Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha broke the world half marathon record at the Medio Maratón de Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich on Sunday, clocking an astonishing 57:30.
This remarkable performance took place in front of a captivated crowd, who witnessed history as the 27-year-old world indoor mile record-holder eclipsed the previous record by just one second, previously held by Jacob Kiplimo.
Kejelcha’s journey to the record was paved with anticipation and fierce competition. The race began under light rain and mild temperatures of around 15°C, setting the stage for fast times.
The men’s field wasted no time as pacemakers led the charge, covering the first kilometer in a blistering 2:43. However, maintaining that pace proved challenging.
By the third kilometer, Kejelcha asserted his dominance, moving to the front of the pack alongside fellow Ethiopian Selemon Barega and Kenyan contenders Daniel Mateiko, Edward Cheserek, Weldon Langat, and Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi.
As they hit the 5km mark in 13:38, Kejelcha maintained his relentless rhythm, gradually whittling down the lead pack. By the 10km checkpoint, with a time of 27:12, it became clear he was on track to challenge not just the course record but potentially the world record itself.
However, a slower segment from 10km to 15km raised concerns about his chances, as the pace dipped to 13:44.
Sensing the urgency, Kejelcha ramped up his speed, breaking away from Mateiko and Lasoi with effortless grace. In a breathtaking final stretch, he surged through the finish line, officially breaking the world record and achieving a personal best by 11 seconds.
The roar of the crowd reached a fever pitch as he celebrated this monumental achievement, a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Behind him, Mateiko and Lasoi also turned in impressive performances, finishing second and third with times of 58:17 and 58:21, respectively. Kejelcha’s compatriot, Gemechu Dida, followed closely, clocking 58:39, while Kenyan debutant Vincent Kibet Langat crossed in 58:41. Notably, Barega also broke the 59-minute barrier, finishing in 58:57.
In the women’s race, excitement was palpable as Agnes Ngetich, in her half marathon debut, aimed for the world record. Ngetich raced through the 5km mark in 14:38, showcasing her potential against strong competition.
Despite a quick start and remarkable splits, Ngetich’s pace began to wane, and she ultimately finished in 1:03:03, just 11 seconds shy of the record but still the second-fastest time in history.
Ngetich held off a fierce challenge from Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye and Kenya’s Lllian Rengeruk, who also posted remarkable times of 1:03:21 and 1:03:32, respectively.
Their finishes propelled them to the second, third, and fourth spots on the all-time world list, highlighting the depth of talent on display.
As Kejelcha’s name was etched into the record books, the Valencia event reaffirmed its status as a premier race, showcasing both the men’s and women’s fields as they pushed the limits of human endurance.
For Kejelcha, this victory is not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone in the storied tradition of Ethiopian distance running. The atmosphere was electric, and the performances unforgettable, marking a day for the history books in the world of athletics.
Leading results
Women
1 Agnes Ngetich (KEN) 1:03:04
2 Fotyen Tesfay (ETH) 1:03:21
3 Lilian Kasait (KEN) 1:03:32
4 Ejgayehu Taye (ETH) 1:04:14
5 Tsigie Gebreselama (ETH) 1:05:18
6 Sheila Chelangat (KEN) 1:06:08
7 Jesca Chelangat (KEN) 1:06:13
8 Viola Chepngeno (KEN) 1:06:55
Men
1 Yomif Kejelcha (ETH) 57:30
2 Daniel Mateiko (KEN) 58:17
3 Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi (KEN) 58:21
4 Gemechu Dida (ETH) 58:39
5 Vincent Langat (KEN) 58:41
6 Selemon Barega (ETH) 58:57
7 Birhanu Balew (BRN) 59:41
8 Thierry Ndikumwenayo (ESP) 59:42
Source: World Athletics
