Running News Daily
Top Ten Stories of the Week
5/3/2025
These are the top ten stories based on views over the last week.
Faith Kipyegon’s Historic Sub-4:00 Mile Attempt Set for June 26 in Paris
Kenyan middle-distance legend Faith Kipyegon is preparing to make history by attempting to become the first woman to run a mile in under four minutes. The highly anticipated event is scheduled for June 26, 2025, at Stade Charléty in Paris and is part of Nike’s “Breaking4” initiative. This project mirrors the brand’s earlier “Breaking2” campaign, which supported Eliud Kipchoge’s groundbreaking sub-two-hour marathon attempt.
Aiming for the Unthinkable
Kipyegon currently holds the women’s mile world record at 4:07.64, achieved at the Monaco Diamond League in July 2023. To break the four-minute barrier, she must shave over seven seconds off her personal best—a monumental challenge in elite middle-distance running.
Nike is providing comprehensive support through its “Breaking4” initiative, which includes custom-designed shoes and apparel tailored to Kipyegon’s physiology. The gear is developed in Portland and aims to optimize her performance.
This will not be an Official Record
It’s important to note that this attempt will not be eligible for official world record recognition. The use of male pacemakers and advanced performance aids, such as laser pacing lights and cutting-edge footwear, disqualify the event from official status.
This setup is reminiscent of Kipchoge’s sub-two-hour marathon run, which, despite its significance, was not officially recognized due to similar conditions.
A Symbol of Inspiration
Beyond the athletic achievement, Kipyegon views this endeavor as a message to women worldwide. She has stated that she is running “to say to women, ‘You can dream and make your dreams valid.’”
Whether or not she breaks the four-minute barrier, Kipyegon’s attempt is set to inspire and push the boundaries of what is considered possible in women’s athletics.
(04/29/25) Views: 409Boris Baron
Jacob Kiplimo Ready to Make Marathon Debut in London After Record-Shattering Half Marathon
Earlier this year in Barcelona, Jacob Kiplimo delivered one of the most jaw-dropping performances in distance running history. The 24-year-old Ugandan covered 13.1 miles in a stunning 56:42 — a half marathon time 48 seconds faster than the previous world record.
Now, just two months later, Kiplimo is in London for his much-anticipated marathon debut. The buzz is growing louder: could he break the marathon world record? Could he even challenge the two-hour barrier in an official race? London Marathon event director Hugh Brasher believes we could be about to witness something historic.
“I think it’s going to be the most fascinating debut ever,” Brasher said. “Is it feasible he could take Kelvin Kiptum’s record as the fastest debutant? Without a doubt. Could he eventually become the first man to run under two hours? Yes. But let’s see what happens on Sunday.”
Kiplimo’s story is remarkable. Growing up on a farm 1,500 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Elgon, he found inspiration in his older half-brothers — Robert Chemonges and Victor Kiplangat — both of whom would go on to become world-class marathoners.
“We were helping our brothers, the big brothers,” Kiplimo said. “We would see them training and I told them: ‘I want to become like you.’ So I just kept training.”
By 15, Kiplimo had been spotted and brought to Italy to prepare for the Rio Olympics. Although he exited in the 5,000m semifinals, the experience launched his international career. His early times were already astonishing: 13:19 for 5,000m and 27:26 for 10,000m — all before the supershoe era.
While his track career was hampered by the lack of a blazing sprint finish, Kiplimo found his true strength on the roads. He went on to win two senior world cross country titles, along with Olympic and World Championship bronze medals in the 10,000m.
Sunday’s London Marathon will be his toughest test yet. He will face one of the strongest fields ever assembled: Eliud Kipchoge, Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, defending champion Alexander Mutiso, and Sebastian Sawe — who ran 2:02:05 to win Valencia, the second-fastest marathon debut in history. British eyes will also be on Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee, aiming for a 2:09 debut.
Kiplimo says he is ready. He has built up his weekly mileage from 75–90 miles during his track days to 125–135 miles for the marathon.
The lead pack is expected to hit halfway in around 61 minutes, setting up a possible negative split. With a favorable tailwind forecast in the second half — though temperatures could be on the warm side — conditions could be ideal for something special.
Kiplimo has already shown he can rewrite history. On Sunday, the world will be watching to see if he can do it again.
(04/26/25) Views: 251Boris Baron
Sebastian Sawe Stuns Legendary Field to Win 2025 London Marathon
In a race billed as the most competitive men’s marathon field ever assembled, Kenya’s Sebastian Sawe delivered a performance for the ages, clinching victory at the 2025 London Marathon with a time of 2:02:27.
Sawe, 30, who burst onto the marathon scene with a 2:02:05 debut in Valencia last December, showcased his prowess by outpacing a field laden with Olympic champions and world record holders. His decisive move came after the 30-kilometer mark, where he surged ahead, leaving his competitors trailing. This win marks only his second marathon, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s rising stars.
Men’s Elite Top 25 Finishers
Top 25 Men’s Elite Finishers
1. Sabastian Sawe (KEN) – 2:02:27
2. Jacob Kiplimo (UGA) – 2:03:37
3. Alexander Mutiso Munyao (KEN) – 2:04:20
4. Abdi Nageeye (NED) – 2:04:20
5. Tamirat Tola (ETH) – 2:04:42
6. Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) – 2:05:25
7. Hillary Kipkoech (KEN) – 2:06:05
8. Amanal Petros (GER) – 2:06:30
9. Mahamed Mahamed (GBR) – 2:08:52
10. Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) – 2:09:01
11. Andrew Buchanan (AUS) – 2:09:11
12. Adam Lipschitz (RSA) – 2:09:48
13. Sondre Nordstad Moen (NOR) – 2:09:57
14. Alex Yee (GBR) – 2:11:08
15. Weynay Ghebresilasie (GBR) – 2:11:21
16. Jake Smith (GBR) – 2:11:57
17. Marcelo Laguera (MEX) – 2:12:03
18. Kevin Salvano (USA) – 2:13:03
19. Alex Milne (GBR) – 2:14:03
20. Philip Sesemann (GBR) – 2:14:46
21. Sean Hogan (GBR) – 2:14:51
22. Logan Smith (GBR) – 2:15:23
23. David Bishop (GBR) – 2:15:58
24. Ross Braden (GBR) – 2:21:05
25. Carl Avery (GBR) – 2:23:19
Notably, marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, aiming for a record-extending fifth London title, finished sixth with a time of 2:05:25. Despite a strong start, Kipchoge couldn’t match the relentless pace set by Sawe in the latter stages of the race.
Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo impressed in his marathon debut, securing second place with a commendable 2:03:37 finish. Defending champion Alexander Mutiso Munyao and Dutch record-holder Abdi Nageeye both clocked 2:04:20, with Mutiso narrowly edging out Nageeye for the third spot.
The race unfolded under sunny skies and ideal running conditions, with temperatures around 16°C (61°F), providing a perfect backdrop for this historic event.
Sawe’s triumph not only underscores his meteoric rise in long-distance running but also adds a new chapter to the rich history of the London Marathon.
(04/27/25) Views: 238Boris Baron
Brigid Kosgei and Amos Kipruto Lead the Deepest Fields Ever at Haspa Marathon Hamburg
European star Karoline Grovdal targets historic debut
The 39th edition of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg on Sunday promises to be the fastest and most competitive in the event’s history. Headlining the men’s race are Kenya’s Amos Kipruto and Ethiopia’s Kinde Atanaw, both with personal bests under 2:04. Meanwhile, former women’s world record holder Brigid Kosgei leads a stellar women’s lineup, becoming the fastest woman ever to start in Hamburg.
A total of 15,000 runners have entered Germany’s biggest spring marathon, with 38,000 participants across all weekend events—setting a new record. “We are experiencing another running boom, and our elite fields are stronger than ever,” said Chief Organiser Frank Thaleiser.
With near-perfect weather conditions forecasted, fast times are expected. The men’s course record of 2:04:09, set by Bernard Koech in 2023, could be under threat, with the potential for Hamburg’s first sub-2:04 performance.
Amos Kipruto, who ran a personal best of 2:03:13 when finishing second behind Eliud Kipchoge in Tokyo 2022, is focused on running fast. “If I had the choice, a personal best would mean more to me than victory,” said Kipruto at the pre-race press conference. He’ll be joined by Kinde Atanaw (2:03:51), Tsegaye Getachew (2:04:49), and Philemon Kiplimo (2:04:56) in chasing the record. Kiplimo, who finished third in Hamburg last year, knows the course well and is aiming for an aggressive second half after a planned 62:00 opening.
Germany’s top hope is Richard Ringer, the 2022 European marathon champion, who recently improved his personal best to 2:05:46. “I want to improve my Hamburg result from last year and aim to run under 2:07:00,” said Ringer, who also ran a new half marathon PB of 60:51 in Berlin this spring.
On the women’s side, Brigid Kosgei is back after battling injury, having last raced at the 2023 London Marathon where she clocked 2:19:02. Kosgei, who broke Paula Radcliffe’s long-standing world record with her 2:14:04 performance in Chicago 2019, is confident: “I am fit now and excited to run a good race in Hamburg.”
The women’s course record of 2:17:23, set by Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw in 2022, will be tough to beat, but with Kosgei, Ethiopia’s Workenesh Edesa (2:18:51), and rising star Sichala Kumeshi (2:20:42) in the field, a sub-2:20 finish is very possible. Edesa recently won in Osaka with 2:21:00 and is aiming to go faster, while Kumeshi is coming off a strong victory in Houston under tough conditions.
A major European storyline is Norway’s Karoline Grovdal, who will make her marathon debut. Grovdal, a multiple European Champion and last year’s half marathon gold medalist in Rome, is targeting Ingrid Kristiansen’s legendary Norwegian record of 2:21:06—set in London back in 1985 when it was a world record.
Elite Field Highlights
Men:
Amos Kipruto (KEN) – 2:03:13
Kinde Atanaw (ETH) – 2:03:51
Tsegaye Getachew (ETH) – 2:04:49
Philemon Kiplimo (KEN) – 2:04:56
Kebede Tulu (ETH) – 2:05:19
Goitom Kifle (ERI) – 2:05:28
Richard Ringer (GER) – 2:05:46
Others include Awet Habte (ERI, 2:06:25), Felix Kibitok (KEN, 2:06:28), and Julien Wanders (SUI, 2:11:52)
Women:
Brigid Kosgei (KEN) – 2:14:04
Workenesh Edesa (ETH) – 2:18:51
Etagegn Woldu (ETH) – 2:20:03
Sichala Kumeshi (ETH) – 2:20:42
Karoline Grovdal (NOR) – Marathon Debut
Others include Shitaye Eshete (BRN, 2:21:33) and Natasha Cockram (GBR, 2:26:14)
(04/25/25) Views: 223
Race News Service with Boris Baron
Agnes Ngetich Breaks Barriers with Historic 10K World Record at adidas Road to Records
Kenya’s Agnes Jebet Ngetich delivered a groundbreaking performance at the 2025 Adizero: Road to Records event in Herzogenaurach, Germany, becoming the first woman to run a women-only 10km road race in under 30 minutes. She crossed the finish line in 29:27, surpassing the previous women-only world record of 30:01 set by the late Agnes Tirop in 2021.
Ngetich, 24, maintained a swift pace from the outset, reaching the halfway mark in 14:37. Despite a slight slowdown in the latter half, she completed the second 5km in 14:50, ensuring all kilometers were run in under three minutes.
This achievement adds to Ngetich’s impressive record; in January 2024, she set the mixed-race 10km world record with a time of 28:46 in Valencia.
Expressing her elation post-race, Ngetich said, “I’m so excited. I didn’t expect this. Last year I missed it by two seconds, so I wanted to come here today and try for it again. I’m so proud of myself. After missing out on the Olympics last year, I want to make up for it this year at the world championships.”
The Adizero: Road to Records event also witnessed remarkable performances in other categories. In the men’s 10km, Birhanu Balew of Bahrain, Gemechu Dida of Ethiopia, and Rodrigue Kwizera of Burundi all finished in 26:54. Ethiopia’s Medina Eisa clinched the women’s 5km title with a time of 14:48, while compatriot Yomif Kejelcha won the men’s 5km in 12:54.
The event, hosted at adidas’ global headquarters, continues to be a platform where elite athletes push the boundaries of human performance, with today’s races adding to its legacy of record-breaking achievements.
(04/26/25) Views: 196Boris Baron
Joshua Cheptegei Returns to TCS World 10K Bengaluru with Eyes on Victory
Multiple global champion Joshua Cheptegei is set to take on the TCS World 10K Bengaluru this Sunday, April 27, aiming to capture the title at the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Race.
Cheptegei, Uganda’s double Olympic and World Champion, made his international debut at this very race back in 2014, finishing second. Now 28 years old, he reflected on his journey during a pre-race media conference:
“Back in 2014, I won silver, and it was my first international race. I went on to win many international titles. India will always be the place that launched me.”
Looking ahead to this weekend, Cheptegei acknowledged the strength of the field and the race’s quick course but remained focused on the bigger goal:
“It’s going to be a strong race, but I try not to put too much pressure on myself. Winning would be fantastic. As for the record, it’s harder now with marathon training in my legs, but the focus is on the win.”
The TCS World 10K boasts a total prize purse of USD 210,000, along with additional bonuses for course record performances.
Prize Money and Bonuses
Top Overall Finishers (Men & Women):
• 1st Place: USD 26,000
• 2nd Place: USD 17,000
• 3rd Place: USD 10,000
• 4th to 10th Places: Prizes ranging from USD 5,000 to USD 1,000
Top Indian Finishers (Men & Women):
• 1st Place: INR 3,00,000 (approximately USD 3,600)
• 2nd Place: INR 2,25,000 (approximately USD 2,700)
• 3rd Place: INR 1,50,000 (approximately USD 1,800)
• 4th to 10th Places: Prizes from INR 1,00,000 (USD 1,200) down to INR 30,000 (USD 360)
Bonus Incentives:
• Overall Course Record Bonus: USD 8,000 for breaking the men’s (27:38) or women’s (30:35) course records
• Indian Event Record Bonus: INR 1,00,000 (approx. USD 1,200) for setting a new Indian event record
• Indian Event Record Jackpot: INR 1,00,000 shared among top Indian finishers hitting key time standards (Men: sub-29:49; Women: sub-33:38)
Gabriel Geay Eyes Big Finish
Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay, a seventh-place finisher in the World Championship Marathon, also shared his excitement about racing in Bengaluru for the first time.
“It’s been a dream of mine to race here,” said the 28-year-old. “If the pace is quick, I believe a record is possible. My training hasn’t changed much from my marathon build-up, just a few adjustments for the 10K distance.”
Strong Women’s Field Led by Cintia Chepngeno
On the women’s side, Kenya’s Cintia Chepngeno headlines a deep field. Chepngeno, whose name is coincidentally similar to Cheptegei’s, is one of eight women in the field with personal bests faster than the course record of 30:35, set by Irene Cheptai in 2022.
Chepngeno, who placed ninth here last year, aims to move up the standings:
“I am keen on a good race with my colleagues on Sunday. My aim is to make the podium.”
She’ll face tough competition from Eritrea’s Rahel Daniel, who finished fifth in the 10,000m at the 2022 World Championships with an impressive 30:12.15, along with a host of other Kenyan contenders, including reigning African 10,000m champion Gladys Kwamboka Mong’are.
Men’s Title Wide Open
Along with Cheptegei, strong contenders in the men’s field include Uganda’s Stephen Kissa (third in Bengaluru in 2017), Kenya’s Vincent Langat, and Norway’s Awet Nftalem Kibrab.
With top runners from around the world competing and major prize incentives on the line, Sunday’s TCS World 10K Bengaluru promises thrilling competition — and possibly record-breaking performances.
(04/25/25) Views: 184Running India News Service with Boris Baron
Last-Minute Weather Update: Warm Conditions Await Elite Runners at 2025 London Marathon but not hot
(Posted at 3:30am London Time) With just hours to go before the 2025 London Marathon kicks off on Sunday, April 27, elite runners are preparing for a race day marked by warm and sunny conditions. The elite women’s race is set to start at 9:05 AM BST, followed by the elite men’s race at 9:35 AM BST .
Weather Forecast:
• Start Time (9:00 AM BST): Approximately 12°C (54°F), mostly sunny with light winds.
• Mid-Race (11:00 AM BST): Temperatures rising to around 14°C (57°F).
• Afternoon Peak: Expected highs of 21°C (70°F), which is notably warmer than last year’s maximum of 12.6°C (54.7°F) .
These conditions are favorable for spectators but may pose challenges for runners, especially those unaccustomed to warmer temperatures. The Met Office advises participants to stay hydrated and adjust their pacing strategies accordingly .
Viewing Information:
Live coverage of the marathon will be available on BBC One and BBC Two, with streaming options on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.
As the city braces for a day of athletic excellence and community spirit, runners and spectators alike are encouraged to prepare for the warm weather to ensure a safe and enjoyable marathon experience.
(04/26/25) Views: 184Boris Baron
Eilish McColgan’s Marathon Debut Breaks Records and Family Legacy
Eilish McColgan has officially added “marathoner” to her illustrious resume. In her debut at the 2025 London Marathon, she not only finished as the top British woman but also set a new Scottish women’s marathon record with a time of 2:24:25. This performance surpassed the previous record held by Stephanie Twell and eclipsed her mother Liz McColgan’s personal best of 2:26:52 from 1997.
Despite facing challenges during the race, Eilish credited the enthusiastic crowd for keeping her motivated. “When I was really struggling, the crowds were just keeping me going and going and going,” she remarked.
Her mother, Liz McColgan, a former world champion and 1996 London Marathon winner, has been a significant influence in Eilish’s career, both as a coach and inspiration . Eilish’s achievement adds a new chapter to the McColgan family’s running legacy.
Looking ahead, Eilish is considering major marathons such as Berlin or Chicago, aiming to break the 2:20:00 barrier. While disappointed that the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow will not include road events like the marathon, she remains open to participating in the 10,000m event, though her primary focus is now on her marathon career over the next four years.
Eilish McColgan’s debut not only marks a significant personal achievement but also continues the legacy of excellence established by her mother, highlighting a remarkable chapter in Scottish athletics.
(04/27/25) Views: 165Boris Baron
Tigst Assefa Shatters Women’s-Only World Record at the 2025 London Marathon
History was made on the streets of London this morning. Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa surged to victory at the 2025 TCS London Marathon, setting a new women’s-only world record with an unofficial time of 2:15:50.
With cool, crisp conditions early in the race, Assefa quickly established her dominance. Pulling away from her rivals by the halfway point, she maintained a strong and steady pace through the final miles. In the closing stages, it was clear the race against the clock had begun — and she delivered in spectacular fashion, crossing the finish line with a commanding lead of over a minute ahead of second-place Joyciline Jepkosgei.
The previous women’s-only world record was held by Britain’s Paula Radcliffe, whose 2:17:01 mark from London in 2005 had stood for two decades. Assefa’s breakthrough performance, pending official ratification, trims over a minute from that legendary time.
Tigst Assefa had already stunned the running world with her mixed-race world record of 2:11:53 set in Berlin in 2023. Today, she confirmed her place among the all-time greats by dominating a race staged without male pacemakers, underlining her incredible solo strength.
Assefa’s record run headlined what has already become one of the most memorable editions of the London Marathon, with over 56,000 participants and perfect spring weather creating an electric atmosphere.
Paula Radcliffe posted "That was a phenomenal race so hats off to Tigst Assefa for being brave enough to go out in the pace she did!
The manner in which she lifted herself to get across the line as well.
You can see how much it means to her. It's more to build on for her moving forward."
Eilish McColgan picks up the pace as she comes across the line in 02:24:25 for eighth place.
She's tired on her marathon debut but has done one thing she wanted - beat her mum Liz's best time. Liz McColgan won here in 1996.
A decent effort for a first attempt.
Top 13 Women’s Elite Finishers
1. Tigst Assefa (ETH) – 2:15:50
2. Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN) – 2:18:44
3. Sifan Hassan (NED) – 2:19:00
4. Haven Hailu Desse (ETH) – 2:19:17
5. Vivian Cheruiyot (KEN) – 2:22:32
6. Stella Chesang (UGA) – 2:22:42
7. Sofiia Yaremchuk (ITA) – 2:23:14
8. Eilish McColgan (GBR) – 2:24:25
9. Rose Harvey (GBR) – 2:25:01
10. Susanna Sullivan (USA) – 2:29:30
11. Phily Bowden (GBR) – 2:30:28
12. Molly Bookmyer (USA) – 2:32:31
13. Holly Archer (GBR) – 2:39:45
Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa delivered a historic performance, setting a new women-only world record with a time of 2:15:50. She broke away from the pack after the 30-kilometer mark and maintained her lead to the finish line.
Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei secured second place with a strong finish at 2:18:44, while the Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan completed the podium in third with a time of 2:19:00.
Notably, Great Britain’s Eilish McColgan finished eighth, setting a new Scottish marathon record with her time of 2:24:25.
(04/27/25) Views: 158
Boris Baron
Record-Breaking Performances at the 2025 Haspa Marathon Hamburg
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the 39th edition of the Haspa Marathon Hamburg witnessed historic performances as Kenya’s Amos Kipruto and Ethiopia’s Workenesh Edesa clinched victories in the men’s and women’s races, respectively. Both athletes delivered exceptional times, setting new benchmarks for the event.
Men’s Race: Amos Kipruto Sets New Course Record
Amos Kipruto dominated the men’s field, finishing in 2:03:46, breaking the previous course record of 2:04:09 set by Bernard Koech in 2023. This marks the first sub-2:04 finish in the event’s history. Fellow Kenyans Philemon Kiplimo and Erick Sang completed the podium, clocking 2:04:01 and 2:04:30, respectively. South Africa’s Elroy Gelant finished fourth in 2:05:36, setting a new national record.
Women’s Race: Workenesh Edesa Triumphs in Fast Finish
In the women’s race, Workenesh Edesa claimed victory with a time of 2:17:55, the second-fastest ever recorded in Hamburg. Kenya’s former world record holder Brigid Kosgei finished second in 2:18:26, and Ethiopia’s Kumeshi Sichala took third in 2:19:53. Notably, this was the first time in Hamburg Marathon history that three women finished under 2:20.
Top 10 Results
Men
1. Amos Kipruto (KEN) – 2:03:46
2. Philemon Kiplimo (KEN) – 2:04:01
3. Erick Sang (KEN) – 2:04:30
4. Elroy Gelant (RSA) – 2:05:36
5. Kinde Atanaw (ETH) – 2:06:58
6. Boki Diriba (ETH) – 2:07:13
7. Richard Ringer (GER) – 2:07:23
8. Alfonce Kigen (KEN) – 2:07:39
9. Felix Kibitok (KEN) – 2:07:41
10. Goitom Kifle (ERI) – 2:07:52
Women
1. Workenesh Edesa (ETH) – 2:17:55
2. Brigid Kosgei (KEN) – 2:18:26
3. Kumeshi Sichala (ETH) – 2:19:53
4. Shitaye Eshete (BRN) – 2:20:32
5. Cynthia Chemweno (KEN) – 2:23:39
6. Balemlay Shumet (ETH) – 2:27:05
7. Natasha Cockram (GBR) – 2:27:12
8. Rebecca Lonedo (ITA) – 2:28:42
9. Samrawit Mengsteab (SWE) – 2:28:44
10. Roselida Jepketer (BRN) – 2:28:51
Highlights and Notable Performances
• Elroy Gelant’s fourth-place finish in 2:05:36 set a new South African marathon record, breaking the previous mark that stood for over three decades.
• Richard Ringer was the top European finisher, placing seventh with a time of 2:07:23.
• Karoline Grovdal, the European half marathon champion from Norway, withdrew from her marathon debut before the 30 km mark due to blisters caused by shoe issues.
(04/27/25) Views: 157Boris Baron
