Kenyan marathoner Ruth Chepng’etich set a new record at the 21K Buenos Aires Half Marathon on Sunday, completing the race in 1 hour, 5 minutes and 58 seconds.

The remarkable performance was the highlight of the 35th edition of one of the world’s most prestigious half marathons, which is also the leading race in Latin America.

Chepng’etich’s time is the seventh-fastest globally this season, surpassed only in four cities: Barcelona, Houston, Ras-al-Khaimah and Lisbon.

Her victory in Buenos Aires follows a third-place finish last season, where she clocked 1:06:18. The record she set in Istanbul three years ago, with a time of 1:04:02, remains the third-fastest half marathon time of all time.

Following her win, she remarked: “I am very happy to race again in Buenos Aires and to have won. It gives me a lot of confidence for my next competitions.”

Kenya’s dominance was evident as Kenyan runners occupied the top nine positions, with Ethiopian Alemaddis Eyayu Sisay and Kenyan Joyce Chepkemoi Tele completing the top three.

Cosmas Mwangi Boi, another Kenyan, finished second after being edged out by Ethiopian Gerba Bayata Dibaba in a final sprint.
Kenyan runners Richard Yator Kimunyan, Benard Biwott, Gideon Kiprotich Rop and Isaac Kipkemboi secured the third through sixth positions, respectively.

The marathon, which attracted a record 25,000 participants, including 4,000 international runners, was praised for its fast course and exceptional organization.

The event saw Buenos Aires’s streets come alive with excitement, musical performances, and artistic displays, celebrating both sportsmanship and the vibrant spirit of the city.

Notably, Buenos Aires city neighbours excitedly cheered as the runners raced through the main avenues covering a distance that showcases the main monuments.

Medals were presented by City Mayor Jorge Macri, underscoring the city’s commitment to promoting athletic excellence.