Get ready for a thrilling showdown! The upcoming Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata race is set to be a true test of endurance, with a challenging course that will push even the most seasoned athletes to their limits. This year's race, the 10th edition, features a significantly hillier route, with approximately 50% of the course altered, including two bridges. This promises to make the competition even more exciting.
Leading the charge will be a stellar lineup of runners. Reigning World marathon champion Alphonce Simbu will be looking to dominate, while double Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei, transitioning from track to road races, aims to solidify his reputation in one of his favorite countries. Defending women’s champion Sutume Kebede will also be there, eager to defend her title.
Adding to the international flair, Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, fresh from a seventh-place finish at the Paris Olympics, is ready to compete in this World Athletics Gold Label race. The stakes are high, with a total prize money of $142,214 up for grabs, plus an additional $25,000 bonus for anyone who breaks the world record of 1:11.08.
But here's where it gets interesting: Ethiopian Sutume Kebede is aiming for a hat-trick of wins, and she's got her sights set on an event record bonus of $5,000. She’ll face stiff competition from her compatriot and 2017 winner Degitu Azimeraw, as well as Kenyan Agnes Keino.
In the Indian category, Asian 5,000m and 10,000m champion Gulveer Singh and Sanjivani Jadhav will defend their titles. Other notable Indian runners, including Sawan Barwal, Abhishek Pal, Lili Das, and Seema, will also be in action, adding local flavor to the event.
With over 23,000 participants expected, the race also offers rewards for amateur runners. The top three finishers in both men's and women's sections, across various age groups, will receive ₹35,000, ₹25,000, and ₹10,000, respectively.
The event will be broadcast live on Sony Sports 1 HD and SD, starting at 5:30 a.m., so you won't miss a moment of the action.
What do you think? Will the challenging course favor certain runners? Which athletes are you most excited to watch, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
