Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha made headlines in Valencia on Sunday by shattering the men’s half marathon world record with a remarkable finishing time of 57 minutes and 30 seconds. This achievement marks a significant milestone in his career, occurring during his sixth attempt at the half marathon distance and illustrating his extraordinary talent and relentless determination.
Kejelcha demonstrated his dominance from the outset, taking the lead shortly after the three-kilometer mark. His impressive pacing was evident as he reached key checkpoints: he passed 5 kilometers in 13:38, 10 kilometers in 27:12, and 15 kilometers in 40:56.
His strategic breakaway from Kenyan competitors Daniel Mateiko and Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi was pivotal in his quest for victory, ultimately allowing him to surpass the previous record of 57 minutes and 31 seconds set by Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo in Lisbon three years ago.
Kejelcha’s remarkable accomplishment not only highlights his prowess as an athlete but also adds to the growing legacy of distance running in Ethiopia.
