San Silvestre Vallecana 2024: Record-Breaking Triumphs by Marta García and Berihu Aregawi
The 2024 San Silvestre Vallecana celebrated its 60th anniversary in grand style, marking six decades of running, joy, and unforgettable moments. This iconic 10K race, held annually on New Year’s Eve, attracted a massive turnout of 42,000 participants, bidding farewell to the year in the most festive way possible—by participating in what is often hailed as the best race in the world.
Historic Wins for Berihu Aregawi and Marta García
In the men’s race, Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi delivered an extraordinary performance, clocking 26:32 to set a new course record for the Nationale-Nederlanden San Silvestre Vallecana. His time stands as the second-fastest 10K in history on the road, beating out a fierce challenge from Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo in a thrilling sprint finish. Spain’s Adel Mechaal completed the podium in third place, cementing his position as the top Spanish finisher.
In the women’s race, Spain’s Marta García made history by becoming the first Spanish woman to win the event since 2008. García not only claimed victory but also set a national record for the race with a time of 31:18. She executed her strategy flawlessly, shadowing race favorite Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya before launching a decisive attack after the halfway mark. Chepngetich finished second in 31:32, followed closely by Spain’s Águeda Marqués, who took third in 31:34.
Aregawi’s Record-Breaking Sprint to Glory
The men’s race was a showcase of elite competition, with both favorites, Aregawi and Kiplimo, living up to their reputations. The pair led the pack early, setting a blistering pace that whittled the field down to just six runners within the first few kilometers. By the eight-minute mark, it was a two-man race, with Aregawi and Kiplimo dueling stride for stride in pursuit of the record.
The electric atmosphere of Vallecas Stadium reached its peak as the two sprinted to the finish line. In a photo finish, Aregawi edged out Kiplimo, claiming his second victory at the Vallecana and rewriting the course record at 26:31. Mechaal’s impressive time of 27:40 secured his spot on the podium, narrowly beating France’s Felix Bour.
Top Results Men 10km International
- Berihu Aregawi (ETH) - 26:32
- Jacob Kiplimo (UGA) - 26:33
- Adel Mechaal (ESP) - 27:40
Top Results Women 10km International
- Marta Garcia Alonso (ESP) - 31:19
- Ruth Chepngetich (KEN) - 31:32
- Agueda Marques - 31:34
