Cheptegei, Simbu, Kebede Headline Elite Field in Kolkata 25K

The stage is set for an electrifying showdown at the 10th edition of the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, as three globally acclaimed runners, all making their maiden appearance in the 25K distance, prepare to battle for top honours on Sunday, December 21.

At a ‘Meet and Greet’ with the media, recently crowned World Marathon Champion Alphonce Felix Simbu of Tanzania exuded calm confidence.

‘I don’t feel pressure, I see running as joy and responsibility to represent my country well. With a new generation rising, every race is about growth and preparing for bigger challenges ahead,’ he said.

Lesotho’s 29-year-old Tebello Ramakongoana, who earlier this year set a national marathon record of 2:06:18 while finishing runner-up to Ethiopian Dawit Wolde at the Xiamen International Marathon, expressed his readiness for the Kolkata race.

‘The 25K is the perfect bridge between the half-marathon and the marathon. Every race prepares me for bigger dreams ahead,’ he remarked.

Uganda’s double Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei, the marquee name in the men’s lineup, spoke with warmth about his return to India.

‘India is like a second home to me, because my international journey truly began here. Coming back to race and see the sport grow in India is something I deeply celebrate,’ he said.

In the women’s race, Ethiopian Sutume Asefa Kebede, who has already triumphed twice in Kolkata and set a stand-alone world best for the 25K two years ago, will attempt to secure a historic hat-trick of wins.

‘I have prepared very well, my training is complete, and with confidence and experience behind me, I am ready to deliver a stronger performance than last year,’ she told reporters.

Adding to the excitement, race promoters Procam International have announced a USD 25,000 bonus to encourage a world record attempt this year.

The total prize purse stands at USD 142,214, with the top three finishers in both men’s and women’s categories receiving USD 15,000, USD 10,000, and USD 7,000 respectively. An additional USD 5,000 event record bonus will further incentivise the athletes.

Kebede will face strong competition from her compatriot Degitu Azimeraw, who won the Kolkata title in 2017, and Kenya’s seasoned runner Agnes Keino.

Keino, a 37-year-old veteran, expressed her gratitude and determination.

‘I am happy to be here, and I believe God will strengthen me on Sunday to run my best. With the support of my family and teammates, every race becomes part of my testimony. Looking forward to the experience,’ she said.