The Paris Marathon 2024: A Triumph for Ethiopia as Cheruiyot Returns to the Podium

The Paris Marathon, held on Sunday, April 7, 2024, showcased athletes' grit, determination, and triumph worldwide. Amidst the iconic backdrop of the City of Light, runners pushed themselves to their limits, with Ethiopia emerging as the dominant force in both the men's and women's races.

Notable among them was the return of Vivian Cheruiyot, a seasoned Kenyan athlete, who marked her comeback to the marathon scene with a commendable performance. Let's delve into the history before getting to the highlights and intricacies of this exhilarating event that captivated the hearts of sports enthusiasts globally.

History of The Paris Marathon

The Paris Marathon, known as the Marathon de Paris in French, boasts a rich history that spans over a century, evolving from its humble beginnings into one of the premier marathon events in the world.

Tour de Paris Era

The roots of the Paris Marathon can be traced back to 1896, when the inaugural race, known as the Tour de Paris Marathon, captured the imagination of running enthusiasts. The event drew a sizable crowd as 191 participants gathered to test their mettle over a challenging course. Starting from Paris and winding its way to Conflans-Sainte-Honorine via Versailles, the race covered a distance of 40 kilometers.

Inspired by the legendary marathon from Marathon to Athens, the organizers opted for a course length of 40 kilometers, symbolic of the distance between the two iconic cities. Notably, runners who completed the race in under four hours were awarded commemorative medals, a testament to their endurance and determination.

Among the notable victors of the early Paris Marathons was Len Hurst from England, who clinched victory in the inaugural race with a time of 2 hours, 31 minutes, and 30 seconds. His achievement symbolized the spirit of competition and began a storied legacy for the Paris Marathon.

Transition to the Modern Era

Over time, the Paris Marathon underwent significant transformations, adapting to the evolving landscape of competitive running. In 1921, following the establishment of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), the standard marathon distance was set at 42.195 kilometers, a length that has since become synonymous with marathon races worldwide.

The modern incarnation of the Paris Marathon emerged in 1976, marking a new chapter in its illustrious history. Organized by the Amaury Sport Organisation, the event garnered widespread acclaim for its scenic route, which winds through the heart of the picturesque city of Paris.

With its iconic starting point along the illustrious Champs-Élysées and a breathtaking finish on Avenue Foch, the marathon offers participants a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of the French capital.

The Paris Marathon's Journey

Since its inception, the Paris Marathon has grown exponentially in popularity and stature, attracting elite athletes and recreational runners from across the globe. With its vibrant atmosphere, enthusiastic spectators, and world-class organization, the event has earned a reputation as one of the most prestigious marathons on the international calendar.

Today, the Paris Marathon continues to captivate audiences with its blend of athleticism, camaraderie, and cultural significance. As runners converge on the streets of Paris each year, they become part of a storied tradition that celebrates the human spirit and the pursuit of excellence.

The Paris Marathon 2024

Against this backdrop of tradition and excitement, the 2024 Paris Marathon unfolded with a sense of anticipation and excitement. As elite athletes and recreational runners took to the streets, all eyes were on Ethiopia's formidable contingent and the return of Vivian Cheruiyot, a revered figure in the world of marathon running.

The Women's Race

The women's race at the Paris Marathon unfolded with intense competition as seasoned veterans and debutants vied for supremacy. Vivian Cheruiyot, a decorated athlete with multiple world championships to her name, made a notable return to the marathon circuit after a hiatus of over three years.

Cheruiyot's last marathon appearance in Valencia in 2020 showcased her resilience, clocking an impressive 2:21:47. However, the Paris Marathon presented a formidable challenge as she faced stiff competition from Ethiopian debutants Mestawut Fikir and

Enatnesh Tirusew.

Despite Cheruiyot's illustrious career and status as the fastest entrant in the race, she trailed behind the Ethiopian duo, who surged ahead to claim the top two spots on the podium.

Mestawut Fikir crossed the finish line in 2:20:45, followed closely by Enatnesh Tirusew with a time of 2:20:47. Cheruiyot's valiant effort earned her a commendable third-place finish, reaffirming her status as one of the elite marathon runners on the global stage.

The Men's Race

The battle for supremacy was equally intense in the men's race, with athletes from Kenya and Ethiopia showcasing their prowess over the grueling 26.2-mile course. Titus Kiptoo of Kenya led the pack for much of the race, displaying remarkable endurance and determination.

However, it was Ethiopia's Mulugeta Asefa Uma who emerged victorious, unleashing a decisive kick in the final kilometers to secure the top spot with a personal best time of 2:05:33. Kiptoo's valiant effort earned him a well-deserved second-place finish, crossing the finish line in 2:05:48, closely followed by his compatriot Elisha Rotich, who clinched third place with a time of 2:06:54. Rotich, the winner of the 2021 Paris Marathon, showcased his consistency and resilience despite falling short of his previous course record.

Implications and Reflections

The Paris Marathon 2024 served as a testament to the indomitable spirit of marathon runners and the global appeal of this iconic event. For Ethiopia, it was a moment of triumph as their athletes dominated both the men's and women's races, underscoring the nation's prowess in distance running. Mulugeta Asefa Uma's victory marked a significant milestone in his career, signaling his emergence as a formidable force in the world of marathon running.

For Vivian Cheruiyot, the Paris Marathon represented a triumphant return to competitive action, reaffirming her status as one of the premier female marathon runners in the world. Despite facing formidable competition from Ethiopian debutants, Cheruiyot showcased her resilience and determination, securing a podium finish and laying the foundation for future success.

Looking ahead, the Paris Marathon continues to captivate audiences worldwide, attracting elite athletes and passionate spectators alike. As the marathon community reflects on the triumphs and challenges of this year's event, one thing remains clear: the enduring allure of the Paris Marathon as a pinnacle of athletic achievement and human endeavor.