The Movistar Madrid Half Marathon celebrated its 25th edition this Sunday with the largest participation in its history. More than 30,000 runners took the start on the Paseo de Recoletos in a test already settled in the popular calendar, with an approved route of 21,097 kilometers and an international presence that exceeded 36%, according to data from the organization.
Chematot wins with authority and Chepngetich resolves in the end
The men's race was decided smoothly in the final kilometres. The Kenyan Levy Kibet Chematot won with a time of 1:00:49 after setting the decisive pace in the final stage. His compatriot Shadrack Kipkurui Kenduiywo was second in 1:01:48, while Ethiopian Berihun Moges Kedebe, in his distance debut, completed the podium in 1:02:08. The first Spaniard was Juan Antonio ‘Chiki’ Pérez, eighth with 1:04:24.
In the female category, there was more equality in the lead. Ludwina Chepngetich took the victory after a sustained duel with Jedidah Chepkemoi, who ended up prevailing in the last kilometers. Chepngetich crossed the finish line in 1:08:30, for her rival's 1:08:59, while Caroline Jebet Korir was third in 1:10:28. The best Spaniard was Fatima Ouhaddou, fourth with 1:13:52.
A recognizable journey and a test that continues to grow
The route once again passed through some of the most recognisable points of the city, starting and finishing in Recoletos and a first section through the Castellana before a more favourable profile towards the centre. Starting at kilometer 14, the passage through the Puerta de Alcalá, El Retiro, Gran Vía or Sol marked the final section of a test designed to combine exigency and urban visibility.
The race brought together participants from all the autonomous communities and consolidated its growth in recent years within the popular circuit. In parallel, the 5-kilometer ProFuturo race was held, celebrating its tenth anniversary. Esteban Patiño won in the men's category with 15:29 and Antía Castro won the women's category with 17:45, both in tight finals.