Kejelcha reclaims world half-marathon record — image accompanying Athletics Weekly's report. Image accompanying Athletics Weekly’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Yomif Kejelcha reclaimed the world half-marathon record with a time of 56:51 in Buenos Aires. This run took 29 seconds off the previous record set by Jacob Kiplimo. Kejelcha first set the record in 2024.
The 28-year-old Ethiopian made his marathon debut in April, finishing second in London. His time of 1:59:41 was only 11 seconds behind the world record. Kejelcha's track career includes youth and junior titles in 3000m and 5000m. Read more racing coverage.
Kejelcha's record-breaking run follows his impressive marathon debut. His track achievements include setting the world indoor mile record in 2019. This record was later broken by Yared Nuguse in 2025. Related: Jadyn Keeler Aims for National Record at Copenhagen Championships.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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What should runners know about Kejelcha reclaims world half-marathon record?
Ethiopian runner sets new record in Buenos Aires Yomif Kejelcha reclaimed the world half-marathon record with a time of 56:51 in Buenos Aires. This run took 29 seconds off the previous record set by Jacob Kiplimo. Kejelcha first set the record in 2024.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 23, 2026. The underlying Athletics Weekly report was dated August 23, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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