2025 Valencia Half Marathon Elite Preview: Kejelcha and Ngetich Headline Record-Chasing Fields
The 2025 Medio Maratón Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich, set for Sunday, October 26, promises another record-breaking edition on the streets of Spain’s “City of Running.” With world record holder Yomif Kejelcha leading the men’s lineup and 10K world record holder Agnes Jebet Ngetich spearheading the women’s field, Valencia once again brings together the most stacked half marathon fields in the world.
Men’s Elite Race: Kejelcha Returns to Defend His Record
All eyes will be on Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia, who returns to the same course where he set the current half marathon world record of 57:30 in 2024. The two-time World Indoor champion over 3000m has since solidified his transition to the roads, and his 2025 season form suggests he may once again flirt with history.
Kejelcha’s biggest threats come from Kenya’s formidable duo:
- Patrick Mosin (58:44 PB),
- Gideon Kiprotich (58:49 PB), and
- Rodrigue Kwizera of Burundi (58:54 PB), the cross-country ace turned road specialist.
Behind them, Samwel Mailu (59:19), Alex Matata (59:20), and Sweden’s Andreas Almgren (59:23) round out a field where running under 60 minutes is almost expected. Almgren, already a European record holder on the track, could challenge for a continental mark if the weather cooperates.
The pacemaking team is reportedly set for 27:10–27:20 through 10K, a pace that would put the leaders on target for sub-58 potential. If Kejelcha feels strong late in the race, the world record could again come under pressure.
MEN'S ELITE FIELD:
1. Yomif Kejelcha (ETH) - 57:30
2. Patrick Mosin (KEN) - 58:44
3. Gideon Kiprotich (KEN) - 58:49
4. Rodrigue Kwizera (BDI) - 58:54
5. Samwel Mailu (KEN) - 59:19
6. Alex Matata (KEN) - 59:20
7. Andreas Almgren (SWE) - 59:23
8. Merhawi Mebrahtu (ERI) - Debut
9. Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) - Debut
10. Samuel Tefera (ETH) - Debut
11. Getnet Wale (ETH) - Debut
Women’s Elite Race: Ngetich and Tesfay Ready for Sub-63 Duel
The women’s race could be equally electrifying, headlined by Kenya’s Agnes Jebet Ngetich, who ran a blistering 1:03:04 to set the national record and owns the world 10K road record (28:46). Ngetich’s combination of fearless front-running and superb pacing makes her the favorite to chase a new all-time mark.
Her primary rival will be Fotyen Tesfay of Ethiopia (1:03:21 PB), who has also proven capable of sub-64 pace. Together, they form one of the most explosive pairings ever assembled in Valencia.
Backing them is an army of Kenyan depth:
- Gladys Chepkurui (1:05:46),
- Jesca Chelangat (1:06:13),
- Veronica Loleo (1:06:40), and
- Gladys Kwamboka (1:07:14), ensuring that the pace will remain relentless deep into the race.
The field also includes international challengers Emma Hurley (USA, 1:07:35), Sarah Chelangat (UGA, 1:07:59), and Sarah Lahti (SWE, 1:08:19), each capable of targeting national or continental records.
With ideal autumn temperatures forecast and one of the flattest courses in the world, a sub-63 performance is within reach. Valencia’s history of fast times — including last year’s men’s world record — suggests another landmark performance is possible on Sunday.
WOMEN'S ELITE FIELD:
1. Agnes Jebet Ngetich (KEN) - 1:03:04
2. Fotyen Tesfay (ETH) - 1:03:21
3. Gladys Chepkurui (KEN) - 1:05:46
4. Jesca Chelangat (KEN) - 1:06:13
5. Veronica Loleo (KEN) - 1:06:40
6. Mulat Tekle (ETH) - 1:06:53
7. Gladys Kwamboka (KEN) - 1:07:14
8. Emma Hurley (USA) - 1:07:35
9. Sarah Chelangat (UGA) - 1:07:59
10. Sarah Lahti SWE - 1:08:19
The City of Records Awaits
Known for its immaculate organization and fast coastal course, Valencia has established itself as the global capital of road racing. The 2025 edition once again gathers a world-class lineup, blending proven record holders, rising stars, and debutants chasing personal bests.
Fans around the world can expect fireworks from both races — whether it’s Kejelcha defending his crown or Ngetich pushing the limits of women’s endurance running.
