Eliud Kipchoge crowned the 48th BMW Berlin Marathon with an incredible world record of 2:01:09. The 37-year-old Kenyan improved his own best time by exactly half a minute.
In the women’s race, Tigist Assefa ran a sensational course record. Starting as an outsider with a personal best of 2:34:01 beforehand, the Ethiopian ran the race of her life in excellent weather conditions and won in an incredible time of 2:15:37.
Representing Greenock Glenpark Harriers on this most memorable of running days were Fiona Cushnaghan, Wes Pattison and Alan Poole.
Having completed her first marathon in 2006 (at the time saying “Never again!”), Fiona completed her 23rd over the distance in Berlin.
This was a race Fiona had always wanted to compete in as her late Dad and well-kent Greenokian Jimmy Canning was stationed in Berlin with the army.
Fiona proudly shows off her medal and raises a much-deserved celebratory drink
With two world records underway, the atmosphere was understandably electric and undoubtedly helped all three Glenparkers every step of the way.
Fiona’s training had been hampered with injury, but she was determined to get around running/walking and this was a plan that she executed to perfection.
Fiona was delighted to finish in 4hrs 40 mins, saying “It was an experience I will treasure forever. It was never about the time. l just wanted to enjoy it; finally getting to compete, to tour the city and reminisce about my Dad’s experience over here”.
Having now run marathons in Lochaber, Edinburgh, London, New York, Barcelona, Rome, York, Dublin, Brighton, Strathearn and Loch Ness, where will Fiona’s number 24 be ?…Watch this space !
Meanwhile, in the Men’s race Wesley and Alan had inspired runs.
Alan and Wes – Delighted after exceptionally good runs
Both runners made their journey to Berlin, with its legendary reputation as the fastest course in the world, well worthwhile.
With metronomic pace of 3:51/km, or just over 6 minute miles, Wes completed the course in an amazing 2:42:23.
Alan also ran a cracking time of 3:13:46, with similarly impressive pace judgement. This was a well-deserved 9-minute PB.
Congratulations all!