In a groundbreaking performance, Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo has etched his name in the annals of athletics history by becoming the first person to complete a half marathon in less than 57 minutes. The event took place in Barcelona on 16 February 2025, where Kiplimo not only surpassed the previous world record but also set a new standard by finishing in an astonishing 56 minutes and 42 seconds.

Kiplimo, a two-time world cross country champion, broke the previous record set by Ethiopian Yomif Kejelcha by a significant 48 seconds. Kejelcha's record of 57:30 was established in Valencia just five months prior. The Ugandan's performance is noted as the most significant single improvement in the men's world half-marathon record.

From Kiplimo's perspective, the race was both a challenge and a surprise. "I am very excited about what I did today," Kiplimo shared post-race. "I wanted to have a great race, but I didn't expect to break the world record. I started very strong in the first two kilometers to get away from my rivals. As the kilometers passed and I saw that I was going at record pace, I told myself that I had to maintain that pace no matter what it took."

Adding to his list of achievements during the race, Kiplimo also set a world best for the 15km mark with a time of 39:47, accomplished under ideal weather conditions of 13ºC with no wind. His compatriot, Geoffrey Kamworor, finished second with a time of 58:44, followed by Kenya's Samuel Mailu at 59:40.

This remarkable feat not only highlights Kiplimo's exceptional stamina and speed but also sets a new benchmark for future athletes in the world of long-distance running.