Jacob Kiplimo of Uganda has achieved history as the first half-marathon runner to breach the 57-minute mark. He accomplished this astounding achievement in a time of 56 minutes and 42 seconds at the World Athletics Gold Label road race in Barcelona on Sunday. This new world record is a significant achievement in long-distance running.
The 24-year-old Kiplimo, a two-time global cross-country champion, previously held the half-marathon mark from 2021-2024. With his remarkable effort, he recovered the record, shaving 48 seconds off the previous world record of 57:30 established by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha in Valencia in October.
Kiplimo’s feat is the most significant single improvement in the men’s world half-marathon record. The perfect weather conditions of 13°C (55°F) and little wind contributed significantly to his success. During the race, Kiplimo established a world record of 39:47 for the 15-kilometer mark, demonstrating his incredible endurance and speed.
“I am very excited about what I did today,” Kiplimo said. He started strong and maintained his focus throughout, never expecting to smash the world record. As he observed the pace, he realised he had to keep it till the end.
