Kenya’s Miriam Chebet stunned fans at the 2025 Istanbul Half Marathon by defeating defending champion Sheila Chelangat in a thrilling race. Chebet surged ahead of Chelangat in the last minutes, showcasing the strong form she built earlier this year when she finished second in 2024 with a time of 67:14. This victory marks a breakthrough for Miriam Chebet, who had previously trailed Chelangat in past editions of the race.
Sheila Chelangat entered the race as the defending champion, holding a personal best of 66:06 and having won the 2024 Istanbul Half Marathon with a time of 66:47. However, Miriam Chebet aimed to overturn that result and delivered on her promise by pushing the pace and outlasting her compatriot on the historic course through Istanbul’s ancient peninsula.
Judy Kemboi, another Kenyan contender with a personal best of 65:43, also competed and was considered a strong challenger. However, the final results confirmed Miriam Chebet’s dominance this year, as she outpaced both Chelangat and Kemboi in a race that tested speed, endurance, and strategy.
The Istanbul Half Marathon, known for its fast and scenic 21-kilometre course, attracts elite runners worldwide. This year’s race featured fierce competition, but Chebet’s tactical surge and resilience won her the top spot and a prize of $15,000. The event also offers awards for course and world records, adding extra motivation for participants.
Miriam Chebet Career Best Moments.
Miriam Chebet, a rising Kenyan distance runner, claimed victory at the 2024 Cardiff Half Marathon with a personal best time of 1:06:43, showcasing tactical mastery in a Kenyan podium sweep. Her recent performances include a third-place finish at the 2025 Sirikwa Classic 10km at 34:09, competing alongside world-class athletes like Agnes Jebet Ngetich.
While still early in her career, Chebet’s 10,000m track personal best of 30:27.30 in May 2024 and consistent road racing results position her as a promising contender in Kenya’s elite running circuit. Moreover, Cardiff’s win cemented her road-racing prowess
Chebet’s victory not only breaks Chelangat’s winning streak but also signals a shift in the Kenyan women’s long-distance running scene. Miriam Chebet, for now, basks in the glory of a well-earned win on one of the world’s premier road racing events.
