Kenya’s John Korir has silenced his critics by winning his second marathon of the year at the Valencia Marathon, showing that the “Korir name” is still strong.
Korir, who withdrew from the Chicago Marathon in October, made a remarkable comeback on Sunday, finishing in 2:02:24 and beating his personal best by 20 seconds. He ran a negative split, completing the second half of the race faster than the first.
“People are saying the Korir name is going down, but I have come here and proved that Korir is still there,” he said. “I’ve closed my year with a personal best. I enjoyed myself here in Valencia.”
Record-Breaking Day for Men
Korir’s triumph kicked off a day of record-breaking performances in Valencia. Germany’s Amanal Petros, a World Championships silver medallist, finished second in 2:04:03, breaking his national record by 53 seconds.
Norway’s Awet Kibrab finished third in 2:04:24, slicing 1 minute and 24 seconds off his country’s record, while Japan’s Suguru Osako ran 2:04:55, setting a new national best.
Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee also made a strong impression in his marathon debut. Finishing seventh in 2:06:38, he became the second-fastest British marathoner ever, behind Mo Farah.
Kenyan Women Continue Dominance
In the women’s race, Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei claimed victory with a world-leading time of 2:14:00, the fourth-fastest marathon ever by a woman. Her compatriot Peres Jepchirchir finished second, 43 seconds behind.
“I’m so excited to win with a personal best. Closing the season with a world-leading time is amazing,” Jepkosgei said.
The women’s race also saw several national records fall. Belgium’s Chloe Herbiet ran 2:20:38, Finland’s Alisa Vainio finished in 2:20:48, and Australia’s Jessica Stenson clocked 2:21:24, each setting new marks for their countries.