Berlin is set for another record-chasing Sunday today as the World Marathon Majors return to the German capital. The famously flat course has produced more world records than any other and draws a field that reads like a who's who of the world top 10.
Men’s Race
All eyes are on Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe, fresh off victories in Valencia and London with bests of 2:02:05 and 2:02:27. Ethiopia’s Milkesa Mengesha (pictured above winning last year in 2:03:17) is back to defend his crown, while Tanzanian Gabriel Geay and veteran great Kenenisa Bekele are both serious threats. In total, more than a dozen men will take to the start start line who have personal bests under 2:05.
Women’s Race
Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru leads the women’s field with a 2:16:14 personal best. Ethiopia have a very strong contingent with the quartet of Degitu Azimeraw, Dera Dida, Mestawut Fikir, and Tigist Girma, each capable of sub-2:19 running. Norway’s European half-marathon champion Karoline Grøvdal makes at second crack at the distance after an early exit in Hamburg last April.
Race Day Timetable (Irish time)
- 7:50 am – Handbikes (Tops)
- 7:56 am – Elite Wheelchairs
- 7:59 am – Handbike & Wheelchair Mass Start
- 8:15 am – Marathon Runners (four waves)
Prize Purse
First place in both elite races earns €30,000, with further bonuses for times under 2:02:30 (men) and 2:16:00 (women), plus €50,000 for a new world record.
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