The 50th Berlin Marathon: A Milestone Event in Running History
On September 29, 2024, the 50th Berlin Marathon will take place, attracting over 50,000 runners from more than 150 nations. This prestigious event will see professional runners kick off at 9:15 am, with the start divided into four waves and multiple starting blocks. The race course, known for its flat profile, will wind through various Berlin districts, culminating just beyond the iconic Brandenburg Gate.
Abbott World Marathon Majors: The Elite League of Marathons
The Berlin Marathon is part of the renowned “Abbott World Marathon Majors Serie,” alongside other prestigious races like the Boston Marathon, London Marathon, Chicago Marathon, New York City Marathon, and Tokyo Marathon. Since 2012, the Tokyo Marathon has been included in this exclusive league, known as the “Big Six.”
Berlin: A Hub for World Records
With its flat course and minimal inclines, the Berlin Marathon has been a breeding ground for world records. The city has witnessed an impressive 13 world records being set, more than any other marathon course in the world. Notable records include the men’s current world record of 2:00:35 hours set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023 and the women’s record of 2:11:53 hours by Tigist Assefa in 2023.
Top Contenders for the 50th Berlin Marathon
For the men’s race, contenders like Tadese Takele, Ronald Korir, and Kibiwott Kandie are among the favorites. On the women’s side, athletes like Tigist Ketema, Genzebe Dibaba, and Yebregual Melese are expected to shine. Ketema, who recently won the Dubai Marathon in record time, stands out for her remarkable debut performance.
Live Coverage of the Berlin Marathon
Exciting news for fans! The Berlin Marathon will be broadcast live on RTL, with exclusive rights secured for the next three years. Coverage begins at 8:30 am, and viewers can also catch the action on the streaming service RTL+.
With the 50th Berlin Marathon set to make history, runners and spectators alike can look forward to an unforgettable event filled with thrilling competition and potential record-breaking performances. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from this iconic race!