Waithira Wins Málaga Thriller as Chesir Breaks Women’s Record

Simon Njuguna Waithira edged a close men’s contest and Rebecca Kangogo Chesir broke the women’s event record as Kenya claimed both titles at the 2026 Generali Málaga Marathon on Sunday, November 8. Waithira crossed the finish line in 2:08:17, while Chesir won in 2:21:17 to lead a Kenyan sweep of the women’s podium.

The men’s race remained tightly contested into the closing stages, with Waithira ultimately finishing just eight seconds ahead of compatriot Victor Kiplimo, who clocked 2:08:25. Ethiopia’s Gaddisa Tafa Dekeba completed the podium in 2:08:55, putting the first three finishers within 38 seconds of each other.

Burundi’s Thérence Bizoza took fourth in 2:09:11, followed by Ethiopia’s Dereje Adugna Debela in 2:09:30. Just 73 seconds separated the leading five men in the provisional classification.

Chesir produced the standout performance in the women’s race, establishing a new benchmark for the event with her 2:21:17 victory. She finished one minute and 13 seconds clear of Ivyne Jeruto Lagat, who secured second place in 2:22:30, while Rodah Jepkorir Tanui completed the all-Kenyan podium in 2:24:32.

The previous women’s event record was 2:24:43, set by Ethiopia’s Misgane Alemayehu Wolteji in 2025. Chesir lowered that mark by three minutes and 26 seconds, with runner-up Lagat also finishing comfortably inside the former record.

Ethiopia’s Bekelech Teku Wariyo placed fourth in 2:25:58, while Norway’s Sofie Karoline Haugen rounded out the leading five in 2:27:12.

The performances came on Málaga’s redesigned course, introduced for 2026 with a flatter profile and fewer turns. The event also moved from its traditional December slot to November, with the marathon starting and finishing on the Paseo del Parque.

Men’s marathon — leading results

Women’s marathon — leading results

SEE ALL RESULTS HERE.