Half marathon

A half marathon is a road running event of 21,097.5 meters, or frac|13|7|64 miles, about 13.1 miles. It is half the distance of a marathon and usually run on roads. It is a popular race for intermediate runners, long enough to be a serious challenge but not requiring the level of training of a marathon. In consequence, many towns and cities hold annual all-comers half marathon races through their streets. It is also common for a half marathon event to be held concurrently with a marathon, using almost the same course with an early finish.

World records

The male world record is 58:33, set by Samuel Wanjiru of Kenya on March 17 2007, in The Hague, The Netherlands.

The female world record is 1:06:25, set by Lornah Kiplagat of the Netherlands on October 14 2007, in Udine, Italy.

World record progression - Men

Women's Seasons Best

Running multiple half marathons

As running half marathons has become more popular, athletes have started to set goals involving competing in multiple races. A popular goal is to run a half marathon in each state of the United States and the District of Columbia. At least four runners have completed this series. [http://www.50anddcmarathongroupusa.com/plus/stats.cfm Retried 2007-11-29.]

References

ee also

* List of half marathon races
* IAAF World Half Marathon Championships
* Mini marathon

External links

* [http://www.alltime-athletics.com/mhmaraok.htm The best half-marathon times for men]
* [http://www.alltime-athletics.com/whmaraok.htm The best half-marathon times for women]
* [http://www.halfmarathons.net HalfMarathons.Net - Directory of half marathons in the USA and around the world]
* [http://www.arrs.net/YR_HMar.htm Best Year Performances]
* [http://www.mastersathletics.net World Masters Half Marathon Rankings]