Ethiopian marathon legend Kenenisa Bekele to battle elite Kenyan runners in Valencia

Ethiopian distance running legend Kenenisa Bekele is set to headline the highly anticipated Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso. As the Spanish coastal city aims to once again be the epicentre of global running today, Bekele's presence adds a layer of excitement to an event that has witnessed several world records in recent years.

Bekele, a multiple world and Olympic champion, continues to be a force in long-distance running. Despite facing challenges in the London Marathon earlier this year, the 41-year-old, who ranks third on the world all-time list is determined to make a strong comeback. Today’s marathon marks Bekele's first-ever clash against Joshua Cheptegei, the Ugandan athlete who broke Bekele’s world records on the track.

The Olympic 5000m champion is making his first appearance over the classic marathon distance, in a city where he set a world 10km record in 2019 and a world 10,000m record in the following year. Cheptegei holds the world record-holder for the 5000m and 10,000m races.

“The marathon is a new challenge for me. After 10 years of competing at an international level, I'm thrilled to tackle the longest Olympic distance. The marathon is something new for me and I'm fully aware there is a lot to learn,” said Cheptegei.

Kenyan runners Kibiwott Kandie and Alexander Mutiso, both displaying recent good form and experience, are poised to be strong contenders in the elite field. Kandie, a recent victor at the Valencia Half Marathon, and Mutiso, who made a remarkable marathon debut in Valencia last year, add depth to the competition.

The marathon will also feature a strong field of international contenders, including Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay and Brazil’s Daniel Do Nascimento. A trio of pacemakers comprising Charles Matata, Hillary Kipkoech and Bernard Ngeno will set the pace for the marathon.

Women’s race

In the women's category, Ethiopia's Almaz Ayana, the 2016 Olympic 10,000m champion, will be a notable contestant. This year, the 32-year-old finished seventh in London in 2:20:44 but won the Lisbon Half Marathon with a Personal Best of 1:05:30.

She will compete alongside countrywomen Genzebe Dibaba, Bosena Mulatie, Hiwot Gebrekidan and Worknesh Degefa. Other strong contenders include Kenya's Celestine Chepchirchir and Seville Marathon winner Jackline Chelal.

The event is set to attract 33,000 runners from 134 countries, with favourable weather conditions anticipated for race day.