A big congratulations to the first winners of the Elche–Alicante International Marathon, Kipkirui Langat and Ayehu Tesfahun.
Their impressive runs crowned a launch edition that drew huge crowds, filled hotel rooms, and showcased the strong sporting spirit shared by both cities.
Kenya’s Kipkirui Langat crossed the finish line in 2:12:54, securing victory in the inaugural edition of the race. In the women’s field, Ethiopia’s Ayehu Tesfahun claimed first place with a time of 2:35:03. Both were crowned winners at a ceremony led by the Mayor of Alicante, Luis Barcala, at Pier 12.
Thousands of spectators lined the route to cheer on the runners, from the start at Elche’s Palacio de Altamira, through Torrellano, and across the final 11 kilometres through central Alicante to the marina finish line. The atmosphere reflected the scale of the event, which, remarkably for a first edition, has already become the seventh largest marathon in Spain, with 4,300 bibs issued and hotel occupancy in Alicante surpassing 85%.
Alicante-Elche Marathon: A race that linked two cities
On Sunday, 3,500 runners took part in the first-ever Elche–Alicante International Marathon. They represented around 50 nationalities. Women made up 15% of participants, adding to the diverse mix that has helped secure the event’s place on the national running calendar.
Behind Langat, Eritrea’s Hiskel Tewekde finished second in 2:13:39. Uganda’s Keneth Kiprop followed closely with 2:13:58. In the women’s race, Tesfahun was followed by Spain’s Mercedes Velasco (2:51:53) and France’s Magalie Veron (2:53:09).
Mayor Barcala called the event “an overwhelming success in terms of public turnout, organisation and participation.” He said the results “support the continuation of this initiative.” He also highlighted its role in strengthening joint projects within the Alicante–Elche metropolitan axis, especially in sports tourism.
A fast, coastal course with international ambition
The race began at 9:00 under favourable weather conditions, in the presence of Mayors Luis Barcala and Pablo Ruz of Elche, who later joined the awards ceremony. Runners covered:
- 11 km through Elche’s city centre
- 20 km linking the two municipalities
- 11 km through Alicante, including a scenic stretch along the seafront to Pier 12
A leading pack of African athletes established the pace early on and maintained their dominance throughout the race.
The Elche–Alicante Marathon is the only marathon in Spain that starts in one municipality and finishes in another, a rare feature shared globally only with the iconic Boston Marathon.
