Sisay Lemma emerged as the winner in the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Marathon 2023, clocking an impressive 2:01:48 to set a new course record. The Ethiopian runner stayed with the pace early on as he shared the front with familiar rivals, then surged ahead in the later stages to cross the line first. The crowd watched as the lead group began to thin, and Lemma made his decisive move, carrying the pressure of the final kilometers to secure the triumph. Source: Valencia Marathon.
In a race that drew notable attention from top global competitors, Lemma stood ahead of a field that included contenders like Kibiwott Kandie and Dawit Wolde. The emphasis remained on performance and endurance as the finish line approached, with Lemma maintaining a strong finishing kick that set him apart from the rest. The win underscores Lemma’s ability to close strongly when the tempo tightens, a hallmark of championship racing. Source: Valencia Marathon.
Stellar performances and pacing dynamics
Despite the eye lines fixed on Lemma, the competition featured remarkable pacing and strategic moves. The race in Valencia saw a clock that invited fast times, and while a world record remained elusive, Lemma’s 2:01:48 marked a standout effort in the context of this course and season. A notable subplot involved former leaders who briefly took the initiative before Lemma charged in the final stretch to claim the top spot. Source: Valencia Marathon.
Meanwhile, the overall field included a memorable duel among elite runners, each contributing to a high-caliber display of distance running. The Valencia course, known for its flat sections and cheering crowds, provided the stage for a performance that would be remembered in the annals of the event. Lemma’s victory, combined with the tactical moves from his rivals, highlighted the strategic depth of major marathon racing. Source: Valencia Marathon.
Close pursuit by the best
Kevin Kiptum, having recently won the Chicago Marathon with a blazing 2:00:35, challenged the prevailing course record but could not overhaul Lemma. Kiptum’s late sprint impressed observers, yet Lemma held his ground to finish just seconds apart, confirming the competitiveness at the front of the pack. The competition also featured a notable range of times as athletes navigated the Valencia course with precision and endurance, contributing to a memorable edition of the race. Source: Valencia Marathon.
In the broader context of the day, Lemma opened a gap early and pressed forward from the 35-kilometer mark, unleashing a final burst that tested the limits of his rivals. The result demonstrated not only the athlete’s stamina but the strategic importance of maintaining a strong, consistent pace to the finish. Lemma’s performance stands as a testament to his preparation and mental focus as he pursued the course record under demanding conditions. Source: Valencia Marathon.
Women’s race triumph and record insights
In the women’s division, Worknesh Degefa delivered a standout performance by winning the 43rd edition of the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Marathon. Her provisional time of 2:15:51 represented the eighth-best mark in the event’s history and marked an improvement of almost two minutes over her previous best, despite facing a course that demanded sustained concentration and speed. Degefa crossed the finish with a late surge that showcased her strength in the latter stages of the race. Source: Valencia Marathon.
The competition highlighted the depth of talent in women’s marathoning, with Degefa illustrating how persistence and targeted pacing can lead to significant personal bests on a challenging course. Her performance, coupled with Lemma’s course record, underscored Valencia’s reputation as a fast, competitive marathon destination. Source: Valencia Marathon.