Bhubaneswar: As the 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, approaches this Sunday, the spotlight shines on Ethiopian marathon legend Birhanu Legese—a two-time Tokyo Marathon winner and one of the fastest runners in the world with a personal best of 2:02:48 from Berlin.
Legese reflected on the essence of his sport, saying, “Running is a challenge; it demands hard work and discipline. The Delhi weather feels good for training and racing—it motivates me.”
Returning to India for the tenth time, the 31-year-old Ethiopian shared his fondness for racing here. “India has always been special for me. The people, their energy, and the warmth we receive make it easy to run freely. That’s why I always perform well here,” he said.
Joining Legese in the men’s elite lineup are Benard Biwott of Kenya, fresh from his Paris Marathon triumph, and his compatriot Isaac Kipkemboi, both determined to challenge for the top spot. Biwott said, “If the weather is good, I’ll push for a personal best. My plan is simple—stay with the pack early, then attack in the second half.”
In the women’s field, Lilian Rengeruk of Kenya—who recently won the Bengaluru World 10K and the Prague Half Marathon—is eyeing the course record of 1:04:46, held by Ethiopian star Yalemzerf Yehualaw since 2020. “Injuries remind you how much you love the sport. Now I focus on staying strong and consistent,” said Rengeruk.
Defending champion Alemaddis Eyayu of Ethiopia returns to defend her title, emphasizing patience and mental strength. Rising Kenyan talent Grace Loibach Nawowuna, making her Delhi debut, added, “I’ve worked hard all season, and I’m excited to chase a personal best.”
With a total prize purse of USD 260,000, the race offers equal rewards for men and women, with the winners earning USD 27,000 each and a USD 12,000 bonus for breaking the course record.
Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam International, remarked, “It feels like yesterday we started, and now the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is celebrating 20 years. We’re grateful to the athletes, sponsors, and supporters who’ve helped raise the bar every year.”
As Delhi gears up for Sunday’s event, anticipation is high for another record-breaking chapter in India’s premier road racing legacy.
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