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Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha made history yesterday by setting a new men’s world record at the Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich, finishing the race in an impressive 57:30.

Kejelcha’s dominant performance in rainy conditions allowed him to lead from the start, reclaiming the title for the Valencia Half Marathon after it was briefly held by Lisbon.

Fastest race The Valencia Half Marathon now holds the distinction of being the fastest race for both men and women.

 The women’s record was set by Letesenbet Gidey in 2021 with a time of 1:02:52, and yesterday, it regained the men’s title that it had lost in 2021 when Jacob Kiplimo finished in 57:31.

Kejelcha’s new record surpasses that mark by a second. In the men’s race, Daniel Mateiko of Kenya finished second with a time of 58:17, while Isaia Kipkoech secured third place at 58:21.

The women’s event saw Agnes Ngetich take first place with an impressive finish of 1:03:04, marking the second-fastest time ever recorded and the best of the year. Fotyen Tesfay followed in second with a time of 1:03:21, and Lilian Kasait took third in 1:03:32.

Women’s record broken there were also significant achievements for Spanish athletes, as Kaoutar Boulaid shattered the Spanish women’s record with a remarkable time of 1:08:47, nearly a minute faster than Laura Luengo’s previous record of 1:09:41, set just a year ago.

Luengo finished second among Spanish runners with a time of 1:08:50, also improving her own record. Debutant Irene Sánchez-Escribano secured third place with a time of 1:09:10.

In the men’s national standings, Thierry Ndikumwenayo was the top Spanish finisher, clocking in at 59:42. Ibrahim Chakir followed closely with a time of 1:01:40, while Jorge Blanco finished third at 1:01:45.