The Berlin Marathon is renowned as one of the world’s premier marathons, attracting elite runners and enthusiasts alike. Held annually in Berlin, Germany, this race boasts a reputation for its lightning-fast course and spirited spectators. Over the years, it has witnessed remarkable victories and set the stage for world records. In this article, we delve into the history of the Berlin Marathon past winners, celebrating the legends who have left an indelible mark on this iconic event.
The History of the Berlin Marathon
The Berlin Marathon had its inception in 1974 and held the distinction of being the first marathon in East Germany. Since its inception, it has grown in stature and popularity, becoming a highlight on the global marathon calendar. With the exception of 1977 and 1980, when it was canceled due to political reasons, the race has been a consistent testament to human endurance and speed.
Top Berlin Marathon Past Winners
Let’s pay tribute to the extraordinary male athletes who have conquered the Berlin Marathon:
1. Eliud Kipchoge (2015, 2017, 2018, 2019)
Eliud Kipchoge is a Kenyan long-distance runner who is considered to be one of the greatest marathon runners of all time. He is the current world record holder in the marathon, with a time of 2:01:39 set in Berlin in 2018. Kipchoge has won the Berlin Marathon four times, in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2019.
His victory in 2018 was particularly memorable, as he broke the world record by 1 minute and 18 seconds. Kipchoge’s victories in Berlin are a testament to his talent and dedication. He is a true champion and an inspiration to runners all over the world.
2. Dennis Kimetto (2014, 2016)
Dennis Kimetto is the second-most successful runner in Berlin Marathon History, with two wins in world record-breaking times. He set the inaugural world record time of 2:02:57 in 2014 and broke his own record with a time of 2:01:39 in 2015.
Kimetto is a Kenyan long-distance runner who is considered to be one of the greatest marathon runners of all time. He is also the current world record holder in the marathon. Kimetto’s world record-breaking performances in Berlin are a testament to his talent and dedication. He is a true champion and an inspiration to runners all over the world.
3. Haile Gebrselassie (2008, 2009, 2010)
Haile Gebrselassie is an Ethiopian long-distance runner who is considered to be one of the greatest marathon runners of all time. He is the former world record holder in the marathon, with a time of 2:01:41 set in Berlin in 2008.
Gebrselassie won the Berlin Marathon three times in a row, in 2006, 2007, and 2008. His first victory came in 2006 when he set a course record of 2:04:26. He won again in 2007, with a time of 2:05:56. And in 2008, he won with a time of 2:01:41, which was a world record at the time. Gebrselassie’s three consecutive victories in Berlin are a testament to his talent and dedication. He is a true champion and an inspiration to runners all over the world.
4. Paul Tergat (2003)
Paul Tergat is a Kenyan long-distance runner who is considered to be one of the greatest marathon runners of all time. He is the former world record holder in the marathon, with a time of 2:04:55 set in Berlin in 2003.
Tergat won the Berlin Marathon in 2003, breaking the previous world record by 26 seconds. He finished the race in a time of 2:04:55, which was the fastest time ever run at the time.
Tergat’s victory in Berlin is one of the most memorable moments in the history of the marathon. He is a true legend of the sport of running.
5. Carlos Lopes (1984)
Carlos Lopes, a remarkable athlete hailing from Portugal, etched the first world record in the annals of history at the Berlin Marathon in 1984. Lopes’s extraordinary feat saw him cross the finish line with an amazing time of 2 hours, 7 minutes, and 12 seconds, setting a new benchmark for marathon runners worldwide.
Eliud Kipchoge’s dominance in the Berlin Marathon stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and relentless pursuit of greatness. His record-breaking time of 2:01:39 in 2018 is etched in history as one of the sport’s defining moments.
Dennis Kimetto’s achievements, including his world record-breaking run in 2014, solidify his legacy as a marathon legend. Kimetto’s success serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.
Also Read: Berlin Marathon World Records: A Legacy of Speed and Excellence
Berlin Marathon Past Winners (2011-2021)
| Year | Men’s Winner | Time | Women’s Winner | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Guye Adola (ETH) | 2:05:45 | Gotytom Gebreslase (ETH) | 2:20:09 |
| 2020 | Cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic | Cancelled | Cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic | Cancelled |
| 2019 | Kenenisa Bekele (ETH) | 2:01:41 | Ashete Bekere (ETH) | 2:20:14 |
| 2018 | Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) | 2:01:39 WR | Gladys Cherono (KEN) | 2:18:11 |
| 2017 | Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) | 2:03:32 | Gladys Cherono (KEN) | 2:20:23 |
| 2016 | Kenenisa Bekele (ETH) | 2:03:03 | Aberu Kebede (ETH) | 2:20:45 |
| 2015 | Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) | 2:04:00 | Gladys Cherono (KEN) | 2:19:25 |
| 2014 | Dennis Kimetto (KEN) | 2:02:57 WR | Tirfi Tsegaye (KEN) | 2:20:18 |
| 2013 | Wilson Kipsang (KEN) | 2:03:23 WR | Florence Kiplagat (KEN) | 2:21:13 |
| 2012 | Geoffrey Mutai (KEN) | 2:04:15 | Aberu Kebede (ETH) | 2:20:30 |
| 2011 | Patrick Musyoki (KEN) | 2:03:38 WR | Florence Kiplagat (KEN) | 2:19:44 |
The Course of the Berlin Marathon
The Berlin Marathon is renowned for its flat and rapid course. This marathon is where records are shattered, thanks to its runner-friendly route. Beginning in the picturesque Tiergarten Park, the course navigates the bustling streets of Berlin, culminating in a grand finish at the iconic Brandenburg Gate. This setup is a recipe for speed and exhilaration. You can find more info about the course of this marathon in Berlin Marathon Year by Year Overview.
The Weather in Berlin in September
Held in September, the Berlin Marathon enjoys favorable weather conditions. With an average temperature of approximately 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) and relatively low humidity, runners can expect a comfortable and conducive environment to push their limits.
The Berlin Marathon Elite Field
The Berlin Marathon consistently draws an elite field of world-class athletes. Runners like Eliud Kipchoge, Dennis Kimetto, and Brigid Kosgei grace the event, making it one of the most competitive marathons globally. With such a prestigious lineup, victory often comes down to a matter of seconds, highlighting the fierce competition that characterizes this race.
Berlin Marathon 2023 Top Contenders
The Berlin Marathon 2023 promises an intense showdown among top contenders in both the men’s and women’s races. In the men’s category, the battle is expected to revolve around defending champion Eliud Kipchoge and Ethiopia’s Guye Adola, who recently triumphed at the Dubai Marathon. The women’s race features reigning champion Brigid Kosgei, holding the world record, but facing formidable opponents in Tigist Assefa and Ruth Chepngetich. These top contenders have already created many Notable Records at Berlin Marathon and are set to repeat the legacy at this year’s marathon.
While the outcome remains uncertain, factors like weather, the renowned flat course, and fierce competition will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in determining the top contenders’ fate in what promises to be an exhilarating Berlin Marathon 2023.
Summing It Up!
The Berlin Marathon’s rich history is intertwined with the remarkable achievements of its past winners. These legends, from Eliud Kipchoge’s unprecedented dominance to Dennis Kimetto’s record-breaking feats, have elevated the race to international acclaim. As we celebrate their accomplishments, we acknowledge the enduring legacy of the Berlin Marathon and the extraordinary athletes who continue to push the boundaries of human endurance.
