Berlin Marathon 2024

Ethiopian Dominance: A Stunning Sweep at the 2024 Berlin Marathon!

Milkesa Mengesha & Tigist Ketema clinch victories at the 50th Berlin Marathon, leaving UK runners in the dust—read on for all the thrilling results!

The 2024 BMW Berlin Marathon, celebrating its 50th edition, saw a spectacular showcase of athletic prowess as Milkesa Mengesha and Tigist Ketema of Ethiopia clinched the top honours in both the men's and women's races. On a day marked by electric atmosphere and thrilling competition, Mengesha crossed the finish line with a record time of 2:03:17, showcasing his extraordinary endurance and pacing strategy. Meanwhile, Ketema stunned spectators with her exceptional solo performance, finishing with a remarkable time of 2:16:42 and solidifying her status as one of the sport's elite runners.

The event, held on 29 September 2024, brought together a record-breaking 58,212 runners from 161 nations, making it a historic day for the Berlin Marathon. This year's edition stood out not just for its massive turnout but also because it was the first marathon since 2014 without renowned legends Eliud Kipchoge or Kenenisa Bekele on the start list. Despite their absence, competing athletes rose to the challenge, with the marathon atmosphere crackling with excitement and the streets lined with fans cheering on participants through every mile.

British runners Calli Hauger-Thackery and Phily Bowden also graced the elite heat, embracing the chance to compete against some of the world's best. Significantly, the local runners invigorated the British presence but were ultimately outpaced by the Ethiopian champions, who displayed a fearsome combination of speed and strategy. Mengesha and Ketema's victories mark a noteworthy chapter in marathon history, illustrating the strength and stamina elite athletes can achieve with meticulous training and unwavering determination.

As we reflect on this thrilling marathon, we can't forget to celebrate Ethiopia's rich marathon legacy, having delivered numerous victories over the years in one of the world's most prestigious races. Despite the intense rivalry, the Berlin Marathon proves to be a unifying event, highlighting the camaraderie among runners across the globe, each with unique stories and aspirations.

Did you know the first Berlin Marathon happened in 1974 with just 286 runners? Fast forward to today, and it has become one of the biggest marathons in the world, drawing feisty competitors and enthusiastic fans alike! The Berlin Marathon is also famous for its flat and fast course, making it a record-setting favourite among elite runners—just one of the reasons why it's a must-do for marathon enthusiasts!