In an impressive display of athletic prowess, Kenyan long-distance runner Agnes Ngetich shattered the women’s 10-kilometer world record on Saturday in Herzogenaurach, Germany. Ngetich completed the race in a remarkable time of 29 minutes and 27 seconds, marking a historical achievement as the first woman to finish the distance in under 30 minutes in a dedicated women-only event.

This achievement surpasses the previous record of 30:01 set by the late Agnes Jebet Tirop in 2021 at the same venue.

Runner’s Perspective

Ngetich expressed her elation post-race, stating, I’m so excited. I didn’t expect this. Last year I missed it by two seconds, so I wanted to come here today and try for it again. I’m so proud of myself. After missing out on the Olympics last year, I want to make up for it this year at the world championships. This reflects her determination and commitment to achieving excellence in her sport.

Previous Record Attempts

Ngetich had previously recorded a time of 29:24 in a 2023 race, though this mark was not ratified due to a technicality involving the course length, which was found to be short by 25 meters.

Additionally, she established the 10-kilometer world record in a mixed race in Valencia, Spain, last year, completing the distance in 28:46 and breaking the previous record held by Yalemzerf Yehualaw.