Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo made history on Sunday, March 3, by setting a new men’s half marathon world record with a stunning time of 56 minutes and 41 seconds at a road race in Barcelona. Kiplimo’s performance shattered the previous record of 57:30, set by Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha in Valencia last year.
Historic Achievement for Kiplimo
The 24-year-old not only broke the world record but also became the first man to run a half marathon in under 57 minutes.
“I’m so grateful. I’m very excited about what I did today,” Kiplimo said. “I didn’t expect to break the record because I just came here to run a good race, but I am happy I have done it.”
A Perfect Race in Ideal Conditions
World Athletics described Kiplimo’s record-breaking run as the greatest single improvement on the men’s half marathon record. He benefited from ideal race conditions, with temperatures at 13°C (55°F) and no wind.
“It has been the perfect race—ideal temperature, no wind at all, fantastic circuit. Everything went better than expected,” Kiplimo said.
Kiplimo’s Career Highlights
Jacob Kiplimo is no stranger to success. He is a two-time world cross-country champion and won a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. His latest record further cements his status as one of the greatest distance runners of his generation.
With this remarkable achievement, Kiplimo has set a new benchmark in road running, and the world will be watching to see what he accomplishes next.
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