Draft:Maratón Medellin

The Medellín Marathon
Image of the start of the 2019 Medellín Marathon
DateSeptember
LocationColombiaMedellín, Colombia
Event typeRoad
DistanceMarathon
(also 10 km, 4.2 km)
Primary sponsorLazza Capital
Telemedellín
GARMIN
Mayor of Medellín
Established1995 (29 years ago) (1995)
OrganizerMCM Event Operator
Official siteMedellin Marathon

Maratón Medellín (also called The Medellín Marathon, previously the Medellín Flowers Marathon, or initially called the Medellín International Half Marathon) is an annual marathon held in Medellín, Colombia. It is the oldest marathon event in Colombia, celebrated every September, attracting both local and international participants.

The race includes a variety of distances to accommodate runners of different skill levels, with a full marathon (42.195 km), a half marathon (21 km), a 10-kilometer race, and a 5-kilometer race. Known for its scenic urban route, enthusiastic crowd support, and commitment to environmental and social causes, Maratón Medellín has become one of Latin America's prominent road races. It is the only 42 km street race in Colombia recognized by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

The most recent edition of the race was held on September 1, 2024, with sponsorship from Telemedellín.

History

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Maratón Medellín was first held in 1995, initially as a smaller event for local runners. Over the years, the marathon has grown significantly in scale, evolving into a large-scale international competition that draws thousands of participants from various countries. Race plays a significant role in promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles within Medellín and the broader region, while also highlighting the city's progress and transformation over recent decades.[1]

In February 1996, Herder Vásquez set a record with a time of 1:03:26, becoming the first runner in Colombia to complete a marathon in under 2 hours and 6 minutes. This achievement also made him the inaugural winner of the event.

Race Course

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The marathon course offers runners a tour through Medellín’s urban landscape, showcasing a blend of the city's modern infrastructure, green spaces, and neighborhoods. The route generally includes several of Medellín's iconic sites, such as the Medellín River, El Poblado neighborhood, and La Alpujarra Administrative Center. The course also features a flat and slightly hilly terrain, providing a challenging yet scenic experience. Medellín’s altitude and climate, with temperatures generally between 18-24°C (64-75°F), add to the race's uniqueness.[2]

Past marathons

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1999

 
Lidia Grigorieva claimed victory with a time of 1:11:39

Peruvian long-distance runner José Castillo won the 21 km category 1999 marathon with a time of 1:02:55, marking the fastest marathon debut by a Peruvian at that time and setting a new course record. Castillo successfully defended his 1998 title. In the women’s division, Russian long-distance runner Lidia Grigorieva claimed victory with a time of 1:11:39, also setting a course record.

2000

The 2000 Medellin Marathon was held in September. Silvio Guerra of Ecuador won the race to finish in a time of 1:03:13 setting an all-time new record. Ramilya Burangulova won the women's title with a time of 1 hours, 14 minutes, 20 seconds.

2023

The 2023 Medellin Marathon took place on September 1, 2023, featuring both a half marathon (21 km) and a full marathon (42 km) event. In the half marathon, Joseph Kiprono Kiptum emerged as the men’s champion with a time of 1:05:06, while Jhoselyn Yessica Camargo Aliaga claimed the women’s title, finishing in 1:14:14.

In the full marathon, which spans 42 kilometers, Jeisson Suárez won the men’s division with a time of 2:17:24. Caroline Chepkurui Tuigong won the women’s division, finishing in 2:39:25.

International participation and recognition

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The marathon is part of the international running circuit and is recognized by AIMS, the global organization for distance running events. This recognition has helped attract elite runners from around the world, particularly from neighboring countries in South America and Africa, where distance running has a strong tradition.

The event has gained considerable media attention for showcasing Medellín’s growth and cultural vibrancy, which aligns with the city’s efforts to promote tourism and its image as a safe and attractive destination.

COVID-19 and Virtual Participation

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During the COVID-19 pandemic, Maratón Medellín adapted by organizing virtual races to allow participants to complete the event individually while following safety protocols. This innovation enabled runners from all over the world to participate remotely, further increasing the event's global reach. In 2022, Maratón Medellín resumed in-person races, implementing enhanced safety measures to protect participants and spectators.

Notable Performances

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Over the years, Maratón Medellín has attracted top marathoners and has seen record-breaking performances from both Colombian and international athletes. These performances have helped increase the marathon’s stature within South America and contributed to its reputation as a challenging and prestigious event.

Categories and events

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The Maratón Medellín comprises several race categories, catering to diverse age groups and abilities:[3]

  • 42.195 km (Marathon): The main event, open to professional and amateur runners, and recognized by the Asociación Internacional de Maratones y Carreras de Distancia (AIMS).
  • 21 km (Half Marathon): A popular choice for competitive and recreational runners.
  • 10 km Race: Designed for both runners and walkers, this category allows broader community participation.
  • 5 km Recreational Run: A non-competitive race that encourages participation from families, beginners, and those looking to enjoy the event without focusing on competitive timing.

Marathon, General Category

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Winners and times recorded in 42 km in the different editions of the event.

Referencias:

  Best mark of the race
  Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic
Edition Date Male winner Time (h:m:s) Female winner Time (h:m:s)
29ª September 3, 2023   Jeisson Alexander Suárez Bocanegra 2:17:24   Caroline Chepkurui Tuigong 2:39:25
28ª September 4, 2022   Jeisson Alexander Suárez Bocanegra 2:15:58   Hellen Nzembi Musyoka 2:41:51
27ª 2021 Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic
26ª 2020 Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic
25ª September 8, 2019   Timothy Kipngetich Kemboi 2:24:51   Ayelu Abebe Hordorfa 2:48:41
24ª 2018   Habtamu Arega Wegi 2:18:18   Tigist Teshome Ayunu 2:39:04
23ª 2017   Mike Kiptum 2:21:34   Carolyne Chemutai 2:49:43
22ª 2016   Amos Kiprotich 2:17:52   Carolyne Chemutai 2:37:32
21ª 2015   Cosmas Mutuku Kjera 2:18:11   Mercy Jelimo Too 2:42:40
20ª 2014   Juan Carlos Cardona 2:20:25   Karina Villazana 2:45:19
19ª 2013   Juan Carlos Cardona 2:21:15   Leidy Tobón 2:51:27
18ª 2012   José David Cardona 2:24:18   Leidy Tobón 2:57:31

Marathon, General Category

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Winners and times recorded in 21 km in the different editions of the event.

Referencias:

  Best mark of the race
  Virtual edition due to COVID 19 pandemic
Edition Date Male winner Time (h:m:s) Female winner Time (h:m:s)
29ª September 3, 2023   Joseph Kiprono Kiptum 1:05:06   Jhoselyn Yessica Camargo Aliaga 1:14:14
28ª September 4, 2022   Vidal Basco Mamani 1:04:23   Angie Rocio Orjuela Soche 1:15:47
27ª 2021 Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic
26ª 2020 Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic Virtual due to COVID 19 pandemic
25ª September 8, 2019   Joseph Kiprono Kiptum 1:04:50   Tigist Teshome Ayunu 1:15:05
24ª 2018   Daniel Muindi Muteti 1:03:45   Yeshi Chekole 1:11:23
23ª 2017   Titus Kipjumba Mbishei 1:04:33   Diana Landi 1:13:59
22ª 2016   David Kiprotich Langat 1:06:04   Ogla Jerono 1:14:19
21ª 2015   Joseph Kiprono Kiptum 1:05:52   Malika Asahssah 1:14:40
20ª 2014   Benjamin Kiplimo Mutai 1:04:28   Santa Inés Melchor 1:13:21
19ª 2013   Edwin Kipsang Rotich 1:04:21   Santa Inés Melchor 1:13:25
18ª 2012   Diego Colorado 1:04:04   Carolina Tabares 1:17:08
17ª 2011   Julius Kipyego Keter 1:03:21   Erika Abril 1:14:41
16ª 2010   Reta Alene Amare 1:03:34   Genoveva Jelagat Kigen 1:12:55
15ª 2009   Julius Kipyego Keter 1:03:20   Ogla Jerono Kimaiyo 1:13:29
14ª 2008   Julius Kipyego Keter 1:02:34   Ogla Jerono Kimaiyo 1:13:56
13ª 2007   Kimutai Kiplimo 1:05:52   Ogla Jerono Kimaiyo 1:15:39
12ª 2006   Ernest Meli Kimeli 1:04:32   Genoveva Jelagat Kigen 1:14:35
11ª 2005   Rómulo Wagner Da Silva 1:04:18   Bertha Sánchez 1:17:08
10ª 2004   Marilson Gomes Dos Santos 1:03:58   Iglandini González 1:17:16
2003   Sisay Bezabeth 1:04:42   Lyudmila Korchagina 1:15:07
2002   Benedic Kimondiu 1:03:22   Teresa Wanjiku 1:11:42
2001   Joao Ntyamba 1:04:34   María Portilla 1:15:02
2000   Silvio Guerra 1:03:13   Ramilya Burangulova 1:14:15
1999   José Castillo 1:02:55   Lidia Grigorieva 1:11:39
1998   José Castillo 1:03:39   Delillah Adiago 1:12:51
1997   Juan Carlos Gutiérrez 1:02:53   Salina Chirchir 1:14:54
1996   Herder Vásquez 1:03:26   Stella Castro 1:14:26
1995 1/3 marathon - 1/3 marathon -

Maratón Medellín 2019

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On Saturday, September 8, 2019, the twenty-fifth version of the Medellín Marathon was held. The winners in the 42 km distance were:[4]

Male branch:

1° Timothy Kipngetich Kemboi   02:24:51

2° Daniel Ashenik Derese   02:26:31

3° Victor Hugo Ocampo Ramirez   02:28:54

Female branch:

1° Ayelu Abebe Hordofa   02:48:41

2° Leidy Yohanna Tobon Salazar   02:50:41

3° Yolanda Fernandez Piza   02:58:29

Organization, sponsors, institutional support and endorsements

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Organización

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Since 1995, the race has been organized by MCM Operador de Eventos, an entity created from the initiative of Camacol Antioquia and the Antioquia Athletics League.

Sponsors

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In 2019, the main sponsors, support entities and guarantees were:

Great Sponsor

Institutional Support

  • Medellín Mayor's Office
  • Inder Medellin

Other sponsors

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Endorsements

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Significance and cultural impact

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Maratón Medellín is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of Medellín’s culture, resilience, and community spirit. The marathon embodies the city’s motto, "Medellín moves forward," reflecting its evolution from a history of social challenges to becoming a vibrant, innovative urban center. Through the race, the city promotes an active lifestyle, civic pride, and a sense of unity among residents and visitors.

References

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  1. ^ "Maratón de Medellín". ESPN.com.ar (in Spanish). 2019-09-11. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
  2. ^ "Maratón de las Flores recibirá reconocimiento por su acción social - ELMUNDO.COM". www.elmundo.com (in Spanish). Retrieved 2024-11-05.
  3. ^ Domínguez, Ana Milena García (2022-03-18). "Cuatro recorridos y seis categorías tiene la Maratón Medellín -" (in Spanish). Retrieved 2024-11-06.
  4. ^ "Kenia y Etiopía reinaron en la Maratón de Medellín en sus 25 años". Publimetro Colombia (in Spanish). 2019-09-09. Retrieved 2024-11-06.