Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
4/19/2025
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
Sam Ruthe Impresses in 3200m Debut at Arcadia Invitational on 16th Birthday
On April 12, 2025, New Zealand’s Sam Ruthe marked his 16th birthday with a commendable performance at the Arcadia Invitational in California. Competing in the boys’ invitational 3200-meter race, Ruthe secured third place with a time of 8:43.57. The race was won by Owen Powell of Mercer Island, Washington, in 8:39.86, followed by Josiah Tostenson of Crater High School, Oregon, in 8:40.95.
Ruthe’s time is particularly notable considering his age and the fact that it was his debut at this distance. Earlier in the year, he set a personal best in the 3000 meters with a time of 7:56.18 at the New Zealand senior championships in Hastings, a world best for his age group. Using a standard conversion factor, this 3000m time approximates to an 8:34.08 over 3200 meters, indicating that his Arcadia performance was competitive, albeit slightly slower.
The Arcadia Invitational’s 3200m race featured a deep field, with 37 athletes breaking the 9-minute barrier, underscoring the event’s high caliber. While the race was highly anticipated, it unfolded tactically, with a slower first half that may have tempered expectations for record-breaking times.
Ruthe’s performance at Arcadia adds to his growing reputation as a rising star in middle-distance running. His international experience at such a young age bodes well for his athletic future.
(04/12/25) Views: 301Boris Baron
Pyongyang International Marathon Returns After Six-Year Hiatus
On April 6, 2025, North Korea hosted the Pyongyang International Marathon for the first time since 2019, marking a significant step in the country’s reopening following pandemic-induced isolation. The event attracted over 500 participants, including more than 200 international runners from over 40 countries. However, athletes from the United States, South Korea, and Malaysia were reportedly barred from participating due to ongoing political tensions.
The marathon commenced at Kim Il Sung Stadium, where a crowd of over 50,000 spectators cheered on the runners. The course took participants through central Pyongyang, showcasing the city’s landmarks, before extending into the surrounding countryside and returning to the stadium.
Elite Marathon Results
Men’s Division:
1. Pak Kum Dong (DPR Korea) – 2:12:08
2. Bekele Girma Metaferia (Ethiopia) – 2:12:27
3. Jon Kwang Myong (DPR Korea) – 2:13:29
Women’s Division:
1. Jon Su Gyong (DPR Korea) – 2:25:48
2. Choe Il Gyong (DPR Korea) – 2:26:05
3. Cha Kwon Ju (DPR Korea) – 2:26:24
In the amateur category, Wojciech Kopec from Poland led the men’s marathon with a time of 2:30:39, while Ho Oi Yung from Hong Kong topped the women’s amateur division, finishing in 3:48:05.
The event also featured half-marathon, 10K, and 5K races. In the elite half-marathon, Ryang Choe Guk (DPR Korea) won the men’s race in 1:12:19, and Kan Ryon Hui (DPR Korea) secured the women’s title with a time of 1:16:32.
The Pyongyang International Marathon serves as a significant cultural event, coinciding with celebrations for the April 15 birthday of North Korea’s founding leader, Kim Il Sung. The successful hosting of the marathon indicates a gradual reopening of the country to international events and visitors.
(04/13/25) Views: 177Boris Baron
American Stars Ready to Shine at the 2025 Boston Marathon
The 129th Boston Marathon, set for Monday, April 21, 2025, promises to be a historic showdown between international champions and a formidable field of elite American runners. With defending champions Hellen Obiri and Sisay Lemma returning to defend their titles, the depth of competition will be among the strongest in recent memory.
Elite American Men
• Conner Mantz – PB: 2:07:47
Mantz enters Boston as one of the top American hopes, fresh off an 8th-place finish at the Paris Olympics and 6th in New York City.
• Clayton Young – PB: 2:08:00
Training alongside Mantz, Young placed 9th in Paris and 7th in NYC, and continues to close the gap with the world’s best.
• CJ Albertson – PB: 2:08:17
Known for his fearless tactics and high mileage, Albertson ran his personal best at the 2024 Chicago Marathon.
• Zach Panning – PB: 2:09:16
The 5th-place finisher at the U.S. Olympic Trials, Panning brings aggressive racing and consistent progress to Boston.
• Colin Bennie – PB: 2:09:38
The Massachusetts native and 2021 top American finisher returns with home course advantage and renewed focus.
Elite American Women
• Keira D’Amato – PB: 2:19:12
The former American record holder returns from injury with momentum and the experience to contend.
• Emma Bates – PB: 2:22:10
Bates was the top American at the 2024 Boston Marathon and continues to improve with every outing.
• Sara Hall – PB: 2:20:32
One of the most experienced American marathoners, Hall posted a 2:23:45 in Berlin last fall.
• Desiree Linden – PB: 2:22:38
The 2018 Boston champion returns for her 12th Boston start, a fan favorite with unmatched experience.
• Dakotah Popehn – PB: 2:24:40
Popehn was the top American finisher at the Paris Olympics and brings strong international credentials.
• Jess McClain – PB: 2:25:46
McClain placed fourth at the U.S. Trials and will be making her Boston debut as a rising star.
International Elite Field
Men’s Division:
• Sisay Lemma (ETH) – PB: 2:01:48
The defending champion and one of the fastest marathoners in history, Lemma seeks to repeat in Boston.
• John Korir (KEN) – PB: 2:02:44
The 2024 Chicago Marathon champion is a serious threat in any race he enters.
• Evans Chebet (KEN) – PB: 2:03:00
Boston champion in 2022 and 2023, Chebet looks to reclaim his title and join the three-time winners’ club.
Women’s Division:
• Amane Beriso (ETH) – PB: 2:14:58
The fifth-fastest woman in history is making her Boston debut.
• Yalemzerf Yehualaw (ETH) – PB: 2:16:52
Still just 25, Yehualaw adds tremendous firepower to the field.
• Hellen Obiri (KEN) – PB: 2:21:38
The two-time defending champion is chasing history with a potential third straight victory on Boylston Street.
Race Day Details
• Date: Monday, April 21, 2025
• Start Times:
• Wheelchair Division – 9:02 AM
• Handcycle & Duo Participants – 9:05 AM
• Elite Women – 9:32 AM
• Elite Men & Wave 1 – 10:00 AM
• Wave 2 – 10:25 AM
• Wave 3 – 10:50 AM
• Wave 4 – 11:15 AM
• Tracking & Coverage: Available through the B.A.A. Racing App with live updates, leaderboards, and interactive course maps.
“I’ve run over a thousand races in my life, and nothing compares to Boston,” says My Best Runs editor Bob Anderson. “When I ran 3:32:17 here at age 65, I felt like a rock star the entire way. The crowd was unbelievable—cheering, encouraging, lifting every runner forward. Boston isn’t just about the elites—it’s about the thousands of others out there chasing their dreams on the same course.”
With a deep American field and some of the fastest runners on the planet, the 2025 Boston Marathon is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in history. Whether it’s a breakout run or a hard-fought defense, fans can expect something unforgettable from this year’s race.
(04/14/25) Views: 170Boris Baron
Ingebrigtsen and Kerr Set to Renew Rivalry at London Athletics Meet
The middle-distance running world is abuzz as Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Great Britain’s Josh Kerr prepare to face off in the 1500m at the London Athletics Meet on July 19, 2025. This highly anticipated race marks their first encounter on British soil, adding another chapter to their compelling rivalry.
A Rivalry Rekindled
Ingebrigtsen, the Olympic 1500m champion from Tokyo 2021, has an impressive track record, including multiple European titles and world records in various indoor distances. Despite finishing fourth in the 1500m at the Paris 2024 Olympics, he clinched gold in the 5000m shortly after. Kerr, on the other hand, secured the 1500m world title in Budapest 2023 and followed up with a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, setting a British record of 3:27.79. Their on-track battles have been complemented by off-track exchanges, heightening the intrigue surrounding their matchups.
London Showdown
The upcoming race at the London Stadium is more than just a competition; it’s a strategic stepping stone for both athletes as they gear up for the World Championships in Tokyo later this year. Ingebrigtsen emphasized the significance of this meet, stating, “Competing in London is a crucial part of my build-up, and I know the atmosphere will be incredible.” Kerr echoed this sentiment, highlighting his ambition to defend his world title and the importance of the London race in his preparations.
Event Significance
The London Athletics Meet is a premier fixture in the 2025 Wanda Diamond League, renowned for attracting top-tier talent and delivering memorable performances. With over 50,000 tickets already sold, the event underscores the UK’s passion for athletics and promises an electrifying atmosphere for this marquee matchup.
As the date approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to witness whether Kerr can leverage his home advantage or if Ingebrigtsen will reaffirm his dominance. One thing is certain: the London Athletics Meet will be a pivotal moment in the 2025 athletics calendar.
Stay tuned to My Best Runs for comprehensive coverage of the London Athletics Meet and insights into the evolving landscape of elite middle-distance running.
(04/11/25) Views: 169Boris Baron
Breaking the Two-Hour Marathon: Could London 2025 Be the Stage?
The marathon world has long been captivated by the elusive sub-two-hour barrier. While Eliud Kipchoge’s 1:59:40 in Vienna 2019 showcased human potential, it occurred under controlled conditions and isn’t recognized as an official world record. As the 2025 TCS London Marathon approaches on April 27, the question arises: Could this be the race where history is officially rewritten?
The Elite Field: A Convergence of Legends and Rising Stars
London’s 2025 lineup is arguably its most formidable yet. Eliud Kipchoge, the four-time London champion and former world record holder (2:01:09), returns to a course he has dominated. Joining him is Kenenisa Bekele, the third-fastest marathoner ever (2:01:41), seeking redemption after a close second-place finish in 2024. The field also features Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, reigning London champion Alexander Mutiso, and debutant Jacob Kiplimo, who holds the half marathon world record at 56:42.
“The elite field for London is loaded, but my pick (if I must) is Jacob Kiplimo after watching him destroy the half marathon record,” says MBR editor Bob Anderson. “But the marathon is a different animal, and a sub-two-hour marathon is very possible. However, the weather will need to be perfect, and Jacob needs to have an ‘on’ day for it to happen. He might just go for the win. I wonder how his training has differed in preparation?”
Course and Conditions: London’s Favorable Terrain
The London Marathon’s flat and fast course, combined with its sea-level altitude, provides an ideal setting for record-breaking attempts. The 2025 weather forecast predicts partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 56°F (7°C to 13°C) and minimal wind—conditions conducive to fast times.
Technological Advancements: The Role of Innovation
Modern advancements, notably in footwear technology, have played a significant role in recent marathon performances. The latest “super shoes” offer enhanced energy return, potentially shaving crucial seconds off elite runners’ times. Additionally, strategic pacemaking and optimized nutrition strategies are integral components in the pursuit of the sub-two-hour marathon.
The Verdict: Is Sub-Two Within Reach?
While the convergence of elite talent, favorable course conditions, and technological support makes the prospect enticing, breaking the two-hour barrier in an official race remains a monumental challenge. However, if ever there was a race poised to witness such a historic feat, the 2025 London Marathon stands as a prime candidate.
Stay tuned to My Best Runs for comprehensive coverage of the London Marathon and insights into the evolving landscape of elite distance running.
(04/11/25) Views: 167Boris Baron
Cole Hocker Is Just Getting Started
Cole Hocker’s rise from NCAA standout to Olympic champion has been anything but conventional. After winning gold in the 1500 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a stunning 3:27.65—an Olympic record—Hocker has emerged as one of the most formidable middle-distance runners in the world.
Training in the Shadows
While many elite runners chase the spotlight, Hocker has chosen a different path. He trains in the quiet town of Blacksburg, Virginia, under the guidance of longtime coach Ben Thomas. Alongside training partner Cooper Teare, Hocker focuses on a regimen that emphasizes quality over quantity, rarely exceeding 80 miles per week. Their workouts often include hill repeats, pace variability, and strategic rest days, fostering both physical endurance and mental resilience.
Expanding His Range
Hocker isn’t content with dominating just the 1500 meters. In 2025, he has set his sights on longer distances, competing in the 3000 meters at the Millrose Games and clocking a personal best of 7:23.14, making him the second-fastest American ever at that distance. He also achieved a 5000-meter personal best of 12:57.82 at the BU Terrier DMR Challenge, securing the world standard for the upcoming World Championships.
Upcoming Showdowns
Hocker’s competitive spirit will be on full display at the 2025 Prefontaine Classic’s Bowerman Mile, where he will face off against rivals Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Yared Nuguse. This race promises to be a thrilling encounter among some of the world’s best middle-distance runners.
A Relentless Competitor
What sets Hocker apart isn’t just his physical prowess but his mental tenacity. Despite setbacks and fierce competition, he maintains an unwavering belief in his abilities. As he continues to push the boundaries of his sport, Hocker remains a testament to the power of determination and strategic training.
(04/12/25) Views: 137Boris Baron
Biwott and Hirpa Dominate 2025 Paris Marathon with Commanding Victories
The 2025 Schneider Electric Paris Marathon, held on Sunday, April 13, showcased remarkable performances from East African athletes, with Kenya’s Benard Biwott and Ethiopia’s Bedatu Hirpa clinching the men’s and women’s titles, respectively.
Men’s Elite Race
Benard Biwott, 22, delivered an impressive performance, breaking away from a lead group of nine runners with approximately 10 kilometers remaining. He crossed the finish line in 2:05:25, improving upon his marathon debut time from Frankfurt last October by 29 seconds. Djibouti’s Ibrahim Hassan secured second place in 2:06:13, followed closely by Kenya’s Sila Kiptoo, who finished third in 2:06:21.
Top 10 Men’s Results:
1. Benard Biwott (KEN) – 2:05:25
2. Ibrahim Hassan (DJI) – 2:06:13
3. Sila Kiptoo (KEN) – 2:06:21
4. Enock Kinyamal (KEN) – 2:06:32
5. Dominic Ngeno (KEN) – 2:06:37
6. Dinkalem Ayele (ETH) – 2:07:54
7. Tsedat Ayana (ETH) – 2:08:19
8. Edwin Kibichy (KEN) – 2:08:29
9. Timothy Kibet (KEN) – 2:08:38
10. Haile Zeru (ETH) – 2:09:02
Women’s Elite Race
In a thrilling finish reminiscent of their encounter at the Dubai Marathon earlier this year, Ethiopia’s Bedatu Hirpa edged out compatriot Dera Dida to win the women’s race. Hirpa completed the course in 2:20:45, just four seconds ahead of Dida. Kenya’s Angela Tanui secured third place with a time of 2:21:07.
Top 10 Women’s Results:
1. Bedatu Hirpa (ETH) – 2:20:45
2. Dera Dida (ETH) – 2:20:49
3. Angela Tanui (KEN) – 2:21:07
4. Magdalena Shauri (TAN) – 2:21:31
5. Kasanesh Baze (ETH) – 2:24:35
6. Janet Ruguru (KEN) – 2:24:36
7. Kidsan Alema (ETH) – 2:25:22
8. Judit Jeptum (KEN) – 2:25:30
9. Agnes Keino (KEN) – 2:26:09
10. Zerihun Alemtsehay (ETH) – 2:27:39
Notable Masters Performances – Men
• Yohan Durand (FRA): At 40 years old, Durand finished 17th overall with a time of 2:14:44, showcasing his enduring competitiveness.
• David Gosse (FRA): Also 40, Gosse secured 18th place, clocking in at 2:19:35, demonstrating the depth of talent among masters athletes.
Notable Masters Performances – Women
• Jane Fardell (AUS): At 42, Fardell achieved a time of 2:53:16, placing 17th among women and highlighting her sustained excellence.
• Charline Heu (FRA): Aged 41, Heu completed the marathon in 2:53:39, securing 18th place and underscoring the competitive spirit of masters runners.
The 2025 Paris Marathon highlighted the dominance of East African runners, with both the men’s and women’s podiums featuring athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia. The event continues to be a significant fixture in the international marathon calendar, attracting top talent from around the world.
(04/14/25) Views: 137Boris Baron
Hellen Obiri’s Pursuit of a Historic Three-Peat at the Boston Marathon
As the 2025 Boston Marathon approaches on April 21, Kenya’s Hellen Obiri stands on the brink of making history. With victories in 2023 and 2024, Obiri aims to secure her third consecutive win, a feat that would place her among an elite group of women who have achieved a “three-peat” at Boston.
From Track Star to Marathon Champion
Born on December 13, 1989, in Kisii, Kenya, Hellen Obiri began her athletic career specializing in middle- and long-distance track events. She is the only woman to have won world titles in indoor track, outdoor track, and cross country. Obiri is a two-time Olympic silver medalist in the 5,000 meters (2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo) and has multiple World Championship medals to her name.
In 2022, Obiri transitioned to road racing, making an immediate impact by winning the 2023 Boston Marathon in her second marathon attempt. She defended her title in 2024, showcasing her versatility and endurance.
The Exclusive Club of Boston Marathon Three-Peaters
Achieving three consecutive victories at the Boston Marathon is a rare accomplishment. In the women’s open division, only four athletes have done so:
• Bobbi Gibb (1966–1968)
• Sara Mae Berman (1969–1971)
• Uta Pippig (1994–1996)
• Fatuma Roba (1997–1999)
Obiri’s potential third win would make her the fifth woman to join this distinguished group.
Aiming for Glory on Patriots’ Day
Obiri’s pursuit of a third consecutive Boston Marathon title is not just a personal milestone but also a significant moment in the event’s storied history. Her consistent performances and rapid ascent in marathon running underscore her determination and athletic prowess. As she prepares for the 2025 race, Obiri stands on the cusp of joining the legends of the Boston Marathon.
The legends:
Bobbi Gibb (1966–1968)
In 1966, Bobbi Gibb became the first woman to run and complete the Boston Marathon, doing so unofficially as women were not allowed to officially compete at the time. She repeated her unofficial victories in 1967 and 1968. Gibb’s pioneering efforts challenged prevailing gender norms and paved the way for the inclusion of women in long-distance running events.
Sara Mae Berman (1969–1971)
Sara Mae Berman was the first woman to cross the finish line at the Boston Marathon for three consecutive years from 1969 to 1971, during a time when women were still not officially recognized in the race. Her victories were instrumental in advocating for the official inclusion of women in the marathon, which was realized in 1972.
Uta Pippig (1994–1996)
German runner Uta Pippig achieved three consecutive official victories at the Boston Marathon from 1994 to 1996. Her 1994 win set a then-course record of 2:21:45. Pippig’s 1996 victory was particularly notable as she overcame significant physical challenges during the race, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination.
Fatuma Roba (1997–1999)
Ethiopia’s Fatuma Roba secured three consecutive Boston Marathon titles from 1997 to 1999, becoming the first African woman to win the event. Her victories followed her gold medal performance in the marathon at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, solidifying her status as one of the premier long-distance runners of her time.
(04/15/25) Views: 129Boris Baron
Antonio Rao, 92, Completes 30th Consecutive Rome Marathon in 6:44:16
In an inspiring display of endurance and passion, 92-year-old Italian runner Antonio Rao completed his 30th consecutive Rome Marathon on March 16, 2025. Finishing the 42.195 km course in 6 hours, 44 minutes, and 16 seconds, Rao continues to defy age-related expectations and inspire runners worldwide.
Rao’s marathon journey began in 1995, and he has not missed a single Rome Marathon since. This year’s race marked his third marathon finish in his 90s. Notably, in 2023, he set an Italian men’s 90+ age-group record with a time of 6:14:44, showcasing his remarkable consistency and dedication to the sport.
Despite facing health challenges leading up to the race, Rao expressed surprise at his performance: “I haven’t been feeling well lately, and I didn’t think I could finish it,” he admitted. “Instead, I finished with a time 10 minutes faster than last year.”
In addition to his marathon achievements, Rao also completed the Roma-Ostia Half Marathon (blue shirt) just weeks prior, finishing in 2 hours and 54 minutes, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to running.
While Rao’s accomplishments are extraordinary, it’s worth noting that Fauja Singh, a British runner of Indian origin, holds the record for the fastest marathon time in the 90+ age group. At age 92, Singh completed the 2003 Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 5 hours and 40 minutes.
Antonio Rao’s dedication to running serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s passions. His story continues to inspire runners of all ages to stay active and embrace the joy of the sport.
(04/15/25) Views: 115Boris Baron
Brigid Kosgei Joins Elite Field for Haspa Marathon Hamburg on April 27
The 39th edition of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg, set for April 27, is shaping up to be the fastest in the race’s history. Former world record holder Brigid Kosgei of Kenya has been added to an already stacked women’s elite field. With her 2:14:04 personal best, set in Chicago in 2019, Kosgei remains the fourth fastest woman of all time.
Her participation brings the total to three women with sub-2:19 credentials on the start list. Kosgei, the 2021 Olympic silver medalist, will face stiff competition from Ethiopia’s Roza Dereje (2:18:30) and Workenesh Edesa (2:18:51).
“This is the strongest field we’ve ever assembled,” said race director Frank Thaleiser. “We expect some thrilling, fast racing on April 27.”
Kosgei, now 31, has consistently run under 2:20 every year since her world record. She is a two-time London Marathon winner (2019, 2020) and took the crown at the Tokyo Marathon in 2022. Hamburg will be her first marathon since finishing fifth in London last year (2:19:02), and it marks her debut in a German-speaking country — making her the fastest woman ever to toe the line on such ground.
Deep Men’s Field Led by Amos Kipruto
On the men’s side, Amos Kipruto leads the charge with his blazing 2:03:13 PB. He’ll be joined by fellow sub-2:04 runners Guye Adola (2:03:46) and Kinde Atanaw (2:03:51), along with Bethwel Chumba (2:04:37) and Philemon Kiplimo (2:04:56).
Germany’s own Richard Ringer, the 2022 European Marathon Champion, will also be one to watch. He lowered his PB to 2:05:46 at Valencia last December and will be racing on home soil in what may be one of the deepest fields he’s faced yet.
Elite Field – Haspa Marathon Hamburg 2025
Men:
Amos Kipruto (KEN) – 2:03:13
Guye Adola (ETH) – 2:03:46
Kinde Atanaw (ETH) – 2:03:51
Bethwel Chumba (KEN) – 2:04:37
Philemon Kiplimo (KEN) – 2:04:56
Richard Ringer (GER) – 2:05:46
Cyrus Mutai (KEN) – 2:06:11
Awet Habte (ERI) – 2:06:25
Felix Kibitok (KEN) – 2:06:28
Abay Alemu (ETH) – 2:06:50
Samuel Tsegay (SWE) – 2:06:53
Erick Sang (KEN) – 2:07:50
Julien Wanders (SUI) – 2:11:52
Women:
Brigid Kosgei (KEN) – 2:14:04
Roza Dereje (ETH) – 2:18:30
Workenesh Edesa (ETH) – 2:18:51
Etagegn Woldu (ETH) – 2:20:03
Sichala Kumeshi (ETH) – 2:20:42
Waganesh Mekesha (ETH) – 2:20:44
Shitaye Eshete (BRN) – 2:21:33
Fozya Jemal (ETH) – 2:21:53
Tsige Haileslase (ETH) – 2:22:10
Muluhabt Tsega (ETH) – 2:22:21
Karoline Grovdal (NOR) – Debut
Stay tuned to My Best Runs for full coverage of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg.
(04/15/25) Views: 113
Race News Service with Boris Baron
