World Athletics has officially ratified the half marathon world record set by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha at the Medio Maratón de Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich on October 27, 2024. Kejelcha’s stunning time of 57:30 shaved one second off the previous world best set by Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo in Lisbon in 2021, solidifying his position among the all-time greats in long-distance running.
The 10,000m world silver medallist delivered a commanding solo performance in Valencia, making history on a rain-dampened course widely recognized for its speed and depth of competition. Kejelcha’s relentless drive and masterful pacing saw him dominate a strong field, as he became the first man to challenge and surpass Kiplimo’s benchmark of 57:31.
Kejelcha, 27, made his intentions clear from the outset, taking control of the race just before the third kilometre. He led a pack of six elite athletes through the 5km mark in a brisk 13:38, showcasing both ambition and composure. As the race progressed, the field began to thin, with only Kenya’s Daniel Mateiko and Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi able to hold pace.
By the 10km split, the lead trio clocked 27:12, well within reach of the record pace. However, the following 5km segment slowed slightly to 13:44, raising doubts about whether a new world record was still within grasp.
But Kejelcha had more in the tank.
Sensing the urgency, he upped the tempo once more and effortlessly broke away from his Kenyan rivals. With a relentless solo charge in the closing stages, Kejelcha surged ahead, eyes fixed on the lead car’s clock. Despite persistent rain, he powered through the final stretch and crossed the finish line in a remarkable 57:30, rewriting history by the narrowest of margins.
“This race wasn’t easy,” Kejelcha said after his record-breaking run. “Today I told myself to do it in 57 minutes, and I saw from the clock on the lead car that it was possible, despite the rain. I wanted to break the world record and I’m really happy I did it.”
The ratification by World Athletics confirms Kejelcha’s performance as the fastest half marathon ever run under legal conditions. It also adds another impressive accolade to the Ethiopian star’s growing legacy, following his success on the track, including multiple world championship medals and a strong presence in road racing.
Valencia continues to affirm its status as one of the world’s premier destinations for distance running, with yet another world record achieved on its streets. For Kejelcha, this milestone could signal a turning point as he continues his transition from track to road, and possibly toward the marathon distance in future seasons.
With this historic run now officially recognized, Yomif Kejelcha has etched his name in the record books — not just as a contender, but as a true world-beater.
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