Riga, Latvia, is abuzz with excitement as it prepares to host the highly anticipated World Road Running Athletics Championships on October 1, 2023. This prestigious event has attracted an impressive line-up of athletes, including six reigning world champions and five record holders, who are all eagerly competing for glory in three exhilarating races: the five-kilometer, half-marathon, and one-mile road events.
With an estimated participation of over 347 athletes, this competition promises to be a thrilling showcase of athletic prowess, featuring distinguished contenders who have previously made their mark at the Olympic Games and world championships.
The stage is set for an unforgettable display of skill and determination in the heart of Latvia’s vibrant capital.
The mile race at the forthcoming road championships is generating significant anticipation, especially with the presence of Faith Kipyong from Kenya, the reigning world and Olympic champion in two distances. Fresh off her impressive double gold in the 5000m and 1500m at the recent Budapest World Championships, Kipyong is considered one of the top athletes to watch in the mile race.
The eagerly anticipated roster for the upcoming championship has been unveiled, revealing the athletes representing Ethiopia on the global stage.
Derbe Wolteji, who secured a silver medal for Ethiopia in the 1500 meters at the World Championship, is expected to be a formidable rival for Kipyong. Compatriot Freweyni Hailu is also gaining attention as a strong contender in the race.
Among the highly anticipated participants is Beatrice Chepkoech, renowned for her record-breaking performances in the women’s 3000m steeplechase. Adding to the mix, Hirut Meshesha will join Derbe and Freweyni in the women’s mile race, further intensifying the competition.
In the men’s mile race, Ethiopia will be represented by Melkeneh Azezo and Tadese Lemi, both of whom are poised to demonstrate their skills and vie for victory.
Meanwhile, in the women’s five-kilometer race, Ethiopian hopes rest on the shoulders of distinguished bronze medalist from the Budapest 10,000-meter event, Ejegayehu Taye, Lemlem Hailu, and Medina Isa.
Among the captivating details emerging about the championship, three out of the four athletes with the fastest recorded times in the world will be participating in the highly competitive 5-kilometer race. The race will feature the talents of Berihu Aregawi, Hagos Gebrehiwot, and Yomif Kejelcha, as they aim to make their mark on the global stage. Joining them is the talented Kenyan athlete Nicholas Kipkorir, adding an extra layer of excitement to the race.
This championship presents a golden opportunity for athletes who may have experienced disappointment in Budapest to turn their fortunes around and showcase their true potential.
In the women’s half marathon, Ethiopia will field a formidable team consisting of Tsige Gebrselama, Yalemgenet Yaregal, Fataw Zeray, and Metsawat Fikir. Equally strong representation is expected in the men’s half marathon, with Jamal Yimer, Tsagaye Kidane, Dinkalem Ayele, and Nibert Melak poised to exhibit their endurance and skill on the challenging road course.
Six coaches have been chosen to guide and support the Ethiopian team. Regular training sessions commenced on September 19, marking the official start of their preparation for the championship.
