The Antrim Coast Half Marathon has announced that Joshua Cheptegei, one of the greatest distance runners of all time, will participate in the 2025 edition of this prestigious race. Runners in this year's Condor Executive Antrim Coast Half Marathon can look forward to a "once in a generation moment" with Cheptegei's confirmed attendance at the 2025 event. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Causeway Coast, event organizer James McIlroy shared his enthusiasm for Cheptegei's inaugural visit to Ireland.
"This is Joshua's first visit to Ireland," McIlroy remarked. "It's a true honor to welcome him to the North Coast of Antrim, where he will join thousands of others to run the Antrim Coast Half Marathon course. We believe he will be aiming for a win, making this a thrilling experience for spectators."
Set for Sunday, August 24, the race promises to be an exciting event, attracting runners from around the world. McIlroy expressed his enthusiasm for the participants: "Everyone who competes in the 2025 Antrim Coast Half Marathon will have the chance to say they raced against the reigning double Olympic champion, four-time world champion, and current world record holder in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events. That's the kind of bragging rights that every runner dreams of."
Cheptegei's participation in the prestigious road race is poised to create a historic event in the sporting calendar, drawing large crowds, global media attention, and exceptional competition. The Olympic gold medalist and multiple world record holder's choice to compete in Northern Ireland has been recognized as a pivotal moment for athletics in the area.
"Cheptegei is here to win, but also to inspire," remarked McIlroy. "For a young runner in Belfast or a seasoned athlete from elsewhere, witnessing a legend like Cheptegei compete in your own community is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
"His involvement is a remarkable achievement, not only for our race but for all of Northern Ireland. Having an Olympic and world champion, regarded as one of the greatest runners ever, on our coastline is truly special. It highlights the esteemed reputation that the Antrim Coast Half Marathon has gained worldwide".
Cheptegei's achievements solidify his status as one of the all-time greats in athletics, highlighted by his Olympic gold medal in the 5,000m and silver in the 10,000m at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. He also holds impressive world records of 12:35.36 for the 5,000m and 26:11.00 for the 10,000m.
"I'm thrilled to visit Ireland for the first time and participate in the Antrim Coast Half Marathon," Cheptegei expressed. "I've seen the race on television, and the course looks stunning and very fast. My teammates both hold the course record, and now it's my chance to compete here."
Launched in 2020 with just 62 runners, the Antrim Coast Half Marathon has quickly grown into one of the most prestigious races globally, attracting over 6,000 participants each year from more than 40 countries, including Olympians, amateur athletes, and charity fundraisers.
Designated as a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race, it achieved the seventh position worldwide in 2024, outpacing numerous renowned international competitions. Registrations for the 2025 race are now open, and spots are anticipated to fill up quickly. Runners from around the world are encouraged to join this event, known for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning scenery, and fast race times.
