Elite Field Preview for the 2023 Valencia Half Marathon

Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich remains the fastest half marathon in the world due to its record time of 1:02:52 set by Letesenbet Gidey in 2021. With Kibiwott Kandie's extraordinary time of 57:32 in 2020, it stands as the second fastest time for men. An elite group of international athletes will once again take part in this year's edition on October 22.

• Valencia Half Marathon Live Stream

The women's elite field is poised to chase the world record set in 2021, with a strong lineup of athletes. Leading the charge are four runners who have clocked sub-1:06 times. Among them are Melat Kejeta (GER, 1:05:18), the current European record holder over the half marathon distance, alongside Margaret Chelimo (KEN, 1:05:26), Gotytom Gebreslase (ETH, 1:05:36), and Tsigie Gebreselama (ETH, 1:05:46). Additionally, ten other athletes with sub-1:10 times over the 21.0795-kilometer distance complete the initial list of confirmed participants (refer to the table for details).

In the men's race, fans can expect to see familiar faces who have triumphed at the Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich in the past. Former winners such as Kibiwott Kandie (KEN, 57:32) and Yomif Kejelcha (ETH, 58:32) are among the favorites. They are joined by a formidable group of runners who have achieved times under 59 minutes, including Matthew Kimeli (KEN, 58:43), Tadese Worku (ETH, 58:47), Hagos Gebrhiwet (ETH, 58:55), and Sebastian Sawe (KEN, 58:58).

Event director Marc Roig expresses his anticipation for the event, saying, "Valencia proves once again to be the race of choice for the world's elite athletes looking to break records." Marc Roig, the coach of the international elite for the Valencia Half Marathon, adds, "The return of last year's winners in the men's category is a testament to the race's popularity. We expect to witness remarkable records, national records, and potentially the fastest world records of the year for both men and women."

The redesigned route of the Valencian course continues to provide the perfect platform for outstanding performances. This race, with its long-standing reputation at the top level of international competition, remains committed to both experienced athletes and promising newcomers to maintain its tradition of sporting excellence. Stay tuned for the announcement of leading national and international runners in the coming days.

WOMEN'S ELITE FIELD

MEN'S ELITE FIELD