Gilbert Kiprotich and Nympha Kiteta Smash Course Records at 2025 KGL Millennium Marathon

Gilbert Kiprotich and Nympha Kiteta Smash Course Records at 2025 KGL Millennium Marathon

 

The 10th edition of the KGL Millennium Marathon in Accra delivered a historical spectacle on Saturday, August 6, 2025, as Kenyan stars Gilbert Kiprotich and Nympha Kiteta set new course records in Ghana’s biggest half marathon event.

The Millennium Marathon, Ghana’s only World Athletics–certified road label race, once again lived up to its billing by drawing thousands of athletes and enthusiasts to the streets of the capital. With nearly 9,500 runners across the half marathon and 5km race categories, the atmosphere was charged with excitement as elite athletes and amateurs shared the same stage.

 

Kiprotich Dominates Men’s Field

In the men’s 21km race, pre-race favorite Gilbert Kiprotich wasted no time living up to expectations. After a fast start, the leading pack of five athletes crossed the halfway mark in a blistering 29 minutes. By the 12km point, Kiprotich surged ahead, breaking away to establish a commanding lead.

Although compatriot Daniel attempted to catch him near the 18km mark, Kiprotich maintained his composure and strength. With a decisive push past the National Theatre at 19km, he cruised to victory at the iconic Independence Square in a remarkable 1:01:59. His time shattered the previous record of 1:02:05 seconds set by Ghana’s Ishmael Arthur in 2022.

“This is my first time in Ghana, and I prepared for three months for this race,” Kiprotich said after the finish. “The race was tough, but I am happy with this win.”

Kiteta Shines in Women’s Race

Kenya’s Nympha Kiteta dominated the women’s field from the outset with an equally thrilling performance. Known for her training in Kenya’s Ngong Hills, Kiteta controlled the pace early and made her decisive move at the 15km mark, leaving her compatriot Lucy Ndambuki behind.

Kiteta powered through the humid Accra conditions to cross the line in 1:09:42 seconds, obliterating the previous women’s course record of 1:11:19, set in 2023 by Lilian Lelei. Her victory also marked a new personal best for her.

“This is my first time racing in Ghana, and I am so happy to achieve this,” Kiteta said. “My aim was to break the record, and we did it. The humidity was a challenge, but I prepared well, and I’m proud of the result.”

 

Rewards and Growing Prestige

For their record-breaking performances, both Kiprotich and Kiteta received an additional GH₵10,000 on top of their prize winnings.

Race director Cathrine Ashin Morton hailed the success of the 2025 edition, highlighting the record number of foreign athletes and promising new categories in future editions to encourage more local participation.

“The turnout has been fantastic. We had over 9,500 registered athletes, including many from abroad,” she said. “Going forward, we will explore additional prize categories for local athletes to motivate and encourage them.”

A Landmark Event for Ghana

The KGL Millennium Marathon continues to cement its place as one of West Africa’s premier road races. The 2025 edition, marked by electrifying performances, a robust international field, and record-breaking times, has elevated the standard for future races and further enhanced Ghana’s prominence on the global athletics calendar.

 

Women’s 5km Top 3

1. 1. Anani Jennifer, Ghana –
   2. Tuolong Reina, Ghana –
   3. Braimah Rabiatu, Ghana –

 

Men’s 5km Top 3

1. Abotsi Daniel Gawuga, Ghana –
2. Emmanuel Kwateng, Ghana –
3. Germain Dzorgbesi, Ghana –

 

Women’s 21km Top 3

1. Nympha Kiteta, Kenya – 1:09:42 CR, PB
2. Lucy Ndambuki, Kenya – 1:10:26 PB
3. Eunice Muchiri, Kenya – 1:13:00 PB

 

Men’s 21km Top 3

1. Gilbert Kiprotich, Kenya – 1:01:59 CR, PB
2. Alfred Cheruotoi, Kenya – 1:02:65 PB
3. Paul Eyanae, Kenya – 1:02:73 PB