Great weather for spectators made the 31st Berlin Half-Marathon a tough challenge for runners who had to cope with temperatures of 23 degrees Celsius, rising to over 30 out on the road.
Andy Tate (1hr 38min 49sec), Amanda Ritchie (1:56:40) and Jayne Dale (1:59:13) competed with over 25,500 other runners from 102 nations. After the coldest winter in England on record they were not acclimatised to the heat and all recorded slower times than expected. Despite this they all thoroughly enjoyed the experience. “It was great to be part of a big event with tremendous support from the huge crowds,” said Ritchie afterwards, “but we didn’t expect to get a sun tan as well!”
The route took them past many of the city’s famous landmarks and included running through the Brandenburg Gate.
The race was won by Geoffrey Kipsang in 1 hour and 8 seconds. Valentina Kipketer was the first lady to finish. She crossed the line in 1hour 10 minutes and 12 seconds. Both are 18 and from Kenya and were competing in their first half-marathon away from home. No doubt we will hear more of them in future international events.
Reported by Kay Farrow
