Kenya’s Agnes Ngetich smashes 10km world record, clocks sub-29 minutes in historic run

In a historic feat, Kenya’s Agnes Ngetich shattered records at the Valencia Ibercaja road race in Spain, becoming the first woman to complete the 10km race in under 29 minutes. The 22-year-old clocked an astonishing 28 minutes and 46 seconds, surpassing the 2022 road world record of Ethiopian athlete Yalemzerf Yehualaw by 28 seconds.

Ngetich’s compatriot, Emmaculate Anyango, also delivered an outstanding performance, finishing second with a time of 28:57. Expressing her elation, Ngetich remarked, “I’m so happy. I didn’t expect this world record.”

Ngetich’s remarkable achievement wasn’t limited to the 10km race; she had previously equaled Beatrice Chebet’s 5km world record of 14:13 in a women’s-only race just two weeks before. The Kenyan athlete had aimed to improve her time, initially targeting around 29:14.

However, her exceptional run resulted in a world record, marking a significant milestone in her career. Notably, Ngetich had already set the 10km world record in September with a time of 29:24 in another women’s-only race, showcasing her consistent excellence on the track.

In addition to breaking the 10km road race record, Ngetich’s remarkable time of 28:46 also surpassed the women’s 10,000m track world record of 29:01.03 held by Ethiopia’s Letesenbet Gidey. The Kenyan athlete’s achievements highlight her dominance in long-distance running and solidify her position as a trailblazer in the world of athletics.