Ben Flanagan Claims Canadian Marathon Debut Title, Secures 10th in Toronto
In a remarkable marathon debut, Ben Flanagan claimed the Canadian title at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, completing the race in 2:15:39. The event took place on a warm, windy Sunday morning, where Flanagan emerged as a strong contender for Canada’s Olympic team for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Marathon Performance and Strategy
Flanagan, a 30-year-old from Kitchener, Ontario, showcased his endurance by breaking away from fellow runner Andrew Alexander at the 25-kilometre mark. He maintained his lead for the final 17.2 km, finishing 10th overall and seven minutes behind overall winner Leonard Langat from Kenya, who clocked in at 2:08:04.
Top Finishers and Canadian Standouts
- Leonard Langat (Kenya): 2:08:04
- Phil Parrot-Migas (London, Ont.): 2:17:15
- Andrew Alexander (Toronto): 2:18:15
- Ben Flanagan (Kitchener, Ont.): 2:15:39 (Canadian Champion)
Flanagan expressed satisfaction with his race, despite feeling fatigued in the last 3 km. He noted the challenging wind conditions, with gusts reaching 53 km per hour. This victory was significant as Flanagan aims to improve and compete for a spot on the national team.
Challenges and Future Goals
After recovering from a partially torn labrum in his left hip, Flanagan’s training was limited. He had just begun running 60 km per week before the end of July. Nevertheless, he is determined to reach a marathon time of 2:05-2:06 before the next Olympic Games.
Highlighting Female Competitors
On the women’s side, Rachel Hannah from Port Elgin, Ontario, finished as the top Canadian female, completing the marathon in 2:33:47. She outpaced fellow Canadian Makenna Fitzgerald, who finished in 2:38:59, and Brittany Moran, who clocked in at 2:42:46.
Women’s Finish and Achievements
- Rachel Hannah (Port Elgin, Ont.): 2:33:47 (Canadian Champion)
- Makenna Fitzgerald (Kamloops, B.C.): 2:38:59
- Brittany Moran (Toronto): 2:42:46
Hannah expressed her joy at winning the Canadian championship, a long-time aspiration since starting her marathon journey a decade ago. The race marked her fastest performance among four marathons at the Toronto Waterfront event.
Prize Money and Recognition
Both Flanagan and Hannah will receive $8,000 for their victories as Canadian champions. Meanwhile, the overall winners were awarded $25,000, further underscoring the event’s prestige in the running community.
The marathon continues to attract elite athletes, promising exciting future competitions as Canada aims for strong showings in international events.
