Ethiopian runner Addisu Gobena shattered the Sydney Marathon record with a time of 2:04:42, while Kenyan Peres Jepchirchir claimed her fourth major marathon title on Sunday, in a race marked by ideal conditions and a medal mix-up. A Javelin Thrower Turned Marathon Star
Gobena’s victory marked a dramatic shift from his early career as a javelin thrower, a transition he made in 2023 after a family member suggested he try distance running. The 21-year-old Ethiopian, who finished second in last year’s Sydney Marathon, described his win as a culmination of hard work and learning from past mistakes. I am very happy. Last year I came second, I learnt from my mistake, and I went back home and I worked on my mistake to perform and break the record today,
he said through an interpreter. Gobena’s time of 2:04:42 slashed nearly 90 seconds off the previous course record, a feat achieved by breaking away from compatriot Chimdessa Debele Gudeta in the final two kilometers. Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana finished third, trailing Gobena by 15 seconds. The top seven finishers, including last year’s winner Hailemaryam Kiros, all beat the previous record of 2:06:06 set in last year’s race. The Sydney Marathon, now in its second year as a major, attracted 40,000 competitors from around the world. The race began in North Sydney, the same start line used at the 2000 Olympics marathon, and took runners across the Harbour Bridge and past iconic landmarks. Jepchirchir’s Dominance and a Surprising Victory
Addisu Gobena shatters Sydney Marathon record, Jepchirchir takes women’s
Kenyan Peres Jepchirchir extended her legacy by capturing her fourth major marathon title, winning the women’s race in 2:18:31. She finished over three minutes ahead of compatriot Irene Cheptai, who placed second with a time of 2:22:11. Jepchirchir, who has previously triumphed in Boston, New York, and London, described her victory as unexpected. I was not expecting to win…I was prepared, but I was not sure when I came here if I would win, but I’m so glad and I’m so happy,
she said. Jepchirchir’s win came amid a field that included Dutch multi-distance star Sifan Hassan, who set the mark in last year’s event. Despite the challenge, Jepchirchir maintained a commanding lead as she secured her fourth major title. A Record-Setting Day and an Embarrassing Mix-Up
The event, which drew over 40,000 runners from around the world, saw multiple record-breaking performances. In the wheelchair division, American Daniel Romanchuk set a new course record with a time of 1:26:50, while Switzerland’s Manuela Schar won the women’s wheelchair race in 1:42:04. Romanchuk described his strategy: I wasn’t sure what to expect throughout … I decided to put in a test surge and see what response I got, and I just decided I made a little bit of space, I’ll see if I can hold it, and I was able to hold it.
Addisu Gobena smashes Sydney Marathon record as Jepchirchir wins
However, the day was not without its hiccups. Organizers acknowledged a design error that resulted in Munich’s Allianz Arena being etched on to medals instead of Sydney’s Allianz Stadium. The mistake sparked embarrassment but did not detract from the athletes’ achievements. The Human Stories Behind the Numbers
Beyond the records and victories, the race highlighted personal triumphs. Gobena, who transitioned from javelin to marathon running, described his journey as one of perseverance. Jepchirchir’s victory also underscored her experience and adaptability. Yet, her win in Sydney reaffirmed her status as one of the sport’s elite. Schar also spoke about her win, saying, I haven’t had the best start to the season. I’m getting older, and it’s getting harder, and this is really surprising, and I’m really emotional.
Sydney Marathon 2026 results; Addisu Gobena men’s winner, Peres
Australia’s Standouts and the Prize Money
Australian runners also made their mark. Andrew Buchanan secured $30,000 as the top-ranked Australian, finishing 16th overall in 2:10:14 to grab the cash bonus ahead of Tim Vincent (2:13:54). Australian Olympian Andy Buchanan chatted to AAP prior to the race, offering advice to runners. Ellie Pashley was the first woman home for Australia, crossing the line in 2:28:28. The race’s competitive spirit was evident as athletes from around the world pushed their limits, with Gobena and Jepchirchir setting new benchmarks in their respective categories. A Historic Achievement for Gobena
Gobena’s win solidified his status as a rising star in the marathon world. The 21-year-old, who had previously finished second in last year’s Sydney Marathon, now holds the course record and a place among the elite. His performance, marked by strategic pacing and a powerful finish, showcased his potential for future successes. For Jepchirchir, the victory added another chapter to her storied career, affirming her position as one of the most consistent and dominant figures in long-distance running. As the Sydney Marathon continues to grow as a major, events like this highlight the blend of athleticism, perseverance, and global competition that define the sport.
