1. Passing of a Trailblazer – Nina Kuscsik
Nina Kuscsik, a pioneer in women’s marathon running, passed away on June 8, 2025, at age 86. Kuscsik made history as the first officially recognized female winner of the Boston Marathon in 1972 and was the only woman to run in the inaugural 1970 New York City Marathon. At a time when women were prohibited from racing distances over five miles, she lobbied the Amateur Athletic Union and protested at the 1972 NYC Marathon to abolish gender-based race barriers.
Alongside icons like Kathrine Switzer, she was instrumental in getting the women’s marathon included in the 1984 Olympics. Over her career, she ran more than 80 marathons, set records, co‑founded women-only races, and was inducted into the National Distance Running Hall of Fame in 1999. Her impact reverberates in today’s egalitarian marathon scene .
2. Global Marathon Winners & Record‑Chasing Events
98th Comrades Marathon (South Africa) – Held June 8, this rugged 89.98 km “down run” from Pietermaritzburg to Durban saw Tete Dijana win in 5:25:28, while Gerda Steyn claimed the women’s title in 5:51:19 .
London Marathon (UK) – On April 27, Elite men’s race saw Sabastian Sawe triumph in 2:02:27, and Tigst Assefa set a new women‑only marathon world record at 2:15:50. The elite wheelchair winners were Marcel Hug (1:25:25) and Catherine Debrunner (1:34:18). With a record‑breaking field—over 56,000 starters globally—it was the largest marathon ever .
Notably, the women’s elite field lost top contenders Ruth Chepngetich and defending champ Peres Jepchirchir shortly before race day due to injury and mental readiness, yet Assefa surged ahead.
Prague Marathon (Czech Republic) – On May 5, Ethiopian Lemi Berhanu Hayle retained his title with a time of 2:05:14, narrowly missing the course record. Ethiopian rising star Berhanu and 20‑year‑old Bertukan Welde Sura (2:20:55) both earned top podium spots, with both taking home about €15,000 each .
Lagos City Marathon (Nigeria) – In February, Kenyan Edwin Koech (2:14:00) and Ethiopian Guta Hirpa (2:37:02) won top titles. Notable was Nyango Boyi, the fastest Nigerian finisher at 2:25:41—earning $4,000—paving the way for more Nigerian elite presence .
Comrades Ultra–Marathon (South Africa) – Covered above.
3. Inspirational Stories & Emerging Events
Comrades outlier – Varuna Rao from India finished the brutal 90 km Comrades ultra‑marathon on June 8 in 11 h 32 m—an inspiring feat in her age group.
Enugu City Marathon (Nigeria) – Scheduled May 3, with over 100 international athletes joining its inaugural edition, marking a growing interest in Southeast Nigerian races .
Lewa Safari Marathon (Kenya) – Set for June 28, this event returns with over 15,000 runners. Elite athletes John Mitei and Mercy Kwambai are poised to defend their titles, while notable challengers like Peter Wahome seek to dethrone them .
4. Marathon Tragedy in Brooklyn
Tragically, 31‑year‑old Charles Rogers collapsed and died from cardiac arrest around mile 8 of the Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 17. A Verizon specialist and competitive runner, Rogers was fundraising for youth health through Team for Kids. His death is a solemn reminder of the medical risks even fit individuals face during endurance events .
Final Reflections
From the loss of a historic trailblazer to record performances, international race expansions, and sobering tragedies, the global marathon landscape in 2025 has been a tapestry of inspiration, resilience, and reflection. Kuscsik’s legacy continues to underpin these developments, as marathons evolve—setting new records, embracing inclusion, and expanding their global footprint.
