Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha made history in Valencia on Sunday, breaking the men’s half-marathon world record with a remarkable time of 57 minutes and 30 seconds, shaving just one second off the previous record held by Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo since 2021.
Kejelcha, a seasoned competitor and world indoor mile record holder, surged to the front early, maintaining an impressive pace throughout the race. By the 3-kilometer mark, he had already gained control, reaching the 5km point in 13:38, passing 10km in 27:12, and hitting 15km at 40:56. This relentless pace allowed him to break away from Kenyan runners Daniel Mateiko and Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi, securing his victory and record-breaking performance.
This latest accomplishment adds to Kejelcha’s impressive career, which includes a world championship silver medal in the 10,000 meters and a world indoor mile record set in 2019. His achievement in Valencia reinforces his status as one of the sport’s most versatile distance runners.
In the women’s half-marathon, Kenya’s Agnes Ngetich also delivered an impressive performance. Chasing Letesenbet Gidey’s record of 1:02:52, Ngetich finished just 11 seconds shy of the world record, achieving the second-fastest time in history. Competing in her first half-marathon, the former 10,000-meter world championship finalist showcased extraordinary potential in her transition to longer distances.
Kejelcha’s record-breaking run in Valencia underscores Ethiopia’s enduring prominence in long-distance running, while Ngetich’s impressive debut suggests that new records are just on the horizon for the women’s half-marathon.