Joshua Cheptegei of Uganda earned his first-ever half marathon win at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon on Sunday (October 20), clocking 59:46. In a dramatic finish, Cheptegei overtook Kenya’s Alex Matata, who had led most of the race, securing second in 59:53. Nicholas Kipkorir, also from Kenya, placed third in 59:59 in his international half marathon debut.
Cheptegei, known for his track prowess, was thrilled with his performance, stating, “This win in Delhi holds special meaning as my first victory in the half marathon. India has been pivotal in my career, and this race further deepens that connection. Despite a slow start, I managed to chase down the leaders and finish strong.”
In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Alemaddis Eyayu emerged victorious in 68:17, holding off Kenya’s Cynthia Limo, the 2015 champion, who finished in 68:27. Limo led the race early but couldn’t hold off Eyayu’s surge in the final stages. Tiruye Mesfin, also from Ethiopia, took third in 69:42, while Scotland’s Eilish McColgan finished fourth with a time of 69:55.
Limo expressed joy at her return to the podium, saying, “After nine years, being back on the Delhi podium is an incredible feeling. The crowd support was overwhelming, making this experience unforgettable.”
Eyayu, pleased with her victory, said, “I maintained my pace and aimed to finish well. I’m happy to have achieved that today.”
