After an exciting track and field season of short-distance global events, it’s time to shift gears and focus on the middle and long-distance races. Kicking off this thrilling lineup is none other than the Berlin Marathon. This historic event is renowned for being a record-breaking nursery for marathon runners. Back in 2018, Eliud Kipchoge came down to this track to break the barrier of 2:02:00 in the men’s marathon. The Kenyan legend took 2:01:39, taking the top podium. Later, he came back in 2022 to touch another milestone. 

In 2022, Kipchoge took 2:01:09, another scintillating mark in the history of the marathon. On the other hand, in 2019, the Ethiopian legend Kenesisa Bekele registered 2:01:41 in the Berlin Marathon. The time still holds the national record. But this year, for the first time in 11 years, neither of these marathon giants will grace the Berlin course. Even without these two legends, the 2024 Berlin Marathon is set to be just as thrilling

This year marks a special milestone as the Berlin Marathon celebrates its 50th anniversary! To make the event even more exciting, organizers are ramping up the arrangements to ensure it’s as riveting as ever. According to the marathon’s official website, the 50th edition of the BMW Berlin Marathon will kick off on September 29.

The race will officially start at 8:50 am (CEST) from the iconic Brandenburg Gate, with a carefully timed launch for various categories. First up, the elite runners will take off, followed by wheelchair athletes six minutes later. Hand bikers will join in at 8:59 am, and the mass start will happen in four waves, depending on the traffic situation. But don’t worry—the city commission has assured fans that all guidelines will be followed!

Although Eliud Kipchoge won’t be gracing this year’s Berlin Marathon, there are still some fierce competitors ready to take on the challenge. Among them is Ethiopian phenom Tadese Takele, boasting a personal best of 2:03:24, who will face off against Kibiwott Kandie, the Kenyan runner known for once holding the half-marathon world record. Plus, 12 other runners with personal bests under 2:06:00 will be in the mix!

On the women’s side, keep an eye on Tigist Ketema of Ethiopia. In her debut last year, she clocked an impressive 2:16:07, ranking as the ninth-fastest marathon of all time. The best part? She trains under Tigist Assefa, the current world marathon record holder! Also in the spotlight will be Genzebe Dibaba, an Ethiopian superstar known for her prowess in short- and middle-distance running. With all this talent on the track, the competition promises to be thrilling! To top it off, there will be engaging arrangements to keep the audience entertained throughout the day.

Berlin Marathon leaves no loose end in celebrating its historical year 

Starting in 1974, the Berlin Marathon has seen several ups and downs in the pages of history. During these years, the entire event has gone through several watershed moments. On its 50th anniversary, those changes are being celebrated through several avenues. One of these is the exhibit at the Brandenburg Gate. 

The ongoing program, which kicked off on September 17 and runs through September 30, is all about celebrating “50 Years of the BERLIN-MARATHON.” This event puts a spotlight on the incredible evolution of both the marathon and the city over the past five decades. One of the standout attractions is another photo exhibition, created in collaboration with UNSEEN. This exhibit showcases powerful marathon moments, featuring athletes, activists, and iconic images that capture the spirit of the event. But wait. There’s more!

A special photo exhibition will also demonstrate how images have played a vital role in connecting communities and creating a shared identity. The catch? You’ll have to be physically in Berlin to experience it! But don’t worry if you can’t make it there in person. The entire marathon will be broadcast live on RTL from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM on September 29. And for fans in select regions, you can also catch the action on Olympics.com. Perfect for anyone wanting to witness this iconic 50th anniversary edition from afar!