The Berlin Marathon: Tigst Assefa Shatters Women’s World Record

The women’s marathon world record was shattered by over two minutes by Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa on Sunday morning at the Berlin Marathon. Assefa ran 2:11:53 (5:02 mile pace) to break the previous record of 2:14:04 held by Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei.

Assefa, who won at Berlin last year as well, won Sunday’s race by nearly six minutes. Prior to Kosgei’s record run in 2019, the women’s record was deemed untouchable after Britain’s Paula Radcliffe lowered it to 2:15:25 in 2003.

Eliud Kipchoge Claims Fourth Berlin Marathon Victory

On the men’s side, Eliud Kipchoge, considered by most to be the greatest marathoner ever, won Berlin for the fourth time in his career, hanging on to win 2:02:42. He set the men’s world record in Berlin in 2022 with a time of 2:01:09.

How Tigst Assefa Achieved Her Record-Breaking Run

The 26-year-old ran her first marathon in March 2022 after excelling in middle-distance track events and shorter road races. That leg turnover skill combined with her newfound marathon strength was on full display Sunday, as she ran the first 10 kilometers of the race in 31:45 to establish the record-breaking pace. She only picked up the pace from there, running a 15:41 third 5k, per LetsRun.com, to eventually drop the entire chase pack by the halfway split.

Despite six different women running under 1:07 for the first half marathon (world record pace), none were close to Assefa. The Ethiopian put down her fastest 5k split of the day — 15:29 — at the 35k mark (just under 22 miles).

Eliud Kipchoge’s Dominance Continues

Just a few months after finishing a disappointing sixth place at Boston in April, Kipchoge showed that he shouldn’t be counted out yet. A couple of months before he turns 39, the Kenyan’s resume now boasts 16 marathon wins, 11 of which have come in World Majors. That doesn’t include his two Olympic gold medals.

Per LetsRun.com, the average of his five fastest marathons is 2:02:09, a time bettered by just two other men in any single race.

Conclusion

The Berlin Marathon witnessed remarkable performances by Tigst Assefa and Eliud Kipchoge. Assefa’s record-breaking run not only shattered the previous women’s world record but also showcased her exceptional speed and endurance. Kipchoge’s victory further solidified his status as one of the greatest marathoners of all time.

These incredible achievements in the Berlin Marathon serve as a testament to the dedication and talent of these athletes. Assefa and Kipchoge have set new standards in marathon running, inspiring future generations to push their limits and strive for greatness.

Whether it’s breaking records or defying expectations, the Berlin Marathon continues to be a platform for extraordinary athletic feats, captivating audiences worldwide.

(Photo: Andreas Gora / picture alliance via Getty Images)