Photo via BBC Sport

Almgren wins in New York on marathon debut

Swedish runner Andreas Almgren made history at the New York Marathon, securing his first victory in the iconic 26.2-mile race with a time of 2:06:01. The 31-year-old dominated the men’s field, finishing 13 seconds ahead of Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa and 25 seconds clear of Lesotho’s Kamohelo Mofolo.

Almgren’s triumph marked the first time a European-born athlete had won the race since 1996, when Italy’s Giacomo Leone claimed the title. His success capped a standout year, which included breaking the European half-marathon record in September and winning the 10,000m gold at the European Athletics Championships in August.

Almgren, visibly emotional after crossing the finish line, called his performance a dream come true, crediting his legs for carrying him through the race. Meanwhile, Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui extended her dominance in the women’s division, winning her second New York Marathon in a time of 2:24:36, just six seconds ahead of American Jessica McClain and one second clear of fellow Kenyan Hellen Obiri.

The race also celebrated its 50th anniversary, tracing a route through New York’s five boroughs—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan—while showcasing elite endurance from start to finish.

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