Athletics: Ethiopian star Kejelcha breaks half marathon world record, running under 57 minutes

Ethiopian distance runner Yomif Kejelcha has shattered the half marathon world record, clocking an astonishing 56 minutes and 51 seconds in Buenos Aires. This monumental achievement makes him the first man in history to break the 57-minute barrier for the distance, averaging an incredible 2 minutes and 41 seconds per kilometer.

Kejelcha's latest triumph reclaims the world record he previously set in Valencia with a time of 57 minutes and 30 seconds in October 2024. That record was briefly surpassed in March by Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo, who ran 57 minutes and 20 seconds. Kejelcha's new mark shaves another 29 seconds off the previous best, solidifying his dominance.

Visibly thrilled after the race, Kejelcha described the record as "unbelievable" and beyond words. He revealed that while he initially planned a conservative start, he felt exceptionally strong mid-race and decided to push his limits. "I didn't even know what words to use to describe it," he said.

This half marathon record adds to Kejelcha's remarkable 2024 season. He also achieved a stunning time of 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 41 seconds in his debut marathon at the London Marathon in April. This made him only the second man ever to officially break the two-hour mark in a marathon, trailing only the winner Sabastian Sawe, who finished in 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds.

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This result is unbelievable, I don't even know what words to use to describe it.