9 mph assisting breeze. The temperatures were similarly cool in both editions, but the reduced wind advantage in 2026 underscores the sheer quality of Korir’s run.

Step by step, split by split, the data tells a compelling story: this was not a fleeting burst of brilliance, but a sustained, strategic dismantling of a legendary benchmark.

In the end, the numbers speak with clarity—but the performance resonates even louder. John Korir did not just break a record; he redefined what is possible on the demanding roads of Boston, delivering a run that will stand as a new reference point for marathon excellence.

In just the second marathon of his young career, Charles Hicks has already placed himself among the fastest American marathoners in history.

The 24-year-old ran 2:04:35 to finish seventh at the 2026 Boston Marathon, recording the second-fastest marathon ever by an American man. On a course that does not qualify for record purposes, Hicks’ performance still stands as a major statement—one that confirms his rapid rise in the sport.

Boston is not a place where fast times come easily. The point-to-point course, unpredictable weather, and late-race challenges make it one of the most difficult marathons in the world to master. Yet Hicks handled it with the composure of a far more experienced runner, staying competitive with a deep international field and closing strong over the final miles.

What makes the performance even more impressive is how quickly it has come. 

Hicks made his marathon debut in New York, where he finished sixth, immediately showing that he could compete at the highest level. In Boston, he nearly matched that placing while significantly improving his time, taking a major step forward in just his second attempt at the distance.

At 24, Hicks represents the next wave of American distance running—young, fearless, and capable of producing world-class performances early in his career. His 2:04:35 places him in elite company and signals that he may have even more to come as he gains experience.

His progression also highlights the depth currently building in American marathoning. With athletes like Zouhair Talbi, Conner Mantz, and Clayton Young pushing the front, Hicks now firmly joins that group as a runner to watch on the global stage.

Boston has long been a proving ground, and Hicks passed the test in emphatic fashion. 

This was not just a strong performance.

It was the kind of run that suggests a major career is just beginning.

At the 2026 Boston Marathon, a new name moved firmly into the spotlight of American distance running.

Zouhair Talbi, racing under the U.S. flag for the first time as a newly minted citizen, delivered one of the most remarkable performances ever by an American on the historic Boston course. Finishing fifth overall in 2:03:45, Talbi did more than place among the world’s best—he ran faster than any American ever has in Boston Marathon history.

While Boston’s point-to-point course prevents official record status, the performance stands as a powerful statement. Talbi’s time eclipsed the long-standing benchmark set by Ryan Hall, whose 2:04:58 in 2011 had defined the upper limit of American success on this course for over a decade.

Talbi’s rise has been steady, but in 2026 it has become undeniable

Earlier this year, he captured the Houston Marathon title in 2:05:45, instantly placing himself among the fastest American marathoners of all time. That performance signaled his arrival. Boston confirmed it.

What makes Talbi’s story especially compelling is his journey. Born in Morocco, he came to the United States to attend Oklahoma City University, where he developed both academically and athletically. Over time, the U.S. became home. In 2025, he officially became an American citizen.

Now, less than a year later, he has already etched his name into American marathon history.

Talbi also serves in the United States Army Reserve, balancing elite-level training with military service—another layer that speaks to both discipline and commitment. His progression reflects a blend of international roots and American opportunity, a combination that is increasingly shaping the modern landscape of U.S. distance running.

His Boston performance did not come in isolation. It came in one of the deepest and fastest eras the sport has seen, where American men are once again pushing toward global relevance. Talbi now stands alongside the likes of Conner Mantz and Clayton Young as part of a group redefining what is possible.

But Boston felt different.

There was no hesitation, no sign that he was simply aiming to compete. Talbi ran with authority, positioning himself among the leaders and holding strong through the late miles on a course that punishes even the most experienced runners.

Fifth place at Boston is always meaningful. Fifth place in 2:03:45 changes the conversation entirely.

For American distance running, it signals something bigger than one result. It suggests that the ceiling is rising again.

Zouhair Talbi is no longer a developing talent.

He is now a central figure in the future of the American marathon.

Kenya delivered a masterclass in marathon excellence at the 2026 Boston Marathon as Sharon Lokedi successfully defended her title, leading an extraordinary clean sweep in the women’s race and reaffirming the nation’s unmatched pedigree in distance running.

With calm authority and flawless execution, Lokedi surged to victory in 2:18:51, retaining her crown in one of the world’s most prestigious road races. Under the pressure of expectation, the Kenyan star rose magnificently, proving once again that champions are defined not only by winning once, but by returning to win again.

The defending champion successfully retained her title in 2:18:51, the second-fastest winning time ever recorded in Boston. Running with poise and authority, Lokedi controlled the decisive stages before unleashing a powerful late surge that left her rivals behind. It was a victory carved out through strength, tactical intelligence, and elite composure—another magnificent chapter in her growing legacy.

Her triumph was only the beginning of a remarkable Kenyan celebration. Loice Chemnung produced the performance of her career to secure second place in 2:19:35, running with courage and composure from start to finish. Close behind, the experienced Mary Ngugi-Cooper claimed third in 2:20:07, adding yet another major achievement to her distinguished journey in the sport.

Mercy Chelagat completed the stunning display by finishing fourth, ensuring that Kenya dominated the front of the field in emphatic fashion. It was more than just a victory—it was a statement of depth, class, and sustained excellence from a nation that continues to shape the history of long-distance running.

From the early pace battles to the decisive closing miles, the streets of Boston belonged to Kenya. Every stride reflected discipline, resilience, and the relentless spirit that has made Kenyan athletes icons across the globe.

Women’s Professional – Top 10

1. Sharon Lokedi (KEN) – 2:18:51

2. Loice Chemnung (KEN) – 2:19:35

3. Mary Ngugi-Cooper (KEN) – 2:20:07

4. Mercy Chelangat (KEN) – 2:20:30

5. Jess McClain (USA) – 2:20:49

6. Irine Cheptai (KEN) – 2:20:54

7. Workenesh Edesa (ETH) – 2:21:52

8. Annie Frisbie (USA) – 2:22:00

9. Emily Sisson (USA) – 2:22:39

10. Carrie Ellwood (USA) – 2:22:53

At the heart of it all stood Sharon Lokedi—composed, powerful, and untouchable when it mattered most. Her successful title defence now becomes another golden chapter in Boston Marathon history, while Kenya’s clean sweep will be remembered as one of the finest collective performances the race has ever witnessed.

John Korir delivered a performance for the ages as he stormed to victory at the Boston Marathon, producing one of the fastest marathon runs ever recorded and etching his name into the sport’s history books.

The Kenyan distance star crossed the finish line in a breathtaking 2:01:52, securing the title in emphatic fashion. That sensational mark not only shattered the previous Boston course record of 2:03:02, set by fellow Kenyan Geoffrey Mutai in 2011, but also stands as the fifth-fastest marathon time in history.

Boston is widely regarded as one of the most demanding marathons in the world. Its rolling hills, unpredictable weather, and punishing late-race climbs have tested generations of elite runners. Yet Korir turned the iconic route into his personal stage, blending tactical patience, relentless strength, and devastating speed to deliver a masterclass in endurance.

From the opening miles, the pace signaled something extraordinary. Korir remained calm within the lead group, carefully measuring his effort while others searched for an advantage. When the defining moment arrived, he surged decisively, broke clear of his challengers, and powered toward a historic finish.

Behind him, the battle for the podium was equally intense. Alphonse Simbu, the world championship medalist, produced a superb run to claim second place in 2:02:47, while former champion Benson Kipruto completed a high-quality podium in third with 2:02:50.

Korir’s triumph was about more than victory alone. By lowering one of the most respected records in road racing and defeating a world-class field, he confirmed his status as one of the defining marathoners of this generation. His brilliance was also rewarded financially, with a $50,000 course record bonus in addition to the winner’s prize.

What made the achievement even more remarkable was the extraordinary quality of the field behind him. Boston’s demanding course rarely produces such depth, yet this year’s race unfolded at a relentless tempo as elite contenders chased history from start to finish. Korir’s decisive surge after 25 kilometers broke the contest open, but the battle for the remaining podium places remained fierce, with multiple athletes producing lifetime-caliber performances. The 2026 edition will be remembered not only for a record-breaking champion, but for one of the fastest and most competitive races ever witnessed on the streets of Boston.

Men’s Professional – Top 10

1. John Korir (Kenya) – 2:01:52

2. Alphonce Felix Simbu (Tanzania) – 2:02:47

3. Benson Kipruto (Kenya) – 2:02:50

4. Hailemaryam Kiros (Ethiopia) – 2:03:42

5. Zouhair Talbi (United States) – 2:03:45

6. Tebello Ramakongoana (Lesotho) – 2:04:18

7. Charles Hicks (USA) – 2:04:35

8. Richard Ringer (GER) – 2:04:47

9. Alex Masai (KEN) – 2:05:32

10. Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) – 2:05:35

For the crowds lining the streets and the millions watching around the globe, it was a race of rare quality. For John Korir, it was the day he rose from champion to legend. In Boston, the standard has been raised—and the fastest name now belongs to Korir.

The streets of Boston are bracing for a contest worthy of marathon history as two of Kenya’s finest distance stars prepare to clash in one of the most anticipated races of the season. Defending champion John Korir will return to the iconic course with unfinished ambition, but standing in his path is a man who knows exactly how to win here—former champion Benson Kipruto.

On paper, the matchup could hardly be closer. Their personal bests are separated by only eight seconds, a razor-thin margin at the highest level of marathon racing. Korir owns a lifetime best of 2:02:24, while Kipruto has gone even faster with 2:02:16. In a race measured over 42.195 kilometers, such a difference is almost invisible.

Yet statistics only tell part of the story.

Korir arrives in Boston carrying the momentum of a remarkable run of form. His recent victories in Valencia 2025, Boston 2025, and Chicago 2024 have elevated him into the sport’s elite bracket. Powerful, composed, and tactically sharp, he has become one of the most dangerous men in championship-style racing. Returning as defending champion adds another layer of pressure—but also confidence.

Kipruto, however, is no stranger to the grandest stages. His résumé speaks with authority: triumphs in New York 2025, Tokyo 2024, Chicago 2022, and, most importantly for this occasion, Boston 2021. That previous success on the demanding Boston course could prove invaluable. He understands its rhythm, its unpredictability, and the moment when patience must give way to attack.

This is more than a race between two fast men. It is a collision of momentum versus experience, title defense versus redemption, present dominance versus proven mastery.

Boston has never been a course that rewards numbers alone. Its rolling terrain, shifting weather, and legendary late-race challenges often crown the athlete with the sharpest instincts rather than the quickest personal best. Strength, courage, and timing will matter just as much as speed.

When the leaders reach the decisive miles, reputations will mean nothing. One athlete will fight to defend his throne. The other will chase a second crown. And somewhere between the opening stride and the finish line on Boylston Street, a new chapter of Boston Marathon drama will be written.

The streets of Boston came alive with speed and precision as Ethiopian standouts Addisu Yihune and Gela Hambese produced electrifying performances to seize victory at the 2026 Boston 5K, setting the tone for an exhilarating marathon weekend.

Under cool morning conditions, the men’s race unfolded with intensity from the outset, a tightly packed lead group testing each other through the early kilometers. As the race edged toward its decisive phase, Yihune asserted control with remarkable authority. The 23-year-old unleashed a devastating finishing burst, surging clear of his rivals to claim victory in a stunning 13:14, a performance that not only secured the win but also etched his name into the race’s history with a new course record.

Behind him, fellow Ethiopian Mezgebu Sime fought valiantly to take second place in 13:21, while Kenya’s Edwin Kurgat completed the podium in 13:23, capping a fiercely competitive contest.

If the men’s race was a display of explosive finishing speed, the women’s contest was a masterclass in control and timing. Hambese, already a familiar force on Boston’s roads, delivered a composed and confident run to successfully defend her title. Remaining patient in the early stages, she gradually increased the tempo before breaking away with purpose, crossing the line unchallenged in 15:28.

Her back-to-back triumph underscored her growing dominance on the international road racing scene and reaffirmed her status as one of Ethiopia’s most consistent performers.

Chasing from behind, American athletes Rachel Smith and Katie Izzo pushed hard in the closing stages, both clocking 15:33, but the gap to Hambese had already been decisively carved.

As a curtain-raiser to the iconic Boston Marathon weekend, the 5K once again delivered a spectacle of world-class competition. The races combined tactical intelligence, raw speed, and thrilling finishes—offering a glimpse of the excitement still to come.

For Ethiopia, it was a morning defined by excellence—a clean sweep that highlighted not just victory, but authority on one of the sport’s most celebrated stages.