Alex Matata, Lilian Rengeruk Triumph at 2025 Delhi Half Marathon
Kenya’s Alex Nzioka Matata and Lilian Kasait Rengeruk showcased remarkable talent at the 2025 Delhi Half Marathon, clinching victory in their respective elite categories. Matata finished the men’s race with an impressive time of 59:50 seconds, achieving his first title in Delhi after being a runner-up last year. Rengeruk triumphed in the women’s race, completing her run in 1:07:20 seconds, outperforming tough Ethiopian competitors even in humid conditions.
Historic Wins for Kenyan Athletes
This year marked a significant milestone as it was only the second instance in the Delhi Half Marathon’s history that both the men’s and women’s titles were secured by Kenyan runners in the same event. The first occurrence was in 2006, featuring Francis Kibiwott and Lineth Chepkurui.
Men’s Elite Race Results
- Alex Matata (KEN) – 59:50
- Bayelign Teshager (ETH) – 1:00:22
- James Kipkogei (KEN) – 1:00:25
Matata, 28, controlled the race from the start, finishing ahead of Teshager and Kipkogei. Earlier this year, he also won the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon with a personal best of 59:20. The current Delhi Half Marathon record stands at 58:53, but Matata prioritized winning over breaking records this time.
Women’s Elite Race Results
- Lilian Kasait Rengeruk (KEN) – 1:07:20
- Melal Siyoum Biratu (ETH) – 1:07:21
- Mulat Tekle (ETH) – 1:07:29
This victory adds to Rengeruk’s accomplishments, including earlier wins at the Prague Half Marathon and the Bengaluru World 10K. Her personal best stands at 1:03:32, set last year in Valencia.
Top Indian Finishers
- Abhishek Pal – 1:04:17 (Men’s Elite)
- Seema – 1:11:23 (Women’s Elite)
Abhishek Pal emerged as the fastest Indian male runner, while newcomer Seema topped the women’s category. Notably, defending champion Lili Das finished fourth with a time of 1:16:27, and Pal narrowly missed breaking his personal best of 1:04:07 set last year in Delhi.
Celebrating Two Decades of the Delhi Half Marathon
The 2025 edition of the Delhi Half Marathon is significant as it commemorates the 20th anniversary of this prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Road Race. The event continues to attract top athletes and celebrates the spirit of long-distance running in India.
