Kenyans impress, Kiplimo breaks world record in Lisbon

Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo produced a historic run on Sunday (8), smashing the half marathon world record with a stunning victory at the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon in Lisbon.

The 25-year-old clocked 57:20, lowering the previous world record of 57:30 set by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha in Valencia in 2024. Kiplimo surged clear of the lead pack early and ran much of the second half alone, maintaining a blistering rhythm of just over 2:43 per kilometre on one of the fastest courses in the world.

Behind the record-breaking Ugandan, Kenyan runners mounted a strong challenge, dominating the chasing pack.

Nicholas Kipkorir led the Kenyan charge with a second-place finish in 58:08, while compatriot Gilbert Kipkosgei Kiprotich secured third place in 58:59 to complete the podium.

Another Kenyan, Benard Langat, finished fourth in 59:31, highlighting Kenya’s depth in the men’s field, as Djibouti’s Mohamed Ismail rounded out the top five in 59:45.

Kiplimo’s triumph also carried special significance on the Lisbon course. The Ugandan had previously set the world record there in 2021 with 57:31, a mark that stood until it was later broken, before he returned to reclaim the global standard in emphatic fashion.

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Tsigie Gebreselama powered to victory in 1:04:48.

Kenya’s Janeth Chepngetich finished second in 1:06:50, while compatriot Regina Wambui secured third place in 1:07:10.

Another Kenyan, Tabitha Njeri Kamau, placed fourth in 1:07:22, with Ethiopia’s Girmawit Gebrzihair completing the top five in 1:07:30.