‘WORLD’S GREATEST RUNNER’ TO COMPETE IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Issued on behalf of Antrim Coast Half Marathon

- 23 May 2025 -

“I’m very excited to come to Ireland” revealed Joshua Cheptegei

The Condor Executive Antrim Coast Half Marathon has secured the participation of Joshua Cheptegei, one of the greatest distance runners in history, at the 2025 edition of the world - class race.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Causeway Coast, race organiser, James McIlroy, is excited to welcome Joshua to his hometown.

“This is the very first time Joshua has been to Ireland”, said James. “It’s such an honour to welcome him to the North Coast of Antrim where he will join thousands of people to run the Antrim Coast Half Marathon course. We are sure he will be running with a win in mind so as a spectator this is going to be a thrilling experience.”

The race, which will take place on, Sunday, August 24, has attracted participants from over 40 countries and promises to be the most exciting edition yet.

James continued: “Everyone who takes part in the 2025 Antrim Coast Half Marathon gets to say they raced against the reigning double Olympic champion, four-time World Champion,

and current world record holder over both the 5,000m and 10,000m distances. That’s the sort of bragging rights runners live for.”

Joshua’s appearance marks a major triumph for the event, and is expected to attract record crowds, global media coverage, and elite international competition.

“Joshua is coming here to win, but also to inspire,” said James. “Whether you’re a young runner in Belfast or a seasoned club athlete from further afield, seeing a legend like Cheptegei compete in your backyard is a once-in-a-generation moment.”

Joshua Cheptegei’s successes place him among the all-time greats in athletics. The Ugandan superstar won Olympic gold in the 5,000m and silver in the 10,000m at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and holds the current world records of 12:35.36 for the 5,000m and 26:11.00 for the 10,000m, times that have redefined the limits of human endurance.

Olympic World Champion, Joshua Cheptegei, said: “I’m very excited to come to Ireland for the first time and run at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon. I’ve watched the race on television and the course looks beautiful and very fast. My teammates both hold the course record and now it’s my turn to run here.”

His decision to compete in Northern Ireland is already being hailed as a transformative moment for athletics in the region.

“Joshua’s participation is an extraordinary milestone, not just for our race, but for Northern Ireland as a whole,” said James. “Having an Olympic and world champion, and one of the greatest runners of all time, here on our coastline is something truly special. It speaks volumes about the reputation The Antrim Coast Half Marathon has earned globally.”

Founded in 2020, the Antrim Coast Half Marathon began with just 62 runners. In five years, it has grown into one of the most respected races on the global calendar, now attracting over 6,000 participants annually, from over 40 countries, including Olympians, amateur runners, and charity fundraisers. Recognised as a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race, it was ranked 7th in the world in 2024, ahead of many long-established international events.

Registrations are now open for the 2025 race, with spots expected to sell out quickly. Runners from all over the world are invited to join the event and experience the race that has earned a reputation for its exceptional atmosphere, scenic beauty, and fast times.

To sign up and for more information, visit www.antrimcoasthalfmarathon.com.

Media enquiries to: Michael McCrory, Elevator, E: Michael@elevatorpromotions.com,

M: 0044 7426 555928