Distance Running 2023 edition 2

Cover picture: Athens Marathon. The Authentic, Greece

Where middle ages meets modernity

Trento Half Marathon, Italy

Renaissance elegance in the heart of the Alps

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Building one of the iconic road races of Europe in the heart of Transylvania 18 Brasov tRUNsylvania International 10K, Romania Romania’s best touristic destination – Brasov – will be the venue for some of the world’s top running performances and a great experience for mass participation runners

Race Features

Running into history

Košice Peace Marathon: 100 years of the Košice Peace Marathon 3 38 8 B.A.A. Boston Marathon: Boston strong, 10 years after 4 40 0

Opinion

Breaking limits

20 Copenhagen Half Marathon, Denmark

A fiercely fast course through a buzzing metropole

Clean air at smoky bay 22 Islandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon, Iceland Run through downtown Reykjavik, residential areas, nearby a salmon river and along the beach

Marathon movers: Ukraine keeps on running 4 42 2 Despite causing widespread damage and disruption the war in Ukraine has not stopped runners from running. General director of NEWRUN LLC Maksym Kryvenko reports Marathon movers: Boom time 4 44 4

Distance running has spread widely throughout the world over the last four decades. Vietnam is at the forefront of the latest geographical expansion

Regulars

New horizons

25 Almaty Marathon, Kazakhstan

Open new horizons: come to run and immerse yourself in Central Asian culture

Cityscapes by night and day 26 Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon, Malaysia

Iconic cityscapes in one of the most cosmopolitan cities of South East Asia

www.health1984.comwww.opap.gr

Copenhagen Half Marathon, Denmark

Photo: Kasper Kristoffersen

New members

Astana Half Marathon KAZ

When the first Astana Half Marathon was held on 19 June last year 4000 runners from Kazakhstan and 24 countries around the world ran through the most beautiful parts of the capital city. Astana is the newest city in the country.

People come here to look at extraordinary architectural designs, cultural and modern sights, as well as the breath-taking natural surroundings.

Astana is located on the Ishim River, which divides it into right and left banks. The symbol of the capital city of Kazakhstan is the Baiterek monument. It is a tree of life with strong roots and aspiring to heaven. Bayterek offers the most beautiful view of the city.

The AIMS-certified Astana Half Marathon course is flat and fast giving the chance to set new personal records and feel bright emotions.

The inaugural edition of the Astana Half Marathon returned some

Belau Omal Marathon TPE

The Belau Omal Marathon will take place in Palau on 4 June 2023. “Belau” is Palau’s indigenous name and the Palauan word “Omal” can be translated as “unique or surprising”, and that is what describes this Marathon.

Runners start before dusk. The event includes a Marathon, half marathon and 10km and 5km races. The course gives breathtaking views of the dazzling blue ocean around Palau and its lush valleys. Depending on what time you take to complete the race you may be greeted at the finish line either with the slanting rays of

good results: the men’s winner was Rinas Akhmadeev in a time of 1:02:54. Evgenia Prokofieva, won the women’s race in 1:14:15.

The Astana Half Marathon is accessible for all, with a variety of distances available: 21.1 km, 10 km, and 10 km Nordic walking. Entries are accepted from runners over the age 15 for 10 km and above the age 18 for other distances.

www.almaty-marathon.kz

Next event: 18 June 2023

President Paco Borao (Valencia)

Vice-President

Martha Morales (Tangamanga)

secretary

Hugh Jones

treasurer

Al Boka

directors

Fernando Jamarne (Santiago) Rut Jiroajvanichakorn (Bangsaen)

Branislav Koniar (Košice)

Rachid Ben Meziane (Marrakech)

Renna Nelis (Tallinn)

Mike Nishi (Chicago)

Tetsuya Okamura (Nagoya)

consultants

Frank J Baillie (Media)

Horst Milde (AIMS Marathoneum, Berlin)

ambassadors

Dejan Nikolic, Central Europe

Inna Chernoblavskaya, Russia

Rodolfo Eichler, South America

Henryk Paskal, Central Europe

International Measurement Administrators

americas:

Bernie Conway

asia & oceania:

Dave Cundy

euroPe & africa:

Hugh Jones (English-speaking)

Jean Francois Delasalle (French and Spanishspeaking)

aims HQ (atHens)

AIMS Headquarters

OACA Olympic Complex Av Spyros Louis, Athens, Greece

the sounds of the ocean under the starry skies of Palau.

Palau is internationally recognised for its conservation initiatives and has proven to be a true steward of ocean and environmental protection through its practices, laws, and policies. In addition to showcasing the unique beauty of the island and as stewards of the environment, the race pledges to be a plastic-free event.

We welcome all runners, visiting families and friends to experience

the beauty and vibrancy of our island nation and our culture through this Belau Omal Marathon.

Next event: 4 June 2023

www.aims-worldrunning.org

New members

Chattogram 25K BAN

Bangladesh’s first AIMS-certified international race at the 25km distance, the Sailor Chattogram 25K Run was held at the University Of Chittagong Campus on 24 February 2023. This year 650 runners from 8 nations lined up at the start.

The University of Chittagong’s campus is one of the largest and most beautiful in Bangladesh. It is famous for its natural beauty and shuttle train. Tourists are always charmed by its beauty. We hope that we will be able to welcome many more international runners to experience our event and raise

Pyramids Half Marathon EGY

The Pyramids Half Marathon is Egypt’s flagship road running event, taking place annually at Egypt’s most famous historical destination and the world’s last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World: the Great Pyramids of Giza.

The Pyramids Half Marathon takes thousands of runners on a tour which showcases the three legendary pyramids of Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, as well as the six lesser ones built for their queens. The Pyramids Half Marathon has proven to be a major local and international sports event bringing in thousands of participants and regularly

our profile as a premier running destination.

The CTG25K is presented by Run Bangladesh with the aspiration to create world class race events that inspire participants to take on challenging and life affirming adventures. Run Bangladesh aims to contribute to society by delivering programs where the goal is to create social bonding through competition. The key objective is to initiate “Run for a Better Bangladesh” through promoting active and healthy lifestyle communities and creating opportunities. We thank those who encourage us in this long journey.

www.runbangladesh.com

Pokhara International Marathon NEP

Pokhara Marathon is a unique blend of nature, culture, and spirituality.

It is one of the oldest marathons in South Asia and the oldest in Nepal. It takes place in the land of Gautam Buddha and Mount Everest. This event is a testament to Pokhara, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The marathon is held each year on the third Saturday of February, organised by an ex-sportsmen’s forum, and attracts runners from all over the world. It is not just about running but also about discovering and embracing the essence of the local culture and traditions.

Pokhara Marathon offers a rare

chance for runners to experience the breath-taking scenery of the Himalayan range, including the majestic Fishtail & Annapurna. The route also passes through various picturesque heritages, giving a glimpse into the simple, yet vibrant lifestyle of the locals. The event provides a platform for runners to connect with local communities and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

Runners will challenge themselves physically and mentally while also experiencing the beauty and culture of Nepal. The event embodies the spirit of adventure, endurance and cultural exchange. Whether you are a seasoned runner or a beginner, Pokhara Marathon offers a unique experience that will stay with you long after the race is over.

www.pokharamarathon.org

welcoming runners from over 80 nationalities.

From 2020 a 5km race was added to the event alongside the 21.1km and 10km and it has proven to be extremely popular. The 5km Fun Run has a relatively flat course while the longer races both face a downhill stretch towards the Sphinx and the now-infamous incline on the way back up. The Pyramids Half Marathon is a fun, challenging and unforgettable #RaceThroughHistory, perfect for runners of all ages and abilities while also offering serious runners the chance to test themselves on a unique winter course that benefits from warm weather and clear conditions.

www.pyramidshalfmarathon.com

Next event: 9 December 2023

Songkhla Marathon THA

In keeping with traditions of Songkhla International Marathon –being organised since 1999 by the local Governate Authority of Songkhla Province – we are happy to announce Songkhla International Marathon 2023 will be held on 26-27 August.

Songkhla Province has been promoted as a centre of Sports in Southern Thailand and your active participation in this event will enhance this dream. The Marathon route is designed to provide all participants with comfort and convenience, challenges for all types of runners and scenic locations along the routes.

The Marathon will start from Tinsulanonda Stadium BoYang, Mueang Songkhla. Arrangements are being made to provide the best facilities and service for participating runners within Stadium complex itself. The race gives the opportunity to admire scenic views of the Gulf of Thailand, beautifulSongkhla Lakes and to cross over the bridge to KohYor Island. The event is open to all types of runners: you may choose from among the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km and 5km. Come and join us: improve your personal best time, have fun and collect lots of memories. Songkhla International Marathon is the endurance event for you!

www.facebook.com/

SongkhlaInternationalMarathon/ Next event: 26–27 August 2023

If you want a photo of you at your best, a photo of you at your strongest. If you want a photo that inspires you every time you look at it – this is that photo.

Manulife Danang International Marathon, Vietnam

Liveable city, inspiring course

Destination race-cation in Southeast Asia

In Vietnam Da Nang is known as the most ‘liveable’ city. It is located in the country’s central region and provides easy access to the UNESCO-recognised Hoi An Ancient Town, the Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach and more.

This vibrant coastal city is known for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear sea, which are ideal for water sportspeople. Nature blends harmoniously into its surroundings, deserving of some of your leisure time. There are also

luxurious resorts, elegant malls, and lively clubs for accommodation and entertainment. It is a destination for all types of visitors including married couples, groups of friends, and entire families. Despite its temples and government buildings, Da Nang’s modern bridges are what put it on the international travel map.

The Manulife Danang International Marathon has been held annually since 2013 and is one of Vietnam’s longest-running marathons. The race attracts thousands of participants each year and

has the highest number of international runners in the country – with visitors from over 76 countries averaging 30% of total participants. Everyone is drawn to the race because it takes place on one of the most beautiful running courses in Southeast Asia, in Vietnam’s most beautiful coastal city.

The race takes participants on a sightseeing tour along one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, over architectural bridges and alongside majestic mountains, Runners can enjoy the full

Manulife Danang International Marathon, Vietnam

beauty of the sunrise, which makes everyone feel inspired.

The upcoming 2023 race is expected to draw around 10,000 participants, representing the return of international runners after a two-year absence due to the pandemic. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the race, promising to bring new and unprecedented experiences to all participants. The race will have an extra level of excitement because it provides free entries to the top three finishers in the 42K and 21K categories at any marathon held in any country

between 1 January 2022 and 30 April 2023.so that they can compete together in Danang for the position of champion.

Race records currently stand to Suzaki Yuuya (JPN) with 2:32:16 in 2018 and Marcia Zhou (USA) with 2:57:57 in 2019. The race is still pursuing new record holders with attractive awards. The Ronny Dash is a fun-run for those aged 3–10 to encourage children to participate in physical activities and to form a habit of healthy living, and to have a good time with their peers and family.

The Manulife Danang International Marathon 2023 will feature four race distances: Full marathon, Half marathon, 10km, 5km, and 1.5km fun run for children.

An AIMS-certified Marathon in which lovers of running can conquer their limits and passions, as well as discover and enjoy leisure travel, is ready to welcome you in Danang, Vietnam.

www.rundanang.com■

NEW COURSE - FASTER AND BETTER!

Experience the magical feeling of crossing the finish line after 42,195 metres on the streets of Stockholm. A journey through many of Stockholm’s districts with historical buildings, beautiful nature, easy running along the waterfronts and the pulse of the city. Feel every emotion as the crowds cheer you on. adidas Stockholm Marathon is one of Europe’s greatest marathons. We’d also venture to say that it’s the world’s most beautiful!

Sunshine Coast Marathon & Community Run Festival, Australia

A new world experience

Something for everyone in a friendly, supportive atmosphere

The Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival takes place in Queensland, Australia, and attracts runners from all over the world.

The marathon, which features a 42.2km course that starts and finishes at the famed ‘Alex Surf Club’, offers runners a tour through one of Australia’s most picturesque coastal towns.

The race starts with breath taking views of the sun rising up from the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean. The race date provides perfect winter conditions for runners to chase a personal best

time. The event’s hub, Mooloolaba, is an easy hour’s drive from Brisbane and lies directly in the heart of the Sunshine Coast region. Famous for its white sandy beaches, rainforests and diverse wildlife, it is an excellent opportunity to experience the culture and natural beauty of Australia, and an ideal destination for runners looking for an exotic and unique marathon experience.

The marathon first took place in 2012 and in the decade since has grown to become one of the most popular running events in Australia.

The marathon is known for its flat, fast and scenic course, friendly atmosphere and excellent organisation.

The Marathon is part of the Sunshine Coast Running Festival, which includes a 21.1km half marathon, 10km, and 5km run and walk, together with a kids’ 2km race. The wide range of distances offered allows runners of all abilities to participate over the weekend.

In addition to the running events, the festival also features a health and fitness expo where

Sunshine Coast Marathon & Community Run Festival, Australia

participants can learn about the latest in running gear, nutrition, and training. The expo is open to the public and features a wide range of exhibitors, including local businesses, running clubs and fitness experts, as well as familyfriendly activities for the kids.

The Sunshine Coast Marathon is well known for its charity partnerships with a number of local and national organisations benefiting from the event every year. Runners can choose to fundraise for the festival’s partner beneficiary, but many choose to use the event as a way to raise awareness and funds for causes close to their hearts.

In 2022 the event attracted a record field and played host to the Australian Half-Marathon Championships. With the event moving ever closer to 10,000 overall participants the announcement was made that the Sunshine

Second line thereof

Coast region will host the 2032 Olympic Marathon, Organisers Atlas Events look forward to welcoming participants from all over the globe in the coming years.

The Sunshine Coast Marathon is known for its friendly, supportive atmosphere. The region’s

numerous attractions and local activities make it a popular destination for runners year-round. The locals’ friendly, laid-back lifestyle continues to attract runners of all ages and abilities making it a great opportunity to meet new people and form friendships.

The Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival is an event that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a competitive runner looking to push yourself to a new personal best or just looking for a fun and scenic way to get active. With its beautiful course, great atmosphere and excellent organisation it’s a perfect event for those who are looking for a new experience, a fast course and a beautiful running experience.

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www.sunshinecoastmarathon.com.au

Alps

Trento Half Marathon, Italy

Where middle ages meets modernity

The city of Trento lies at the base of the Dolomite mountains. The ‘Trento Running Festival’, on 30 September and 1 October this year, is the perfect opportunity to visit this city – which has been popular since medieval times.

Petrarca, one of the greatest Italian poets of the era, wrote “Urgeor alpinium raptim penetrare

Tridentum,” (‘I have a strong desire to reach Trento in the heart of the Alps”). Such was its importance that in 1500 Trento became the site of the Council of Trent.

To this day Trento remains definitely worth a visit: whether for its beautifully maintained historic monuments, picturesque city centre or the modern architectural transformation which has taken place in recent years. All these things are highlighted and captured in the soul of this city. What strikes you when visiting Trento is its combination of Alpine culture along with its all-Italian elegance, visible in the marvellously decorated Renaissance frescoes found on the facades of historic buildings in the city. That’s not all: one can also visit the majestic Buonconsiglio Castle, the main cathedral (or Duomo) which majestically looks over the central square and Renzo Piano’s MUSE, a science museum which houses exhibits on Alpine nature and glaciers.

Trento has once again become a preferred holiday destination – short or long. It boasts a varied abundance of attractions including but not limited to those in culture, sport¸ nature and gastronomy. This is all part of the winning secret of the Trento Running Festival, which is always ready to welcome running enthusiasts to its streets and to the heart of this city nestling in the Dolomites.

The Trento Half Marathon is an integral part of the Trento Running Festival, a series of events which offers two important competitive races: the first being the ‘Giro al sas’, which has a

long tradition dating back 75 years and an equally long list of internationally renowned elite athletes who have competed. Amongst the superstars to have crossed the finish line have been Olympic and World Champions such as Kenenisa Bekele, Paul Tergat, Stefano Baldini and Muktar Edris, to name just a few. The Trento Half Marathon is the younger sister to the Giro, but it has quickly become a prominent event on the international road racing calendar.

The race boasts strong results: the most recent winner of the men’s race is none other than 2022 World Marathon Champion, Tamirat Tola. The Half Marathon route is AIMS/WA certified and is designed to be as flat as possible. The course consists of a single loop in and around

Looking ahead | 1 September 2023

Trento Half Marathon, Italy

the city which includes only a few gentle slopes. The single real elevation gain is at the base of the Buonconsiglio Castle halfway through the race and lasts 300m with a 2% gradient. Consequently the race is particularly fast but does not prevent the runner from being immersed in the splendour of the historic city centre which includes old fortress towers, basilicas, MUSE science museum and a finish in the very heart of the city at Piazza Duomo. Runners cross the line in this thriving square, considered one of the most exquisite in Italy, with the Neptune fountain and civic tower standing by.

The main aim of the Trento Running Festival is to create an experience that will become

a long-lasting memory for all those who participate. The event takes place during the colourful Trentino autumn. Whoever steps atop of the winner’s podium must have the will of a champion but every runner in Trento can achieve his or her goal. The top athletes win the race but so too do the amateur runners and those who just make it across the finish line.

The Festival atmosphere is further enriched by popular family-oriented events such as the magical ‘Giro al sas Kids’, aimed at the little ones, along with the ‘Happy Family Run’.

We look forward to seeing you here.

www.trentorunningfestival.it■

Transylvania’s iconic new race

Romania’s best touristic destination – Brasov – will be the venue for some of the world’s top running performances and a great experience for mass participation runners

Just a few kilometres from Bran Castle, commonly known as Dracula’s Castle, Brasov is a city in the Transylvania region of Romania ringed by the Carpathian Mountains.

It’s known for its medieval Saxon walls and bastions, the towering Gothic-style Black Church, lively cafes and, starting from 2022, for one of the fastest and most spectacular road races in the world. In 2022 the Brasov Running Festival 10K produced some of the fastest performances in history over the distance.

Getting to Brasov is easy, since it is a major railway hub, while the new Brasov airport is

also set to open from June 2023. The Brasov tRUNsylvania International 10K takes place in the Coresi neighbourhood, the most beautiful and modern urban regeneration project in Romania. It is inspiring to see the transformation of what, a few years ago, was a forgotten industrial site. The Brasov course is fast and flat: runners from the world’s superstars to the most common amateur have the chance to record a lifetime best performance here.

In 2022 the Brasov Running Festival 10K became one of the top 10 races in the WA Performance Rankings, with three of the fastest 10 results in history over the distance having been recorded in the Brasov race. Nicholas Kipkorir Kimeli set a phenomenal inaugural course record of 26:51. Hundreds of amateur runners were happy and proud

to be able to cheer the elite runners while running on the same course.

“A historical result, a European or a World Record, will soon be run on the streets of Brasov, while the amateur runners will understand that this is more than a common race,” says race director Daniel Santa.

As a special guest for the 2022 edition Mary Keitany, world record holder for the women-only Marathon, was impressed with the development of this event: ”I was surprised by Brasov. It is such a beautiful city, and the event is so well organised, the experience for both the elite athletes and the amateurs is one to appreciate. This is one of the places you need to run at least once in your life and set a long lasting personal best.”

Ten races will be organised on 9–10 September 2023, both for children and adults.

Looking ahead | 10 September 2023 Brasov tRUNsylvania Int’l 10K, Romania

There is the chance to participate in the Women Only High Heels Fun Race as well as the 5K and 10K races on Sunday. On Saturday children will run in the 800m, 1200m and 3000m with electronic chip-timing while the elite athletes will battle for new records over the Night Mile and the star 10K race.

The course is a flat and fast 3333.3m loop that offers the spectators the opportunity to see the athletes three times, while also offering the runners the chance to enjoy the cheering zone

on each of the three laps.

The racing experience will be enriched by running-related conferences and movie nights, concerts and spectacular cheering zones where local and international DJs and artists will create a unique atmosphere. With the Carpathian Mountains on the horizon and the warm encouragement of the locals, your race will be one to remember.

https://brasovrun.ro/en■

Copenhagen Half Marathon, Denmark

Breaking limits

A fiercely fast course through a buzzing metropole

You’ve probably heard or read a lot of things about Copenhagen, the capital city of the fairy tale kingdom of Denmark. It’s a buzzing metropole that mixes royal history, modern architecture and culture with sustainable living, green urban spaces and a mouth-watering culinary scene.

Copenhagen is known to be liveable and innovative. A place where things move fast, and where new solutions and boundaries are explored. That also goes for the city’s famous ‘Gold Label’ half marathon, the Copenhagen Half Marathon – or CPH Half as it’s commonly known. It is said that the CPH Half is “the place for breaking limits”, and there are several reasons why that seems to be true.

The CPH Half derives from the 2014 IAAF World Half Marathon Championships as a

‘legacy’ event. At that time the half marathon was starting to trend as a shorter and more manageable distance than the marathon. The World Championships was combined with a mass participation race resulting in 30,000 entrants. They all wanted to be part of the unique opportunity to run alongside the world’s road running heroes. With Denmark being quite an enthusiastic sports nation, thousands of spectators did too, and still do.

The course was designed to be fast, but turned out to be almost unbelievably so. The fast times quickly resounded throughout the running world and the annual CPH Half was born. It was a new event with huge ambitions which were quickly realised through the men’s world record being set in the 2019 race and the women’s European record in 2018, and through membership as one of the five half marathons in the European SuperHalfs running series.

Looking ahead | 17 September 2023

Copenhagen Half Marathon, Denmark

Since the inaugural edition of the Copenhagen Half Marathon in 2015 – and despite two years of corona cancellations – the event has sold out twice. Based on the current registration numbers the organisers expect the same for the 9th edition taking place on 17 September.

So what is it that makes 25,000 runners from more than 110 countries travel to Copenhagen to run 21,0975 km? The course has been designed not just to be fiercely fast but also to showcase the very best of Copenhagen. It integrates all the central city districts, each of which have their own distinct vibe. You’ll feel the entire city buzzing with energy and excitement from the day you arrive to the moment you cross the finish line encouraged by a thick crowd along the entire home stretch. The on-course entertainment programme is not left to chance; rather it is in the very DNA of the event. You could say that you’re not running in the city so much as running with the city. In recent years the CPH Half has committed to reducing its environmental imprint, continuously looking to apply smarter and more sustainable solutions. Copenhagen indeed is a place for moving forward and breaking limits.

cphhalf.dk■

Islandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon, Iceland

Clean air at smoky bay

Run through downtown Reykjavik, residential areas, nearby a salmon river and along the beach

There are several good reasons for distance runners to pick Islandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon as their destination race.

It is the biggest running event in Iceland and the electric atmosphere surrounding the race is hugely important for most runners. Icelanders enthusiastically support the race and it is planned to coincide with ‘Culture Night’ (Menningarnótt), a national event that brings up to a third of the entire population of Iceland onto the streets of the capital. This is truly an epic arts festival with all kinds of events all over town, be it theatre, music, fine arts, food or just fun.

Another reason to run here is the city itself: the Viking name, Reykjavík, may literally translate as ‘smoky bay’, but the name refers to the steam rising from Iceland’s many geothermal springs. Reykjavík has some of the cleanest air of any

city. Situated on a peninsula, water features heavily in the self-proclaimed ‘Party Capital of the North’, with the old town nestled around a large pond called Tjörnin. Teeming with birdlife, Tjörnin is like an oasis in the maze of old wooden houses covered in colourful corrugated iron that comprise the downtown area. Reykjavík

has the very unusual feel of a modern international city trying to fit into a nineteenth century fishing village.

The race offers an atmosphere which is both relaxed and welcoming. The marathon distance is open for all men and women 18 years and

Islandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon, Iceland

older. The course of the Reykjavik Marathon is unique and very scenic. The single-lap marathon starts in Sóleyjargata and finishes downtown in Lækjargata within sight of the pond and the city hall (all the races start and finish in the same places). The location is unbeatable, considering that many hotels are within 5–10 minutes’ walking distance from the start of the race. The Reykjavik Marathon also includes 21km, 10km and Family Fun Run (3km) which makes it an allround family event. Many runners run the Family Fun Run after having done their own race.

For the first time this year the Islandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon added a three-gender option (female, male and non-binary). Registration

is open and awards will be given for these three categories. Reykjavik Sports Association is the organiser of the event and is excited to welcome everybody to our events regardless of gender, gender identity and gender characteristics.

Although only around 200,000 people live in the Greater Reykjavik area large crowds gather in the streets to support the runners. But parts of the course pass through uninhabited areas where there are few spectators, giving the runners a chance to enjoy Iceland’s spectacular natural scenery.

All participants in the Islandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon can collect donations on behalf of a charity of their choosing; the race is the biggest charity fundraiser in Iceland.

Reykjavik Marathon has been a member of AIMS since 1984 and a part of the world’s leading distance running organisation for almost 40 years. Join us in Iceland, run in great company and in a beautiful natural environment.

www.rmi.is/en/■

START & FINISH IN THE OLYMPIC STADIUM!

OCT08TH 2023

MARATHON HALF MARATHON 10K RUN

MARATHON RELAY MINI-MARATHON

Looking

ahead | 1 October 2023 Almaty Marathon, Kazakhstan

New horizons

Open new horizons: come to run and immerse yourself in Central Asian culture

Almaty is a city of apple orchards and mountains located in the southern part of Kazakhstan.

It surprises tourists with incredible views, delicious food and open people. Almaty Marathon is the biggest running competition in Central Asia.

Come to participate in the marathon and discover the city with its exciting mix of Soviet architecture and modern reality. The main attractions of the city are: Medeu – the world’s largest high-mountain skating rink and the Ascension Cathedral, which is a 56m-high earthquake-resistant structure, built in 1907 from blue Tien Shan spruce. Then there are the parks and squares with their many fountains and restaurants. We recommend you to try Kazakh national dishes and drinks.

A relatively long stretch of the course passes along the main avenue of Almaty named after a famous Central Asian philosopher – Al-Farabi. This avenue represents the merger of the modern part of Almaty and the natural surroundings with stunning buildings and breath-taking mountain views.

Almaty Marathon was first held in 2012 with the goal of building a healthier nation. The first edition attracted only 2500 participants but over the years the event has developed in quality and in scale. In 2022 12,000 people from more than 40 countries came to participate.

Race records in the Marathon are held by Shedrak Koech (KAZ) at 2:21:27 and by Aleksandra Kalanova (RUS) at 2:42:44. In the Half Marathon Rinas Akhmadeev (RUS) set the record in 2022 with 1:04:04. The women’s record stands to Sardana Trofimova (KGZ) with the time of 1:12:49.

The event is open to all running enthusiasts. It offers several different distances including 42.2 km, 21.1 km, 10 km, 10 km Nordic walking, and Ekiden Relay. Participants must be over 15 to run the 10km and over 18 for the other distances.

As the Almaty Marathon develops its prize fund increases. Last year total prize money for Marathon and Half Marathon totalled USD 14,000 (12,900 EUR).

A sports expo is held each year at which manufacturers and distributors of sports goods, service providers in the field of sports, medicine and nutrition take stands to promote their goods and services. Master classes, consultations, presentations and mini-competitions on sports topics take place within the expo. Registered participants pick up their race packs at the expo.

Almaty Marathon is not just a sporting competition. Each year the event allocates part of the proceeds from the registration fees to create the necessary sports infrastructure for children with special needs. In 2022 funds raised in this way amounted to almost USD 100,000 (92,000 EUR).

Almaty Marathon is organised by the “Courage to be the first” team of the Corporate fund with the help of volunteers. The Corporate fund also organises more than 10 other sports competitions each year including cycling and swimming. The Almaty Marathon organisation is headed by Saltanat Kazybayeva who has been the race director for more than ten years.

Registration opens on 18 April 2023. www.almaty-marathon.kz■

Looking ahead | 30 September – 1 October 2023

Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon, Malaysia

cities of South East Asia

It’s still dark in the wee hours of the morning when Kuala Lumpur’s historic Independence Square starts to come alive as thousands of runners converge for the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM).

By the time it ends at 11.00 the sun is shining brightly and more than 34,000 runners have crossed the finish line over two days. The event is so popular because it gives participants the unique opportunity of running through the streets and expressways of the city and to experience the spectacular break of dawn over Kuala Lumpur.

Apart from being the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is also its epicentre in terms of people, food, arts, culture and sports. Malaysians from all over the country gravitate towards Kuala Lumpur in search of work and opportunity, and the city basks in this melting pot, which also includes a large number of international expats and migrant workers. The KLSCM is a microcosm of Kuala Lumpur, bringing together citizens from all across Malaysia and from all around the world to take part in a well-organized event and to enjoy all that the city has to offer.

This year’s event takes place over the weekend of 30 September – 1 October and will encompass both Full and Half marathons, 10km and 5km categories, as well as the Kids Dash (1km and 3km). The Full and Half marathon routes are measured and certified and take runners through some iconic cityscapes. The flag-off is at

Cityscapes by night and day

the same place where the first Prime Minister of the country declared independence from British rule and is surrounded by heritage buildings that are remnants of that colonial era.

The Full marathon route then takes runners through a cross section of the city. You get to see the juxtaposition of the traditional with the ultra-modern, where a 120-year old village coexists in the middle of the central district of the city, a stone’s throw away from the tallest twin towers in the world (Petronas Twin Towers). Runners then crisscross the financial and shopping hub that is Bukit Bintang, going past the headquarters of title sponsor Standard Chartered Bank along the way. The route then gives runners the experience of running on an elevated tolled Expressway before returning to the Finish line.

An integral component of the KLSCM is its Corporate Social Responsibility programme called Run For A Reason (RFAR) where every year four to five charities are selected for which runners can choose to raise funds. Charities like Standard Chartered’s Futuremakers, Hospis Malaysia, the National Cancer Society of

Malaysia, Dignity for Children Foundation and Teach for Malaysia have received much needed resources from the funds raised by runners. The programme showcases the power of the marathon to bring about positive social change.

What started with 13,500 participants in 2009 has blossomed into a sold-out, internationally recognized event with 40,000 runners (pre-pandemic numbers) in its recent editions, including close to 2000 international runners. The KLSCM has the distinction of being awarded two Golds in the Asia Sports Industry Awards (SPIA Asia) in 2018 for Best Mass Participation Event and Best Digital. The 2023 edition will also be the event’s first as a World Athletics Label Road Race.

If you’re looking for a warm weather marathon in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in South East Asia the KLSCM ticks all the right boxes: you can indulge yourself in some spectacular cuisine; expose yourself to a melting pot of cultures; or visit the glorious beaches and forests that surround the country.

www.kl-marathon.com■

Iconic skylines in one of the most cosmopolitan

The 23rd World Congress of AIMS was held in Osaka from 23–25 February, followed by the host race, the Osaka Marathon, on 26 February 2023.

It was the first time a Congress had been held since September 2018 when Tallinn Marathon (Estonia) hosted the 22nd AIMS World Congress.

AIMS President Paco Borao welcomed those attending. 103 member events appeared on the list of participants. In his welcoming report to Congress Mr Borao used graphs to show how difficult it had been over the last 4.5 years to keep track of which races were postponed and which were cancelled at times when very few races were being staged because of the physical restrictions in place.

He suggested that 2023 would still be spent chasing the race numbers of the peak year of 2019 of 496 Members compared to the current 402 and this would likely not be achieved until 2024.

The main agenda items after the welcome and future plans of AIMS President Paco Borao, were the financial report from Treasurer Al Boka, and the communication and marketing reports.

The keynote speaker of the whole congress was the lecture of Prof. Shinya Yamanaka (Japan), Director Emeritus, Kyoto University IPS Cell Research Institute. He is a 2012 Nobel Laureate in Medicine and Physiology. According to him, he is probably the only marathon running Nobel laureate.

Later in the morning Kathryn Widu gave a presentation on how the Vienna City Marathon had ‘bounced back’ from covid to become one of the first races to return to mass participation numbers. Unfortunately there had been recent cases of covid within her household and she had to deliver the presentation by video.

An interactive session took place in the afternoon where five groups separately discussed the subject of ‘Lessons learned from Covid’ among themselves before reporting back to the main session.

In the afternoon the candidates for election to the AIMS Board presented themselves.

AIMS World Congress

Osaka, Japan

Getting back on track

23rd AIMS World Congress in Osaka

Proposals from the Board were presented to change the statutes so that the Treasurer, like the General Secretary, is not elected by the members but is appointed by the Board.

In the evening there was the big welcome party with an elaborate show along with a delicious Japanese buffet at the conference hotel New Otani Osaka.

The second day of Congress started with the technical report by Dave Cundy,

Martha Morales then spoke to the AIMS report on the further development of the AIMS Children’s Races and especially on the promotion of the Women’s Run, where AIMS is planning a Women’s Run Conference.

Horst Milde, the AIMS Consultant for the AIMS Marathoneum in Berlin noted the most important new acquisitions in a multi-page brochure “Marathoneum Documents Nr. 6 Rarities and Acquistions from the AIMS Marathoneum“ with the presentation of a distance marker from the London Olympic Marathon 1908 that was

acquired by AIMS. There were also donated items from “Wim Verhoorn Collection“.

Distance Running publisher Frank Baillie had already called upon members to bring a T-shirt and a medal of their running event to the Tallinn Congress. This was an immediate success, Members also brought their race T-shirts and medals to Osaka and these were displayed on a wall in the conference hall.

T-shirts and medals, as well as memorabilia and souvenirs of the Osaka Marathon, will be sent by the Osaka Congress organisers to the AIMS Marathoneum in Berlin.

On the second day Mike Nishi of the Chicago Marathon shared his thoughts on the impact of Covid and what it would mean for future events. An exchange of views between Tad Hayano (Tokyo Marathon) and Fernando Jamarne

Osaka Castle

Welcome dinner

Friendly volunteers

One of the five discussion groups

AIMS World Congress

Osaka, Japan

(Santiago Marathon) revealed how severely covid had impacted on the finances of races which had been forced to cancel but that after the 2022 races had been held it had been possible to see a pathway to recovery over the next editions.

A part of the programme was devoted to AIMS partners making presentations to the delegates on the goods and services they provide, After this a plaque was awarded to Francis Kay of Marathon Photos to mark 20 years of cooperation with AIMS. Francis Kay later arranged the group photo which he has taken at all Congresses held since 2002.

Later in the afternoon Branislav Koniar of the Košice Peace Marathon described how, since his

race was founded 100 years ago, it has been held every year thanks to the strong attachment it shares with the city. The robust working relationship has allowed a small city like Košice to achieve much more with its marathon than others of similar size.

Marathon Olympic Champion Mizuki Noguchi (Japan) put in a surprise appearance as a special guest.

Jun Takashina. Director & Deputy Secretary General, Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition OSAKA, then made a presentation on Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai Japan and Marathons

In the evening the AIMS-sponsored film “42.195 km“ was screened in the Congress Hall of the Hotel New Otani.

During the final session of Congress, on the morning of 25 February, a vote was taken to amend the Articles of Association of AIMS so that the position of Treasurer would cease to be an elected position (Board member) and become subject to appointment by the Board of Directors. The vote was carried by 89 votes to 17.

A second vote was held to elect four Board members from the nine that had been proposed and seconded.

The successful candidates were Mike Nishi (Chicago Marathon); Renna Nelis (Tallinn Marathon); Rut Jiroajvanichakorn (Bangsaen 21), and Branislav Koniar (Košice Peace Marathon).

Sunday 26. February 2023

Walk to the 09.15 start of the Osaka Marathon through the Osaka Castle Park), then back to see the finish - more than 32,000 people were expected to participate, including many male and female elite runners.

The organisers of the 23rd AIMS World Congress in Osaka were excellent hosts of a successful event that brought members from all over the world together again after the long years interrupted by the Coronavirus pandemic.

The hosts are to be thanked for an excellent organisation of all procedures, technology and the extremely friendly treatment by the many volunteers. The comfortable premises of the Congress Hotel New Otani Hotel also contributed to the successful event.

Pictures courtesy of Horst Milde

Counting votes

Nobel Laureate Shinya Yamanaka

New AIMS Board of Directors

Mizuki Noguchi

AIMSmembereventsfortheforthcoming12months

April2023–March2024

Forthelatestdatesvisitaims-worldrunning.org/calendar.html RacenamesofFoundingMembers(1982)areshowninred

October2023 1

52

1–3 StandardCharteredSingapore Marathon SIN M,H,R 56

2–3 AmazingThailandMarathon Bangkok

THA M,H,R 58

3 AngkorWatInt’lHalfMarathon CAM H,R 47

3 WalkersCaymanIslands Marathon CAY M 47

3 AbuDhabi“YesICan”10kmInt’l UAE R 58

3 ValenciaTrinidadAlfonso Marathon ESP M 31

3 ReggaeMarathon,Half&10K JAM M,H,R 51

3 DiscoveriesHalfMarathon POR H

Keepuptodate!

ForthelatestracedatespleasealsoconsulttheofficialonlineAIMS calendarat aims-worldrunning.org/calendar.html

YoucanalsosubscribetotheAIMScalendarinyourcalendaring applicationofchoice,whetheronyourphone,tabletorcomputer.

Simplysubscribeto webcal://aims-worldrunning.org/events.ics inyourcalendarapp.

tbc ZurichMaratódeBarcelona ESP M 56

tbc CAFCaracasMaratón

VEN M 58

tbc ChongqingInt’lMarathon CHN M,H,R 47

tbc JerusalemMarathon,Half&10k ISR M,H,R 52

tbc MaratónInt’lLala

MEX M 54

tbc OPAPLimassolMarathon CYP M,H,R 48

tbc G.S.O.LimassolInt’lMarathon CYP M,H,R 48

tbc EDPLisbonHalfMarathon

POR H 56

tbc MacaoInternational10K MAC R 52

tbc MovistarMadridMedioMaratón ESP H 56

tbc MiriMarathon MAS M,H,R 54

tbc NafplioMarathon GRE M,H 50

tbc NagoyaWomen’sMarathon

JPN M 52

tbc SaipanMarathon MNP M,H,R 54

tbc SãoSilvestredeLuanda10km ANG R 47

tbc SeoulMarathon KOR M 52

tbc StandardCharteredStanley Marathon FLK M 48

In the summer of 1924 Vojtech Braun Bukovský, Košice sports enthusiast, organiser and journalist all in one person, went to the Olympic Games in Paris. The enthusiasm he returned home with was channelled into organising a marathon race, as it was the event which had thrilled him the most in Paris.

Just a few weeks later, on 28 October and the 6th anniversary of the establishment of Czechoslovakia, eight men lined up for the start below the ruins of Turňa Castle and set off towards Košice on a then still unsuspected adventure. The winner that day, local runner Karol Halla, tried defending his title another nine times altogether but the growing quality of the competition was against him. The second edition already had an international line-up and the winners’ laurels from the third were carried off to Germany by Paul Hempel of the Charlottenburg Sports Club in Berlin. The Club exists to this day as the organiser of the Berlin Marathon. The Marathon made itself at home in Eastern Slovakia and soon got a response from the rest of the world. In 1931 a 20-year-old Argentinian new boy Juan Carlos Zabala shocked everyone with his course record of 2:33:19. Many doubting voices were raised but they were all silenced a year later by Zabala’s victory at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Performances achieved in Košice always had the hallmark of credibility because since 1924 the course has regularly been remeasured to ensure it conforms with the now standard distance of 42.195km. This has not always been true elsewhere – as late as 1956 the Boston Marathon was run over a course of only 40.6km.

Even the torments of World War II could not stop the Marathon, and its continuity was preserved. The early snowfall in 1946 was perhaps

Running into history

100 years of the Košice Peace Marathon

a premonition that the era of the Northerners was beginning. In the decade that followed runners from Norway, Sweden and Finland won a total of eight times, with the Swede Thomas Nilsson setting a new course record of 2:22:06 in 1956.

During that period the Košice Marathon had a great reputation in Scandinavia. “May Boston

forgive us, but the greatest marathon contests in the world are being played out in Košice,” wrote the daily Göteborg Posten. The leader of the Swedish team declared the race to be the unofficial championships of Europe.

In the 1959 race the course record was dramatically improved by the Russian Sergej Popov, who ran 2:17:45 and at the end of the year topped

Pictures courtesy of Košice Peace Marathon

the world marathon rankings. Košice was also number one in the world in terms of participation. It may seem laughable in comparison to today’s marathon mass starts, but in 1946 and 1947 Košice had more finishers than any other race in the world, 74 in both years. In 1951 there were 69 finishers but that was also more than any other marathon that year.

In 1960 Košice acquired its own artistic symbol, a 3.5-metre high bronze statue of a marathon runner with the names of the winners on the plinth below. One year later the name of one of the greatest of all marathon runners was added there: Abebe Bikila, Olympic champion in Rome and later in Tokyo as well. The population of the city at that time was no more than 80 000, but nearly 30 000 people were crammed into the stadium to see the finish and several thousands more lined the course.

The next few Marathons were graced with other top names; world record-holder Leonard Edelen of the USA won in 1963 and brilliant runners from Great Britain and the Commonwealth took turns lining up at the start, such as Bill Adcocks, John Farrington, Derek Clayton, and Ron Hill.

In 1980 the Košice marathon was opened to women as well as men. For many years the women’s event was dominated by the German Christa Vahlensieck. In 1977 she set the world record of 2:34:48 in Berlin, and in Košice between 1981 and 1988 she won five times. Her compatriot, double Olympic winner Waldemar Cierpinski, tried repeatedly for victory in Košice but none of his five starts brought him that honour. He ran his debut marathon in Košice in 1974 and finished his career there in 1985.

The year 1989 brought great changes. Less than two months before the ‘Velvet Revolution’ it looked like the Marathon itself was anticipating the changes in society. The traditional course going out to Seňa and back, which had been run from 1926 onwards, was replaced with a city circuit. This attracted the attention of the whole world in 1997 when the IAAF World Half Marathon Championships were held in Košice. Records were broken, with three men finishing under the hour. The titles were taken by Shem Kororia and Tegla Loroupe.

Just two years later Košice hosted the 12th AIMS World Congress, getting the chance to present its rich marathon history and organisational abilities once again. At that time Košice

became recognised as the place continuously organising the oldest marathon in Europe. The only race in the world with a longer tradition is Boston. These two marathons have two winners in common: the Swede Karl Leanderson (Boston 1949, Košice 1948 and 1950); and the Belgian Aurel Vandenriessche (Boston 1963 and 1964, Košice 1965).

Today the Košice Marathon is a colourful festival of sport and fun attracting roughly 10 000 participants from all over the world. All those running around the extensive historical centre of this city – the first in Europe to acquire its own coat of arms from King Louis the Great in 1369 – must surely admire the Gothic St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral dating from the 14th century and a great many other architectural gems. It was thanks to this heritage and its programme of creative transformation that Košice gained the title of European Capital of Culture for the year 2013.

This Marathon is attractive not only due to its tradition and the olden-day charm of the city but also for the flat and fast course it offers which has remained essentially unchanged since the IAAF World Half Marathon Championships in 1997. This is witnessed by the many personal

best times which amateur runners in Košice improve on every year, as well as the course records which reflect the gradually increasing level of the event.

The past few years have shown that the Košice Peace Marathon can overcome even the most difficult of obstacles. It managed to preserve its continuity even in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. And in the midst of this difficult period yet another major award arrived – in the form of a World Athletics Heritage Plaque. There are further unique milestones to come: the 100th edition in 2023 and 100th anniversary of the founding of the Košice Peace Marathon in 1924.

If you ask runners what they see as exceptional in the Košice Marathon their answers often match. The unusual atmosphere, with streets full of runners and spectators; the positive energy with which everyone mutually recharges themselves. This is an image which reflects almost 100 years of the marathon phenomenon’s existence in this city. The people understand this marathon, live with it, and are rightly proud of it.

www.kosicemarathon.com■

Abebe Bikila

Christa Vahlensieck

Boston strong 10 years after

The 127th Boston Marathon will take place on Monday 17 April. It has been 10 years since the race became the target of a domestic terrorist attack, on 15 April 2013.

That attack has been the only one of its kind to target a Marathon event. For years before it happened marathon organisers had been acutely aware of that possibility and had taken what steps they could to guard against it, but there are limitations on what measures would be practicable.

Back in 2004, in the Olympic Marathon in Athens, a spectator had run onto the course and obstructed the lead runner such that he lost about 10 seconds and dropped to third place. Although the consequences were serious only for a single runner this incident showed how a marathon event is particularly vulnerable to anyone wanting to cause disruption or damage to the participants, spectators and event itself.

After the incident race organisers sought to provide a security presence in the convoy at the head of their races aimed at protecting the leading runners. It was thought that anyone seeking to send a message would strike where the cameras were focused – at the head of the race – but this addressed the particularities of what had happened rather than the full range of possibilities through which damage could be caused.

That the terrorist attack took place at all in Boston was subject to chance. The perpetrators were two brothers, Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev, originally from Kirghizstan, who were self-radicalised and not connected to any terrorist groups but motivated by the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. They had been learning to build bombs from online manuals and thought they had succeeded in doing so earlier than they expected. The ‘test event’ had been envisaged

as an attack on an Independence Day (4 July) gathering in Boston but they now looked around for an earlier date. The upcoming Boston Marathon was prominent in the news and became the new target almost by default.

The aim of the attack was not specifically directed at the Boston Marathon but at the opportunity it provided. The Marathon presented a target through its ability to attract crowds to a particular location – the finish line – where injuries and deaths resulting from the bomb blasts would be at a maximum.

The Tsarnaev brothers each carried a home-made pressure-cooker bomb in their backpacks and made their way to the finish line on Boyleston Street. They stopped along the barriers at the side of the road and lowered their bags to the pavement – but left them there when they moved away. The bombs were detonated at 2:49pm, a few minutes after the brothers had left the scene. Most of the marathon field had passed through the finish, but there was a steady stream still running by when the bombs went off.

The casualties were more among the roadside spectators closest to the explosions than the runners out in the roadway. Three people died as a result of the immediate blast and there were dozens of injuries, with some estimates at over 200.

The subsequent police investigation was able to identify the bombers through surveillance cameras*. This was of great help in the manhunt that followed but cameras are not a tool that could offer any chance of preventing the bombings.

Marathons remain extremely vulnerable events to safeguard. That they have not become singled out as targets for terrorist acts is fortunate. It is perhaps partly explained by being distanced from more politically charged targets such as national rallies or important government buildings.

Earlier terrorist attacks in New York (2001), Madrid (2004) and Mumbai (2008) had all happened only a few weeks before those cities’ marathons were to take place. In all cases these marathons went ahead and proved to be cathartic as expressions of solidarity for those killed in the attacks.

“Boston Strong” is a slogan which emerged in Boston as a reaction to the marathon bombings. It focussed on the inner strength of the community rather than directing expressions of anger and revenge, much like the reaction channelled by the Marathons following the previous attacks elsewhere.

www.baa.org■

* Following the identification of the perpetrators on 18 April a manhunt quickly closed in on them. A few hours later Tamerlan, the elder of the two by seven years, died from injuries sustained in a roadside shootout. Dzhokhar escaped in a car they had earlier stolen but in doing so drove over his brother’s body. Next evening he was captured hiding under the tarpaulin of a sailboat in a back yard. He was tried and sentenced to death in 2015. The verdict was contested but confirmed by the Supreme Court in March 2022. He remains incarcerated.

Pictures: B.A.A.

Ukraine keeps on running

Despite causing widespread damage and disruption the war in Ukraine has not stopped runners from running. General director of NEWRUN LLC Maksym

The war in Ukraine started at 06.00 on 24 February 2022. On that first day all Ukrainians’ thoughts, actions and states of mind were fully concentrated on it. Some were fighting, some were dying, some were saving their families, some were starting to prepare their homes and cities for the battle.

I have connections with a lot of running friends in Ukraine. After three days I saw Kharkiv runners appearing in my feed. They were exchanging information on which side of the city the artillery fire was coming from and where not to run. Someone said that he had almost run into the tanks. Some suggested they should run in groups so that they could at least help in cases of wounding. At that time the front line was right beside Kharkiv, at a distance of a rifle shot. The north-eastern part of the city was shelled incessantly. There are 1.5 million people in Kharkiv and a lot of them left the city in the first days of the war as the best way to protect their loved ones. Runners were thinking about that too, but they also thought about running, because they always do – even during war.

In the early days of the war Kyiv had columns of tanks on the approach roads up to 60km long and fierce fighting was taking place. In the feed I saw familiar faces: I had seen them before at the starting corrals, or at the finish line with a medal and a smile on their faces. Now they were the faces of soldiers in uniform with machine guns.

Not all runners joined the army. They were also in the back line ready to defend the city. They did not leave but they had difficulty running. Ordinary people greeted the runners in a half-empty Kyiv sometimes with disapproval, sometimes with bewilderment: “How can you run when we could all die here?” was the unspoken question. Runners complained about this but were already going out for runs in the second week of the war.

When war was sprung upon us I was recovering from coronavirus. I went out for a run on 27 February. I was not afraid of the war, of the shell-

Kryvenko

reports

ing, but I anticipated the disapproval of ordinary people so I ran in the woods. After a few days I started running in the city. It seemed to me that the familiar sight of runners in the city should be comforting – the city was living its life.

Since 24 February there have been no official race starts in Ukraine. Every city is always on air raid alert and it is not safe to be outside. As organisers we cannot risk the lives of others, but going out for a daily run is a personal matter and the decision of each runner. Unofficially, runners meet for small local competitions, primarily to raise money for the army and to buy weapons. Almost every week runners hold small races of 100–300 people in different cities around the country.

The running community takes an active part in the defence of the country. First and foremost within the ranks of the armed forces. But there are also instances where running has helped focus national efforts. In August a Ukrainian amateur ultramarathoner, Vladimir Skorovorodka (Vova), ran an 880km charity ultrarun from Kyiv to Warsaw. He attracted the attention of a huge number of people in Ukraine. His efforts raised money for equipment for the de-mining of the Black Sea.

As a runner it was an amazing example. Vova works as a lifeguard and has been rescuing people from under the rubble of the bombings every day since the start of the war. He works 24/7

and has almost no time to train. To run 880km in 14 days without training was a tremendous achievement. Much to my surprise Vova was able to cover the distance at a very respectable pace of 4:40-5:10 min/km. In every town local running clubs ran with him as support. Our company helped with the organisation of this challenge and I had the honour of running the first 15km with Vova.

Our NEWRUN team continues to work. We have learnt a lot in our nine years of conducting running events. We had a unique experience of holding up to 14 marathons and half-marathons a year in the largest cities of Ukraine with up to 10,000 participants. Few other organisers had such a busy schedule. We are currently working on the possibility of holding events in Europe which will help to raise more money for the Ukrainian military effort. These races would give Ukrainians a chance to take part in our races abroad.and we would be glad to get help from the running community with organisation or ideas.

For many Ukrainians running has been an emotional escape since the war began. Running, like nothing else, gives a sense of self-confidence and triumph. We continue to champion the idea of running in Ukraine: running is a piece of peace at a time when we are at war in our country. Many of those who read these lines will know that feeling of honesty and unity among runners before the starting shot. At this moment everyone understands each other without words and strangers become very close. The starting line unites all of us with the same thoughts and the same distance ahead. Ukrainian marathon runners stay in the same corridor as the runners of the world, and I am sure that all the runners of the world are close to Ukraine.

Marathon movers

Distance running has spread widely throughout the world over the last four decades. Vietnam is at the forefront of the latest geographical expansion

Boom time

At the time of AIMS’ foundation, 40 years ago, the running boom was in its infancy. The largest marathons in the world at that time, New York and London, attracted around 15,000 participants.

This was ten times more than the number of runners who had completed any marathon ever held up until six years beforehand. Despite what we might now see as modest numbers there was no doubt that it was a boom.

Forty years and several further ‘booms’ later Vietnam has most recently come under the spotlight with 12,000 runners taking part in the Techcombank Ho Chi Minh International Marathon in December 2022.

The popularity of running as a mass participation sport has spread unevenly through the decades and even more unevenly in terms of geography. The jump was made from North America to Europe but beyond, into Asia, Japan and Korea stood alone with their long running traditions. Marathons were run in a few places like Hong Kong and Bangkok, and Vietnam hosted marathons in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in the mid-1990s

The Vietnamese races alternated between the two venues and were staged by a Hong Kong-based American expatriate. It was a brave attempt to sow the marathon seed but the conditions in Vietnam were not favourable for it at that time.

Elsewhere in Asia they were becoming more so, with dramatic increases in the number of races held and the number of runners in each race. In India, In China and latterly in Thailand distance running has become an increasingly popular pursuit.

Vietnam still held back but in 2013 the Da Nang Marathon was set up and sparked a

popular response. Where there had previously been no running culture races and runners sprang up in many attractive new destinations. AIMS Technical Director Dave Cundy, who was involved in the establishment of the Da Nang Marathon, remembers that the race was sold to Pulse Active in 2015.

That the race held real value could only be based on race organisers’ confidence that city authorities could see the advantages of hosting an event and would continue to grant them the right to use the roads. Once this was understood races started to multiply and organisers set up ‘sister’ events in other cities.

And sometimes in the same city: while in the mid-1990s Vietnam’s two largest cities – Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi – rotated a marathon between them they now boast multiple marathons apiece while Da Lat and Da Nang, as two of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, have two events each.

Ho Chi Minh City 6 1 4

Ha Noi 6 3 6

Da Nang 2 – 1

Da Lat 2 – 3

The main organisers include Sunrise Events, Race Jungle and VnExpress who have all hosted more than three events each year.

The Techcombank Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon has been the largest marathon in Vietnam in terms of participants for the last three years. The point-to-point route runs through five districts and one city (Thu Duc City), linking 17 remarkable symbols of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City including its two iconic

bridges. Thu Thiem Bridge and Ba Son Bridge are showcased by the race which contributes to promoting Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism. [Registration is now open for the 6th edition at: https://actiup.net/event/techcombank-hcmmarathon-2023]

The inaugural Techcombank Ha Noi Marathon was run in September 2022 For the first time runners of the 42.2km distance had the chance to conquer the Nhat Tan Bridge, the largest cable-stayed bridge in Vietnam and a new symbol for a developing Hanoi. The race, organised by Sunrise Events, is the first in Vietnam to empower a woman as the race director. It also has the biggest individual prize pool in Vietnam. [Registration is now open for the 2nd Edition at: https://actiup.net/event/giai-ha-noi-marathontechcombank-mua-thu-2]

The list of marathons in Vietnam is growing all the time – unfailingly accompanied by several shorter-distance supporting races. Most recently a nationwide series of races has been set up by the VnExpress news website group.

VnExpress Marathon Sparkling Quy Nho: vm.vnexpress.net/quy-nhon-2023

VnExpress Marathon Marvelous Nha Trang: vm.vnexpress.net/nha-trang-2022

VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight: vm.vnexpress.net/ho-chi-minh-2023

VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight: vm.vnexpress.net/ha-noi-2022

VnExpress Marathon Amazing Ha Long: vm.vnexpress.net/ha-long-2022

VnExpress Marathon Imperial Hue: vm.vnexpress.net/hue-2023

The names of these races highlight the touristic qualities that the organisers wish to project. Although tourism has not yet fully recovered from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic it is clear that the longer-term strategy is to attract tourists to participate in these races.

World leading times

These lists give the current standings in the world of road racing, and are believed accurate at 21 March 2023. For a deeper listing and the most up-to-date times consult the AIMS World Leading Times page online at https://aims-worldrunning.org/statistics.html

New world record, pending ratification: Eliud Kipchoge (KEN), 2:01:09, Berlin, 25 SEP 2022

Present world record: Eliud Kipchoge (KEN), 2:01:39, Berlin, 16 SEP 2018

2:05:06 marius kimuTAi BrN 1 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:05:12 othmane el Goumri mAr 2 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:05:19 kebede Tulu eTh 2 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:05:22 Deso GelmiSA eTh 1 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:05:22 mohamed eSA eTh 2 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:05:24 mekuant AYeNeW eTh 3 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:05:25 Tsegaye GeTACheW eTh 3 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:05:27 Amedework WAleleGNe eTh 1 Seoul 19 mAr

2:05:32 Titus kiPruTo keN 4 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:05:33 Gashau AYAle iSr 4 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:05:36 Cameron l eViNS CAN 5 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:05:37 kaan kigen ÖZBileN Tur 3 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:05:38 Deme Tadu ABATe eTh 6 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:05:41 Shifera TAmru eTh 2 Seoul 19 mAr

2:05:42 Abdisa TolA eTh 1 Dubai 12 FeB

2:05:42 Bethwel kiBeT keN 5 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:05:47 enock oNChAri keN 6 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:05:51 Deresa GeleTe eTh 2 Dubai 12 FeB

2:05:51 ichitaka YAmAShiTA JPN 7 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:05:51 oqbe kibrom rueSom eri 4 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:05:53 haftu Teklu eTh 3 Seoul 19 mAr

2:05:58 haymanot AleW eTh 3 Dubai 12 FeB

2:05:59 kenya SoNoTA JPN 8 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:06:01 hailemaryam kiroS eTh 1 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:03 Victor kiPlANGAT uGA 1 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:07 Gebretsadi k ABrAhA eTh 4 Dubai 12 FeB

2:06:07 mulugeta Asefa umA eTh 7 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:06:13 Suguru oSAko JPN 9 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:06:19 Alphonce Felix SimBu TAN 2 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:29 olika Adugna BikilA eTh 4 Seoul 19 mAr

2:06:32 Joel kemboi kimurer keN 5 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:06:37 Charles karanja kAmAu keN 3 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:39 Abraraw miSGeNAW eTh 5 Dubai 12 FeB

2:06:42 Stephen mokokA rSA 4 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:43 ibrahim hASSAN DJi 1 Beppu 05 FeB

2:06:43 Tadesse ABrAhAm Sui 6 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:06:45 Nicolas NAVArro FrA 8 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:06:45 kazuya NiShiYAmA JPN 5 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:48 Daniel kiPChumBA keN 2 Beppu 05 FeB

2:06:49 mohcin ouTAlhA mAr 1 Doha 20 JAN

2:06:52 Gevin keriCh keN 2 Doha 20 JAN

2:06:53 Yohei ikeDA JPN 6 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:54 Victor kiPChirChir keN 3 Doha 20 JAN

2:06:54 Adane keBeDe eTh 4 Doha 20 JAN

2:06:56 kenneth keTer keN 7 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:06:57 Shohei oTSukA JPN 7 osaka 26 FeB

2:06:59 Ashenafi moGeS eTh 5 Seoul 19 mAr

2:07:02 hicham lAQouAhi mAr 6 Seoul 19 mAr

2:07:09 hiroto iNoue JPN 10 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:07:11 Douglas CheBii keN 9 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:07:13 Zablon ChumBA keN 5 Doha 20 JAN

2:07:14 Abdi keBeDe eTh 8 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:07:15 hiribo ShANo eTh 6 Doha 20 JAN

2:07:16 Stephen kiSSA uGA 11 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:07:16 iliass AouANi iTA 9 Barcelona 19 mAr

2:07:19 enock oNChAri keN 1 Wuxi 19 mAr

2:07:22 Wilfred kimiTei keN 10 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:07:23 Vincent kibor rAimoi keN 12 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:07:24 Toshiki SADAkATA JPN 9 osaka 26 FeB

2:07:28 koki YoShiokA JPN 10 osaka 26 FeB

2:07:30 Jie he ChN 2 Wuxi 19 mAr

2:07:32 haylu lemi eTh 1 mumbai 15 JAN

2:07:35 Yuki kAWAuChi JPN 11 osaka 26 FeB

2:07:36 Brimin kiPkorir keN 13 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:07:38 Christian PACheCo Per 11 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:07:40 Girmaw AmAre iSr 12 Sevilla 19 FeB

2:07:42 Taoufik AllAm mAr 1 rome 19 mAr

2:07:44 Tsubasa iChiYAmA JPN 3 Beppu 05 FeB

2:07:44 hector GAriBAY FloreS Bol 13 Sevilla 19 FeB

Present world record (mixed competition): Brigid Kosgei (KEN), 2:14:04, Chicago, 13 OCT 2019

Present world record (women-only race): Mary Keitany (KEN), 2:17:01, London, 23 APR 2017

2:16:28 rosemary WANJiru keN 1 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:16:56 Tsehay GemeChu eTh 2 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:18:08 ruth ChePNGeTiCh keN 1 Nagoya 12 mAr

2:19:11 Ashete Bekere eTh 3 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:19:24 hitomi NiiYA JPN 1 houston 15 JAN

2:20:13 Workenesh eDeSA eTh 4 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:20:29 Jackline ChelAl keN 1 Sevilla 26 FeB

2:20:46 meseret BeleTe eTh 1 Doha 20 JAN

2:20:47 Desi Jisa mokoNiN BrN 2 Doha 20 JAN

2:21:11 Dera DiDA eTh 1 Dubai 12 FeB

2:21:13 haven hAilu eTh 1 osaka 29 JAN

2:21:24 ruti AGA eTh 1 Dubai 12 FeB

2:21:40 Betsy SAiNA uSA 5 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:21:44 mizuki mATSuDA JPN 6 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:21:52 Ayuko S uZuki JPN 2 Nagoya 12 mAr

2:21:54 Ayana muliSA eTh 2 Sevilla 26 FeB

2:21:59 Siranesh YirGA eTh 2 Dubai 12 FeB

2:22:08 Ai hoSoDA JPN 7 Tokyo 05 mAr

2:22:12 meseret GolA eTh 2 osaka 29 JAN

2:22:16 helen Bekele eTh 1 osaka 26 FeB

2:22:28 Beatrice ChePToo keN 3 Doha 20 JAN

2:22:32 honami mAeDA JPN 3 Nagoya 12 mAr

2:22:50 Fikrte WereTA eTh 3 Dubai 12 FeB

2:22:59 Yuka ANDo JPN 3 osaka 29 JAN

2:23:01 Betty ChePkWoNY keN 1 rome 19 mAr

2:23:05 urge Diro eTh 3 Sevilla 26 FeB

2:23:07 Beyenu DeGeFA eTh 2 osaka 26 FeB

2:23:08 momoko WATANABe JPN 3 osaka 26 FeB

2:23:15 lisa WeiGhTmAN AuS 4 osaka 26 FeB

2:23:17 Tigist GeTNeT eTh 4 Dubai 12 FeB

2:23:21 Fantu JimmA eTh 4 Doha 20 JAN

2:23:53 meseret kiTATA eTh 5 Dubai 12 FeB

2:24:05 Deshun ZhANG ChN 4 Nagoya 12 mAr

2:24:15 Anchialem hAYmANoT eTh 1 mumbai 15 JAN

2:24:16 mao ueSuGi JPN 5 Nagoya 12 mAr

2:24:22 rahma TuSA eTh 2 mumbai 15 JAN

2:24:30 m eseret ABeBAYAhAu eTh 1 riyadh 11 FeB

2:24:48 Bedatu hirPA eTh 6 Dubai 12 FeB

2:24:52 letebrhan GeBreSlASeA eTh 3 mumbai 15 JAN

2:24:53 Citlali CriSTiAN moSCoTe meX 4 Sevilla 26 FeB

2:24:56 Bekelech GuDeTA eTh 7 Dubai 12 FeB

2:24:59 Aberash FAYeSA eTh 2 riyadh 11 FeB

Present world record: Kibiwott Kandie (KEN), 57:32, Valencia, 06 Dec 2020

New world record, pending ratification: Jacob Kiplimo (UGA), 57:31, Lisbon, 21 Nov 2021

58:45 Benard kibet koeC h keN 1 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

58: 49 Daniel mAT eiko keN 2 ras al khaimah 18 Fe B

58:53 Charles kipkurui lA NGAT keN 1 Barcelona 19 FeB

58:55 ha gos GeBrehiVeT eTh 1 Granollers 05 FeB

58:59 Birhanu leGeSe eTh 2 Barcelona 19 FeB

59:06 Nibret melAk eTh 1 lisboa 19 mAr

59:07 hagos GeBrhiWeT eTh 2 lisboa 19 mAr

59:10 Jacob kiPlimo keN 3 lisboa 19 mAr

59:17 Alexander muTiSo keN 1 marugame 05 FeB

59:19 Cleophas kANDie keN 2 marugame 05 FeB

59:22 rhonex kiPruTo keN 4 lisboa 19 mAr

59:29 Solomon kirwa YeGo keN 3 Barcelona 19 FeB

59:37 richard YATor keN 3 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

59:44 Benard kipkurui BiWoT keN 1 Santa Pola 22 JAN

59:51 Josphat BoiT keN 4 Barcelona 19 FeB

59:51 Bashir ADBi Bel 1 Ghent 19 mAr

59:53 Gemechu DiDA eTh 4 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

59:53 hicham AmGhAr mAr 5 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

59:54 A ndrew loroT keN 3 marugame 05 FeB

Half Marathon 10km

Men

59:55 Weldon kipkirui lANGAT keN 6 ras al khaimah 18 FeB other performances

59:17 isaac kiPkemBoi keN 1 rome-ostia 05 mAr

59:47 Wesle y kimuTAi keN 2 rome-ostia 05 mAr

59:56 Tadese TAkele eTh 3 rome-ostia 05 mAr

59:58 Soufiyan BouQANTAr mAr 4 rome-ostia 05 mAr

Present world record (mixed competition): Letesenbet Gidey (ETH) 1:02:52, Valencia 24 OCT 2021

Present world record (women-only race): Peres Jepchirchir (KEN), 1:05:16, Gdynia, 17 OCT 2020

1:04:37 irine Jepchumba kimAiS keN 1 B arcelona 19 FeB

1:04:46 Joyc iline JePkoSGe i keN 2 Barcelona 19 FeB

1:05:05 hellen oBiri keN 1 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

1:05:30 Almaz AYANA eTh 1 lisboa 19 mAr

1:05:39 Catherine reliN keN 3 Barcelona 19 FeB

1:05:46 Gladys ChePkurui keN 4 Barcelona 19 FeB

1:05:46 Genzebe DiBABA eT h 5 Barc elona 19 FeB

1:05:50 margaret kiPkemBoi keN 2 lisboa 19 mAr

1:05:51 Gotytom GeBreSlASe eTh 2 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

1:06:04 Ftaw ZerAY eTh 3 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

1:06:28 hiwot GeBremArYAm eTh 1 houston 15 JAN

1:06:28 Girmawit GeBrZi hAir eTh 3 lisboa 19 mAr

1:06:31 Tiruye meSFiN eTh 4 lisboa 19 mAr

1:06:34 Brigid koSGei keN 4 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

1:06:40 Tigist GeZAheGNe eTh 1 Granollers 05 FeB

1:06:52 emily SiSSoN uSA 2 houston 15 JAN

1:07:08 Purity komeN keN 5 lisboa 19 mAr

1:07:15 evaline ChirChir keN 5 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

1:07:19 Jessica WArNer-JuDD GBr 3 houston 15 JAN

1:07:21 Catherine reline AmANGole keN 6 lisboa 19 mAr

1:07:21 hellen oBiri keN 1 New York 19 mAr

1:07:22 Pauline kAmulu keN 1 marugame 05 FeB 1:07:38 Bosena mulATie eTh 6 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

1:07:49 Beatrice CheSerek keN 1 Santa Pola 22 JAN

1:07:50 Alem Nigus TSADiT eTh 7 lisboa 19 mAr

1:07:53 Shamila kiPSiror keN 1 Ghent 19 mAr

1:07:55 Senbere TeFeri eTh 2 New York 19 mAr

1:08:03 Agnes mumbua NGolo keN 7 ras al khaimah 18 FeB

1:08:03 Veronica loleo keN 2 Ghent 19 mAr

1:08:08 Betelihem AFeNiGuS eTh 2 Granollers 05 FeB

1:08:11 rika kASeDA JPN 2 marugame 05 FeB

1:08:25 Betsy SAiNA keN 1 Sevilla 29 JAN

1:08:38 Abersh miNSeWo eTh 6 Barcelona 19 FeB other performances

1:06:21 Dorcas Jepchirchir TuiToek keN 1 rome-ostia 05 mAr

1:06:56 lonah Chemtai SAlPeTer iSr 2 rome-ostia 05 mAr

1:07:07 magdalyne mASAi keN 3 rome-ostia 05 mAr

1:07:23 Caroline Jebet korir keN 4 rome-ostia 05 mAr

Present world record: Rhonex Kipruto (KEN), 26:24, Valencia 12 JAN 2020

26:33 Berihu AreGAWi eTh 1 laredo 11 mAr

26:55 Weldon lANGAT keN 1 Valencia 15 JAN

26:57 Charles kipkirui lANGAT keN 2 Valencia 15 JAN

27:01 Daniel koSeN keN 3 Valencia 15 JAN

27:04 rodrigue kWiZerA BDi 4 Valencia 15 JAN

27:04 Jacob kroP keN 5 Valencia 15 JAN

27:07 rogers k iBeT uGA 6 Valencia 15 JAN

27:09 Domnic lokinyomo loBAlu SSD 7 Valencia 15 JA N

27:15 laban kiPlim o keN 8 Valencia 15 JAN

27:18 Benson kiPlANGAT keN 1 ibiza 29 JAN

27:23 hillary kiPkoeCh keN 1 Castellon 26 FeB

27:26 Patrick moSiN keN 2 Castellon 26 FeB

Women

27:26 David kim AiYo keN 3 Castellon 26 FeB

27:27 hillary kiPkoeC h keN 2 ibiza 29 JAN

27:29 Cosmas mWANGi keN 3 ibiza 29 JAN

29:19 Yalemzerf YehuAlAW eTh 1 Valencia 15 JAN

30:01 Jesca ChelANGAT keN 2 Valencia 15 JAN

30:15 esther BorurA keN 3 Valencia 15 JAN

30:24 Sarah ChelANGAT uGA 4 Valencia 15 JAN

30:29 Diane VAN eS NeD 1 Schoorl 12 FeB

30:40 Naomi ChePNGeNo keN 5 Valencia 15 JAN

30 :47 Joy ChePToYek uGA 1 Castellon 26 FeB

30:48 Caroline NYAGA keN 1 ibiza 29 JAN

30:51 Samantha hArriSoN GB r 6 Valencia 15 JAN

30:53 edith JePChumBA keN 2 Castellon 26 FeB

30:54 Yalemge t YAreGAl eT h 1 Tel Aviv 24 FeB

30:55 rino GoShimA JPN 3 Castellon 26 FeB

Present world record (mixed competition): Joyciline Jepkosgei, 29:43, Prague, 09 SEP 2017

New world record (mixed competition, pending ratification): Yalemzerf Yehualaw (ETH) 29:14; Castellon, 27 FEB 2022

Kalkidan Gezahegne (BRN) 29:14; Geneva, 03 OCT 2021

Present world record (women-only race): Agnes Tirop (KEN) 30:01, Herzogenaurach, 12 SEP 2021

Rosemary Wanjiru Picture: Getty

Berihu Aregawi Picture: Getty

Benard Kibet Koech Picture: Getty

Run through the ancient capital, glancing at the World Heritage sites along the way

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