Kenya’s John Korir and Joyciline Jepkosgei delivered exceptional performances on Sunday, each setting personal bests to win the men’s and women’s races at the Valencia Marathon, renowned for producing world-class times.
Korir, who won the Boston Marathon in April but did not finish in Chicago in October, clocked 2:02:24, the eighth-fastest time in men’s marathon history. His decisive surge at the 25km mark shattered the lead pack and carried him to victory nearly two minutes ahead of German runner-up Amanal Petros (2:04:03). Norway’s Awet Kibrab placed third in 2:04:25.
In the women’s race, Jepkosgei set a new course record, winning in 2:14:00, the fourth-fastest women’s marathon time ever recorded. Her commanding performance underscored Valencia’s reputation as a platform for historic marathon achievements.