Kiplimo Smashes World Record with 56:41 Finish
Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo stunned the athletics world on Sunday, setting a new men’s half marathon world record of 56 minutes and 41 seconds in Barcelona, obliterating the previous mark by 49 seconds. The 23-year-old, a two-time world cross country champion, delivered the largest single improvement in the event’s history, according to World Athletics.
\"It has been the perfect race. Ideal temperature, no wind at all, fantastic circuit—everything went better than expected,\" Kiplimo said. He credited his decision to accelerate early, adding, \"I found myself full of energy… I never imagined performing under the 57-minute barrier.\" The athlete confirmed he’ll pause racing until his marathon debut in London on April 27.
Japan’s Yamanishi Rewrites Race Walk History
Earlier in the day, Japan’s Toshikazu Yamanishi broke the men’s 20-kilometer race walk world record in Kobe, clocking 1:16:10—26 seconds faster than the previous benchmark. \"I was able to express my appreciation towards my supporters who stuck along even during struggles,\" said Yamanishi, who strategically surged in the race’s latter half.
Both performances signal thrilling momentum ahead of major 2024 events, showcasing athletics’ growing global appeal. (With Reuters inputs)
Reference(s):
Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo smashes half marathon world record in 56:41
cgtn.com
